Previous Story
Aguon is Bridge of Light awardee
Attorney General’s Office caseworker Juan L. Aguon is the first-ever male Bridge of Light awardee.
Aguon was acknowledged last Wednesday when Gov. Ralph DLG Torres signed the proclamation designating October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month at the Saipan World Resort.
Aguon was a caseworker for the government for 19 years and to the Karidat Social services for four years, totaling 23 years.
He noted that his work is rewarding because his efforts save lives in domestic distress, even more so when victims remember him.
“…Victims coming back or even sending in letters and extending [gratitude] for being there at their time of need, providing the services and guiding them through the system for services, is the most rewarding,” Aguon said.
He said that assisting those in need of protection gives him a sense of accomplishment.
Northern Marianas Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence executive director Maisie Tenorio noted that gender does not play a role in the award, but rather the effort exerted for the cause.
“…The award is about extraordinary advocates. He is a wonderful example to other males out there who don’t think that they can do this work,” Tenorio said. “We need all kinds of people to do this work. We are very happy that [Aguon] has been around for…24 years, if you count his advocacy in preventing violence and working for the community. We are extremely proud of him and so happy to have him as a part of the team. …I hope he inspires other men in the community to stand up and speak out against violence.”
Previous Bridge of Light awardees include Flora Danica B. Aguon (2013), Lauri Ogumoro (2014), Mildred Sikebert (2015), Elaine Dela Cruz (2016), and Diana Camacho (2017).
