Palacios renominated Sablan, Santos to MPLT board
Gov. Arnold I. Palacios has renominated former Education commissioner Dr. Rita A. Sablan and former Commonwealth Casino Commission member Alvaro A. Santos to serve as members of the Marianas Public Land Trust board of trustees.
If confirmed by the Senate, Sablan and Santos will serve six-year terms expiring on Jan. 9, 2030. Sablan will represent Saipan and the women’s sector, while Santos will represent Saipan.
Palacios informed Senate President Edith E. DeLeon Guerrero (D-Saipan) last week that he and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang have complete confidence in Sablan’s and Santos’ ability to devote their time and efforts to the best interests of the people.
The governor said they believe that Sablan’s and Santos’ continued membership on the MPLT board is essential to ensure consistency and continuity in fulfilling the MPLT’s goals and objectives.
Oscar M. Babauta, who is the special assistant for the Palacios-Apatang administration, said yesterday that Sablan and Santos were renominated because they were filling up vacancies of prior MPLT board members.
Last April, Palacios appointed Sablan to the MPLT board to serve the remaining term vacated by Maria Frica T. Pangelinan.
Last April, Palacios also appointed Santos to the MPLT board to serve the remainder of Martin B. Ada’s term. Santos used to serve a few years ago as MPLT board chair.
The Senate subsequently confirmed the nomination of Sablan and Palacios that same month.
Rita A. Sablan
