SAIPAN – The Governor’s Council of Economic Advisers (GCEA) convened its first official press conference this week, outlining priorities to strengthen the Commonwealth’s economy through collaboration between government and the private sector.
Executive Director Clement Bermudes Jr. introduced the council alongside co-chairs Lieutenant Governor Dennis Mendiola and private sector representative, Saipan Chamber of Commerce president Joseph Guerrero. Bermudes said the council will issue a readout and summary of the meeting to the press, with the goal of transparency and ongoing communication.
Council Priorities and Committees
Officials emphasized that the GCEA will draw on existing plans and initiatives rather than reinventing the wheel. The council has established four standing committees:
- Tourism, Infrastructure, and Sports
- Labor and Workforce Development
- Domestic Policy and Government Services
- Economic Diversification
Council members said these committees will involve both public and private sector representatives, with many already expressing interest in participating. The council includes members who served under previous administrations as well as new representatives, including experts in digital economy and trade. Former Commerce Secretary Mark Rabauliman recently joined as well.
Council members said their aim is to keep efforts consistent regardless of election cycles, ensuring that good ideas and practical solutions survive changes in administration.
While tourism remains a central focus, the council is also exploring diversification opportunities. Leaders cautioned against raising expectations prematurely, noting the importance of securing investment commitments before public announcements.
Council leaders stressed that the work is nonpartisan and volunteer-driven. Plans include creating a public website to share resources and invite community input. Guerrero highlighted the importance of trust and open dialogue, adding that collaboration is essential for moving the CNMI forward.
The GCEA pledged to act quickly on short-term issues while maintaining a long-term vision of making the CNMI a stronger destination for both tourists and investors.
The GCEA traces its roots back to councils dating to the early 1980s. Reyes noted the group will use that institutional knowledge while moving forward with modern priorities developed since 2020. The focus, he said, is to execute existing plans and identify “low-hanging fruit” that can be addressed within the next 30 days.
Examples discussed include permitting and zoning issues, along with tourism recovery and airline service development.
Watch the full press conference here: https://youtu.be/gtC9Djx-Snk
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