Palacios, Apatang pay tribute to former House speaker Cabrera

The CNMI administration is honoring the legacy of service and leadership of former House speaker Eliceo Diaz Cabrera who recently passed.

Yesterday, Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang issued a statement regarding the passing of the former House speaker and CNMI Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality administrator.

“The administration of Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang extends its deepest sympathies and condolences to the family of the late honorable Eliceo Diaz Cabrera, on his untimely passing. A former House speaker and administrator of the CNMI Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality, Cabrera was a distinguished leader and public servant whose unwavering commitment to the CNMI and its people has left an indelible mark,” said the statement.

Former speaker Cabrera’s tenure as the speaker of the 17th CNMI House of Representatives was marked by his esteemed leadership, strategic vision and personal mission of fostering unity and progress across the islands through education and economic legislation, Palacios and Apatang said.

Meanwhile, throughout seven years of service as BECQ administrator, Cabrera displayed dedication toward the protection and preservation of the CNMI’s environment and the health and well-being of its community, they added.

“Speaker Cabrera was more than a leader; he was a visionary who cared deeply for the land and the people of the CNMI,” said the CNMI administration.

The CNMI administration, on behalf of the CNMI, extends its heartfelt condolences to Cabrera’s family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

“As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the immense contributions he made to our community and commit to honoring his memory through continued progress and stewardship. We extend our special condolences to his wife, Victoria, and his children. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they navigate these challenging times,” said the statement.

House Speaker Edmund Villagomez (Ind-Saipan) also joined the entire CNMI in mourning the loss of Cabrera.

“I would like to extend my prayers and condolences to his wife, children, and their families. I have had the honor and privilege to serve with him in the 17th Legislature. He took over as speaker after the late governor Froilan Tenorio stepped down. He is a good man who served the CNMI well. He will be greatly missed.”

Senate President Edith DeLeon Guerrero (D-Saipan) said the passing of Cabrera really hits home as the former speaker is her cousin.

“Former Speaker Eli is a close relative. We all grew up in the same village, Chalan Kanoa, and have deep respect for the family. I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. I want to remember him as a gentleman, always greeting with his huge and warm smile. My deepest condolences to his wife Vicky and family. May cousin Eli rest in peace with our Heavenly Father,” she said.

Eliceo D. Cabrera