Under New Law, First Foreign-Licensed Physician Hired in CNMI Joins Marianas Eye Institute

Dr. Jonalyn Rodriguez-Bernardino is the first physician licensed to practice in a foreign country to work in the Northern Mariana Islands after the Senate Bill authored by Sen. Donald Manglona became law in January. The law allows the CNMI Health Care Professions Licensing Board to promulgate regulations for the licensing of physicians licensed to practice in a foreign country.

“I am actually thrilled to extend my practice here,” she told Marianas Press. “I still can get my practice within the U.S. Territory, having my active license from the Philippines.”

She joined Marianas Eye Institute as their new ophthalmologist this month and signed a three-year contract. Dr. Rodriguez-Bernardino is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained cornea specialist who previously worked at José R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center in the Philippines. That’s where she was at the helm of the Cornea and External Disease Section. She also oversaw residency training and admissions.

“Known for her steady hands, warm bedside manner, and deep commitment to patient care, Dr. Rodriguez-Bernardino brings both compassion and world-class skill to every encounter,” Marianas Eye Institute said in a statement.

Dr. Martin Rohringer, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at the Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation, said that collaboration with local leaders led to a “pathway to find such talented individuals such as Jonalyn, and we are grateful to the leadership that has allowed this and recognized the need of the community.”

Dr. Rohringer said there are several other candidates who are interested in moving to the CNMI. He added, “The next big barrier is…the immigration. The immigration, as everyone knows, has been complicated by recent policies at the federal level, but we will work with immigration to find ways through it and bring these talented people to our community.”

Dr. David Khorram, co-founder and medical director of Marianas Eye Institute, said the doctor’s hiring is significant.

“The needs of the population are acute, and I think that is what the biggest issue that we are really talking about here, is having the ability for the patients on Saipan with eye problems to continue to get ophthalmic care,” he added. He said the new law allows them to broaden the hiring pool and recruit faster.

When asked for comment, Senator Donald Manglona, who authored the law, told Marianas Press, “Congratulations to Marianas Eye Institute on the historic hiring of the first foreign physician under CNMI Public Law 23-33! This is a landmark achievement for the Institute and a significant step forward for the Commonwealth’s healthcare system. This moment reflects our collective commitment to addressing the shortage of specialized medical professionals in the CNMI. By opening the door to qualified foreign physicians, we can begin to close critical service gaps—especially in diagnosing and treating conditions that require advanced expertise. While we work to fill immediate needs in specialized care, we remain equally committed to strengthening preventative health measures across our islands. Our goal is to not only treat illnesses but to reduce their occurrence through early intervention, education, and community-based care. This milestone is just the beginning. With collaboration, strategic planning, and dedication, we can build a healthier future for everyone in the CNMI.