Demapan named SC chief justice

As expected, Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio yesterday nominated Miguel S. Demapan as chief justice of the Supreme Court, ending weeks of speculation on his choice to occupy the post vacant since December after the retirement of former Chief Justice Marty W.K. Taylor.

The governor at the same time appointed several people to various government boards, including to the Board of Public Lands, but left open the seat of its former chair Tomas B. Aldan whose two-year term expired last June 4.

There has been report that Tenorio is weighing heavily the re-appointment of the outspoken bank executive, but he apparently wants to be assured that the Senate would back Aldan’s nomination, just what like it did to Demapan.

The newly-appointed chief justice is expected to be confirmed by senators, who have favored him over Supreme Court Associate Justice Alexandro C. Castro despite his being senior than Demapan.

In appointing him, Tenorio offered his assistance to Demapan during the confirmation process which is required under the Constitution and is a sole function of the Senate.

“I am most pleased that you are willing to serve our people in this capacity. I have every confidence that you will fulfill the many duties and responsibilities this position carries with impartiality and in good conscience at all time,” the governor wrote in his appointment letter.

Two new board directors of the Commonwealth Utilities Corporation were also named to replace former member Joaquin S. Torres and ex-chairman Juan S. Dela Cruz, who resigned last week to devote more time to his job at Saipan Stevedore Company.

Frank T. Flores, Jr. and Edward C. Sablan will both represent Saipan to the policy-making body of the government-owned utility corporation, with terms of up to December 17, 2001 and May 7, 2002, respectively.

Likewise, the local chief executive nominated Elphidia C. Sanchez to represent Saipan to BPL, serving out the term left vacant by former member Marian Aldan-Pierce of up to June 4, 2001.

For the Board of Professional Licensing, Elizabeth S. Balajadia and Jesus DLG. Takai were nominated for six-year term each to represent Saipan and professionals.

Two others who do not need Senate confirmation are appointed by the governor: Bernadino R. Taitano for the Parole Board representing Saipan and Carolinians and Francisco DLG. Crisostimo as member of the Government Employees’ Credit Union.