Teno fires Atalig

Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio has fired Coastal Resources Management Office Administrator Felipe Q. Atalig, who has been accused of sexual harassment, in yet another move to send a strong message to government officials that he will not tolerate such misconduct in public office.

Atalig is the first senior official in the Commonwealth to be dismissed under Tenorio’s two-year administration.

The dismissal of Atalig, who has been under administrative suspension since last month after allegations of sexual harassment was brought against him by his staff, came amid renewed efforts of Tenorio’s administration to keep government workplace safe from such behavior.

Sources from CRMO disclosed on condition of anonymity that Atalig was handed his termination letter last Monday during a luncheon meeting with the governor.

Atalig’s termination took effect April 20,1999, according to sources.

Tenorio confirmed that he has “relieved” Atalig in line with his policy of zero tolerance on sexual harassment in government office.

“It is unfortunate that this thing happened, but my administration will not tolerate such action especially by a senior official,” the governor said in an interview.

Assistant Attorney General Marvin J. Williams last month filed charges of misconduct in public office, disturbing peace and assault and battery against Atalig based on a complaint lodged by an employee of CRMO.

The sexual harassment incident allegedly took place in March when Atalig was in Rota for a week-long beautification campaign in the island municipality.

Dismayed by the reports, the governor then suspended the CRMO administrator in swift reaction to the allegations of sexual harassment brought against Atalig.

The incident prompted the CNMI leader to issue stern warning against government officials that his administration will not tolerate such misconduct in public office and that he will use his powers to punish perpetuators.

Tenorio reminded heads of departments and government agencies that as officials they must set good examples to employees to ensure that workplaces are safe from sexual abuse. The governor also encouraged government workers report such incident to his office.

“This government demands leadership behavior that shows that employees will be treated with dignity and respect. The government cannot and will not tolerate behavior such as this by any government employee,” he said.