Senate confirms Tenorio’s nomination to judgeship

The Senate unanimously confirmed yesterday the appointment of deputy attorney general Lillian Ada Tenorio to serve as an associate judge of the Superior Court.

All nine senators voted “yes” to approve the Senate Executive Appointments and Government Investigation committee report that recommended the confirmation of Tenorio’s judicial appointment.

Meanwhile, the Senate also unanimously confirmed yesterday the re-appointment of Dr. Rita A. Sablan and Alvaro A. Santos to serve as members of the Marianas Public Land Trust board of trustees.

Sablan and Santos will serve a six-year terms expiring on Jan. 9, 2030. Sablan will represent Saipan and the women sector, while Santos will represent Saipan.

In an interview shortly after her confirmation, Tenorio, 61, said she is just very happy that the confirmation process is already done. The EAGI Committee, which reviewed her nomination, held three hearings on Rota, Tinian, and Saipan.

She said committee members asked some interesting questions and she believes they were satisfied with her answers.

“I’m happy. I’m looking forward to moving on from here and serving the people of the Commonwealth as an associate judge for the Superior Court,” Tenorio said.

As the fourth woman to be confirmed as a Superior Court judge, Tenorio said this will hopefully inspire more women.

Tenorio said her interest in the law and policy began at the Legislature, where she previously worked as a legislative legal assistant.

Tenorio’s family and siblings were present at the confirmation hearing.

Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang, who attended the confirmation hearing in his capacity as acting governor, said in an interview that he and Gov. Arnold I. Palacios are very happy that they nominated Tenorio and that the senators confirmed her nomination.

“She is going to be a good judge. She is going to work for our people. We know her for a long time. She got the integrity, honesty,” Apatang said.

At the session, EAGI Committee chair Sen. Celina R. Babauta (D-Saipan) said the role of an associate judge demands not only legal expertise but also an unwavering sense of integrity and the fortitude to navigate the complexities of the legal system with compassion and wisdom.

Babauta said Tenorio is an experienced lawyer whose credentials, experience and even-handed approach to the administration of justice make her an outstanding candidate for the Superior Court.

“What truly qualifies her for this esteemed position is her character. Those who know her best speak of her impartiality and her passion for constitutional law, impartiality and strong moral compass,” Babauta said.

She said Tenorio’s ascension to the bench reminds all that the pursuit of justice should know no bounds of race, gender, or background.

“It is my privilege to recommend and advance Mrs. Tenorio’s nomination to confirm her as the fourth female and daughter of the CNMI to be the next associate judge for the CNMI Judiciary,” Babauta said.

Tenorio is the daughter of the first CNMI lieutenant governor, the late Francisco Castro Ada, and the late Ines Seman Ada.

With respect to the nomination of Sablan and Santos, Babauta said the position of MPLT trustee holds a vital role in the community as it safeguards precious resources granted and ensures responsible management and fosters economic development for the benefit of the communities. She said selecting the right individuals to serve on the MPLT board is paramount.