On top of enforcing the law

Enforcing the law can be a very tough task, especially with the dangers and responsibilities an officer is exposed to.

However, Police Officer I Regino M. Celis Jr. of the Department of Public Safety Traffic Section thinks of his job as a way of helping the community.

“I always wanted to be an officer since I was in high school,” he said. “What I attain while doing the job is unmatched because it serves as a way I can make a difference in the community by helping the people of the CNMI. For that, I wouldn’t trade this job for another.”

Since being sworn in in December 1999, Celis has been involved in various operations that all have a single purpose: creating a safer place of the CNMI for its people.

“It’s very challenging, but one of the reasons why I like my job is also because I get to see how far I can go in trying to accomplish my mission, and like everybody in the Traffic Section, that’s trying to keep the highway safe,” he said. “I feel good about my role in keeping the highway safe. If issuing a citation will make the highway safer or will teach the driver about safety, then that’s what I’ll do. It’s not that I personally want to issue a citation to someone, but if that’s what it takes, then that’s what I’ll do.”

Celis commended his fellow officers for their effort being there for each other.

“I am happy with the team that I work with,” he said. “The teamwork is there and I know that they’ve got my back as well as they know I’ve got their back.”

Sgt. Sylvan M. Rangamar, a supervisor at the Traffic Section, said Celis is “committed to completing all assignments and is strict about enforcing the law.”

DPS public information officer Rose T. Ada agreed with Rangamar as she also commented on Celis’ work habits.

“When it comes to enforcing the law, he is on top of it,” she said. “He has shown his commitment to doing the best he can in accomplishing his job.”

Celis graduated from Marianas High School in 1996. He then enrolled at the Northern Marianas College and earned an Associate of Applied Science in the field of Criminal Justice. He then enrolled in the Police Academy in July 1999.

Celis also extended his appreciation to family members for being supportive throughout his tenure as a police officer.

“I would like to send a special thank you to my wife, my children, my parents, and the rest of my family for being very supportive and understanding and hanging in there for me,” he said.”