CNMI Honors Fallen Law Enforcement at Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony

The CNMI paid tribute to its fallen law enforcement officers during the National Pacific Officers Memorial Ceremony held last May 15 at the Department of Public Safety complex in Susupe.

The solemn event, attended by government leaders, law enforcement officials, families, and community members, was led by DPS Commissioner Anthony Macaranas, who opened the ceremony with a heartfelt tribute.

“This memorial is not just about names etched on stone. It is about lives lived in service,” Macaranas said. “Peace officers carry a heavy burden. They run toward danger while others run away.”

He emphasized that the ceremony served not only as a remembrance of the fallen but also as a call to honor their legacy through continued public service.

“Let us ensure that their memory continues to shape the future of law enforcement… They will never truly be gone as long as we speak their names and uphold their values,” he added.

He also thanked the families who endured sleepless nights, acquired fear, and for some, burdened by the unthinkable loss.

“Your sacrifice is not forgotten. Your strength inspires all of us. Peace officers carry a heavy burden. They run towards danger while others run away. They navigate complexity, respond with compassion, and hope on upward justice even in the face of chaos. The badge they wear is not just a symbol of authority. It is a promise. A promise to protect and serve.”

Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang, in his remarks, extended the government’s gratitude to the families of the fallen officers.

“We remember and honor our peace officers who have fallen in the line of duty,” Apatang said. “There is no acceptable reason for any law enforcement officer to perish in a society that only hopes to live in peace.”

Apatang noted that peace officers shoulder difficult, often dangerous tasks in an environment where safety is never guaranteed. He added that the people of the CNMI owe a debt to the officers who died upholding law and order. “Peace officers are the backbone of a lawful society. Their sacrifice ensures our freedoms and protects our families,” he said.

Corrections Capt. Marvin Seman offered closing reflections, recognizing the emotional weight carried by families and fellow officers alike.

“With enormous respect, we acknowledge the courage and character of all who answered the call to be law enforcement officers,” Seman said. “To the families left behind, you are the silent heroes. Their legacy lives in honor and courage.”

Seman, who rose through the DOC ranks, also said the event was a necessary reminder of what public service means.

“Let us always remember why we serve. And let us honor their memory by living up to the standards they set,” he added.

The ceremony concluded with the reading of the names of the fallen from multiple CNMI enforcement agencies, including DPS, Department of Corrections, Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, Customs & Biosecurity, and Ports Police, among others.

ROLL CALL OF THE FALLEN

Department of Public Safety

Capt. Justino T. Arriola
PO Gilbert M. Taisacan
PO2 Jackson K. Davis
PO Abraham S. Quitugua
Sgt. Kevin R. Maratita (honor)

Department of Corrections

Lt. Frances Rebuenog
CO2 Fisarmal T. Kaipat Jr.
CO2 Abraham T. Reyes

Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services

FF Ernie T. Dela Cruz
FF Joaquin T. Camacho (honor)

Commonwealth Ports Authority

Chief Pius M. Helgen (honor)
Capt. Calistro T. Reyes Jr. (honor)

Division of Customs & Biosecurity

Capt. Cristito Alepuyo (honor)
WO Daniel Taitingfong (honor)

Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting

Capt. David Lizama
FF2 John Benavente
Lt. Joseph D. Aldan
FF1 Raymond S. Villagomez

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Officer Alan Aninzo
Officer Rafael Martinez
Officer Jason Sablan

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement

DEO Tommy Kwon Chin

Alcohol Beverage and Tobacco Control

LEO2 Manuel Santos Reyes
Administrator Enrique A. Santos

Division of Youth Services

Shelter Caretaker Angeline Rose P. Rios
CPS Supervisor Julian R. Camacho

Marshal Service Division of the CNMI Judiciary

Deputy Marshal Manuel Q. Tenorio

Office of Adult Probation

Chief PO Ursula I. Lifoifoi Aldan
PO2 John Peter D. Del Rosario

Office of the Attorney General

Investigator Vincent Igisomar

Division of Fish and Wildlife

CO Jesus A. Omar
CO2 James Tanaka
CO3 Antonio H. Borja
CO3 Joseph San Nicolas (Tinian)

Homeland Security and Emergency Management

Director Pedro A. Leon Guerrero

Police Sgt. Patrick Arriola-Camacho and Chantel Royal served as master and mistress of ceremony for the event, respectively, while Diocese of Chalan Kanoa Bishop Romeo Convocar delivered the invocation and benedictions.

The observance marked Peace Officers Memorial Day as designated annually on May 15, and was held in conjunction with National Police Week. Attendees also included Fire Commissioner Juan Pua, Chief of Ports Police Juan Dela Cruz, and Saipan Mayor Ramon B. Camacho, members of the Legislature led by Seneate President Dennis Mendiola, among others. Gov. Arnold I. Palacios also took time from his busy schedule to attend.

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