Saipan chamber figures talk collaboration

Saipan chamber figures talk collaboration

BY MARK RABAGO
Saipan Correspondent

GARAPAN, Saipan — In a time of economic turmoil the newly installed president of the Saipan Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber’s 2024 Business Person of the Year and Board Installation Gala, both emphasized the importance of collaboration in helping the Northern Mariana Islands rise from their current challenges.

At  the Jan. 25 event at the Crowne Plaza Saipan Chamber President Joe C. Guerrero said, “This Chamber is ready to collaborate with all stakeholders. We're committed to rebuilding trust and crafting a unified economic plan that benefits us all. But crafting a plan is just the beginning. We are ready to take all action, pushing beyond first base and making it all the way to home base,“ he said. Ensuring that the sun rises for every sector, and not just for the few. As we gather here tonight, let us recognize the immense help we owe to our citizens here. Each one of us play a crucial role in charting the future not just for our companies but families, our employees, and their families and the rest of the island.”

He said the process of improving the local economy involves policies, programs, and activities that drive growth. However, for economic development to work effectively, he said the public and private sectors — including all chambers of commerce on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota — must all come together for a single holistic plan.

Triple J Human Resources director Frank Ada, who won the 2024 Business Person of the Year award, said Triple J has always focused on creating a culture that fosters collaboration.
“I've been hearing a lot in our community about collaboration. So, we need to collaborate. Grow and embrace all people.

HR embraces all people. As HR director, I've always believed that our people are a great example. This award is important to the importance of investing in our workforce and the environment where everyone is expected to succeed and thrive.” Ada also recognized Robert H. Jones, chairman and CEO of Triple J for his support and leadership and thanked  Triple J vice president of Finance and Administration Michael Sablan.

Others hailed during the gala included Island Training Solutions as Chamber Member of the Year, Northern Marianas Sports Association as Non-profit of the Year, Plumeria Steakhouse as Small Business of the Year, Marianas Press as Trailblazing Start-up of the Year, Transit CNMI as Agency Star, and IT&E assistant sales manager Paul Guerrero as Emerging Leader Star Award.

Established in 2006, Island Training Solutions is a consulting, development, and compliance group providing hundreds of training classes in Saipan, Tinian, and Rota for numerous private businesses, local and federal government, and nonprofit organizations. It has licensee, partnership, and distributor rights for the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute, National Association of certified Public Bookkeepers, Certiport/Pearson Vue, and Jeffrey Gitomer "BUY GITOMER" Learning and Development products.

NMSA is a non-profit group established to promote and support athletic activities in the Northern Mariana Islands. Its 18 national federation members represent the sports of athletics, badminton, baseball, basketball, bodybuilding, cycling, football, golf, pickleball, softball, swimming, spearfishing, tennis, triathlon, va'a, volleyball, weightlifting, and wrestling. It also manages and operates the Oleai Sports Complex—the only facility in the Micronesian region that houses a multi-sports gymnasium, a track and field, and softball and baseball fields — providing both residents and visitors safe and well-maintained venues for sports competitions, community activities, and other related events. NMSA utilizes its assets in promoting sports and health and wellness programs for the general community and in strengthening support to NMI athletes, coaches, and technical officials.

Plumeria Steakhouse in Garapan offers steak, pizzas, pasta, and other fine dining experiences since 2020. The restaurant features a rustic design and cozy atmosphere — with natural wooden furniture surrounded by local arts and handicrafts.

Marianas Press, or MP, was established in November 2024, by Thomas Mangloña II, to form an independent multimedia news outlet in his home islands.

Transit CNMI’s mother agency was established under Public Law 17-43 to enhance public transportation across the NMI, improving mobility for residents and visitors alike. In 2024, COTA delivered more than 85,000 rides, highlighting the critical need for reliable and accessible transit services in the region. Through innovative system upgrades and a commitment to safety and operational efficiency, Transit CNMI continues to play a vital role in the island's economic development, contributing to the overall quality of life in the CNMI.

Guerrero has been with IT&E for 15 years. He started as a business account manager and now serves as assistant sales manager for IT&E CNMI. In his role, he oversees daily operations, manages team members, and collaborates with local businesses to provide essential services while actively representing IT&E within the community. Known for his dedication and strong rapport with local businesses, Guerrero goes above and beyond to support the community and ensure exceptional service.

Aside from Joe C. Guerrero as chamber president, Joshua Wise of PHI Pharmacy and Ron Smith of Angil Design Inc. were sworn in as chamber vice president and secretary, respectively. Other board members installed were IT&E’s Janice Tenorio, Bank of Saipan’s John Z. Arroyo, Docomo Pacific’s Nicole Babauta, Tan Holdings’ Alexander A. Sablan, and Commonwealth Communications’ Brad Ruszala. mbj