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Manglona confirmed as CEC commissioner
The full Senate confirmed Thursday afternoon the nomination of fire inspector Jonathan Christopher A. Manglona as a commissioner of the Commonwealth Election Commission representing Tinian and Aguiguan.
During a Senate session held at the Tinian Courthouse, all nine senators unanimously adopted the report of the Senate Committee on Executive Appointments and Government Investigations that recommended confirming Gov. Ralph DLG Torres’ appointment of Manglona to the CEC.
Before the voting, committee chair Sen. Francisco Q. Cruz (R-Tinian) said they examined all pertinent documents relating to the appointment of Manglona’s overall credentials to serve on the CEC. Cruz said they received 10 oral and one written testimonies in support of Manglona’s appointment. He said there were no written or oral testimonies in opposition.
“Based on the overall assessment of Mr. Manglona’s credentials, experiences, testimonies, goals for the agency, and other relevant issues considered, the committee is convinced that Mr. Manglona has the qualification and leadership skills necessary to serve on the Commonwealth Election Commission,” the senator said.
Saipan Tribune learned that after the session, Manglona took his oath of office before Torres, who had attended the session.
Before Manglona’s confirmation, the CEC had six commissioners. Five commissioners are needed to have a quorum.
Manglona attended the CEC board meeting on Friday.
During the confirmation hearing before the committee Thursday morning, CEC chair Jesus I. Sablan underscored the importance of having seven commissioners so as not to jeopardize the Nov. 8 general election.
Sablan said if one commissioner leaves the CNMI, it will come down to just five board members present.
The chairman said if commissioner John Attao, who is representing Tinian and Aguiguan, will not make it to Election Day for a meeting, then the election will be jeopardized.
