SAIPAN — Governor David M. Apatang has welcomed a presidential proclamation that restores commercial fishing access within parts of certain Pacific marine national monuments, including portions of the Mariana Trench Marine National Monument.
In a statement, Apatang said President Donald J. Trump signed the Executive Proclamation Restoring American Commercial Fishing in the Pacific on June 11. The governor said the action restores access to designated fishing grounds and reaffirms science-based fisheries management under existing federal law.
The proclamation places the affected fisheries within the management framework of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, NOAA Fisheries and the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council, the governor said. He said the action recognizes the role Pacific communities play in the stewardship of ocean resources.
“For generations, the people of the Northern Mariana Islands have relied on the ocean for sustenance, culture, and economic opportunity,” Apatang said. “This proclamation acknowledges the importance of America’s Pacific territories and supports opportunities for responsible fisheries development while maintaining strong conservation standards.”
The governor said the CNMI shares a common interest with other U.S. Pacific jurisdictions in supporting local fisheries and exploring ocean-connected economic opportunities. He said the Commonwealth continues to seek ways to expand local fisheries capacity, support fishermen and enhance food security through the responsible use of marine resources.
Apatang emphasized that existing federal protections for marine habitats, coral reefs, protected species and other sensitive resources remain in place, ensuring that responsible resource management continues to guide fisheries activities in the region.
The governor also recognized the efforts of Department of Lands and Natural Resources Secretary Igisomar, the CNMI members of the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council and the council itself for what he described as longstanding advocacy on behalf of the Commonwealth and other Pacific island communities. He said their work helped elevate Pacific fisheries issues at the national level and contributed to the dialogue that led to the proclamation.