DPS to open San Roque substation
In a move to strengthen public safety efforts across the island, Department of Public Safety Commissioner Anthony Macaranas announced yesterday that a new substation in San Roque will officially open this Sunday.
Macaranas told the media that the opening aims to extend police presence to the north side of Saipan, offering quicker response times to areas further north such as San Roque, As Matuis, and Marpi.
“Right now, should anything happen in San Roque, As Matuis, and Marpi, it would take a few minutes for a patrol officer in Garapan to reach the north side,” Macaranas explained. “To cut that time in half, we will have an officer stationed in the north starting Sunday.”
Macaranas emphasized the need for continuous police coverage in response to the increasing law enforcemen demands, particularly in the center and southern parts of the island. By establishing a permanent officer presence in the north, DPS aims to address growing safety concerns and bolster community trust in law enforcement.
According to the police chief, the San Roque substation will be located next to the San Roque Church, making it easily accessible to the northern residents.
“Once you’re heading up toward the church, it’s on your left-hand side.” He added the station will be clearly marked as the San Roque substation. He said that currently, the substation is undergoing renovations, with DPS logistics and support teams working to complete the updates by Saturday.
In addition to expanding police services to the north, Macaranas highlighted ongoing discussions with local officials about further improving police infrastructure. He said that he spoke to Reps. Joel Camacho (Ind-Saipan) and Thomas John Dela Cruz Manglona (R-Saipan) and both agreed on the need for more police presence in their respective areas.
“The challenge we face on the eastern side of the island is that we do not have a building available for a substation,” said Macaranas.
He revealed that a potential location in Kagman is being considered for future development as he’s aiming to establish a substation there as well.
The commissioner expressed his commitment to ensuring that all areas of Saipan, especially those further from the island’s center, receive the police coverage they deserve.
Anthony Macaranas
