Customs and Biosecurity sees 16 new officers

The Department of Finance’s Division of Customs and Biosecurity held its 10th Cycle Academy graduation last Friday and officially welcomed 16 new Customs officers.

Last Friday, Customs and Biosecurity officially welcomed 16 new officers from its 10th Cycle Academy through a graduation ceremony at the Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan’s Hibiscus Hall.

The newly graduated officers are Cherylmoana Marie T. Aguon, Nathan U. Asanuma, Darren Jake C. Basto, Shota N, Castro, Steven G. Castro, Alvonny Joseph Peter N. Cepeda, Jane Anne G. Craney, Shaun Christopher F. Iguel, Johannes N. Maratita, Joe W. Miller, Maelyn Matilde C. Naputi, Christian Anthony C. Pangelinan, Edward C. Reyes Jr., Thomas T. Santos, Raynalyn L. Taitano, and Joel Joshua C. Tudela.

Customs and Biosecurity director Jose C. Mafnas, who addressed the graduating class during the graduation ceremony, said that accepting their badge is only beginning of their journey as customs officers.

“Cadets, once you get your badge, it’s not over. It’s only beginning. Graduates, you’ve been given all the knowledge and tools to do your duties at the ports. Use it and protect our boarders, our community, our CNMI,” he said.

Mafnas said the graduation ceremony celebrates the achievements of Customs’ graduates.

“This achievement is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the beginning of their crucial role of safeguarding our borders against infiltration of any dangerous and illicit drug and ensuring our community’s safety and security. The graduation of cadets has always been the best part, in my years in customs. When they come in, they know nothing, and now theyre graduating. They are now ready to be out in the field. I want to thank our partners in NMC for making this happen,” he said.

Among the attendees of the graduation were local dignitaries like Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang, Cabinet members, lawmakers, and representatives of the Northern Marianas College.

Palacios, for his part, congratulated the graduates and said the milestone the graduating class has achieved is momentous.

“The role of Customs officers is a crucial one. You are trained to safeguard our Commonwealth. The knowledge that you’ve acquired in your training empowers you to identify the risks and response to the necessary action to protect public health, our environment, and our economy. As you move forward, remember you’re the frontline defenders of our community. You are the gatekeepers,” he said.