Triple J plans to expand Saipan operations

Triple J Saipan Inc. construction operations manager and senior superintendent Mario Valentino, standing, assists some of the applicants who joined yesterday’s job fair at the Pedro P. Tenorio Multipurpose Center in Susupe. (Jon Perez)

Triple J Enterprises is expanding its business on Saipan with several establishments set to open within the year as they hope to join the growth of the local economy.

They held a one-day job fair, from 9am to 3pm, at the Pedro P. Tenorio Multipurpose Center in Susupe yesterday in order to fill vacant positions for their projects on the island.

“I would say, that this is the Year of the Applicants,” said Triple J Enterprises corporate director of human resource Francisco S. Ada Jr. with a laugh. “A lot of businesses are holding job fairs and it’s a good indicator of the economy here.”

“There’s significant growth on Saipan and we need to find employees that would fit the qualifications we are looking for,” Ada added.

“We’re looking at no specific number but all applicants will undergo the screening process and we’re going to review their qualifications. The more applicants, the better and larger pool to choose from.”

Ada said that there has been a steady flow of applicants since yesterday morning. “People are coming in and were pleased with the turnout. By 11:30am we had already more than 50 applicants and candidates.”

He added that they are just increasing the employment opportunities of capable workers and the job fair was open to all regardless of ethnicity, nationality, and race.

They will also be joining today’s career fair by the Cooperative Education Program by the CNMI Public School System, a smaller version of their job fair.

“Triple J has several projects on Saipan and we will also have something different to offer with some of the new businesses that are going to open this year.”

Surf Club Beach Bar, the former Pacific Gardenia, is set to open in the next two months and Ada said they want to recapture the fun beach atmosphere. They will also open a hotel under the Best Western brand, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., and Outback Steakhouse.

“Bubba Gump and Outback are global brands and they have branches in major cities in the world including Guam and the Philippines. We want to bring that here on Saipan. And we’re also looking to operate other potential restaurants here.”

Bubba Gump is set to open within the next three months and it will be located at the building right across I Love Saipan where it would occupy the entire first floor.

“There are challenges with the opening being delayed but we do overcome them,” added Ada.

Capricciosa, Tony Roma’s, and Truongs are the restaurants that Triple J either owns or operates on Saipan.