Hearing split on island name
By Dionesis Tamondong
Pacific Daily News
March 13, 2010
More than half a dozen people who testified in support of changing Guam's name to Guåhan said it would go far in preserving the island's indigenous culture
Others said Bill 331 was a waste of time, and the changes would unnecessarily cost the government of Guam and local businesses too much effort and money.
Some people suggested nixing the measure and letting voters decide in a referendum, complete with a thorough education campaign.
Educators, business owners, local activists and veterans were among those who spoke during yesterday's public hearing on Gov. Felix Camacho's proposal. The governor last month issued an executive order calling for agencies to refer to the island as Guåhan in order "to reclaim our indigenous name" and "reaffirm our identity as a people."
Camacho also has asked Guam's congressional delegate, Madeleine Bordallo, to initiate the change at the federal level. Until federal law makes the island's name change official, GovGuam will have to stick to Guam when it comes to formal communication.
Those who spoke for Bill 331, most testifying in Chamorro, said the name change would mark an important step in the island's self-determination and highlight the indigenous language and culture.
But some questioned whether Guåhan is truly the island's indigenous name, citing a University of Guam study.
"I would support this bill if, in fact, the name Guåhan is the indigenous name for the island of the Chamorros," Eloy Hara said. "But I also believe that something of this magnitude should be put in a referendum."
Ivan Carbullido said while the intent of the bill is admirable, efforts to change the name -- from government communications to business names -- would be quite expensive.
Sean Larkin said Guam's visitor industry and many companies have spent much time and effort branding the island, and those efforts could be diminished if the change were to take effect.
Larkin said instead of forcing a legal name change, which would be costly and distract from other more important issues, the island can use both Guam and Guåhan references as some local agencies and other countries currently do.
"There's no reason we couldn't use both names together," Larkin said.
For example, while Palau is the official name for the island nation, the traditional name, Belau, is regularly accepted for official and common references, said Hara, citing officials he spoke with during a recent trip to Palau.
Supporters and opponents of the measure received applause from their respective sides, but David Sablan, who called Bill 331 a waste of time, garnered applause from the entire audience after he spoke at the hearing.
The Dededo resident said he felt the bill was just a means for the governor to mark his legacy rather than a sincere step toward self-determination.
"We shouldn't even be discussing this bill right now. We should be discussing our political status," said Sablan, a local artist, Chamorro activist and Vietnam War veteran. "We have the right to change our name, but we don't have the right to govern ourselves."
When significant milestones are made toward the island's political self-determination, Sablan said he would be the first to support changing the island's name to Guåhan.
"Instead of Guam, maybe we should name the island Going ... because our governor, he keeps going and going," Sablan said, prompting applause and laughter from the audience.
Camacho is scheduled to be back on island this weekend.
Showing posts with label Camacho. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Camacho. Show all posts
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Historian backs ‘Guahan,’ senator bats for self-rule
Historian backs ‘Guahan,’ senator bats for self-rule
Wednesday, 17 February 2010 03:32
by Tiffany Sukola | Variety News Staff
A LOCAL historian stands behind Gov. Felix Camacho’s initiative to adopt “Guahan” as the island’s official name, despite harsh criticism from some local residents.
Camacho signed an executive order on Monday after delivering his final state of the island address that calls for all “Guam” references in official documents to be replaced with “Guahan,” the island’s indigenous name. The governor also asked legislators to enact a similar measure to adopt the name-change as well.
University of Guam Chamorro professor Peter Onedera said critics of the governor’s initiative are missing the point of this unprecedented move. He said he has heard opponents of Camacho’s decision say that the name-change will have no effect on the Chamorro people.
However, Onedera said he fully supports Camacho’s move because he sees this is a chance for the Chamorro people to finally have a say in what happens to their island. “This is a step in the right direction,” said Onedera. “It’s about time the Chamorro people are empowered.”
Onedera said local residents should not let this opportunity to give the island its proper name back. “Other names were given through time, from the Spanish, the Japanese and the Americans,” he said. “But no one ever asked the native people if it was ok or got permission from them to use these new names.”
According to Onedera, “Guahan” and “Guam” have both been used in historical documents referencing the island. However, the natives called their island “Guahan.”
Americans started calling the island, ‘Guam’, when they arrived in 1898, said Onedera. The name stuck after the island was referenced as “Guam” in the Treaty of Paris.
The first naval governor, Richard Leary, requested that the island be officially named, “Isle of Guam.”
Onedera added that residents should feel empowered because they finally have a chance to voice their opinion on the matter.
However, Sen. Judi Guthertz said that while Camacho’s intentions are all well and good, changing the name of our island is not a legacy.
“A legacy is achieving something really remarkable on a significant issue,” said Guthertz in a press release yesterday. “I would suggest that the Governor concentrate…on establishing a new and improved political status as his legacy.”
Guthertz added that Camacho should convene the Commission on Decolonization and the Guam First Commission to address the issue of political status.
Onedera also said that he would like to see the next administration take a more proactive role in preserving the island’s culture and language.
“We are losing things of value to our culture,” said Onedera. “I hope the next administration has more cultural sensitivity.”
Onedera said he believes the Chamorro language is not used nearly enough throughout the island. The Chamorro language, he said, should be used more in official documents and during public speeches.
Wednesday, 17 February 2010 03:32
by Tiffany Sukola | Variety News Staff
A LOCAL historian stands behind Gov. Felix Camacho’s initiative to adopt “Guahan” as the island’s official name, despite harsh criticism from some local residents.
Camacho signed an executive order on Monday after delivering his final state of the island address that calls for all “Guam” references in official documents to be replaced with “Guahan,” the island’s indigenous name. The governor also asked legislators to enact a similar measure to adopt the name-change as well.
University of Guam Chamorro professor Peter Onedera said critics of the governor’s initiative are missing the point of this unprecedented move. He said he has heard opponents of Camacho’s decision say that the name-change will have no effect on the Chamorro people.
However, Onedera said he fully supports Camacho’s move because he sees this is a chance for the Chamorro people to finally have a say in what happens to their island. “This is a step in the right direction,” said Onedera. “It’s about time the Chamorro people are empowered.”
Onedera said local residents should not let this opportunity to give the island its proper name back. “Other names were given through time, from the Spanish, the Japanese and the Americans,” he said. “But no one ever asked the native people if it was ok or got permission from them to use these new names.”
According to Onedera, “Guahan” and “Guam” have both been used in historical documents referencing the island. However, the natives called their island “Guahan.”
Americans started calling the island, ‘Guam’, when they arrived in 1898, said Onedera. The name stuck after the island was referenced as “Guam” in the Treaty of Paris.
The first naval governor, Richard Leary, requested that the island be officially named, “Isle of Guam.”
Onedera added that residents should feel empowered because they finally have a chance to voice their opinion on the matter.
However, Sen. Judi Guthertz said that while Camacho’s intentions are all well and good, changing the name of our island is not a legacy.
“A legacy is achieving something really remarkable on a significant issue,” said Guthertz in a press release yesterday. “I would suggest that the Governor concentrate…on establishing a new and improved political status as his legacy.”
Guthertz added that Camacho should convene the Commission on Decolonization and the Guam First Commission to address the issue of political status.
Onedera also said that he would like to see the next administration take a more proactive role in preserving the island’s culture and language.
“We are losing things of value to our culture,” said Onedera. “I hope the next administration has more cultural sensitivity.”
Onedera said he believes the Chamorro language is not used nearly enough throughout the island. The Chamorro language, he said, should be used more in official documents and during public speeches.
Friday, February 19, 2010
PNC :: Governor Issues Executive Order Changing Island Name To Guahan
PNC :: Governor Issues Executive Order Changing Island Name To Guahan
Monday, 15 February 2010
Guam - As promised in his State of the Island Address, Governor Felix Camacho wasted little time issuing an executive order to change the official name of Guam to Guahan.
His Executive Order applies to all GovGuam agencies and encourages the local businesses and the community at large to adopt the name change as well.
Read the Executive Order
http://www.pacificnewscenter.com/images/pdf/exorder.pdf
In addition the Executive order requests lawmakers pass a law re-designating Guam as Guahan.
Written by : Kevin Kerrigan
Monday, 15 February 2010
Guam - As promised in his State of the Island Address, Governor Felix Camacho wasted little time issuing an executive order to change the official name of Guam to Guahan.
His Executive Order applies to all GovGuam agencies and encourages the local businesses and the community at large to adopt the name change as well.
Read the Executive Order
http://www.pacificnewscenter.com/images/pdf/exorder.pdf
In addition the Executive order requests lawmakers pass a law re-designating Guam as Guahan.
Written by : Kevin Kerrigan
Camacho: Name change will affirm identity
Camacho: Name change will affirm identity
By Dionesis Tamondong • Pacific Daily News • February 16, 2010
To help mark his legacy as the island's chief executive, Gov. Felix Camacho has called for the formal change of Guam's name to Guåhan.
"As we quickly move into this time of rapid growth and development that may forever change our island, our sense of identity, family and place, it is important that we reaffirm our identity as a people," Camacho said during his State of the Island address yesterday.
The governor issued an executive order for the name change and said he would submit a bill for lawmakers to approve the change.
While some senators supported the renaming proposal, other senators said it amounted to empty symbolism.
Speaker Judith Won Pat said the return to calling the island "Guåhan" could restore some of Guam's lost identity.
"This is the age where, throughout the world, people want to know who they are and find their identity," she said. "This is very important for Guam as well."
Sen. Ben Pangelinan said he supported the name change, but said the Camacho administration hasn't accomplished much in terms of indigenous issues that would back up the symbolic gesture.
He noted the Commission on Self-Determination and the Commission on Decolonization have done little under Camacho's term.
"Self-determination is not changing the name of the island. It's the exercise of our right to vote for what we want to be in terms of our place in the political community of the world," Pangelinan said.
The name "Guåhan" means "we have," said Toni Ramirez, historian for the Guam Historic Preservation Office of the Guam Department of Parks and Recreation.
He said "Guåhan" was an appropriate name for the island because it was blessed with abundant fruits, rivers and many natural resources compared to other islands in Micronesia.
The name was used before 1900, when Guam's first Naval Gov. Richard Leary designated the island as the "Isle of Guam."
Guam Visitors Bureau General Manager Gerry Perez said the name change will require a lot of work from his agency to communicate that change to Guam's visitor markets. But in the long run, he said it can reinforce the island's cultural identity and history, which is already part of the bureau's campaign to show tourists what sets Guam apart from other destinations.
Sen. Eddie Calvo, a gubernatorial candidate in this year's elections, said while the name change could be positive for Guam, the government will have to look at the potential costs and impact of doing so.
Vice Speaker Benjamin Cruz said he thought the name change isn't going to have any major impact. He also said he was disappointed the governor decided to make this his lasting legacy.
"I expected that the legacy was going to be more what he was going to do about the buildup and not about renaming Guam Guåhan," Cruz said. "Sure, it gives us pride in ourselves, but we would have a little more pride if we had a leader that was going to protect us with this upcoming buildup. That would have been more important for me to hear."
Pacific Daily News reporter Brett Kelman contributed to this report.
By Dionesis Tamondong • Pacific Daily News • February 16, 2010
To help mark his legacy as the island's chief executive, Gov. Felix Camacho has called for the formal change of Guam's name to Guåhan.
"As we quickly move into this time of rapid growth and development that may forever change our island, our sense of identity, family and place, it is important that we reaffirm our identity as a people," Camacho said during his State of the Island address yesterday.
The governor issued an executive order for the name change and said he would submit a bill for lawmakers to approve the change.
While some senators supported the renaming proposal, other senators said it amounted to empty symbolism.
Speaker Judith Won Pat said the return to calling the island "Guåhan" could restore some of Guam's lost identity.
"This is the age where, throughout the world, people want to know who they are and find their identity," she said. "This is very important for Guam as well."
Sen. Ben Pangelinan said he supported the name change, but said the Camacho administration hasn't accomplished much in terms of indigenous issues that would back up the symbolic gesture.
He noted the Commission on Self-Determination and the Commission on Decolonization have done little under Camacho's term.
"Self-determination is not changing the name of the island. It's the exercise of our right to vote for what we want to be in terms of our place in the political community of the world," Pangelinan said.
The name "Guåhan" means "we have," said Toni Ramirez, historian for the Guam Historic Preservation Office of the Guam Department of Parks and Recreation.
He said "Guåhan" was an appropriate name for the island because it was blessed with abundant fruits, rivers and many natural resources compared to other islands in Micronesia.
The name was used before 1900, when Guam's first Naval Gov. Richard Leary designated the island as the "Isle of Guam."
Guam Visitors Bureau General Manager Gerry Perez said the name change will require a lot of work from his agency to communicate that change to Guam's visitor markets. But in the long run, he said it can reinforce the island's cultural identity and history, which is already part of the bureau's campaign to show tourists what sets Guam apart from other destinations.
Sen. Eddie Calvo, a gubernatorial candidate in this year's elections, said while the name change could be positive for Guam, the government will have to look at the potential costs and impact of doing so.
Vice Speaker Benjamin Cruz said he thought the name change isn't going to have any major impact. He also said he was disappointed the governor decided to make this his lasting legacy.
"I expected that the legacy was going to be more what he was going to do about the buildup and not about renaming Guam Guåhan," Cruz said. "Sure, it gives us pride in ourselves, but we would have a little more pride if we had a leader that was going to protect us with this upcoming buildup. That would have been more important for me to hear."
Pacific Daily News reporter Brett Kelman contributed to this report.
‘We will finish strong’
‘We will finish strong’
Tuesday, 16 February 2010 01:00
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
Camacho seeks one Marianas
GUAM should once again seek the reunification of the Marianas Islands, as the combined strength of the islands and her people on matters of mutual interests and benefit, Gov. Felix Camacho said yesterday during his last state of the island address, in which he promised to “finish strong.”
“Over the last seven years, our ties to our brothers and sisters in the neighboring islands of the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands have become closer than ever,” Camacho said.
“Keep an open mind about the possibility of reunification,” he said. “I have faith in the Northern Marianas…and this is the right time to realize our expectations—expect the very best vision of reunification.”
The CNMI is a part of the military buildup plan as outlined in the draft environmental impact statement.
Camacho recently met with CNMI Gov. Benigno Fitial during a Japanese Diet delegation on a fact finding mission and both were in agreement that Guam cannot support more troops than the anticipated 8,000 Marines and their 9,000 dependents.
Fitial welcomes the additional 4,000 troops from Futenma Airbase in Okinawa and has proposed that Tinian be used for the overflow.
Military buildup
During his speech, Camacho said the years ahead “will be challenging but prosperous for all of us.”
“I have seen in our people the desire to turn willingness into action, vision into reality and passion into responsible and positive change.”
Camacho made a strong bid for the federal government to fund the cost of the military buildup on Guam, and expressed his strong stand about the Marines’ relocation plan.
A successful buildup cannot happen without the proper funding, said Camacho.
“The people of Guam do not have the financial capacity to fund what is required for our nation’s defense. Without the financial commitment from the federal government to put plans into action, this buildup will not benefit the people of Guam,” he said.
Camacho said that the buildup must benefit “the American patriot inside the fence and the American patriot outside the fence- the people of Guam.”
Building upon the many comments regarding the draft environmental impact statement, Camacho had three recommendations.
What feds must do
First, the federal government must commit to fund the government of Guam’s buildup needs.
Secondly, the buildup timeline must be extended beyond 2014, said Camacho.
And finally, Camacho recommended that the Department of Defense must reevaluate their plans and placement of the firing range and proposed dredging of Apra Harbor.
Camacho also stated that he will not support the condemnation of the Ancestral or Chamorro Land Trust properties; that the trust was established to bring justice to families of Chamorro descent who were displaced or left landless by the federal government.
Reunification
As for his desire to see Guam and the CNMI reunited, Camacho said, “We can only succeed if we begin to forgive and let’s not look behind but let’s look forward.”
“As one Marianas, with greater representation and inclusion as American citizens, we will only strengthen our people and our communities,” Camacho said, adding that the reunification can only be realized once the people of Guam begin the healing process.
Camacho shared this same sentiment at the 2009 Economic Restoration Summit in Saipan, and even proposed that regional economic task forces be created so that islands can work together and benefit from the military buildup.
History of bitterness
Guam rejected the proposed Marianas unification was Nov. 4, 1969.
Some believed the rejection was some sort of “payback” to the Northern Marianas Chamorros for their perceived assistance to the Japanese forces during the occupation of Guam. During World War II, the NMI was a Japanese possession. Others argued that the reunification issue lost its significance on Guam which was preparing to hold its first gubernatorial election in the following year.
Camacho has been a strong proponent for the reunification of Guam and the CNMI.
In May, 2008, during the Attorney General’s Cup speech in Saipan, Camacho asked forgiveness from the CNMI for Guam’s rejection of the proposed reunification.
Camacho believes that 40 long years “is enough to end all bitterness and isolation among” the Chamorros of Guam and the NMI.
“You must tear down the walls. Learn to forgive because it’s a choice, not an option,” he said in 2008.
Camacho’s father was the last appointed governor of Guam and became its first elected chief executive in 1970.
“He told me… ‘son, this was what happened, ” Camacho said, adding that Guam and the NMI inherited what their former leaders have left behind.
In his 2008 speech, Camacho said “it is time to focus on a vision and plan for unity —we cannot allow others to break that hope.”
Emotional
Camacho’s 30-minute speech turned emotional at some point. He broke down in tears as he acknowledged how difficult it was for his family to share the burden he was given when he became governor and what they’ve had to endure in their lives.
Turning to acknowledge his mother and First Lady Joann and his family who were seated behind him, Camacho thanked them for their love, encouragement and inspiration which have kept him going.
Tuesday, 16 February 2010 01:00
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
Camacho seeks one Marianas
GUAM should once again seek the reunification of the Marianas Islands, as the combined strength of the islands and her people on matters of mutual interests and benefit, Gov. Felix Camacho said yesterday during his last state of the island address, in which he promised to “finish strong.”
“Over the last seven years, our ties to our brothers and sisters in the neighboring islands of the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands have become closer than ever,” Camacho said.
“Keep an open mind about the possibility of reunification,” he said. “I have faith in the Northern Marianas…and this is the right time to realize our expectations—expect the very best vision of reunification.”
The CNMI is a part of the military buildup plan as outlined in the draft environmental impact statement.
Camacho recently met with CNMI Gov. Benigno Fitial during a Japanese Diet delegation on a fact finding mission and both were in agreement that Guam cannot support more troops than the anticipated 8,000 Marines and their 9,000 dependents.
Fitial welcomes the additional 4,000 troops from Futenma Airbase in Okinawa and has proposed that Tinian be used for the overflow.
Military buildup
During his speech, Camacho said the years ahead “will be challenging but prosperous for all of us.”
“I have seen in our people the desire to turn willingness into action, vision into reality and passion into responsible and positive change.”
Camacho made a strong bid for the federal government to fund the cost of the military buildup on Guam, and expressed his strong stand about the Marines’ relocation plan.
A successful buildup cannot happen without the proper funding, said Camacho.
“The people of Guam do not have the financial capacity to fund what is required for our nation’s defense. Without the financial commitment from the federal government to put plans into action, this buildup will not benefit the people of Guam,” he said.
Camacho said that the buildup must benefit “the American patriot inside the fence and the American patriot outside the fence- the people of Guam.”
Building upon the many comments regarding the draft environmental impact statement, Camacho had three recommendations.
What feds must do
First, the federal government must commit to fund the government of Guam’s buildup needs.
Secondly, the buildup timeline must be extended beyond 2014, said Camacho.
And finally, Camacho recommended that the Department of Defense must reevaluate their plans and placement of the firing range and proposed dredging of Apra Harbor.
Camacho also stated that he will not support the condemnation of the Ancestral or Chamorro Land Trust properties; that the trust was established to bring justice to families of Chamorro descent who were displaced or left landless by the federal government.
Reunification
As for his desire to see Guam and the CNMI reunited, Camacho said, “We can only succeed if we begin to forgive and let’s not look behind but let’s look forward.”
“As one Marianas, with greater representation and inclusion as American citizens, we will only strengthen our people and our communities,” Camacho said, adding that the reunification can only be realized once the people of Guam begin the healing process.
Camacho shared this same sentiment at the 2009 Economic Restoration Summit in Saipan, and even proposed that regional economic task forces be created so that islands can work together and benefit from the military buildup.
History of bitterness
Guam rejected the proposed Marianas unification was Nov. 4, 1969.
Some believed the rejection was some sort of “payback” to the Northern Marianas Chamorros for their perceived assistance to the Japanese forces during the occupation of Guam. During World War II, the NMI was a Japanese possession. Others argued that the reunification issue lost its significance on Guam which was preparing to hold its first gubernatorial election in the following year.
Camacho has been a strong proponent for the reunification of Guam and the CNMI.
In May, 2008, during the Attorney General’s Cup speech in Saipan, Camacho asked forgiveness from the CNMI for Guam’s rejection of the proposed reunification.
Camacho believes that 40 long years “is enough to end all bitterness and isolation among” the Chamorros of Guam and the NMI.
“You must tear down the walls. Learn to forgive because it’s a choice, not an option,” he said in 2008.
Camacho’s father was the last appointed governor of Guam and became its first elected chief executive in 1970.
“He told me… ‘son, this was what happened, ” Camacho said, adding that Guam and the NMI inherited what their former leaders have left behind.
In his 2008 speech, Camacho said “it is time to focus on a vision and plan for unity —we cannot allow others to break that hope.”
Emotional
Camacho’s 30-minute speech turned emotional at some point. He broke down in tears as he acknowledged how difficult it was for his family to share the burden he was given when he became governor and what they’ve had to endure in their lives.
Turning to acknowledge his mother and First Lady Joann and his family who were seated behind him, Camacho thanked them for their love, encouragement and inspiration which have kept him going.
Governor reaches common ground with legislature
Governor reaches common ground with legislature
Tuesday, 16 February 2010 00:55
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
SENATORS were generally pleased with Gov. Felix Camacho’s last state of the island address.
“I liked some of the stuff I heard,” said Sen. Ben Pangelinan. “I think some of it was a little late. I think that we needed to have this kind of conviction and strength in the military buildup when we were doing the scoping meetings three/four years ago, but I liked what I heard today. In that respect, I’m finally glad he woke up to that issue.
Speaker Judi Won Pat was glad the governor included the elements contained in Resolution 275. “More importantly,” Won Pat said, “he acknowledged that we don’t want the dredging of Apra Harbor; the impact to our environment; the issues regarding the firing range and his stance on land taking was good.”
Senator Tina Muna Barnes welcomed the governor’s statement about the federal government’s fiscal obligation to Guam. “What’s important is that we’re not asking for that aid, we’re demanding and the federal government must fund the buildup if it wants the community of Guam to work harmoniously together,” she said.
“There was one component that he did not touch on and that is working closely with the mayors and the empowerment of these village level leaders because they continue to be the heartbeat of the community; he forgot to mention them,” Barnes added.
Senator Telo Taitague said she was touched by the emotions that came with Camacho’s reference to his family. “He did a great job. The fact that his family was right behind him encouraging him to do things for our people all these years; it was very touching. That moment of thankfulness to his family; it was a good thing.”
However, the comment about the military buildup left much to be desired, she said. “What are we going to do at this point? When he mentioned that he wanted to delay the buildup. I don’t think delay was what we were looking for from him and I’m a bit concerned about that.”
Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo supports the governor’s proposal to revert the island’s name to Guahan.
Supreme Court of Guam Chief Justice Robert Torres said of the governor’s speech was “very well delivered.”
“There were two points I think were important that people can’t overlook,” Torre said. “One very obvious one is the return of the traditional name of Guahan which is being more customarily used anyways. I don’t think it’s going to be too much of a leap to get there.”
“The other important topic was the reunification with the Northern Marianas. I’ve had discussions with constitutional scholars about a reunification plan that would preserve local governance in the respective jurisdictions; I think there are ways that can be accomplished and I think it’s something that we as a people need to look at because I think that our political relationship with the United States should be evaluated and looked at as one Marianas,” said Torres.
Tuesday, 16 February 2010 00:55
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
SENATORS were generally pleased with Gov. Felix Camacho’s last state of the island address.
“I liked some of the stuff I heard,” said Sen. Ben Pangelinan. “I think some of it was a little late. I think that we needed to have this kind of conviction and strength in the military buildup when we were doing the scoping meetings three/four years ago, but I liked what I heard today. In that respect, I’m finally glad he woke up to that issue.
Speaker Judi Won Pat was glad the governor included the elements contained in Resolution 275. “More importantly,” Won Pat said, “he acknowledged that we don’t want the dredging of Apra Harbor; the impact to our environment; the issues regarding the firing range and his stance on land taking was good.”
Senator Tina Muna Barnes welcomed the governor’s statement about the federal government’s fiscal obligation to Guam. “What’s important is that we’re not asking for that aid, we’re demanding and the federal government must fund the buildup if it wants the community of Guam to work harmoniously together,” she said.
“There was one component that he did not touch on and that is working closely with the mayors and the empowerment of these village level leaders because they continue to be the heartbeat of the community; he forgot to mention them,” Barnes added.
Senator Telo Taitague said she was touched by the emotions that came with Camacho’s reference to his family. “He did a great job. The fact that his family was right behind him encouraging him to do things for our people all these years; it was very touching. That moment of thankfulness to his family; it was a good thing.”
However, the comment about the military buildup left much to be desired, she said. “What are we going to do at this point? When he mentioned that he wanted to delay the buildup. I don’t think delay was what we were looking for from him and I’m a bit concerned about that.”
Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo supports the governor’s proposal to revert the island’s name to Guahan.
Supreme Court of Guam Chief Justice Robert Torres said of the governor’s speech was “very well delivered.”
“There were two points I think were important that people can’t overlook,” Torre said. “One very obvious one is the return of the traditional name of Guahan which is being more customarily used anyways. I don’t think it’s going to be too much of a leap to get there.”
“The other important topic was the reunification with the Northern Marianas. I’ve had discussions with constitutional scholars about a reunification plan that would preserve local governance in the respective jurisdictions; I think there are ways that can be accomplished and I think it’s something that we as a people need to look at because I think that our political relationship with the United States should be evaluated and looked at as one Marianas,” said Torres.
Governor's Final State of the Island Address Filled With Surprises
Governor's Final State of the Island Address Filled With Surprises
Monday, 15 February 2010
Guam - After nearly completing eight years in office Governor Felix Camacho gave his last state of the island address Monday morning..
While he looked back on his past accomplishments Camacho also looked to the future as he spoke about the military buildup and how it would affect the lives of everyone on Guam. Governor Felix Camacho began his last state of the island address with a reflection on the past recalling how he first took the oath of office by candelight.
Camacho took the reigns of GovGuam almost immediately after typhoon Pongsona ripped through the island. He dealt with the economic recession in Asia and the aftermath of 9/11. It was not a time of prosperity. This is why the governor spoke proudly of how his administration and his family helped him turn tragedy into triumph.
He listed off the many accomplishments of his administration saying "Through municipal leasing we build Okkodo High, Astumbo Middle, Liguan and Adacao Elementary schools when people said we couldn'." He also spoke of the millions of dollars worth of construction his administration has undertaken to improve roads expand airport runways and improve water and wastewater. He said "Today our water is the cleanest and safest it's been in decades."
The Govenor also dropped a few bombshells talking about issues that would've seemed unlikely to come out of his mouth during his first term as governor. For example he spoke about the reunification of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands. He also spoke candidly about the military buildup saying it was imperative that it be done properly. He said "First the federal government must commit to fund the government of Guam's buildup needs" He also said that the buildup timeline must be extended beyond 2014 and called upon the Department of Defense to re-evaluate their plans and placement of the firing range and proposed dredging of Apra Harbor. He said "I will not support the condemnation of our Ancestral or Chamorro Land Trust Properties."
Finally, he spoke about something that if done could grant him a solid spot in the anals of Guam history. Before dropping this final bom he said "Okay here we go, this is Legacy time". The governor was referring to his propossal to change the name of Guam to Guahan. Guahan is a name many believe to be the original name of Guam.
Written by : Clynt Ridgell
Monday, 15 February 2010
Guam - After nearly completing eight years in office Governor Felix Camacho gave his last state of the island address Monday morning..
While he looked back on his past accomplishments Camacho also looked to the future as he spoke about the military buildup and how it would affect the lives of everyone on Guam. Governor Felix Camacho began his last state of the island address with a reflection on the past recalling how he first took the oath of office by candelight.
Camacho took the reigns of GovGuam almost immediately after typhoon Pongsona ripped through the island. He dealt with the economic recession in Asia and the aftermath of 9/11. It was not a time of prosperity. This is why the governor spoke proudly of how his administration and his family helped him turn tragedy into triumph.
He listed off the many accomplishments of his administration saying "Through municipal leasing we build Okkodo High, Astumbo Middle, Liguan and Adacao Elementary schools when people said we couldn'." He also spoke of the millions of dollars worth of construction his administration has undertaken to improve roads expand airport runways and improve water and wastewater. He said "Today our water is the cleanest and safest it's been in decades."
The Govenor also dropped a few bombshells talking about issues that would've seemed unlikely to come out of his mouth during his first term as governor. For example he spoke about the reunification of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands. He also spoke candidly about the military buildup saying it was imperative that it be done properly. He said "First the federal government must commit to fund the government of Guam's buildup needs" He also said that the buildup timeline must be extended beyond 2014 and called upon the Department of Defense to re-evaluate their plans and placement of the firing range and proposed dredging of Apra Harbor. He said "I will not support the condemnation of our Ancestral or Chamorro Land Trust Properties."
Finally, he spoke about something that if done could grant him a solid spot in the anals of Guam history. Before dropping this final bom he said "Okay here we go, this is Legacy time". The governor was referring to his propossal to change the name of Guam to Guahan. Guahan is a name many believe to be the original name of Guam.
Written by : Clynt Ridgell
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Camacho: we will finish strong
Camacho: we will finish strong
Posted: Feb 15, 2010 2:13 PM
Updated: Feb 15, 2010 4:51 PM
by Sabrina Salas Matanane
*GuamGovernor.net - 2010 State of the Island Address
http://guamgovernor.net/SOTI_2010.pdf
Guam - With his term expiring at the end of the year, Governor Felix Camacho delivered his last State of the Island Address this morning. The island's chief executive detailed his administration's list of achievements, his legacy, and the future of Guam. And the governor says his administration has fought the good fight and plans to finish strong.
Governor Camacho began his final Address by first asking for a moment of silence for the island's 17 fallen heroes who died while serving in the Middle East. From there, Camacho began listing off his many projects he and his administration completed in the last seven years while in office, detailing milestones made in building new schools, new police and fire precincts, improvements to the island's infrastructure, climbing tourism numbers, and the Guam Memorial Hospital being closer than ever to accreditation.
The governor said he's come along way since being sworn in by candlelight in the wake of 2002's Supertyphoon Pongsona. "This is not jus a list of accomplishments," he noted, "It is the fulfillment of our commitment to serve our people."
There were other issues that however remain unresolved like mental health on the verge of a possible federal takeover. "While some have eyes set on taking over mental health services, we are determined to maintain ownership, not receivership," he maintained.
And the longstanding problems surrounding the Department of Education and the construction of a new John F. Kennedy High School were touched upon, with the governor saying the problems with education are chronic and systemic, adding that progress has been slow because of a politically charged environment.
Although the governor says he's worked with DOE to solve its problems, the true power lies within the agency itself. "There is an elected policy board, a super and multiple administrative positions but when trouble arises the governor is blamed, all authority for education rests within DOE," Camacho said.
The governor in the meantime went on to discuss the importance his administration has placed on building and maintaining relationships not just with the federal government but with regional leaders, even going so far as saying Guam and the CNMI should once again seek reunification. "With one Marianas," Camacho noted, "with greater representation and inclusion as Americans citizens, we will only strengthen our people in our communities."
Saying the island is in a state of anticipation, Governor Camacho says he has heard the voices of the people and has listened to their concerns and that he is determined to ensure that the military buildup is good for Guam. Camacho pledged to ensure the island's environment is protected and, its culture preserved.
In terms of funding, the governor maintained the feds should pay their fair share, saying, "Make no mistake: the people of Guam are not asking for free handouts, the people of Guam are not asking for special treatment, the people of Guam are simply asking what every good American should ask for - that the buildup ahead benefits both the American patriot inside the fence and the American patriot outside the fence: the people of Guam."
The governor requested the feds to extend the buildup implementation past the 2014 timeframe, and also made it clear that he was against the condemnation of ancestral land and Chamorro Land Trust Commission properties.
When it came to talking about his legacy the governor proceeded to provide a brief history of Guam lesson, and said there has been a revival of our island's identity and sense of place in this world, saying, "Today I will submit legislation; I've also signed an executive order and I'm calling on our Legislature, and our congresswoman, Madeleine Bordallo, and you the people of Guam to join me in taking all necessary legal action to formally change the name of our island from Guam to 'Guahan'".
The governor ended his speech by saying his father, the late governor Carlos Camacho, would be proud, and said it was his family, friends and faith that helped him through his two terms in office. "Even though I'm out of office, we all continue to serve. Let's stick together, let's remember that Guam is a great place and no matter what the critics say, no matter what you read in the newspaper or hear on the radio, we are good people - all of us. So let's continue to serve and thank God for all that we have," said Camacho.
Posted: Feb 15, 2010 2:13 PM
Updated: Feb 15, 2010 4:51 PM
by Sabrina Salas Matanane
*GuamGovernor.net - 2010 State of the Island Address
http://guamgovernor.net/SOTI_2010.pdf
Guam - With his term expiring at the end of the year, Governor Felix Camacho delivered his last State of the Island Address this morning. The island's chief executive detailed his administration's list of achievements, his legacy, and the future of Guam. And the governor says his administration has fought the good fight and plans to finish strong.
Governor Camacho began his final Address by first asking for a moment of silence for the island's 17 fallen heroes who died while serving in the Middle East. From there, Camacho began listing off his many projects he and his administration completed in the last seven years while in office, detailing milestones made in building new schools, new police and fire precincts, improvements to the island's infrastructure, climbing tourism numbers, and the Guam Memorial Hospital being closer than ever to accreditation.
The governor said he's come along way since being sworn in by candlelight in the wake of 2002's Supertyphoon Pongsona. "This is not jus a list of accomplishments," he noted, "It is the fulfillment of our commitment to serve our people."
There were other issues that however remain unresolved like mental health on the verge of a possible federal takeover. "While some have eyes set on taking over mental health services, we are determined to maintain ownership, not receivership," he maintained.
And the longstanding problems surrounding the Department of Education and the construction of a new John F. Kennedy High School were touched upon, with the governor saying the problems with education are chronic and systemic, adding that progress has been slow because of a politically charged environment.
Although the governor says he's worked with DOE to solve its problems, the true power lies within the agency itself. "There is an elected policy board, a super and multiple administrative positions but when trouble arises the governor is blamed, all authority for education rests within DOE," Camacho said.
The governor in the meantime went on to discuss the importance his administration has placed on building and maintaining relationships not just with the federal government but with regional leaders, even going so far as saying Guam and the CNMI should once again seek reunification. "With one Marianas," Camacho noted, "with greater representation and inclusion as Americans citizens, we will only strengthen our people in our communities."
Saying the island is in a state of anticipation, Governor Camacho says he has heard the voices of the people and has listened to their concerns and that he is determined to ensure that the military buildup is good for Guam. Camacho pledged to ensure the island's environment is protected and, its culture preserved.
In terms of funding, the governor maintained the feds should pay their fair share, saying, "Make no mistake: the people of Guam are not asking for free handouts, the people of Guam are not asking for special treatment, the people of Guam are simply asking what every good American should ask for - that the buildup ahead benefits both the American patriot inside the fence and the American patriot outside the fence: the people of Guam."
The governor requested the feds to extend the buildup implementation past the 2014 timeframe, and also made it clear that he was against the condemnation of ancestral land and Chamorro Land Trust Commission properties.
When it came to talking about his legacy the governor proceeded to provide a brief history of Guam lesson, and said there has been a revival of our island's identity and sense of place in this world, saying, "Today I will submit legislation; I've also signed an executive order and I'm calling on our Legislature, and our congresswoman, Madeleine Bordallo, and you the people of Guam to join me in taking all necessary legal action to formally change the name of our island from Guam to 'Guahan'".
The governor ended his speech by saying his father, the late governor Carlos Camacho, would be proud, and said it was his family, friends and faith that helped him through his two terms in office. "Even though I'm out of office, we all continue to serve. Let's stick together, let's remember that Guam is a great place and no matter what the critics say, no matter what you read in the newspaper or hear on the radio, we are good people - all of us. So let's continue to serve and thank God for all that we have," said Camacho.
Camacho to make final address: Residents want governor to discuss military buildup
Camacho to make final address: Residents want governor to discuss military buildup
By Amritha Alladi • Pacific Daily News • February 15, 2010
Gov. Felix Camacho will present his last State of the Island address today.
Some Guam residents shopping in Hagåtña yesterday gave the governor a medium rating for his last term. They're hoping he devotes significant time in today's speech to talk about what exactly the government of Guam has done in preparation for the military buildup, and how it plans to ensure the buildup is carried out in the safest way possible for Guam residents.
"I think he needs to address the point that the federal government, the United States, is a highly powerful government to deal with, and that the military in any case would not need any type of support from our government whatsoever," said Tom Delgado of Mangilao. "They will decide how much they're going to develop here on Guam, and for (the local government) to expect any kind of financial support is kind of ridiculous."
On a scale of one to 10, Delgado gave Camacho a four.
"He's never on island to address the issues that most of our people are concerned with," he said. "With the budget, with education, and I'm really disappointed with that."
And in terms of accountability, Delgado said the governor hasn't lived up to the expectations of those who put him in office.
"When he ran for office, he was talking about holding people accountable, downsizing the administration, and he's totally done opposite of that. So I'm sure that most of the people who voted for him under those terms are quite disappointed about his hypocrisy," Delgado said.
Bamba controversy
Specifically, the controversy over the actions of the governor's chief of staff, George Bamba, has tainted the governor's promise of accountability, Delgado said.
According to Pacific Daily News files, Bamba used military buildup-related grant money to pay for a port community outreach project that wasn't put out to bid.
The Office of the Attorney General last week released a procurement review finding the procurement was illegal. It suggested the governor should take appropriate action against Bamba; however, Camacho said he didn't agree with the AG's report. He said the procurement process, and not the individual, was at fault.
"He will always defend George Bamba to the utmost," Delgado said. "I mean he selected (him), so it would be kind of hypocritical if our governor -- who put these people in our community service -- if he would reprimand them in any case."
Meeting goals
Others felt the governor has truly tried to be transparent.
"He's doing everything possible. I believe that's his goal," said Inarajan resident Joe Afaisen, a GovGuam employee.
Afaisen said he feels the governor has done as good a job as he can with the resources he's been provided.
"The police are given the necessary tools. It's enough to provide the services to consumers," he said. "The island continues to move forward."
Indifference
Tamuning resident Ken San Nicolas didn't seem to think so.
He found the governor's "indifference" more frustrating than negative action, he suggested.
"I think Felix Camacho was indifferent during his two terms. I don't know what he's really going to talk about (in his State of the Island address)," San Nicolas said. "Maybe it wasn't any better than Carl (Gutierrez)'s term, but indifference is like the worst thing he could have done. There was, like, no productivity."
San Nicolas said Camacho was "not at all" holding his administration accountable, citing the Bamba example specifically.
But he gave Camacho a rating of six.
For San Nicolas, it comes down to whether Camacho sufficiently addresses the issue of the buildup today, especially as the comment period for the draft EIS comes to a close this week.
"I want to hear him talk about what kind of real progress we've made in the last four years," San Nicolas said. "We've known about (the buildup) for a while. I can't say that he's procrastinating. I don't think he procrastinated. I just don't think he did anything."
"The buildup is coming in right now, and we're nowhere," he added.
"Nothing's really happened."
By Amritha Alladi • Pacific Daily News • February 15, 2010
Gov. Felix Camacho will present his last State of the Island address today.
Some Guam residents shopping in Hagåtña yesterday gave the governor a medium rating for his last term. They're hoping he devotes significant time in today's speech to talk about what exactly the government of Guam has done in preparation for the military buildup, and how it plans to ensure the buildup is carried out in the safest way possible for Guam residents.
"I think he needs to address the point that the federal government, the United States, is a highly powerful government to deal with, and that the military in any case would not need any type of support from our government whatsoever," said Tom Delgado of Mangilao. "They will decide how much they're going to develop here on Guam, and for (the local government) to expect any kind of financial support is kind of ridiculous."
On a scale of one to 10, Delgado gave Camacho a four.
"He's never on island to address the issues that most of our people are concerned with," he said. "With the budget, with education, and I'm really disappointed with that."
And in terms of accountability, Delgado said the governor hasn't lived up to the expectations of those who put him in office.
"When he ran for office, he was talking about holding people accountable, downsizing the administration, and he's totally done opposite of that. So I'm sure that most of the people who voted for him under those terms are quite disappointed about his hypocrisy," Delgado said.
Bamba controversy
Specifically, the controversy over the actions of the governor's chief of staff, George Bamba, has tainted the governor's promise of accountability, Delgado said.
According to Pacific Daily News files, Bamba used military buildup-related grant money to pay for a port community outreach project that wasn't put out to bid.
The Office of the Attorney General last week released a procurement review finding the procurement was illegal. It suggested the governor should take appropriate action against Bamba; however, Camacho said he didn't agree with the AG's report. He said the procurement process, and not the individual, was at fault.
"He will always defend George Bamba to the utmost," Delgado said. "I mean he selected (him), so it would be kind of hypocritical if our governor -- who put these people in our community service -- if he would reprimand them in any case."
Meeting goals
Others felt the governor has truly tried to be transparent.
"He's doing everything possible. I believe that's his goal," said Inarajan resident Joe Afaisen, a GovGuam employee.
Afaisen said he feels the governor has done as good a job as he can with the resources he's been provided.
"The police are given the necessary tools. It's enough to provide the services to consumers," he said. "The island continues to move forward."
Indifference
Tamuning resident Ken San Nicolas didn't seem to think so.
He found the governor's "indifference" more frustrating than negative action, he suggested.
"I think Felix Camacho was indifferent during his two terms. I don't know what he's really going to talk about (in his State of the Island address)," San Nicolas said. "Maybe it wasn't any better than Carl (Gutierrez)'s term, but indifference is like the worst thing he could have done. There was, like, no productivity."
San Nicolas said Camacho was "not at all" holding his administration accountable, citing the Bamba example specifically.
But he gave Camacho a rating of six.
For San Nicolas, it comes down to whether Camacho sufficiently addresses the issue of the buildup today, especially as the comment period for the draft EIS comes to a close this week.
"I want to hear him talk about what kind of real progress we've made in the last four years," San Nicolas said. "We've known about (the buildup) for a while. I can't say that he's procrastinating. I don't think he procrastinated. I just don't think he did anything."
"The buildup is coming in right now, and we're nowhere," he added.
"Nothing's really happened."
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
‘Guam can’t be new Okinawa’
‘Guam can’t be new Okinawa’
Friday, 12 February 2010 03:51
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
GOVERNOR Felix Camacho met with a Japanese delegation yesterday that flew to Guam on a fact finding mission which included a tour of the military bases.
Camacho, who was joined by CNMI Gov. Benigno Fitial, shared with the delegation that Guam would not be able to accommodate additional troops than what was originally agreed by transferring all the troops from Futenma Air Base to Guam.
“I’ve said this before to the Secretary of Defense and the government of Japan and again reiterated here that Guam is not a replacement for Okinawa and I know they understand that,” said Camacho.
The governor said that with the proposed 8,000 Marines and an additional number for missile defense that that number was more than sufficient for Guam to handle.
“We have restrictions and limitations based on our land capability and our resources and our capacity,” said Camacho.
Fitial said that the delegation was interested to know if the CNMI would be receptive to the idea of accommodating troops to the island of Tinian, if a decision was made and there was the need to move the rest of the Marines from Futenma to Guam.
Fitial said that he told the delegation that he would welcome 4,000 Marines to the island of Tinian. (See related story on page 15.)
“I told them, welcome, because I know that my brother, (gesturing to Gov. Camacho), cannot accommodate them, and I told them that we’re trying to reunite the Marianas. Guam has lands to offer, we have islands,” said the CNMI governor.
Camacho said that between the U.S. military and the Japanese delegation, there is a true understanding of the alliance between Japan and the United States.
“It’s bringing that presence and deterrence from any threats to the region; we’ll all benefit from it. The Japanese leadership is extremely vital and important in this entire matter. And they also recognize now that commitments have been made between the nations. We are the host islands and there’s got to be due consideration for the burden it places in our community,” said Camacho.
Camacho said the delegation recognized that Guam does have its limitations.
“They recognize that 40,000 troops in all of Japan whether they be sailors, airman, Marines—75 percent of those are in Okinawa, which represents, I believe only roughly six percent of the total land mass. So there’s a disproportionate number of troops in Okinawa and that’s been a heavy burden on them.”
Camacho said there is a possibility of moving all the troops out of Okinawa and disbursing them throughout Japan.
“They at first thought about Guam and the Northern Marianas but now realize that we don’t have the capacity to accommodate that, nor can Guam replicate or replace Okinawa,” said Camacho.
Friday, 12 February 2010 03:51
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
GOVERNOR Felix Camacho met with a Japanese delegation yesterday that flew to Guam on a fact finding mission which included a tour of the military bases.
Camacho, who was joined by CNMI Gov. Benigno Fitial, shared with the delegation that Guam would not be able to accommodate additional troops than what was originally agreed by transferring all the troops from Futenma Air Base to Guam.
“I’ve said this before to the Secretary of Defense and the government of Japan and again reiterated here that Guam is not a replacement for Okinawa and I know they understand that,” said Camacho.
The governor said that with the proposed 8,000 Marines and an additional number for missile defense that that number was more than sufficient for Guam to handle.
“We have restrictions and limitations based on our land capability and our resources and our capacity,” said Camacho.
Fitial said that the delegation was interested to know if the CNMI would be receptive to the idea of accommodating troops to the island of Tinian, if a decision was made and there was the need to move the rest of the Marines from Futenma to Guam.
Fitial said that he told the delegation that he would welcome 4,000 Marines to the island of Tinian. (See related story on page 15.)
“I told them, welcome, because I know that my brother, (gesturing to Gov. Camacho), cannot accommodate them, and I told them that we’re trying to reunite the Marianas. Guam has lands to offer, we have islands,” said the CNMI governor.
Camacho said that between the U.S. military and the Japanese delegation, there is a true understanding of the alliance between Japan and the United States.
“It’s bringing that presence and deterrence from any threats to the region; we’ll all benefit from it. The Japanese leadership is extremely vital and important in this entire matter. And they also recognize now that commitments have been made between the nations. We are the host islands and there’s got to be due consideration for the burden it places in our community,” said Camacho.
Camacho said the delegation recognized that Guam does have its limitations.
“They recognize that 40,000 troops in all of Japan whether they be sailors, airman, Marines—75 percent of those are in Okinawa, which represents, I believe only roughly six percent of the total land mass. So there’s a disproportionate number of troops in Okinawa and that’s been a heavy burden on them.”
Camacho said there is a possibility of moving all the troops out of Okinawa and disbursing them throughout Japan.
“They at first thought about Guam and the Northern Marianas but now realize that we don’t have the capacity to accommodate that, nor can Guam replicate or replace Okinawa,” said Camacho.
Guam gov. negative on having more Marines from Okinawa than agreed
Guam gov. negative on having more Marines from Okinawa than agreed
Feb 11 07:08 AM US/Eastern
GUAM, Feb. 11 (AP) - (Kyodo) — Governor of Guam Felix Camacho on Thursday told visiting Japanese lawmakers that he is against accepting more than the agreed number of U.S. Marines from Okinawa to the Pacific island.
The lawmakers from Japan's ruling coalition government were on a fact- finding visit to Guam as part of their efforts to explore possible alternatives for the relocation of the U.S. Marine Corps' Futemma Air Station in Okinawa.
Under a 2006 Japan-U.S. agreement on the realignment of U.S. forces in Japan, about 8,000 Marines are to be transferred to Guam from Okinawa.
The Japanese government sent the lawmakers, who are members of a government panel on the Futemma relocation issue, to the island to see U.S. military bases there.
The Social Democratic Party, one of the two junior partners in the Democratic Party of Japan-led government, has been looking at Guam as a possible relocation site.
Northern Mariana Islands Governor Benigno Fitial was present at the meeting between Camacho and the Japanese lawmakers, according to Japanese officials. Fitial has expressed a positive view about accepting the Futemma Air Station functions to the islands.
Feb 11 07:08 AM US/Eastern
GUAM, Feb. 11 (AP) - (Kyodo) — Governor of Guam Felix Camacho on Thursday told visiting Japanese lawmakers that he is against accepting more than the agreed number of U.S. Marines from Okinawa to the Pacific island.
The lawmakers from Japan's ruling coalition government were on a fact- finding visit to Guam as part of their efforts to explore possible alternatives for the relocation of the U.S. Marine Corps' Futemma Air Station in Okinawa.
Under a 2006 Japan-U.S. agreement on the realignment of U.S. forces in Japan, about 8,000 Marines are to be transferred to Guam from Okinawa.
The Japanese government sent the lawmakers, who are members of a government panel on the Futemma relocation issue, to the island to see U.S. military bases there.
The Social Democratic Party, one of the two junior partners in the Democratic Party of Japan-led government, has been looking at Guam as a possible relocation site.
Northern Mariana Islands Governor Benigno Fitial was present at the meeting between Camacho and the Japanese lawmakers, according to Japanese officials. Fitial has expressed a positive view about accepting the Futemma Air Station functions to the islands.
Japanese delegation continues Guam trip
Japanese delegation continues Guam trip
Posted: Feb 11, 2010 9:58 AM
Updated: Feb 11, 2010 9:59 AM
by Sabrina Salas Matanane
Guam - A delegation from the Japanese government tasked with looking into alternatives for the Futenma Replacement Facility is on Guam. They have plans to tour the military bases on island as well as meet with Governor Felix Camacho this afternoon. The delegation will also now meet with members of the Guam Legislature.
According to the Japan Consul General's Office the group is being lead by Japan's Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary, Yorihisa Matsuno. Included in the group are Japan's Parliamentary Senior Vice-Minister of Defense, Kazuya Shimba; State Secretary of Foreign Affairs Kiochi Takemasa; two lawmakers of the House of Representatives with the Social Democratic Party, Tomoko Abe and Ryoichi Hattori; and from the People's New Party, Mikio Shimoji and Daisuke Nagayama.
The new leaders in Japan are no longer in agreement with the 2006 pact signed between the United States and their country to have the Futenma Replacement Facility be located in Henoko; they want it completely out of Okinawa and Guam and Tinian are currently being looked at. The Japanese government hopes to make a determination for the new location next month.
The U.S. has contended that if the Futenma Replacement Facility does not occur neither will the relocation of the U.S. Marines from Okinawa to Guam. The delegation will depart Guam late this afternoon.
Posted: Feb 11, 2010 9:58 AM
Updated: Feb 11, 2010 9:59 AM
by Sabrina Salas Matanane
Guam - A delegation from the Japanese government tasked with looking into alternatives for the Futenma Replacement Facility is on Guam. They have plans to tour the military bases on island as well as meet with Governor Felix Camacho this afternoon. The delegation will also now meet with members of the Guam Legislature.
According to the Japan Consul General's Office the group is being lead by Japan's Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary, Yorihisa Matsuno. Included in the group are Japan's Parliamentary Senior Vice-Minister of Defense, Kazuya Shimba; State Secretary of Foreign Affairs Kiochi Takemasa; two lawmakers of the House of Representatives with the Social Democratic Party, Tomoko Abe and Ryoichi Hattori; and from the People's New Party, Mikio Shimoji and Daisuke Nagayama.
The new leaders in Japan are no longer in agreement with the 2006 pact signed between the United States and their country to have the Futenma Replacement Facility be located in Henoko; they want it completely out of Okinawa and Guam and Tinian are currently being looked at. The Japanese government hopes to make a determination for the new location next month.
The U.S. has contended that if the Futenma Replacement Facility does not occur neither will the relocation of the U.S. Marines from Okinawa to Guam. The delegation will depart Guam late this afternoon.
Camacho invites Fitial to Guam for Obama's visit
Camacho invites Fitial to Guam for Obama's visit
Thursday, February 11, 2010
By Haidee V. Eugenio
Guam Gov. Felix P. Camacho has invited CNMI Gov. Benigno R. Fitial to Guam for President Barack Obama's visit on his way to Indonesia and Australia in March.
“I will be sending a letter to the White House informing them that I have invited Governor Fitial to Guam for the president's visit,” Camacho told Saipan Tribune in an interview on Tuesday.
He said Obama and the whole first family will be in Guam on March 19.
Fitial, in a separate interview yesterday, said he has accepted Camacho's invitation to go to Guam for the presidential visit.
White House press secretary Robert Gibbs, in a Feb. 1 transcript of statements during a news briefing, said Obama, first lady Michelle Obama and their daughters Sasha and Malia “will visit Guam, where he will speak with U.S. service members on the island.”
The presidential visit comes at a time when the military buildup in Guam is looming, although Camacho earlier wrote to U.S. Navy Secretary Ray Mabus to delay the buildup until after 2014 “to protect the integrity of the III Marine Expeditionary Force and ensure that impacts are minimized to our island infrastructure and socioeconomic services.”
Fitial had said he “recognizes the immense potential opportunities of a presidential visit to the Marianas.”
The CNMI Senate had already adopted a resolution formally inviting Obama to visit the CNMI when he and his family stop on Guam on their way to Indonesia and Australia next month.
Senators said it will be a “great honor” and an “extraordinary privilege” to have Obama pay an official visit to the CNMI while he is in the region.
They said a presidential visit will bring to the fore issues critical to the CNMI, including the recent federalization of its immigration, the military buildup in Guam that will also impact the CNMI, and the creation of the Marianas Trench National Monument and the authorization for a visitor center in the region. Senate Resolution 17-03 was introduced by Sen. Pete P. Reyes (R-Saipan).
Rep. Diego T. Benavente (R-Saipan) also introduced House Resolution 17-5, officially inviting Obama to visit the CNMI, but the House has yet to act on the resolution.
If and when Obama visits the CNMI, he will be the first sitting U.S. president to ever set foot in the CNMI.
The highest ranking U.S. official to set foot in the CNMI’s capital of Saipan is former President George H.W. Bush, when he was still vice president to former President Ronald Reagan. Bush flew to Saipan on his way to a six-day visit to China in October 1985.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
By Haidee V. Eugenio
Guam Gov. Felix P. Camacho has invited CNMI Gov. Benigno R. Fitial to Guam for President Barack Obama's visit on his way to Indonesia and Australia in March.
“I will be sending a letter to the White House informing them that I have invited Governor Fitial to Guam for the president's visit,” Camacho told Saipan Tribune in an interview on Tuesday.
He said Obama and the whole first family will be in Guam on March 19.
Fitial, in a separate interview yesterday, said he has accepted Camacho's invitation to go to Guam for the presidential visit.
White House press secretary Robert Gibbs, in a Feb. 1 transcript of statements during a news briefing, said Obama, first lady Michelle Obama and their daughters Sasha and Malia “will visit Guam, where he will speak with U.S. service members on the island.”
The presidential visit comes at a time when the military buildup in Guam is looming, although Camacho earlier wrote to U.S. Navy Secretary Ray Mabus to delay the buildup until after 2014 “to protect the integrity of the III Marine Expeditionary Force and ensure that impacts are minimized to our island infrastructure and socioeconomic services.”
Fitial had said he “recognizes the immense potential opportunities of a presidential visit to the Marianas.”
The CNMI Senate had already adopted a resolution formally inviting Obama to visit the CNMI when he and his family stop on Guam on their way to Indonesia and Australia next month.
Senators said it will be a “great honor” and an “extraordinary privilege” to have Obama pay an official visit to the CNMI while he is in the region.
They said a presidential visit will bring to the fore issues critical to the CNMI, including the recent federalization of its immigration, the military buildup in Guam that will also impact the CNMI, and the creation of the Marianas Trench National Monument and the authorization for a visitor center in the region. Senate Resolution 17-03 was introduced by Sen. Pete P. Reyes (R-Saipan).
Rep. Diego T. Benavente (R-Saipan) also introduced House Resolution 17-5, officially inviting Obama to visit the CNMI, but the House has yet to act on the resolution.
If and when Obama visits the CNMI, he will be the first sitting U.S. president to ever set foot in the CNMI.
The highest ranking U.S. official to set foot in the CNMI’s capital of Saipan is former President George H.W. Bush, when he was still vice president to former President Ronald Reagan. Bush flew to Saipan on his way to a six-day visit to China in October 1985.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Opinion :: One voice
Opinion :: One voice
Wednesday, 03 February 2010 01:19
Editorial
GOVERNOR Felix P. Camacho’s recent initiatives to hold public hearings to listen to the people’s sentiments on the military buildup and his new efforts to hold workshops on the draft environmental impact statement may have come a little later than expected, but, as the hackneyed saying goes, better late than never.
The workshop presentations were designed to provide an overview of key issues identified in the draft study and to help residents better understand the implications of the military buildup. This drive, according to a press release from the governor’s office, is part of the Governor Camacho’s “One Island, One Vision, One Future” concept.
It’s a fancy-sounding slogan, rendered vague by its abstractness and a lack of cohesiveness in the community. Sure we are one island, gearing up for a future filled with hopes for progress and promises of a better life. But our visions are scattered all over the place.
Some officials are detached from the sentiments of the community. The community feels alienated from their elected officials. The community is divided between the pro and anti military. Sitting on the periphery are the uninterested lot. The bickering among our elected officials indicates the lack of a collective strategy to advance a common goal.
President Obama is coming to Guam in March. Guam may be a significant aspect of the national defense plan. But we can’t be too optimistic that the president will spend a lot of time on island and sit separately with individual groups or individual branches of the government.
Instead of bashing Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo and accusing her of being a federal mouthpiece, her fellow Democrats must reconcile their differences with her. The governor and the legislators must patch things up.
As speaker Judi Won Pat and Sen. Ben Pangelinan suggested, the community needs to find a common ground.
We have found at least one area where reaching a common ground is a possibility. For example, Governor Camacho’s request for the Department of Navy to postpone the Marines’ relocation beyond 2014 and Sen. Judi Guthertz’s “stretch out, spread out” strategy must be worked out and reconciled into a better thought-out official proposal.
But there is one key observation that clearly every one agrees on: At this point, Guam is not ready for the military buildup.
Wednesday, 03 February 2010 01:19
Editorial
GOVERNOR Felix P. Camacho’s recent initiatives to hold public hearings to listen to the people’s sentiments on the military buildup and his new efforts to hold workshops on the draft environmental impact statement may have come a little later than expected, but, as the hackneyed saying goes, better late than never.
The workshop presentations were designed to provide an overview of key issues identified in the draft study and to help residents better understand the implications of the military buildup. This drive, according to a press release from the governor’s office, is part of the Governor Camacho’s “One Island, One Vision, One Future” concept.
It’s a fancy-sounding slogan, rendered vague by its abstractness and a lack of cohesiveness in the community. Sure we are one island, gearing up for a future filled with hopes for progress and promises of a better life. But our visions are scattered all over the place.
Some officials are detached from the sentiments of the community. The community feels alienated from their elected officials. The community is divided between the pro and anti military. Sitting on the periphery are the uninterested lot. The bickering among our elected officials indicates the lack of a collective strategy to advance a common goal.
President Obama is coming to Guam in March. Guam may be a significant aspect of the national defense plan. But we can’t be too optimistic that the president will spend a lot of time on island and sit separately with individual groups or individual branches of the government.
Instead of bashing Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo and accusing her of being a federal mouthpiece, her fellow Democrats must reconcile their differences with her. The governor and the legislators must patch things up.
As speaker Judi Won Pat and Sen. Ben Pangelinan suggested, the community needs to find a common ground.
We have found at least one area where reaching a common ground is a possibility. For example, Governor Camacho’s request for the Department of Navy to postpone the Marines’ relocation beyond 2014 and Sen. Judi Guthertz’s “stretch out, spread out” strategy must be worked out and reconciled into a better thought-out official proposal.
But there is one key observation that clearly every one agrees on: At this point, Guam is not ready for the military buildup.
Wednesday, February 03, 2010
Cruz supports efforts to delay buildup start
Cruz supports efforts to delay buildup start
Tuesday, 02 February 2010 00:23
by Zita Y. Taitano | Variety News Staff
VICE speaker BJ Cruz supports Gov. Felix Camacho’s request for the Department of Navy to delay the start of the military buildup.
Cruz affirmed his support in a letter he sent yesterday to the governor.
“Your action serves to confirm the fears that many of our residents have regarding the buildup, that it’s too much, too soon,” Cruz stated in his letter.
He also sent a similar letter to Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo.
Cruz noted that after reviewing the 11,000-page draft environmental impact statement, he realized that the draft study doesn’t really address the military buildup’s impact on the community.
With this in mind, Cruz said a revised military impact study should be prepared and take “into account the comments made on the existing documents.”
The revised version, he added, must be made available for public review before a record of decision is made on the final version.
He also asked that Camacho and Bordallo submit such a request to the Secretary of the Navy since it would have direct affect on the island.
“The people of Guam deserve to be assured that a DEIS on the proposed buildup reflects truly and accurately the impact that the buildup would have on their lives,” he concluded.
Tuesday, 02 February 2010 00:23
by Zita Y. Taitano | Variety News Staff
VICE speaker BJ Cruz supports Gov. Felix Camacho’s request for the Department of Navy to delay the start of the military buildup.
Cruz affirmed his support in a letter he sent yesterday to the governor.
“Your action serves to confirm the fears that many of our residents have regarding the buildup, that it’s too much, too soon,” Cruz stated in his letter.
He also sent a similar letter to Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo.
Cruz noted that after reviewing the 11,000-page draft environmental impact statement, he realized that the draft study doesn’t really address the military buildup’s impact on the community.
With this in mind, Cruz said a revised military impact study should be prepared and take “into account the comments made on the existing documents.”
The revised version, he added, must be made available for public review before a record of decision is made on the final version.
He also asked that Camacho and Bordallo submit such a request to the Secretary of the Navy since it would have direct affect on the island.
“The people of Guam deserve to be assured that a DEIS on the proposed buildup reflects truly and accurately the impact that the buildup would have on their lives,” he concluded.
Camacho asks Defense to slow buildup
Camacho asks Defense to slow buildup
By Gaynor Dumat-ol Daleno • gdumat-ol@guampdn.com • January 30, 2010
Saying Guam simply can't absorb the shock of a population surge in four years, Gov. Felix Camacho is asking the Defense Department to relocate about 8,000 Marines and their 9,000 dependents to Guam in eight years instead of four.
Rather than completing the Marines' relocation from Okinawa to Guam by 2014, Camacho is requesting the Defense Department for a phase-in time extending through 2018.
"I believe that a request for an extension would help lessen the impact of the military buildup on Guam. In fact, during our village workshop on Jan. 20, I expressed my intention to ask the United States to consider extending their deadline for the buildup," according to Camacho.
"The extension will greatly impact every area of public concern. It will lessen the pressure currently being placed on our people to accommodate a significant influx in our population," the governor added.
Camacho on Thursday wrote to Navy Secretary Ray Mabus requesting the delay.
Guam's population is expected to soar -- with 79,178 additional people in 2014, an increase of almost half the current population. And as the population increases, the military buildup is expected to create 33,000 new jobs by 2014, according to the military's draft Environmental Impact Statement. In 2014 alone, the government of Guam would see $325 million in additional revenue -- an increase of about 60 percent of its current annual budget, according to the impact statement.
Island residents have until mid-February to comment on the draft EIS.
The proposed delay in the completion of the Marines' move, according to the governor, "will lessen the impact on our territory, to give us more time to make preparations, and that affects everything from the number of wells that need to be drilled, the number of workers that need to be here at a certain time."
The island also needs more time to expand the island's only commercial port of entry for construction materials for the military buildup, according to the governor.
"I don't have a set date, but I think that moving it beyond 2014 to even 2018, a four-year push, would be better for us. It is a more sustained growth. There's no peak and a bust," Camacho said in an interview yesterday.
There will be no post-buildup recession as predicted in the draft impact statement, he added.
David Leddy, president of the Guam Chamber of Commerce, said the governor's request is consistent with the Defense Department's revisions to the buildup timetable.
"We think a delay is good for the island as it will afford us more time to assimilate the changes that are coming forth and for more of our local businesses to participate," Leddy said.
Gerry Perez, a member of the initial group of Guam Chamber officials who started knocking on doors in Washington, D.C., almost a decade ago to invite the military to expand its presence on Guam as the island faced an economic downturn starting with the economic crisis, said yesterday Guam also needs to consider America's national security interests.
Voicing his personal opinion, Perez, who also is the Guam Visitors Bureau general manager, said: "I can say that our original objective of attracting a larger military footprint to expand our economic base, provide local employment, and stimulate other economic activity was a success."
"The key question now before the island's leadership is how best to negotiate and harness this military buildup opportunity in a manner that benefits the local community while satisfying our national security interests," Perez said.
"Quite frankly, it is the reality of funding, capacity constraints, and the timely resolution of differences in the magnitude and dispersal of this (military expansion footprint) that will ultimately determine the buildup schedule, whether in 2014 or beyond," Perez said.
The relocation of Marines from Okinawa to Guam is part of a Japan-United States pact to reduce the presence of U.S. troops in Okinawa.
Japan has agreed to pay $6 billion of the $10.2 billion relocation cost under an agreement that was finalized last year -- before a new set of Japanese elected leaders came into office.
Later last year, however, some of the newly elected leaders in Japan began to suggest they want all U.S. troops out of Okinawa completely. In recent weeks, Japan officials hinted they may ask for the bilateral agreement to be renegotiated.
The relocation of Marines to Guam is part of a broader military expansion plan on Guam, which includes building an Army missile defense facility, and accommodations and wharf facilities for recurring visits of an aircraft carrier or two, according to preliminary military plans.
Vice Speaker Benjamin Cruz and Delegate Madeleine Bordallo both have written letters in support of extending the amount of time residents can comment on the buildup's draft impact statement.
Without the granting of the 45-day extension request, Guam residents have until Feb. 18, Guam time, to comment. The deadline to comment is Feb. 17, Washington time.
Bordallo was unavailable for comment yesterday. The Defense Department's Joint Guam Program Office, which coordinates buildup issues, did not have an immediate comment.
Sen. Judith Guthertz also has called for the Marines' move to be stretched "over a period of eight years instead of only two years."
The island would have to accommodate not only the Marines and their dependents, but also workers from off island who will contribute to the population boom.
"We reported on the availability of workforce housing and all of the Guam Land Use Commission's approval of all those properties in terms of the needs of the H2 workforce," said Department of Land Management Director Chris Duenas.
He said the agency presented more than 130 comments on the draft EIS to the governor's office.
The department also visited JGPO officials and requested a discussion between JGPO, the governor's office and the Legislature.
"The military and JGPO should go to the governor's office and the Legislature to discuss the possibilities of what they would do in terms of land exchange and what that would mean for the people of Guam."
The department has been working with the Chamorro Land Trust and the Ancestral Land Commissions to ensure they all have the correct inventory on the properties on Guam, Duenas said.
By Gaynor Dumat-ol Daleno • gdumat-ol@guampdn.com • January 30, 2010
Saying Guam simply can't absorb the shock of a population surge in four years, Gov. Felix Camacho is asking the Defense Department to relocate about 8,000 Marines and their 9,000 dependents to Guam in eight years instead of four.
Rather than completing the Marines' relocation from Okinawa to Guam by 2014, Camacho is requesting the Defense Department for a phase-in time extending through 2018.
"I believe that a request for an extension would help lessen the impact of the military buildup on Guam. In fact, during our village workshop on Jan. 20, I expressed my intention to ask the United States to consider extending their deadline for the buildup," according to Camacho.
"The extension will greatly impact every area of public concern. It will lessen the pressure currently being placed on our people to accommodate a significant influx in our population," the governor added.
Camacho on Thursday wrote to Navy Secretary Ray Mabus requesting the delay.
Guam's population is expected to soar -- with 79,178 additional people in 2014, an increase of almost half the current population. And as the population increases, the military buildup is expected to create 33,000 new jobs by 2014, according to the military's draft Environmental Impact Statement. In 2014 alone, the government of Guam would see $325 million in additional revenue -- an increase of about 60 percent of its current annual budget, according to the impact statement.
Island residents have until mid-February to comment on the draft EIS.
The proposed delay in the completion of the Marines' move, according to the governor, "will lessen the impact on our territory, to give us more time to make preparations, and that affects everything from the number of wells that need to be drilled, the number of workers that need to be here at a certain time."
The island also needs more time to expand the island's only commercial port of entry for construction materials for the military buildup, according to the governor.
"I don't have a set date, but I think that moving it beyond 2014 to even 2018, a four-year push, would be better for us. It is a more sustained growth. There's no peak and a bust," Camacho said in an interview yesterday.
There will be no post-buildup recession as predicted in the draft impact statement, he added.
David Leddy, president of the Guam Chamber of Commerce, said the governor's request is consistent with the Defense Department's revisions to the buildup timetable.
"We think a delay is good for the island as it will afford us more time to assimilate the changes that are coming forth and for more of our local businesses to participate," Leddy said.
Gerry Perez, a member of the initial group of Guam Chamber officials who started knocking on doors in Washington, D.C., almost a decade ago to invite the military to expand its presence on Guam as the island faced an economic downturn starting with the economic crisis, said yesterday Guam also needs to consider America's national security interests.
Voicing his personal opinion, Perez, who also is the Guam Visitors Bureau general manager, said: "I can say that our original objective of attracting a larger military footprint to expand our economic base, provide local employment, and stimulate other economic activity was a success."
"The key question now before the island's leadership is how best to negotiate and harness this military buildup opportunity in a manner that benefits the local community while satisfying our national security interests," Perez said.
"Quite frankly, it is the reality of funding, capacity constraints, and the timely resolution of differences in the magnitude and dispersal of this (military expansion footprint) that will ultimately determine the buildup schedule, whether in 2014 or beyond," Perez said.
The relocation of Marines from Okinawa to Guam is part of a Japan-United States pact to reduce the presence of U.S. troops in Okinawa.
Japan has agreed to pay $6 billion of the $10.2 billion relocation cost under an agreement that was finalized last year -- before a new set of Japanese elected leaders came into office.
Later last year, however, some of the newly elected leaders in Japan began to suggest they want all U.S. troops out of Okinawa completely. In recent weeks, Japan officials hinted they may ask for the bilateral agreement to be renegotiated.
The relocation of Marines to Guam is part of a broader military expansion plan on Guam, which includes building an Army missile defense facility, and accommodations and wharf facilities for recurring visits of an aircraft carrier or two, according to preliminary military plans.
Vice Speaker Benjamin Cruz and Delegate Madeleine Bordallo both have written letters in support of extending the amount of time residents can comment on the buildup's draft impact statement.
Without the granting of the 45-day extension request, Guam residents have until Feb. 18, Guam time, to comment. The deadline to comment is Feb. 17, Washington time.
Bordallo was unavailable for comment yesterday. The Defense Department's Joint Guam Program Office, which coordinates buildup issues, did not have an immediate comment.
Sen. Judith Guthertz also has called for the Marines' move to be stretched "over a period of eight years instead of only two years."
The island would have to accommodate not only the Marines and their dependents, but also workers from off island who will contribute to the population boom.
"We reported on the availability of workforce housing and all of the Guam Land Use Commission's approval of all those properties in terms of the needs of the H2 workforce," said Department of Land Management Director Chris Duenas.
He said the agency presented more than 130 comments on the draft EIS to the governor's office.
The department also visited JGPO officials and requested a discussion between JGPO, the governor's office and the Legislature.
"The military and JGPO should go to the governor's office and the Legislature to discuss the possibilities of what they would do in terms of land exchange and what that would mean for the people of Guam."
The department has been working with the Chamorro Land Trust and the Ancestral Land Commissions to ensure they all have the correct inventory on the properties on Guam, Duenas said.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)