What did you think of the 2018 SoCA?

“This is a healthy thing that the people of the CNMI needs to hear [such as] what the progress of the CNMI is in the government. It was good. It outlined everything that was [achieved] throughout the term of Gov. Ralph DLG Torres’ administration. Overall, I would continue to serve the people as I was vested to.”
—Department of Public Safety Highway Patrol Capt. Anthony I. Macaranas

“It was beautiful. I am very happy with it—very satisfied. It gives me more excitement. It is almost like a rally for all employees to continue to work hard and continue to make progress for our children, our future. It was a very good, beautiful, excellent speech and SOCA presentation on the governor’s achievements. I am very satisfied.”
—Sen. Sixto Igisomar (R-Saipan)

“I felt more informed. It was informative and it was great. I hope that the off-island people that watch the SOCA are going to feel that there is something for them when they come back. I hope that they come back and contribute…because we need the younger generation because they are our future. [We need them] now more than ever.”
—Bruce Camacho

“With the SOCA, we know what was going on, what has changed, from the past to the present. Most of it was an improvement. No one expected Soudelor. I lost my house, had to rent houses. From there, we got help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Red Cross, etc. Other than that, part of my dream came true—I became a police officer of two years. So many good improvements especially with drugs—it is out of the street [more]. We see more uniformed officers out that prevents crime for happening, deterrence.”
—DPS officer Maridel Camacho

“The clear message was progress. We are moving—we are moving as one CNMI, we are collaborating with each other: the governor, the Legislature, all of the key players are continuing toward progress. The SOCA was a good wake-up call that sends the message that we are still working for the community. I am looking forward to some of the proposals to continue.”
—Legislative assistant Joel Camacho

“I had an opportunity to thank the governor for his remarks and thank him for his invitation today and acknowledging the CBP and our role in helping international travel and as members of the public in the community at large. The theme I took away is it [SOCA] was a story about people: a walk through life, a journey on us. Who we are together as a people moving forward and, to me, that was quite inspirational. Pointing out the young people, pointing out the progress, just the general theme of us—us moving forward together as a community, as a people, and I really enjoyed that. That was quite refreshing.”
—U.S. Customs and Border Protection Director of Field Operations Brian Humphrey

“It is my first time ever to attend the SOCA by Gov. Ralph DLG Torres. I found the address very informative. I am glad there were notable accomplishments in mind. I know that there is still room for improvement and I believe that we can get there if the governor is elected four more years. The accomplishments could not have been possible without our federal partners that provide us grants on an annual basis. It’s a hand-in-hand relationship with the local and federal government, and I hope that relationship continues moving forward.”
—Commonwealth Office on Transit Authority marketing specialist John Demapan