Sablan reappointed to OPA post
Public Auditor Michael S. Sablan was reappointed yesterday to another six-year term to the government’s top auditing position.
Sablan was appointed to his first term as public auditor in 2000 by then Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio. Under his leadership, the Office of the Public Auditor issued over 80 reports, conducted 200 Ethics and Accountability presentations for over 4,500 employees, and made numerous recommendations to reform regulations to improve accountability over public resources including travel, procurement, and personnel.
Sablan is also credited for reducing OPA’s transition from 29 non-resident auditors and two resident auditors, to 18 resident auditors and one nonresident auditor. Within the last two years, OPA has also promoted one resident auditor to manager and three to senior auditor positions.
“The Governor and I are confident that you are extremely qualified to continue to fulfill the vital responsibilities of this office and you will consistently devote your time and efforts to represent the interest of our Commonwealth,” Villagomez said in advising Sablan of his re-appointment.
Sablan’s reappointment now goes before both the Senate and the House of Representatives for confirmation.
Sablan said he is honored by the governor’s decision. “Over the last few weeks, I have received so many expressions of support from private citizens and the government—local and federal. They have expressed support for a reappointment. It would be an honor if I had opportunity to continue serving,” he said.
“What attracts me to OPA is the gratification one gets from serving his own community. There are many of us in public service. I think we all find that common gratification,” he added.
Sablan is a certified public accountant with a bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of California, Los Angeles. Prior to his first appointment, he also served as special advisor for finance and budget to Governor Tenorio, vice president/chief financial officer for Joeten Enterprises, assistant controller for DFS Saipan Limited, and in several other accounting positions.
