Saipan seaport manager set to retire

Saipan seaport manager Antonio B. Cabrera announced Wednesday that he plans to retire on Dec. 31.

Cabrera, 53, said he is stepping down to relax, spend more time with family, and probably seek opportunities in the private sector after over a 21-year career in legislative work and port management.

“When I found out that I have fulfilled the number of years required to retire from government service, the news came with mixed feelings of both happiness and regret. I seriously thought about it, but after considering all the new significant opportunities in the private sector, I simply cannot afford to pass up those opportunities,” he said in his Nov. 2 resignation letter.

Cabrera’s career in the public sector started in August 1970 with a seven-year service in the then Trust Territory government. He lived off-island for several years after that, and then returned to work in the CNMI Legislature in 1988.

In 1995, Cabrera began his nine years of service with the Commonwealth Ports Authority. Two years later, he was appointed to administer the then newly expanded Port of Saipan. As port manager, he has been in charge for overseeing the day-to-day operation of the world-class facility that features 2,600 linear feet of berthing space, a 22-acre container yard, a water line, an underground fuel line protected by a concrete vault, an underground sewage removal system and dockside lights for nighttime operation.

“It is true that certain periods of our lives are rich with experiences and opportunities, and I want you to know that that is how the last nine years here have been with me,” Cabrera told CPA executive director Carlos Salas in his letter. “I have gained a great deal from working here, and I hope I have been able to return at least part of what I have gained in loyalty, trust and value.”

Salas accepted Cabrera’s resignation on Nov. 9 and wished him luck in his future endeavors.

“[We] would like to extend our appreciation for your contributions and untiring efforts at CPA for the past nine years, particularly as the port manager for the Port of Saipan. Although you will be greatly missed, we respect your decision and wish you happy retirement,” Salas said.

Salas also asked Cabrera to arrange a briefing and transition period to ensure that his successor will be knowledgeable about his current projects and duties.

Assistant port manager Lee Cabrera is expected to assume the retiring official’s post.