Elizabeth Balajadia is presented with Justice Award

Presiding Judge Roberto C. Naraja reads the recognition while Justice Award recipient Elizabeth Balajadia, P.E., Chief Justice Alexandro C. Castro and Associate Justice John A. Manglona look on.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

The CNMI Judiciary presented Elizabeth Salas Balajadia, P.E. with the 2019 Justice Award last May 31 for her “continuous and distinguished” record of service for the completion of the Judiciary’s projects.

Balajadia, also known as “Liz,” is a professional engineer currently serving as the CNMI’s Capital Improvement Project administrator with the Executive Branch.

Balajadia’s contributions to the Guma’ Hustisia restoration efforts started in 2017 with the mold remediation project followed by the air-conditioning system shut down and repair work for damage sustained during Super Typhoon Yutu in 2018.

“Balajadia’s guidance, professionalism, and tireless assistance through the most turbulent time for the Judiciary reflect her character and commitment to public service,” the Judiciary said in a statement. “Her involvement has provided great momentum to the Guma’ Hustisia’s re-opening.”

Balajadia herself described the project as “challenging” because the mechanical engineers need to be mindful of the project timeline and the budget.

“It is not an easy project because the damage to the structures as a result of Super Typhoon Yutu will affect the original design parameters of the HVAC system,” she said.

Balajadia thanked Gov. Ralph DLG Torres, former lieutenant governor and now Senate President Victor B. Hocog (R-Rota), and Lt. Gov. Arnold I. Palacios for allowing her to assist the Judiciary.

Justice John A. Manglona, representing the bench, thanked Balajadia for her work and service. “Liz has been a part of the Judiciary’s projects for more than two years now. We highly value her technical skills and recommendations and appreciate her participation in the weekly project meetings.”

Chief Justice Alexandro C. Castro presented the award after Presiding Judge Roberto C. Naraja proclaimed the recognition. Also present were Justice Perry B. Inos, Judge Teresa K. Kim- Tenorio, and Judiciary managers.

Balajadia holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She is a licensed professional engineer in civil engineering in the CNMI and Guam and is certified in Occupational Safety and Health Administration-construction safety and storm water. She served as a former chairperson for the CNMI Board of Professional Licensing, a member of the board of directors, and a member of the Zoning Board.

In addition to the ownership and management of a specialized consulting firm, Balajadia has served in various capacities and managed numerous infrastructure projects in both the public and private sectors.

She and her husband Victor have two children, Fr. James Balajadia and Maria. Their children also attended the award presentation.

Balajadia’s father, Judge Felipe A. Salas, served for many years in the Commonwealth Trial Court and the Trust Territory courts.

The recipient of the Justice Award is determined by a panel of members of the bench. This year’s announcement culminated with various Judiciary programs held in May in celebration of the Judiciary’s 30th anniversary. The events included Law Day poster and essay contests, Drug Court Month activities, the Attorney General’s Cup Speech Competition, mock trial and various Justices/Judges in the Classroom visits. (PR)

From left, Presiding Judge Roberto C. Naraja, Maria S. Balajadia, Justice Award recipient Elizabeth S. Balajadia, P.E., Fr. James S. Balajadia, Chief Justice Alexandro C. Castro, Associate Justice Perry B. Inos, Associate Judge Teresa K. Kim-Tenorio, and Associate Justice John A. Manglona.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)