CCC’s acting chief resigns

Charlie O. Atalig has stepped down from his post as the audit manager and acting executive director of the Commonwealth Casino Commission.

His last day with the commission will be on Aug. 7, 2020.

Atalig told Saipan Tribune yesterday that he submitted his letter of resignation to CCC chair Edward Deleon Guerrero last Monday, that he has been approached with an opportunity from some people doing technology services, software development, and data processing. He said he was unable to turn down the offer to serve as one of the managing partners.

“I wish the success of the casino gaming industry,” said Atalig, adding that he is hoping things would turn around for good as he is very optimistic about the industry, whether it be Imperial Pacific International (CNMI) LCC or another potential operator.

He assured that the CCC is aware as to what will happen next with the gaming industry since the process or procedure has already been studied.

Aside from being CCC’s audit manager, Atalig has been serving as acting executive director since May when Deleon Guerrero resigned as CCC executive director and then-CCC chairman Juan Sablan appointed him (Atalig) to the position in an acting capacity.

Atalig began work with CCC as an audit manager in May 2016, having previously worked at one the largest accounting firms in San Diego, California, where he worked for five years.

Atalig attended CCC’s regular monthly meeting yesterday in the CCC conference room at Springs Plaza in Gualo Rai.

In his resignation letter, Atalig said he sincerely appreciates the experience and family that he has gained working at CCC. “I am grateful to you, the current commissioners, former commissioners, fellow managers, and staff for sharing your guidance, knowledge, and time with me,” he said.

Atalig said CCC is really one of the best places to work for in the Commonwealth and that he is honored to have been part of this family for the last four and a half years. He said he is grateful for being under Deleon Guerrero’s mentorship and that he takes with him the wisdom and insight that the chairman shared with him.

“I wish for nothing but the success of our casino gaming industry. I know my separation is untimely; I wish I could disembark when the ship is sailing in calmer waters,” Atalig said.

Last June, Atalig filed a complaint before CCC against Imperial Pacific International (CNMI) LLC for allegedly failing to contribute $40 million in community benefit fund money in 2018 and 2019, as required by the Casino License Agreement. Atalig said yesterday that the complaint is still active and is moving forward.