IT&E donates $100K worth of solar lamps

Acting governor Victor B. Hocog, sixth from left, joins IT&E officials and representatives of the CNMI’s federal partners and organizations involved in the recovery efforts from Super Typhoon Yutu in last week’s donation of solar lamps. (Jon Perez)

Groups involved in the recovery and relief efforts from Super Typhoon Yutu joined IT&E last week as the company turned $100,000 worth of solar lamps that will be handed out to the public at the Office of the Governor.

IT&E bought over 1,000 pieces of solar lamps and presented them to representatives of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. military, the Torres administration, and other non-profit organizations.

IT&E CNMI general manager Rose Soledad said they are glad to do their part in helping the CNMI recover. “We are your community partners. We’re glad to do this for everyone.”

Acting governor Victor B. Hocog praised IT&E as one of the companies that always thinks of the welfare of the CNMI. “On behalf of the governor, the administration, and our people, thank you IT&E. …It would go a long way in helping the community.

“We’re hoping for a…speedy recovery for everyone to get back on their feet,” he added.

Bishop Ryan P. Jimenez of the Diocese of Chalan Kanoa said that IT&E’s donation is timely “since it is the light of Christ that we’re celebrating this Christmas season. Christ himself is the light. So, what a perfect way to give this to our people who are still experiencing darkness.”

Lions Club board member Mario Dimayuga said their organization would help distribute the solar lamps. “We’re glad to be part of this. We’re entrusted to distribute some of the solar lamps. …We’re happy to assist in the distribution.”

Virginia Villagomez, the governor’s authorized representative, said the lamps would ease the situation of some of those who still have no power. “It would help…in putting some light out there in the tents of the survivors.”

FEMA regional administrator Bill Roache said they are glad to work with a great group of people in the recovery efforts. “We’re one team and one fight. FEMA is a partner of the territory. [FEMA Region IX administration] Bob Fenton was here recently to check on the situation. He was happy with the progress that has been made but we have a lot more to do. This is just a part of getting things done and helping the survivors, so we appreciate IT&E. To make it a little bit safer and comfortable for our survivors, who have been patient.”

U.S. Department of Defense coordinating officer Harry Elliott said they are privileged to help the people of the CNMI. “We’re blown away by the commitment the public and private sector have shown. …It is really impressive to see the private sector companies that stepped up. It is wonderful to see people pulling others before themselves.”

Marianas Young Professionals executive director Gerard van Gils said that, although they are a small non-profit organization, they have been able to do big things because of the many partners that assist them. “We were able to bring relief directly to people’s doorsteps. …We were able to help in reaching the people who are in most need. We offer our services, love, attention of our volunteers, and our entire organization to help bring relief. We’re grateful to IT&E, the CNMI government, and our federal and military partners. We’re going to try our best to serve the people.”