Ex-rep Mike Tenorio passes away

The CNMI is mourning the passing of former representative Peter Michael P. Tenorio, more affectionately known as “Mike,” who died over the weekend. Tenorio’s age could not be immediately verified but Delegate Gregorio Kilili C. Sablan’s newsletter, e-kilili, stated that Tenorio was born in 1960, which would make him 60 years old.

Tenorio was a member of the 10th Commonwealth Legislature for the people of Precinct 1, where he also served as chairman of the Committee on Commerce and Tourism.

Tenorio was also district director of the Northern Marianas congressional offices in 2009, working with Sablan (Ind-MP) on issues facing the people of the Commonwealth.

“The congressional office is deeply saddened by the passing of our friend and colleague, Peter Michael P. Tenorio. ‘Mike,’ as he was better known,” the delegate’s e-newsletter stated. “Thank you for your years of selfless service to our office and to the people of the Northern Marianas.”

Rep. Tina Sablan (D-Saipan), who also worked for the delegate, only had kind words to offer to her former colleague. “Mike was boss, colleague, friend, and family to me. He was the district director for the congressional office, a businessman, a public servant, a devoted family man, a man of faith. He was kind. He was funny. He was generous. He helped so many—quietly, without any fanfare. People loved him,” she said.

Michael P. Tenorio

Rep. Luis John Castro (R-Saipan) also honored Tenorio, saying he carved the path for the current generation of lawmakers. “As a professional and a public servant, Mike left a humble but profound impact through his work. Along with that, he was a devoted family man, loving husband and father, big brother, a kind servant leader, and a great friend. …I am greatly appreciative of the path he and his colleagues paved for our generation to trod in serving our people and join in mourning his passing and paying tribute to his service to our precinct and our Commonwealth,” he added.

Saipan Mayor David M. Apatang, who served with Tenorio in the 10th Commonwealth Legislature, also expressed sorrow over the passing of Tenorio, taking comfort knowing that his good friend is now with God.

“A hardworking, very thoughtful and kind person, Mike lived life with so much love for those around him. He dedicated his time to making changes to better the lives of the people of the Mariana Islands by serving in the 10th Northern Marianas Commonwealth Legislature. He leaves us behind with an abundance of memories that I am sure will last us forever,” Apatang said.

Tenorio was the eldest son of the late governor Pedro P. Tenorio and Sophie P. Tenorio. He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline, and their three children, Sophia, Ex, and Peter Jr., as well as his mother, brothers and sisters, and their families.