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S. 1634, The Northern Mariana Islands Covenant Implementation Act
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Visitor Comments
Violeta
Although the CNMI government continues to deny that there are a lot labor violations and abuse against contract workers, I believe that bill S. 1634, when implemented will help minimize, if not totally eliminate, these abuses.
Albert
What i can say is cnmi government is very thick & narrow
rules inside of the cnmi. Government are freak, naived & doesn't have expereince in politics. They don't know how to protect the people in cnmi. Local people are so stupid. A lot of people here especially government employees are violating our dignity & rights. No ethics. Always grabing money from other people.Corrupts and always playing
people. F**k them. Especially fitial he always protecting willie tan & jerry tan. Jerry tan has lot of business here but monkey business he want to die the small businesses here to grab his intension to buy this island.CNMI is a selfish government. Pls. don't allow them to this against us. They are greedy in power.
Julieta
I think this is the right time to pass the bill. I lived there for 14 years, let's face the fact that CNMI can't live without the aid from US government, not only that we have to think the future of our kids. I think this is the right time.
James Mendiola Jr.
Great comments guys, and I mean that with very little sincerity. Albert, there's not much to comment on your opinions as it speaks loads as to what type of person you are. As for Violeta, thank you for mindlessly vomiting out more rhetoric and propaganda on this issue, because—you see—that's exactly what the people of the CNMI need to make changes within our community: more mindless and idiotic comments recycled over and over. The CNMI has made a great deal of change to labor practices in the last decade. It might not be enough, (and I feel we have a long ways to go) but at least those changes are being made. Can you say the same about the illegal sweat shops in New York city or Southern California? What have those states done in the last decade to improve the lives of those illegal immigrants in the U.S. that are trapped in the richest nation in the world? In the CNMI a non-resident worker wants to go back home you are free to do so.
James Mendiola Jr.
Workers come here legally and are protected by their legal status as non-resident workers, which is a million times better than arriving to the shores of the U.S. mainland by 40 foot containers and being forced to work in U.S. sweat shops that everyone knows exists but no one does anything about. Telling someone to fix their backyard while your backyard looks like crap is one of those hypocritical prerogatives given to members of the U.S. Congress. The Speaker of the House can hire and therefore endorse illegal immigrants, but has no problem criticizing and classifying the people of the CNMI as criminals.
The problem with this bill is that it is bill for retribution. While U.S. Congress remains impotent unable to fix the concerns over millions of ILLEGAL immigrants in the U.S., they are more than happy to use a heavy handed approach on a group of islands thousands of miles away from their home constituency.
James Mendiola Jr.
I am not saying that there shouldn't be changes made to the CNMI, but it should be done with great concern and caution, with great cooperation. It is easy for Congress to impose things onto the CNMI as they do not live here (and, 90% have never been here), but the people who consider this place their home and plan to live here the rest of their lives have some legitimate concerns. Unfortunately, people like you, Violeta, mindless minions who jump on the bandwagon of a cause fueled by rhetoric and catch-phrases are given a greater voice than people who have substantive issues.
As for Julieta, 14 years in the CNMI might give credence to your opinion to people who are clueless of the CNMI, but to people like me who are still here, dedicated to our homes, you are really just someone who came, didn't like it here, and moved away. You sit on your high horse and talk of change and improvement...to a place where you have no vested interest? Give me a break.
James Mendiola Jr.
By the way, there thousands of small farming communities in rural America that depend on the Federal government to subsidize their crops. Singling out the CNMI as a place that can't live without federal aid is asinine. As for doing it for the future of our kids, well that strange; that is exactly the reason people like me are working to negotiate the right changes to our islands.
You are all entitled to your opinions, and I am entitled to my opinions; that's the beauty of living in America. You are my fellow Americans and together we make this country great. But, my gripe about this bill is that it gives no voice to the people who actually live here; and that my fellow Americans is TRULY UN-AMERICAN. This bill is railroaded through U.S. Congress as if democracy itself will collapse without its passage.
James Mendiola Jr.
The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee wants to entertain comments on the bill next week and I can't get a copy of the bill through the LIBRARY OF CONGRESS because it hasn't been submitted to the GPO. This is exactly the type of Congressional trickery that people living in the CNMI have to deal with. Where is our opportunity to have a say?
"Taga's way"
We need people like you James especially for our Commonwealth ,who stands up for what he believe is right. Regardless of what had transpired in the CNMI (i.e, abuses,labor violations, criminal activities as if it would not happen in other places)individuals like albert & julieta thinks that the people of the CNMI in general are to be blame for their sufferings. This bill (like you James; I can't get a copy of this bill although, I read that Sen. Frica Pangelinan has a copy and its available )is not so intrusive as we thought it will be, of course that's only my opinion.
"Taga's way"
Federalization of Immigration in the CNMI might be inevitable, but if you look into it's context from the media releases it does not really change much of anything, think of it as an upgrade of your PC, that would enable the Federal govt. to sort out the undesirables. This bill whose main supporters are the non-residents, will give them a status of "non-immigrant", non-immigrant?
"Taga's way"
Federalization of Immigration in the CNMI might be inevitable, but if you look into it's context from the media releases it does not really change much of anything, think of it as an upgrade of your PC, that would enable the Federal govt. to sort out the undesirables. This bill whose main supporters are the non-residents, will give them a status of "non-immigrant", non-immigrant?
"Taga's way"
How could they in their status participate in local politics as feared by some residents, if they are not immigrants, Their third generation kin might have a say in generall politics in the CNMI if they stay here for a long period of time, but not this non-immigrants. No , not yet.
"Taga's way"
How could they in their status as "non-immigrant" participate in local politics as feared by some residents, if they are not immigrants, and are unlikely to be eligible to vote. Their third generation kin might have a say in generall politics in the CNMI if they stay here for a long period of time, but not this non-immigrants. No , not yet.
Ramon
James, do you have any idea why the US congress wants to implement this bill to the CNMI. I bet you do? if the CNMI is in the huge mess right now whom do you think did it or the responsible persons is it the contract workers? let me ask you this question. why you don't like or hate this bill?
JORAB
I THINK I WOULD BE BETTER FOR CNMI TO BE FEDERALIZED BECAUSE OF THE ONGOING ECONOMIC DOWNTURNS AS WELL AS THE CLOSING OF THE GARMENT INDUSTRY, FEDERAL GOVERMENT SHOULD HELP CNMI BY MEANS OF FEDERAL GRANT AND ALSO HELP THE LONG TIME STAYING ALIEN WORKERS, THEY DESERVE TO BE GIVEN A REWARD EVEN THOUGH IT IS JUST A NON IMMIGRANT IT WOULD BE MUCH BETTER CONSIDER THAT THEY ARE ENTITTLED TO WORK IN THE MAINLAD, I THINK THEY'LL TAKE IT.THEY DESERVE IT, ANYWAYS.
weng
Obviously, local people are not in favor of this bill, you know why? they are afraid of losing everything to the non-resident worker once they have their own status, they are afraid that this long time non-resident worker will have a change to improve their lives by working in the US mainland, they are afraid that for sure only few of this non resident worker will stay here, what the heck of staying here if you can go to the mainland. Don't worry Mr. James i know for sure that this non-resident workers if given a status has no intention staying here for the rest of their lives, you can have your island. it's must be better for you to just take care of your bettle nut tree.
rich
i was born and raised in saipan and still live here. i'm not too sure how i feel about this bill. except for granting >5 years non-residents fas-like status allowing them to travel anywhere in the us to work and/or study, it doesn't seem to have other significant changes. one good thing about it is that it provides some stability. we would no longer have to be concerned about whether or not the immigration status would change next year, 5 years, or tomorrow.
rich
even if this bill fails to pass, homeland security issues could compel the president to sign an executive order federalizing immigration in the cnmi, changing everything instantly. at least this way, some planning could be made. the one thing that stinks about this bill is how it is being forced down our throats without no or very little input from the ones it would affect the most - the locals. does anyone really believe that any of the senators or their staff, especially al stayman, give a damn about people living in tiny islands 7,000 miles away from dc?
michelle
In his testimony before the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on March 2006, OIA Deputy Assistant Secretary David B. Cohen stated "With virtually no military installations and very limited military spending, the CNMI’s ability to import labor and set its own minimum wage has been essential to its economic survival." Now exactly what has happened in less than a year to totally change Cohen's mind? Will S. 1634 lead the CNMI to economic recovery? ridiculous
talap-talap
Based from my experience, this bill should be implemented as soon as possible for the ff. reasons:
1) As an alien worker, you must always say "yes" to your employer or else you lose your job. It doesn't matter if you're wrong or right. You can never argue or complain.
2) How can you invest or do business in CNMI if the Dept. of Labor will be the one to choose your worker or employees once you announce the job vacancy ads.
These are only few instances where the freedom to talk or choose of these alien workers and businesses were handicapped.
Francisco villamin jr.
the sooner the better to impliment the bill to federalize CNMI. i have a question what will happen to communist country like chinese workers are they qualified if the bill be implimented?
i do believe that U.S. GOVERNMENT is equal to all the nations ever since. they will do whatever the right thing to do for the benefit of the human being.
GOD BLESS AMERICA AND CNMI.
James Mendiola Jr.
Wow, a firestorm of comments, I love this kind of discussion. But, why don't we move to the www.thecnmi.com forum so that we don't have to keep each post under 1,000 characters. I, for one, am too long-winded to keep my comments this short. I insist that everyone here who wants to discuss and debate an issue come on over...for everything begins with exchange and dialog. I realize that some of you are obviously still under the impression that we are all barefoot, uneducated, savages and I would love to engage in open debate with all that doubt the intelligence of a Chamorro person.
To Taga's Way. Thanks, the CNMI needs all of it's people to step up, and I know you are one of those already stepping up. I think back to the words of John Adams, when he said “People and nations are forged under the fires of adversity.” Well, we have adversity and it is time for people to be tempered and forged.
James Mendiola Jr.
To Ramon, I've been reading the draft proposal submitted to the House Standing Committee. I know why I don't like the bill, and there is simply too much to discuss here. Come on over to ww.thecnmi.com and we will talk about it in detail. Or, if you live on Saipan, I'll take you out to coffee and we will talk about it. But, to answer your question, I think the mess in the CNMI is a problem created by many forces. Please don't over simplify everything by saying that the mess was completely created by the Chamorros and Carolinians. That is a bit insulting, and a bit naïve.
The system that was created is terrible. And, it will exact terrible consequences to the CNMI. It is my home. The consequences of the immigration bill will be here long after everyone who doesn't give a damn about the CNMI moves away, and that's why I want the immigration bill to reflect the opinions of the people who consider this their ONLY home...not Congressmen thousands of miles away.
James Mendiola Jr.
Weng, thank you for your opinion. It proves exactly why people who don't intend to make the CNMI their home should not have a say in the immigration bill. I don't want my home to be a freeway rest area for people who are just looking to take advantage of the system. I know of friends that have family who are waiting over 10 years to come to the United States. They are good people. Do you honestly believe that you deserve to come before my friend's family because of an immigration loop-hole created by Congress? He is an engineer educated, hard-working, and law-abiding, are you any of these things? If you are, then get in line like everyone else.
As for my pugua tree, I don't like chewing so much, but I love to farm. I will take care of it. My people are the caretakers of this land you so profusely despise. We might not have done such a great job in recent years but we've been here for thousands of years, we will get over this hump.
James Mendiola Jr.
There are so many comments on the rights and protection we should offer to non-resident workers. Talap-Talap and Jorab mentions that as a non-resident worker you cannot complain or argue, well last time I checked, I would probably lose my job if I argued and complained about everything, as well. Of course it is true that some jobs in the CNMI prove difficult, but it is not indentured servitude as some people say. To compare a legal labor system in which foreigners earn many times than a job in their home country, a system with more labor safe-guards than those offered to Mexican migrant workers, to slavery or indentured service is a just a tad bit appalling.
By the way, if you are wondering why there are protections in place to benefit local workers...well, there is that small fact that locals are American citizens. Is it your suggestion that the United States forgo protecting American citizens and their jobs in favor of protecting non-resident workers?
James Mendiola Jr.
To Jorab, why do non-resident workers “deserve” so much? Do locals who are U.S. citizens deserve to lose jobs due to breakneck federal minimum wage increases? Do locals who are U.S. citizens deserve to find fewer and fewer jobs because foreigners compete openly for the same jobs?
Don't get me wrong. Non-residents have contributed to the growth of the CNMI economy. But, please don't make it sound as if you did the work for free or out of some act of altruism. You were paid. And, that is why 34,000 people remitted $112 Million last year to benefit families and friends back home. Is there something that you deserve more than a salary and legal working status?
Francisco Villamin Jr.
Hello again to all, i just i want to remind everybody that we need to pray for our family the U.S. and CNMI Gov't. and let OUR GOD'S will be done. I speak more blessing, Long life and Good Health for Chamorro, Carolinian, Filipino,Bangladesh, Indian, Chinese, F.S.M. but make sure we do take care of our health. YES TO IMMIGRATION BILL TO FEDERALIZE CNMI, YOU KNOW WHY? See what happen to GUAM AND HAWAII. Mostly are Contract worker before but now all Permanent Residence or U.S. Citizen. there ECONOMY is really STRONG. if i'm a politician in SAIPAN i would rather introduce a bill that all contract worker who are qualified may start applying for the Green Card. why do have to wait U.S. Gov't to impliment it. ok anybody from the Congress or Senate to initiate that challenge? thank you GOD BE WITH US ALWAYS.
BY THE WAY NEED TO EXPEDITE THE FEDERALIZATION OF CNMI. SO THAT I CAN APPLY TO U.S.ARMY.or any Branch of Services.
mr. wong
well, well, well, it seem's that mr. james is really up for debate, he sounds like a politician. I've been here in cnmi for almost 15 yrs. I came here to work and never think about of this federalization or non-resident will have a legal status, it's just a bonus. mr. james don't compare the cnmi garment workers for those in the mainland that's their choice, they went there as illegal workers, do you say that workers here in the garment industry are illegal?
As for the problem why some resident workers are losing their job to the non-resident, it's very simple, a have a lot of local friend i mean rich bussinessmen who prefer to hire non-resident worker simply because they are reliable, hard worker and they don't absent on their job after they got their paycheck, ask your fellow mr. james, why if they got they paycheck they forgot that they still have work to do rather than spending time in the beach and do barbeque.
James Mendiola Jr.
To Mr. Wong, thank you for the comments. In all reality, I would make an awful politician. Furthermore, I don't believe I had ever said that non-resident workers are illegal. Could you provide me with a citation of which part of my posts gave you that wrong impression?
As for your perspective on local employees, well, you see, Mr. Wrong, as long as businesses (your rich businessman included) in the CNMI are allowed to easily replace residents with cheap non-residents then there won't be any incentive in training residents. No incentive to work with locals to improve their skill set and instill pride in their jobs and ethics. And, are you trying to convince me that race and job performance are related? You aren't wearing a white hood and burning a cross on my lawn tonight, are you, Wong?
Phillip Long
If you read this bill more clearly, you will see that is nothing more than a way for the US Government to control our boarders. If non-resident workers in the CNMI thinks this helps them, you are wrong. It does not give you US Green Cards, you still can't own land and you can't even vote. The bill is just big brother trying to control the CNMI.
Phillip Long
I agree with James Mendiola Jr.'s comments, people are too eager to jump on a banwagon without knowing were that banwagon is going. This is clearly evident by the mindless postings from uneducated people who don't take the time to read the bill. "If" Non-resident workers are truly trying to mandate equal rights, then why is there no path to citizenship in the bill? Why are they not allowed to vote? Why can't they own land? Non-resident's who support this bill are nothing more than prostitutes trying to sell their dignity for a free entry to the US mainland and they are willing to "sell" their human rights to get it.
John
Think about this guys, the covenant of the US and the CNMI for the past 30 years did nothing for the CNMI to improve the social living, local government had been given the chance to govern their own, but what happend after 30 yrs.?Can you guy's give me an answer for this. and why you guy's are so afraid with this bill? like what mr. phillip long said, it's just like a big bro. trying to control the border of this island. So, what's wrong? Why you guy's don't try another menu? are you not tired of eating same food in your table? THINK ABOUT IT....
MR. LIBRA
To Mr. James Mendiola, you are talking as if you don't like being American Citizen..How you critizise an ordinary contract worker when you know that you cannot stand alone by yourself. Why don't you just drop your citizenship.. Run for Governor so you can make your own changes. All contract workers ordinary or professionals they are all part of the CNMI. Don't deprive their chance to improve their future.. When they sign the covenant, do you think native Americans will think the same way as you do right now? I don't think so... You are only adopted children of America... "SELFISHNESS" is the right word.
Taga's way
Actually , Mr. Libra most if not all Native Americans would just let no-one come into their dominion. One more thing "the covenant" is one document first of its kind, don't underestimate it.
James Mendiola Jr.
Mr. Libra, I am going to refrain from being too harsh, as I know that you are trying your best to express your point only to be impeded by your own abilities. To be an adopted child of America is—if that is who we are—a grand gift. One that I appreciate, and cherish. I am sorry that you have falsely gleaned from my comments the idea that I resent being American. To the contrary, I feel blessed to be an American I am merely doing what all Americans have the right to do, to criticize a government and the policies it has chosen to put into place.
To tell an American to renounce their citizenship simply because you do not agree with their opinions is reflective of your misunderstanding of the liberties given to all Americans. Just as every person on this forum has the right to belittle and criticize the CNMI, I have the right to express my concerns over the immigration bill.
James Mendiola Jr.
I ask you Mr. Libra, are non-resident contract workers beyond criticism?
I fear that you are starting to believe the sensationalism in the media, that has gone out of its way to convince every single contract worker in the CNMI that they are victims of a system of immigration akin to indentured servitude.
Sadly, you have forgotten that the CNMI has given tremendous opportunity to workers. When every other U.S. border had closed their borders to Filipinos and Chinese who did not meet the H-1 criteria to work in the U.S., it was the CNMI who gave the opportunity for non-resident workers to earn a living far greater than what they would find in their homeland. We didn't do it for humanitarian reasons, it was simple economics. We paid non-resident workers and non-resident workers made a tremendous contribution to our growth. There was never a promise for non-resident workers to be given residency, and this is clear with renewal of yearly contracts.
Taga's way
Mr. Libra, As for the non-resident workers who aspire for better immigration status, why can't they apply like everyone else.
USCIS homepage is on the internet.
Did you think that in establishing the Commonwealth the people of the NMI at that time have it easy, they were at it for more than a decade.
Phillip Long
To John, people should be afraid of this bill because it accomplishes nothing and threatens the economic growth of the CNMI by unilaterally controlling "our" access to the Chinese and Russian investor and tourist markets.
Thats all it does. Nothing more.
Non-residents workers need to understand this. READ CLEARLY.
THIS BILL DOES NOT GIVE YOU U.S. CITIZENSHIP AND DOES NOT ALLOW YOU TO VOTE.
The only change... a Non-resident now is able to travel freely to the US Mainland?
Are you willing to sell out your rights to vote and rights to citizenship for a ticket to the mainland?
Don't be a prostitute.
Phillip Long
I challenge any poster to offer me any reason(s) why this bill should be approved. I am stunned that over 80% of the people polled on this site support this bill.
I would like to know why there is so much support for an awful bill.
Bing
RIDE ON, I WANT UNCLE SAM TO PASS IT.
JOHN
To Phillip, pls. bear in your mind that local residents are the one's afraid of this bill, I can trade my right to vote to travel and work in the mainland rather than voting to those politician who did nothing to improve the lives here esp. of the local people, CAN YOU PUT IN YOUR TABLE YOUR RIGHT TO VOTE when your family is hungry? huh, MR. PHILLIP LONG
JOHN
Phillip, you don't know what's the reason why there is an overwhelming support of this bill? the answer is right there in your nose. first, economy is going down and there's no way you can recover from it, secondly, once federal gov. takes over, more federal grants will pour in, and lastly,Phillip and James, after 10 yrs. you'll be on your own, no more non-resident worker here, you will have a lot of job for the local people because there's no more competition, why is it you guy's don't like this bill.
Daniel
You are right Mr. John. We gave them so much time. Those people who cannot accept reality are those people who always thinking about themselves. Mr. Long will you give half of your resources to the needy. I don't think so. It is easy for you to say maybe because you have so many things in life that others don't have. Lucky you. Please think give them a chance. They cannot vote but they can live.
Benru
Don't worry you guys who are against this bill. The governor is doing all means to block this bill if he can re schedule the hearing he can probably kill it right?
talap-talap
Why do I say alien workers cannot complain to their employers? As an alien worker, you cannot work without any work permit. It is very costly to lose your job. You have to look for another employer and undergo a lot of work permit processing procedures and pay fees. Unlike resident workers, they can complain anytime without the fear of losing their job because they can apply anywhere at anytime without the hassles of work permit processing. So it's really true that all alien workers here have a right to express their feelings but aren't you scared to do so?
James Mendiola Jr.
To John, me thinks you must be some Congressional expert on grants and federal aide since you are so confident that “more federal grants will pour in” when federalization of immigration occurs. I'm sorry, did I miss a provision in the bill that would usher in a new era of federal outlays to the CNMI? You are worse than the politicians that you criticize...you do realize that don't you? We call people like you hypocrites around here, and come to think of it, that's what you are called in most English speaking nations, as well.
James M. Mendiola Jr.
It's hard to explain to people like John, why people like me don't support the bill. I will try to keep it simple to put it “right there IN your nose”. We have given thousands of foreigners opportunities to come work and tto help build the CNMI economy. They were paid for their hard labor and they in turn sent millions of U.S. dollars to their home countries to feed their family and pay for their children's tuition. That's a noble thing, I will not argue with your sacrifice and work ethic.
James Mendiola Jr.
Now, we signed up for this system because it gave the CNMI an intermediary solution to labor while our youth go out and get an education to pave the road towards self-support. The current system is an abomination of the good intentions our former leaders had. Today, an educated islander cannot come to the CNMI as an accountant or an engineer because of the system. U.S. citizens who were educated at a cost of $15 to $60,000 can't compete with Filipinos who get their education for less than 20% of that.
If there is one among you who support the bill that can convince me that this bill is good for the people of the CNMI who are American citizens and worthy of the protection of the Federal government, then speak up now. Don't tell me that you “deserve” residency because you have worked here for 5 years. I might accept that argument if you worked here for 5 years for free. Show me how people like John leaving the CNMI in 10 years helps the CNMI. You can't, can you?
James Mendiola Jr.
The biggest argument these days for Federal Immigration revisions in the mainland is to give legal status to millions of immigrants who contribute to the U.S. economy. I hear a lot of politicians side step the issue and say, “the immigrants do the jobs that we don't want to do”. In other words, they stroke away the fears that American's have of immigrants by saying “your job as a manager is safe Mr. Smith because they only pick avocados,” Do you think politicians have any ground to stand on if illegal aliens could arrive on the border speaking English and looking for engineering and management jobs? I would wager all the money in my savings that there would have very little support for an immigration bill that gives away high level American jobs to foreigners.
James Mendiola Jr.
In the CNMI we have an interesting system. Since our immigration and labor system was designed as a temporary solution, we let in every category of laborer. Our greed left the minimum wage abominably low, and suppressed the ability of the market to find a “market price”. Now, that our own youth have returned educated and experienced, we find ourselves addicted to low wages unwilling to offer jobs to Mr. Taisacan the engineer because Mr. Vallo the filipino engineer is willing to work for 6.00 an hour.
Everyone agrees that the economy is on the verge of collapse. People falsely believe that the new minimum wage will give them the standard of living that they deserve, but it is a false belief because increasing costs of doing business (labor) will guarantee the loss of jobs. In an economy where jobs will start dwindling, we are now proposing to allow temporary workers to become residents and openly compete for jobs against American citizens? Where is the logic in that?
James Mendiola Jr.
What these grandstanding politicians in Washington who have positioned themselves as the savior of the enslaved masses in Saipan, are doing the exact thing they cannot do in the mainland. They are throwing aside concerns of CNMI American citizens worried about their children's opportunities in the future for a few points and a reputation as an emancipator. If anyone here "deserves" anything, it is the American citizen who "deserves" to be protected from job loss, and loss of cultural identity.
I want an overhaul of the CNMI immigration system. One that reflects the concerns of the people who will live here until the island sinks into the ocean, not the people who will flee. One that doesn't increase competition when there are concerns for job losses. One that guarantees the ability of an American citizen to find a job in their own country before we give jobs away to non-citizens.
James Mendiola Jr.
I know, the next group of comments will be another launch against ignorant, racist locals; what non-residents deserve; and how good this bill will be for the CNMI. Then, I will post something else to seduce another round of comments...which with all probability will lead to more and more name calling and insinuation of general immoral behavior.
I see that we are not getting anywhere. The people of the CNMI have genuine concerns over the bill. No amount of posting “non-resident deserving” or rhetoric on human rights abuse will change that. The non-resident workers, among them people that I call friends, want to find opportunity and stability. Since, those are the exact same things I want for my children—should I ever have any, then I feel that there is ground to build something for both parties. How do we protect the future of CNMI locals and give a future to people who now consider the CNMI their homes and want to be a part of the island of Chamorros and Carolinians?
James Mendiola Jr.
All we need to understand the explosive nature of anything immigration is to look at the comments on S. 1348. Comments from all sides talking about race, economy, education, and national security. Reading some of the comments makes me want to understand my own fears and concerns, and try to infuse a little empathy in my thoughts. Trying to feel compassion for the the millions who come to America looking for an opportunity for happiness and the American dream.
If I have offended anyone here, then I sincerely apologize. I am not a hate-monger (at least not on Thursdays). I don't hate non-resident workers, and I understand the contributions you have made. I am proud to have welcomed former guest workers as familia (we share that word don't we). There has to be a solution. Daniel, John, Talap-talap, is there a solution that will recognize the concerns of locals and non-residents? Let's start a dialog. I mean it.
talap-talap
More and more rules and regulations make things more complicated and hard to understand.
Let us just remind everybody, alien, locals, and all lawmakers that before we do any actions now in the future not to forget this simple & golden rule: DON'T DO TO OTHERS ANYTHING THAT YOU DON'T WANT THEM TO DO TO YOU. Just follow this. It will really works.
James Mendiola Jr.
A fine rule, Talap-Talap. The ethic of reciprocity is certainly a wonderful philosophy. Theology has a great place in society, but it's a difficult leap as an all encompassing rule for government. Regulations and rules may make things hard to understand, but that is the reality in which we live.
I don't know about you, but I cannot imagine capitalism ever functioning with the ethics of reciprocity. I can't imagine immigration and homeland security ever functioning with that rule, either. As a nation our objective in national security is a little less Kumbaya and holding hands.
John
James, you're such a good debater, you talk to much, one thing i know that talk to much are those politician during campaign period, just to get the votes of their constituents but afterwards they just sit on their rocking chair the whole day. and if i am a hypocrites, you are selfish, you think only about yourself. You know james, on the other hand it will be good for the people of the cnmi, imagine this, in ten years after the transition period you have a lot of job available for the local people, there will be no more millions of dollar to be sent home by the non-resident worker, econy here will be at it's best again just like the early 90's. and by the way, the millions of dollar that they sent home are the fruit of their hard labor as what you've said, it's their own money you can't dictate them what to do or where to spend their money. Anyways, don't take my comment seriously, we live in a democratic country we are all have the rights to express ourselves.
James Mendiola Jr.
You have forced me to admit it. Oh, the shame! I am indeed a long-winded know-it-all (who really doesn't know much), who has too much time on his hands. As for labeling you a hypocrite, I'm sorry, but, John, I wasn't the one that promised that federal aide would pour into the CNMI because of the immigration bill. You are free to criticize a politician for pandering to get people's votes, but be ready to be labeled a hypocrite if you make promises or claims that you have no ways of keeping, as well.
Selfish? John, I need you to actually read and not skim over the things that I wrote because your accusations are bit unfounded.
Phillip Long
To John. I don't understand how this immigration bill is going to feed your "hungry family" and "put food on the table".
I am sorry, I missed that section in the bill.
If you think by moving to the US you will be able to "put food on the table", then why don't you move there now?
The US already allows alien workers to enter the US under the H2 visa.
Phillip Long
John, I am begining to think it is you who are selfish. (as you accused James of being)
I think all you want is a fast trip to the US and you don't give a damn what is going to happen to the CNMI or your fellow filipinos on island.
Wake up. Don't sell yourself short.
Demand your right to an avenue of US citizenship, this bill does not do that.
As it is now, you would be in the US with no right to vote and no rights to public benefits.
You would be a 2nd class citizen. Is this what you want?
Phillip Long
From the posts I have been reading regarding "why" people want this immigration bill, I can see where there is confusion.
Most of the obvious non-resident alien workers who are posting on this site don't care about society or their human rights. All they care about is how to "sell out" those rights to get a free plane ticket to the US Mainland. (read posts above...not my opinion..this is what people actually say)
If the only reason why this bill is good is because it allows non-resident workers to move to the US Mainland, then something is fundementally flawed with our democracy when the voice of a non-citizen can change the future path of a soverign country.
What people on this post are saying is that it is not national security, it is not human rights.
It is a plan ticket.
Sad...truly sad.
Phillip Long
After thinking about this some more and re-reading the posts, the intention of the bill's supporters is to convince everyone this bill is good because it benefits them economically. As some posters put it..they are willing to give up their rights to make a better living.
Selfish....? Indeed....
For those of you who just want an opportunity to move to the USA, why don't you avail yourselves of the existing immigration process that the USA offers.
If it is purely an economic and not human right or representation issue, then why are you here? Why not Saudi Arabia? Iran? Iraq? Hong Kong? I am sure you can make more money there.
John
Phillip, first of all don't label me as filipino for I am not, you and john are talking the same for you have a better living compare to those who realy on food stamp. tell me, what can you offer this people, considering the present status of the economy, where will this island go after all the garments company closes their business after the second increase of federal wages next year, tourism, i guess it won't be the same before, exodus of local families migrating to the mainland, because they know that their lives will not improve anymore with the present situation. look at guam, I know they struggle at first when they became one of the US state, how they doing now? Isn't it much much better than their neighbor.
Phillip, can I ask you something? Why are You so insecure if this non-resident decided to move to mainland?
James Mendiola Jr.
John, I think you were really thinking of me when you said, “you and John”. As for the food stamp comment...I would like to make this perfectly clear: my mother, sisters, and I needed nutritional assistance when we lived in Oregon. I had to wear Salvation Army clothes, and suffered through countless humiliating comparisons with wealthier students. So, for you to sit in front of your computer and think that you have any grounds to criticize me that I have been somehow untouched by poverty or the challenges of life is repugnant. Your arrogance is amazing. Your ignorance is unparalleled.
By the way, have you been to Guam? It's not all roses in Guam, either. Guam doles out $53,000,000 in food stamps every year. Is this the economic paradise you are talking about. Admit it, you have no clue as to what you are talking about. You are making statements based on conjecture and little empirical evidence.
JOHN
James, first of all i never criticized you, it is you. look at the post in the beginning, isn't it that you're the one who criticize julieta, albert and violeta. I never said that guam is like a paradise, i said that they're much better in saipan. As for you're humiliating experience in oregon, it is all up to you why you never take action.
THIS IS ALL I CAN SAY, I'M IN FAVOR OF THIS BILL. THATS IT, NO MORE NO LESS, LET US JUST RESPECT OUR FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION.
Phillip Long
John..(are there two of you posting?) One in uppercaps and one in lower caps...I am confused who I am talking to.
So, for the "john" who referred to Guam as a state of the USA, this is exactly why people who have not read or researched the bill should not try to comment or enter into a debate about it.
GUAM is NOT a state.
I encourage you to do a little research before you jump onto the "support" banwagon for this ugly and meaningless bill.
There are bigger things at stake wrapped up in the layers of supposed "protection of the alien-workers" purpose.
I have been trying to educate the non-resident workers that YOU DESERVE MORE.
Why are you settling for this piece of crap legislation?
As I said time and time again.
NO CITIZENSHIP
NO RIGHT TO VOTE
NO OWNERSHIP OF LAND IN THE CNMI
How are you not being treated as 2nd class? You deserve more. All I am asking is for someone to stand up and fight for it.
Phillip Long
It really saddens me when a productive part of our island society (the non-resident worker) is willing to sell their basic human rights for such a senseless bill.
Most of the posts that I have read on this seem to be more interested in having a Visa that will get them into the US Mainland.
Is this all you want? After 30 years of helping us locals create a productive society for all of us to live in, you now just want a way to leave?
What does this bill get you other than a simple way to move to California or any other state?
What about your right to vote in a society that you choose and are accepted to live in?
What about access to citizenship or a way to announce to the rest of the world that you are a part of that society that they accepted you into?
What about your right to build on and buy land for your future generations in a soceity that they accepted you into?
Phillip Long
Classified as a "non-immigrant"..is this what you want?
Sounds like to me that the USA just wants your ability to work, but they don't want you a part of their society.
Is that someplace you want to live?
This bill sucks...you deserve more.
Phillip Long
Lastly, I am still waiting on someone to meet my challenge.
What, other than an ability to travel to the US, does this bill accomplish for the benefit of the CNMI and non-resident workers?
Mind you, those non-residents who say that travel to the US is "new" it is not. Every single non-resident worker in Saipan, Tinian and Rota currently, via EXISTING Federal Law, has the opportunity to apply for and immigrate to a US Mainland Job. There are many classes of visas available, you just need to find the job first.
So what really does this bill accomplish?
Melissa
This is the right time for CNMI to move on, the island has no any alternative to combat the economy slump we're having. Guy's, what can we offer the people here right now? This is what we need. There's no harm in trying.
Phillip Long
Melissa, have you read the bill?
Please point out to me the section where Senate Bill 1634 "combats the economy slump" of the CNMI?
In fact, if this bill is passed it would do more harm to the CNMI's economy as we would not be allowed to continue accepting Russian and Chinese tourists. (two of the fasted growing tourist markets in Asia)
I am at a complete loss as to how this bill allows the CNMI to "move on" (from what?!) and is the savior to our economic slump.
Please explain.
Alfredo
It's seems that mr. Long know's the S1634 very well. Okey, give us alternative or any hope without this bill. Are the people here will survive esp. with the impending min. wage hike? As john said, what the heck with the right to vote when you're people are suffering. Did the people that you vote Phillip did something to improved the lives here?
Taga's way
I'm not an expert "James and Philip", I think the bill has provisions regarding visitor entry into the CNMI from Russia and China. And from the traditional areas such as Japan , Korea and from regular visitors from other areas visa waiver much like those of Guam. Most of the bills implication and inferences are still undecipherable to me.
Taga's way
One thing, why is it that most writers are writing in an angry tone; Is it just me?
Does this bill really imply total annihilation of civilized CNMI?
Is it the end of the world as we know it?
For the Non-resident, you are allowed to apply for immigration change of status from the day you landed in the CNMI. With or without this bill.
For my local compatriots, You are more needed in a more constructive endeavors. You're talent and skills should be directed to ensuring that our local identity would be protected from the onslaught of uncertainties that abound, in humble respect.
Juan
S. 1634 rocks! I can finally visit Disneyland when this bill is approved!
Jose Dimaguiba
Mr. Mendiola, Sir,
You have my respect. I am sure that majority of local people agrees with you.
I have one question to ask, can you imagine yourself as a foreign worker in the CNMI for more than 5 years,
and tell me your input about this bill?
Phillip Long
To Taga's Way, yes you are correct there are provisions that vaguely address our current access to the China and Russian markets.
However....and this is a BIG HOWEVER, the bill does not name these countries directly, leaving smart politico's to sumize that there is no sincere interest in protecting those valuable markets for the CNMI. It is just lip service...lip service that should be described as BS.
Phillip Long
Taga's Way, take a look at page 20 line 20 of the bill and you will notice that only countries that have been entering into the CNMI for the last 5 years will be considered to continue entry into the CNMI.
This 5 year requiement kills the China and Russia market as I believe the CNMI has only been issuing Visas for the last 4 years.
China was just approved in December 2004.
Now tell me that DOI and Congress doesn't know that fact....
They are intentionally killing our two biggest markets.
Why...because they think they can ram it down our throats under the guise that they are protecting the non-resident workers.
What a load of crap.
If the US was sincere, they would have granted the non-residents full US Citizenship.
After all, if most are leaving with a non-immigrant visa, why would they stay in the CNMI if they had US Passports?
Phillip Long
To Mr. Dimaguiba, I can't imagine being a non-resident worker in the CNMI for more than 5 years because I couldn't imaging living in a society without being a "real part" of it.
My personality would lead me to fight for more rights if I were in your predicament.
This bill gets you nothing but a plane ticket to the US in exchange for you being treated as a 2nd class citizen. No access to pubic social services, no access to voting, no protection as a US citizen (you can still be deported).
It give you nothing, zip, nada.
My debate on this forum is to demand more for the non-resident and more for the CNMI residents.
This is the least that the United States of America can do for us.
Right now we are given as much attention to effort on this bill as anyone would give a two week old newspaper on a coffee table.
Nestor
It seems that James Mendiola jr. and Phillip Long is same person that really want to discourage us. Nevermind the right to vote, who cares to be a second class citizen. What about you sir's, you are American Citizen, You carry blue passport, do you have the right to vote for the president of america? Does your voices being heard in US congress? If i will be given a chance to work in the mainland offcourse, I'll work hard to earn as much as I can so that before my 5 yrs. expires, I can go back to my country just sitting down and reaping the fruit of my hard labor, no need to work just to survive for oneday. That's all iI can say folks. Let's just wait and see what will happen.
James Mendiola Jr.
Why, yes, Nestor Phillip Long and I are indeed the same person! Your powers of deduction and perception are dumbfounding, and I tremble in the presence of your superior intellect!
Wait...no..no..I'm not married. And, I don't reside in Tinian at this time. On second thought, Nestor, I'm starting to lean the other way...Phillip and I aren't the same person after all. Now, Taga's Way and I are the same person...no...no..that's not right either. What's your point again?
By the way, discourage you? Do you need a tissue, and a moment? Do you need a shoulder to lean on? I mean, since Ms. Magazine, the liberal media, 34,000 non-residents, a Democratic Congress, and Department of the Interior are the only friends you have, yes, I can see how my opinions and thoughts are a threat to you.
James Mendiola Jr.
Mr. Dimaguiba,
Thank you for your statement and since we are formalizing our sentiments, I would like to reciprocate...you have my respect, as well.
In answer to your question, I can sympathize but I really cannot empathize. I mean I have worked in a foreign country before and I can understand the challenges. I think my aggressive form of debate might have given the wrong impression of what I stand for. I am for increasing the minimum wage. But, not because it is going to help non-residents, but because it makes economic sense in the longrun. I am actually for allowing for the petition of U.S. citizenship for non-residents working here for 10 years, if you can believe that. But, my problem with this bill are spots like Section 6(g), which seemingly nulls CNMI Immigration laws.
James Mendiola Jr.
The people of the CNMI willingly offered 14 strategically important islands to the United States to become part of the American family. We negotiated an uncommon accord with a dynamic country, that clearly states OUR RIGHT TO SELF-GOVERNANCE. If you take a look at Section 6(g), it basically says that the immigration law which had governed the CNMI will no longer apply in the future, and IT WILL NOT APPLY retroactively as grounds for inadmissibility.
Look, and I am tired of stating this, non-residents have contributed to the betterment of the CNMI, but the CNMI cannot accept a bill that undermines the laws created under the auspices of the covenant...especially after how much the people of the CNMI have given away to become Americans. What good will it do anyone in the CNMI if we accept a Federal Immigration bill which blatantly inserts clauses that eat away at the principals we laid into the covenant agreement.
mark
Hey Phil, what will happen with Bridge Investment Group's plan for a casino/hotel/golf course if this bill becomes law? I imagine you guys were already dealt a big blow with the 50 cent minimum wage increase. Would immigration takeover kill your company's future in Tinian? That blows.
Melberlin
It seems that Taotao Tano's placard last Saturday is agreeing with what happening with the campers behaving along the Beach Road last July 4. You can see that they really own this land, they enclose all areas with tapes that is so spacious even for all their encampment and family members. No more space for most of the foreign spectators that are joining this memorable occassion.
Eric
The site says to comment on the bill not to blast each other here. Time to take this approch on this island, it's time for a change. Life here is not getting better anymore, it's the other way around. There's no more solution to the bleeding wound, we need a surgeon.
Melberlin
Thanks Eric, you are right, just pity on my children and the rest looking for space to park under trees but in vain. Anyway we enjoy the show, despensa to everybody especially to our comrades here in Saipan. You are great and understanding
Merberlin
I've been here for 20 years now and have a great experience more than frustration, that's life wherever you go in this planet. More power to everybody who are commenting in this site. Happy liberation day!!!
Merberlin
I'm out hereafter
Phillip Long
To Eric and Nestor, please explain to me how this bill will fix the economic issues of the CNMI.
Please don't be self serving and tell me how it will improve YOUR personal economic situation, but explain to me how this bill will improve the economic well being of everyone here?
This is the very basic root of the problem, posters on this site.
Not one person has shown me how this will help the CNMI as a whole (residents AND non-residents)
My challenge is still on the table.
Nestor
Phillip, as what i've said, Let us just wait and see. How about you? What help can you offer to CNMI without this bill.
Nada
Mr. Long,
How I wish I was in your position right now.. Returning back your question, how do you think you can help to improve the lives of the people in the CNMI... Are you a business man? I guess so.. What do you think guys?
James Mendiola Jr.
I really don't understand this forum. A few comments back, Mr. Dimaguiba, asked what problems I had with the bill. I noted one of the easiest problems to explain, the simple fact that Congress wants to retroactively negate CNMI Immigration law. There's much more...but no one who supports this bill wants to discuss these small and insignificant little problems because of the carrot of non-immigrant visas hanging in front of their faces.
Then we have my favorite super sleuth Nestor. Who has just asked, Phillip, what he can do to help the CNMI without this bill. Well, Nestor, is that a fair question? I mean here we have a bill introduced by the Congress of the most powerful nation in the world. Of course, Phillip can't make a positive impact as great as the negative impact the bill will cause, Nestor, why would you expect an individual to wield as much power as Congress?
James Mendiola Jr.
Now, we have Nada. What does it matter if Phillip is a businessman? What? Are we suppose to discount the opinion of businessmen, now? I don't know about Phil, but I have a few things I can do to help improve the lives of the people in the CNMI. It all starts with what I can do, personally, because as this forum proves I can't lead worth crap nor do I have the eloquence to change the opinions of others.
I will drive as carefully as I can, always. I promise not to litter. I will donate money and goods to people in need. I will tip hardworking waitresses and waiters. I will offer people rides more often, even if it is out of my way. I will smile more, because you never know when someone needs a friendly smile. Although most people end up not paying me back, I will try to lend a few bucks when I can spare it. There's a lot we all can do, right?
Phillip Long
To Nestor and Nada, your argument as I understand it is the following:
What can an individual do (me) in the absence of this bill.
Well, I am already doing my part. I am trying to educate people on the negative impact this bill will have and what needs to be changed.
In none of my postings do I propose to leave things as status quo. I am trying to educate people on how we need to fight for more and not accept what the Federal Government attempts to ram down our collective throats.
Based on your comments and others on this site, we are all supposed to just sit and accept what is being handed down to us.
My question to you is why? Why do you not fight for your basic rights? Why do you try to encourage me not to fight for you or fight for the economic welfare of my home?
James M. Mendiola Jr.
Come on guys, if you really want to help the CNMI, it's easy. I don't disagree with Federalized Immigration. Taga's Way had the right idea that the bill is not all bad...a smart guy. Residents and Non-residents have to agree on the way the immigration bill is implemented. A bill which does not take into consideration the special circumstance that surrounds the CNMI's relationship with Washington is not conducive to this region. I like what Justice Dela Cruz said in his Letter to the Editor. A Federal Immigration bill will most likely be a reality, but we have to do make sure that the bill gives consideration to the CNMI's culture, economy, and people.
Baby
If you don't like the federal bill, the only way to avoid this: be an independent nation. By doing this, Uncle Sam CANNOT DICTATE YOU!
Baby
But for me, I am praying that this bill will be a law.
Once this become a law, a wider door will be open to us contract workers. Aren't you happy that our lives will be better?
james
I voted for the bill, but made a mistake. Make that 80% +, 20%-.
Fred
Everyone who opposes this bill seems to think that the economy in the CNMI will collapse if it is passed. But the economy is already in shambles under local control. all the money that is going to Guam for the military buildup is bypassing the CNMI because CNMI is perceived as a security issue without federal border control.
Fred
I can't understand the Saipan Chamber of Commerce's position of distinguishing between border protection and immigration. Border protection inherently requires controls the entry of people. What will happen to the economy to the CNMI under federal immigration control? Who really knows, but I certainly can't see it getting any worse than it is right now. The CNMI economy is dying, slowly and painfully. Unfortunately, its the people who are taking the brunt of the bleeding and not the politicians in the CNMI government.
Fred
I just find it interesting that alot of people seem to think that the CNMI economy will be affected by this immigration bill. The final nail in the economy has already been hammered in with the minimum wage law. What most people are not aware of is that the wages will actually increase under federal immigration because of the requirement that alien workers under the federal scheme have to be paid at a prevailing wage. The effect of this policy on CNMI businesses is that it would be cheaper to hire locally than to import alien workers. One of the biggest problems with the local labor and immigration control is that is that it cheaper to hire alien workers than it is to hire a local.
Fred
Too many friends and family are not being hired because of the preference of CNMI businesses to use alien workers. They also will not take jobs that most alien workers will take because of the low wages. I don't believe that we make a change to get more locals jobs until we break the current system in effect. Perhaps CNMI businesses will realize the worth of local workers and start offering better wages when it becomes apparent that it is just too expensive to hire an alien worker. It won't happen while immigration remains under local control. Why? The local politicians don't have the political will to what is necessary to wean ourselves from our dependence on alien labor.
Fred
After reading all these various comments, I think its wrong to assume that most of the eligible contract workers will simply leave the CNMI if they get their "special" visas. I have friends who are contract workers and most of them have said they don't plan on leaving the CNMI even if they can go anywhere else in the mainland. All of them have lived in the CNMI long enough to really call the CNMI their home. Most contract workers who have been here more than 5 years have made a life in the CNMI and leaving is simply not an option for them. Most of us who have ventured to the U.S. mainland always seem to want to come back to the islands. My perception is that most contract workers want this bill passed to ensure that they won't have to worry about the threat of leaving their "home" every single time their contracts up for renewal. At the end of the day, those who end up leaving for the mainland are those who have not made the CNMI their home.
Julia
I agree with Fred, I still want to stay in Saipan, its paradise for me. All my siblings are there, for my 15 years in Saipan I can call it my second home. I wish everybody think the way you think.
Silvia
I agree with Fred, I still hope to stay in. My daughter also was born in Saipan. for My 11years stay in saipan. I can call it my second home and all my live.
how can cnmi gov improve the worse situation , without any better condition to alien worker. only depending the visa renewal fee? or force alien worker exit from CNMI?
Ruben
I agree with Fred I believed that most of the longtime alien workers who worked in CNMI already considered this Island as there home, some may leave but mostly will stay. For me as long as I have a job to support my family I will stay.
Phillip Long
Mixing the minimum wage's affect on the economy with the impact of this bill on the economy is wrong.
One has nothing to do with the other. Statements made by Fred are correct, however the relationship of the two federal issues have dynamically different affects on the CNMI Economy.
The minimum wage was necessary in order to accurately reflect a US market driven economy. As long as businesses in the CNMI are allowed to keep wages artifically low by importing labor from other contries our economy would be pegged to those countries we import labor from.
A big caveat to this is "how" the US Federalized the minimum wage without an economic study on the effect of the arbritrary .50 per year increase. An % increase over time that no other US state or territory has ever had to absorb.
But that is another issue.
Phillip Long
Now to the issue at hand, this bill will dramatically curtail our ability to augment the detrimental impact of the minimum wage implementation.
We need something to jumpstart the economy.
That "something" is the CNMI's unique and sole distinction of being the only US territory to allow Visa Free entry to citizens of China and Russia.
This means that out of all the US states and territories and most importantly our regional competitors (hawaii and Guam) the CNMI is the only US insular area that can receive visitors and INVESTORS.
This bill grants 5 cabinet members of the US President the right to take that unique distinction away for any reason at any time without the consent of the CNMI.
That is an economical deathblow that can be avoided. That one of the reasons why I am against this bill.
Phillip Long
In regards to border security and or "national security" issues for the reasoning behind this bill, that is a red herring.
There are US military bases in foreign countries all over the world, some in hostile countries toward the US and yet the US does not impose federalization of immigration in those countries.
The "talking point" that it is a National Security Interest of the United States is a joke.
What threat are we to the US Mainland that Indonesia, the Philippines or Mexico are not?
Don't get caught up in the "hype" of this bill. Read it thoroughly and demand more from the United States...US congress owes us all at least that much.
Phillip Long
Here are talking points against this bill:
For the non-resident worker:
No citizenship
No Green Card
No Permanent Residency Card
No right to vote (Federal, State and local)
No right to government social services
Creates two classes (pre 5 year and post 5 year)
For the CNMI economy:
No local control over who invests No Local control over who comes into the CNMI (tourists)
No Federal Impact Aid guarantees
No guaranteed Federal Budget to implement the program...(this means we get crumbs from an already depleted Immigration Budget)
No gurantee of Visa exempted countries (bill does not name countries but instead leaves it up to cabinet members to decide)
No funding for economic impact studies
No guranteed rights to the CNMI..all decisions are unilateral.
Fred
Phillip, your points are well taken. But I can't understand the logic in mixing the CNMI with other sovereign countries and the imposition of federal immigration. Are we forgetting that we are "U.S." commonwealth.
As for the so called economic advantage of being able to bring in tourists from other countries without visas, let's look at that situation right now. We can allow tourists from other countries who normally require visas to the U.S. But look around. I don't see the plane loads of these tourists coming to our islands. We offer that now and no one is biting.
Fred
I appreciate your concerns about this bill and I agree that it is deficient in many respects. But I think you should direct these concerns to the people who are going to Washington and ask them to present your points to the Energy committee.
As for voting rights and access to federal programs, screw that. I like the semi-autonomy we now have and I don't want to give the feds any reasons to assert any other controls over here in exchange for additional benefits.
ROSE
100%YES TO FEDERAL TAKE OVER. THIS WILL MAKE CNMI AN IMPROVED PLACE TO STAY BY LETTING EXPERIENCED, HIGHLY EDUCATED, AND NON-CORRUPT US OFFICIALS RULE THE GOVERNMENT. IF LOCAL PEOPLE ARE AGAINST, THEN MAKE ANOTHER REPUBLIC OF SAIPAN SO THAT UNCLE SAM WILL LET THEM DO WHAT THEY WANT WITH THEIR TERRITORY.
Phillip Long
Fred, the logic implied with comparing the CNMI's immigration control with that of other soverign countries was meant to rebut the "red herring" that proponents of this bill make, in that Federalization is necessary for National Security Interests of the USA.
This is simply not the case in that we have military bases all over the world in countries which control their own immigration and therefore "risk" the security of the USA via access to the base and or the same method in traveling from that part of the world to the USA.
The CNMI is no different from any other soverign country that controls its own immigration.
In fact, the US granted us local control over immigration in the covenant agreement.
My point is that the excuse to take that right away is weak and not valid....hence the "red herring".
Phillip Long
Fred, I think you are misinformed about the "economic advantage" you seem to think are non-existant.
There are currently 7 flights a week from cities in China called Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. All with seat capacities of 195-230. At an average load factor of 70% at the lowest seat arrangement that would give us almost 1,000 tourists per week. That is over 50,000 tourists per year.
MVA projects this market to be over 150,000 in the next 3 years.
Russia is also growing with one charter flight a month and most flying into the CNMI via South Korea. This amounts to almost 10,000 tourists per year. With the average Russian staying in the CNMI for over 15 days.
The offer is out there and there are a lot of people biting. Just ask PIC, World Resort, Dynasty and Fiesta Resort how these flights impact their hotel revenue...
Phillip Long
Fred, Voting rights and citizenship for non-resident aliens is important in that it also addresses the excuses that the USA implies by invoking Federal Control of the CNMI's immigration.
How are they protecting the human rights of the non-resident working in this bill?
How can you call a place your home if you do not have a voice or seat at the table?
How does this bill change that?
I am one of the few locals who believe that many non-residents deserve a path to citizenship. I call many non-residents my friends and some are family. I believe they have every right to decide on our society's leaders as I do as a local.
However this bill is lipstick on a pig. It does not give the non-residents what they deserve and does not treat the CNMI fairly.
Fred
Rose, what makes you think that there is no corruption in the federal government? Corruption is rampant everywhere. The difference is that some places just do it more discreetly.
Phillip I certainly agree that the contract workers should have more than what this bill provides, but the guys going to Washington don't seem to have a grasp of the current discussion we are having. Sorry to say this, I don't expect a stellar performance from our representatives who are going to testify on Thursday.
I am really disturbed these days that this bill is causing alot of anger and division in our community. The longer that this bill lingers, the more tense I think it will get. Regardless of the outcome, I want this issue resolved. I just think at this point, the bill will be passed.
HARERAM
I WANT THIS BILL TO BE SIGN BY PRESIDENT BUSH BECAUSE ALOTS OF LOCALS(EXCEPT POLITICIANS AND GOV.EMPLOYEES) AND ALLIENS ARE SUFFERINGS FINANCIALY AND SOCIALY.I HAVE BEEN 10 YEARS WATCHING CNMI'S ECONOMY.TO IMPROVE IT AND BRING NEW INVESTORS THE BILL WILL HELP. WILL LOW CURRUPTION,LESS ABUSE TO ALLIENS,GIVE LITTLE RIGHTS TO ALLIENS AND MORE LABOR CASES.
RONNIE
I think whatever the outcome this bill will be pass. Sorry, CNMI Jack Abramoff is in jail.
Taga's Way
To Fred and Philip, I on the other hand dis-agrees on the pre-sumption that contract workers should have more than what this bill implies. The "contract workers" are contracted individuals that intelligently agreed to the terms and limitations of their contracts. No more than that.
Now, as I have posted earlier change of immigration status could be attained through USCIS; apply!
Anyway, if this bill is signed into law it will mandate concerned individuals to apply for immigration benefits that they desire, and then maybe citizenship. Of course they have to re-nounce their point of origin in the process.
Phillip Long
Taga's Way, I agree with you that all contract workers (non-residents) knew what they were getting into when they signed their labor contract. I agree that "they" have no right to demand citizenship based on the fact that it was never promised to them in the first place.
However, as a people we have allowed non-residents to become residents in our community by continuously renewing their contracts year by year.
Some have created families, intermarried with our locals, built homes and invested in a place they now call their home.
It is time that we recognize this and welcome them into our community as official residents and not 2nd class citizens. Unfortunately, this bill does not do that.
Taga's Way
Although, what I have posted might have a negative undertone to the non-residents, the bill in actuallity might pass.
To Philip and James, its a cultivating experience reading your posts; your patriotism and love for our islands are exemplary.
And to Fred too; excellent observations on the issue at hand.
To the individuals who aspires for improved immigration status, a fundamental grasp of the history of the CNMI and the history of the United States of America would certainly increase your chances of attaining your improved immigration status desires.
Juan Dela Cruz
Attention to those who have an open mind and to those who have taken the time to read U.S. Senate Bill S.1634. Let me teach you some basic Politics 101. If you read the Bill it was introduced by US Senator Akaka and co-sponsored by only 3 other U.S. Senators. Here is the math, there are 100 U.S. Senators, if the Bill was sponsored by at least 51 U.S. Senators including the next President, which is U.S. Senator Hillary Clinton and the next Vice President, which is U.S. Senator Obama, then I believe the passage of S.1634 is in the horizon. Remember it needs to be address in the U.S. House of Representatives, referred to a committee again for discussion, then mark-up if its approved in both the Senate and House.
Juan Dela Cruz
So people don't get too much high blood on the debate. What you should be more worry about is the local CNMI legislation that was improperly and uneducated and unprofessional passage of CNMI Local Bill H.B. No. 15-38, CS 1. Between the two legislation the lesser evil is the S.1634 compare to the H.B. No. 15-38 in which I commend the following local Congressman such as Rep. Joseph P. Deleon Guerrero, Rep. Edwin P. Aldan, and Rep. Arnold I. Palacios who did not signed the committee report. Yet this local Bill is really an unprofessional Bill and if it becomes into a law, then it will show that the CNMI Legislature are a Kangaroo and Banana Republic
Juan Dela Cruz
So people don't get too much high blood on the debate. What you should be more worry about is the local CNMI legislation that was improperly and uneducated and unprofessional passage of CNMI Local Bill H.B. No. 15-38, CS 1. Between the two legislation the lesser evil is the S.1634 compare to the H.B. No. 15-38 in which I commend the following local Congressman such as Rep. Joseph P. Deleon Guerrero, Rep. Edwin P. Aldan, and Rep. Arnold I. Palacios who did not signed the committee report. Yet this local Bill is really an unprofessional Bill and if it becomes into a law, then it will show that the CNMI Legislature are a Kangaroo and Banana Republic
Maria Dela Cruz
Ay, Juan Un Dankulo Na Si Yu'us Ma'ase for teaching them Politics 101.
Junior Dela Cruz
Hey Pop, Viva CNMI and Mabuhay ang CNMI
Baby Doll Dela Cruz
My Pop is right, it takes time for the passage and if people who are against it or for it should take time to write testimony and submit to the U.S. Senate Committee. Uncle Sam give CNMI more assistance for economic development. Give us assistance such as more grants to train the residence of CNMI, more US Department of Labor and US Dept of Education money to train our citizens.
Tan Maria Dela Cruz
Ay, taotao tano, este this S.1634 is like cooking Ayuyu. The Ayuyu is the main dish and only the CNMI can provide the Ayuyu, the coconut milk is the CNMI Govt the onions and garlic is the foreign workers, now you need the gas to start the fire which is the US Govt, without all of all the S.1634 Ayuyu Dish will be uncooked and so no one will eat it. Do you get the point.
Kaya
Dela Cruzes you are all right. It does not mean that with its passage in the senate then it becomes a law right away. It has to through the house for review, reading,hearing and may be conference meeting for both houses to iron out their differences. S1634 is just the start. Still long way to go.
Gloria (GVC)
to all who are against this blll pls dont be selfish,greedy and self centered..every human being has chance for stability and looking forward for the better future in life..kindly give chance for those long time non-resident workers in your island..althought they were not be given the right to vote and to become a U.S. Citezen but having the privelege to work in the mainland is a better apportunity for them to improve their lives..God bless you all
Zeny
Let us all pray for what is going to be good for the many..not only for the selected few...
Zeny
Good leaders hears the voices of the lowly...Come on Saipan be the Leader..Strive for more developments for a long term range...Think about the future of the kids...
Juan Dela Cruz
S.1634 needs a miracle to pass yet alone the US Senate Committee hearing the legislation. If it passes the US Senate Committee then look at the cosponsors if it gets at least 51 US Senators or more then good. Those of you should bark more on Rep Kaipat of the CNMI for passage of a H.B.15-63 which makes the CNMI a Banana Republic of Kangaroo Court.
Tan Maria Dela Cruz
I read all the prayer vigil, why don't you do the same thing in front of Rep Jacinta Kaipat's house in Saipan so that she can look in the mirror that her family was also once a migrat family to the CNMI. S.1634 will take a while to pass. The H.B. 15-63 should be the one you should look at closely. Becuase if it passes then no will be kick out of CNMI for you to benefit from S.1634.
Tea Boy
On a slightly different perspective: If one enters a legally binding contract to work from January to November and at the expiration of the contract, say December and you wanted to stay beyond ....who do you expect to provide for your necessities and why.
Mimi
Have any of you ever read Saipan sucks, the only thing it misses on is that it’s worse. I love my rolling black outs and have always like showering in salt water. Me Long has just kicked the hell out of what you won’t get, ya no famous green card just a travel and work visa with some limits that wouldn’t give me a heart ach. Contract worker, chance to go to the United States! See you later Mr. Long, lots of luck finding some of you buddies to mow your grass.
Jean
any one think Mr.Long is a sex tour operator?
Onemig
In my personal opinion, I think it is about time that the CNMI immigration be federalized. I have friends hired as dancers in the CNMI. They were offered "by a local employer" a forty hour a week work @ $3.05 per hour, housing, commission, transportation, day-off's free plane tickets and documents processing at no-cost to them. Yet, when they got here they were put in a house were the gates and doors were chained. Dogs tied to every window to prevent escape. Guards hired to prevent them from going out. No commissions, processing fees and plane tickets deducted from their paychecks. Having them do acts for special clients that's against their will...
Onemig
Mr. Long and Mr. Mendiola, please tell those ladies why you are against the federalization of CNMI immigration after all that has happened to them. Victims of sex trades that is rampant on this island. There are more reported cases of such than any other U.S. State or territories. Thanks for your opinions against federalization. Such a shame...
Kaya
Now that the senate hearing has been done, let us just wait now for their recommendation to the full Senate for deliberation and passage. It is good too that Congress has the same bill introduced for review, debate, public hearing and recommendation.
I think there is no more stopping now. It will happen, therefore, locals and non-residents alike should come to term and understanding.
Phillip Long
Slanderous attacks on this site are a waste of time. People need to focus on factual debates.
If some of the posters such as Onemig, Jean and Mimi actually took time to read, they would see that I never said that I was against immigration or federalization.
I am just against the way this bill intends to implement it.
Read my posts and you will be enlightened to know that I support a pathway to citizenship for non-resident workers. I am actually trying to point out that this bill does not give you that.
WAKE UP...and READ THE POSTS..
Kaya
Phil Long never was against federalization of CNMI immigration. He was just trying to discourage non-resident workers to support the bill because he wants the non-residents to fight for US citizenship, green cards, ability to vote, etc. which will not happen. But in reality, he wants you, the non-residents to think that S1634 is not enough that the bill is giving you non-immigrant status like FAS people. Economic consideration is the real concern of the non-residents to have equal opportunity to progress. He is also worried that their proposed Chinese and Russian casino customers may not be able to travel to Tinian to play in their proposed casino if S1634 becomes law.
Jean
Onemig, I know that place that your talking about, its Mr. Long’s place.
Wonder why we haven’t heard from James as of yet, oh yea he’s still coming around this time of day. Wait till he starts smoking his stuff then he’ll be giving us all his sludge.
No more free rides you two, it’s going to be a little harder to rip off Uncle Sam and your fellow Chamorro’s James. And last you won’t be able to suck the marrow of Asian people so you can sit on your butt.
Phillip Long
Kaya is right with the exception that I DISAGREE with her stance that citizenship is not attainable. And although economic opportunity considerations are invaluable to non-residents, how will you be treated fairly if the Government does not recognize you as a citizen of the country?
As stated in previous posts, I am one of the few locals who strongly believe that non-resident workers rightfully deserve a path to citizenship. You are a part of our community, you are a part of our families and I call many of you my friends, whom I have grown up to know personally.
It is very obvious that some of the posters don't know me and that is why they are so hostile toward someone who advocates their rights in a society we BOTH live in.
Phillip Long
This bill and now the House version (HB3079) is being "fed" to all of us like a plain white cracker being "fed" to a starving person.
The cracker tastes like a juicy steak because we are starving for food (a change).
That is what the leaders want us to think both in the US and the CNMI. This bill (plain white cracker) is being pawned off as a juicy steak to a starving person.
However when we finally get a real taste of the plain white cracker we will all immediately recognize it isn't the juicy steak that they told us it was.
We are all being told to eat crackers ladies and gentleman.
Time is now to demand the juicy steak we deserve.
US Congress needs to wake up and do what is right for all of us...Non-residents and locals alike. Please join me in the fight to get what is rightfully deserved of all of us.
Phillip Long
Jean and Onemig please stop spewing hate and retoric. Now is not the time for that.
If your true concern is for the prosecution of sex crimes in the CNMI, please point out to me where in the US bills (SB 1634 & HB 3079) does the US Federal government offer personnel, funding and or gurantees to rid the CNMI of these issues?
This is exactly why this bill falls short. You and the proponents of the bill regurgitate talking points without checking facts.
How will this bill fix current labor problems or sex trade? Will immigration stomp and break down doors? Are they mandated to investigate sex crimes?
Please read and join me in the crusade to address matters that are abscent in these bills.
Jean
Yea Mr Long that why you want me to make $3.05 an hour. We do know you.
Citizenship ?? like the CNMI Government recognizes me as a citizen of this country? Your a jerk. And tonight I will be eating crakers it's about all I can get with the wage I make.
Phillip Long
Jean, people like you make living in a society together difficult. Your hate and anger are obviously affecting your judgement.
First, you don't know me. Second, I don't want you to make $3.05 an hour. In fact, the company I work for will be offering all workers entry level positions at $7.55 an hour, regardless of residency.
Citizenship and all that comes with it should be considered at the Federal Level because I admit that there are still plenty of locals who fear losing control of their society.
I disagree. I believe you are already a part of our society and should be given the dignity and respect you deserve.
Unfortunately, you fail to give me the same respect and dignity in return.
JUANA DE LA CRUZ
TO ALL THOSE ARE OPPOSING OR IN FAVOR OF FEDERALIZATION...PLEASE RESPECT EACH OTHERS OPINION...DON'T HURT EACH OTHERS FEELINGS...FOR MR. LONG I KNOW YOU ARE CHAMORRO BY BLOOD. YOUR ARE JUST PROTECTING YOUR ISLAND. I ADMIRE YOUR PROFESSIONALISM IN DEALING WITH THOSE WHO ARE OPPOSING YOU......FOR MS. JEAN , MR. LONG IS NOT A SEX TOUR OPERATOR....HIS EDUCATION AND BREEDING WILL NOT LET HIM DO THAT. "WHATEVER WILL BE THE OUTCOME OF S 1634...GOD WILL ALWAYS BE THERE TO GUIDE EACH AND EVERYONE OF US REGARLESS OF RACE"
scorpio
Guys,
Why don't you returm to your homeland, go back to the place were you belong, go back to your place of birth, participate and mingled with your country's affairs..you must do your share in your own countrY, Where is your patriotism-your love of country.
scorpio 2
hey scorpio the carolinians in saipan tell them to go home too and you too
SCORPIO 3
What will you gonna be if every on-indigenous body will go home? Makes me laugh if I imagine!
Jean2
Phillip, don't make my head round. That's a federal you have to abide the min. wage weather you like it or not. If the local govt. didn't neglect us, it won't result into this. I am not aspiring to be a first class citizen all we want is security of tenure.
envelop ideas
Scorpio, Just to tell you I'm home!
envelop ideas
the BOYCOTT campaign in CNMI is gaining ground...
"A small body of determined spirits fired by an unquenchable faith in their mission can alter the course of history."
Mohandas Gandhi
JFK
To everyone here:
James, you hurt a lot of people when you present your argument. It maybe too late James. You love your island but some didn't do their job well. You, like most here became victims of reality. It's like an inconvenient truth.
Below are some of the links to ponder. The link first link got more links within.
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2007/7/17/21520/5511
"Everywhere immigrants have enriched and strengthened the fabric of American life." - John F. Kennedy
"Many fears are born of stupidity and ignorance
Which you should be feeding with rumour and generalisation."
-- BOFH 2002, Episode 10.
"If a man harbors any sort of fear, it percolates through all his thinking, damages his personality, makes him landlord to a ghost."
-- Lloyd Cassel Douglas.
"America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves."
-- Abraham Lincoln.
JFK
Most businesses do not want federalization. Some in the CNMI government do not want it too. Some just do not know what they're talking about. Generally the people of CNMI are good, peaceful, and loving individuals. It's just being tarnished by interests from different ends. Everybody claims CNMI. Some jobless got nobody to blame but others. Some are just victims of all of these interests.
Is the current governor really for the interests of the people of CNMI?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2006/02/01/indicted-lobbyist-jack-ab_n_14... />
or the former?
http://20trueblue.blogspot.com/2006/07/sweeney-defended-sweatshops-and.... />
Are the newspapers fair?
http://20trueblue.blogspot.com/2006/07/sweeney-defended-sweatshops-and.... />
Now which?
Where there slavery, sweatshops, prostitutions, etc...?
What's the bigger picture? Do all need fight?
JFK
*Do all need to fight?
Redz
Philip Long,
Are you really serious in giving the non resident workers the right to vote, citizenship and the right to own a land??? C'mon!!! Or this is just another dilatory tactic. Do you really mean non resident workers deserves more??? More of what? If they do, then when do you think you're ready for this? And how many of you in the Marianas willing to do so? If non residents workers deserves a whole piece of cake then how come you cann't even give them a small part of it? Or it's just a ploy to calm down these people and make them wait for miracle for these to happen...
Kaya
Redz you are absolutely right. Phil Long is trying to distract the attention of the non-residents and let them focus their energy o clamoring US citizenship, green card, permanent residency that will not happen. The non-residents are already satisfied of giving them non-immigrant status that they can study, work and travel freely. Since he does not have much support on this issue, he therefore, try to foment instability among non-residents. He thinks he can sway these people but he has to know the most of them are educated and understand their calling.
Jim
You're right guys, I agree 101%. Mr. Long is making as believed that he wants us to have more than what the bill says. Just think aout this, if there's no S1634 will they do anything to improved our status? Offcourse not.
Psycho
To all! You people are a disgrace regardless of what race you are.
Why? because you people talk as if you can make thing better on this island. You wanna know how? shut up your yapin because things will just get worst for all of us.
Psycho
You guy are worst then 1st graders man!!!!!! In advance to who ever comments what I had to say, if you do comment then you know what you are. If you don't know what Im talkin about its the first sentence I typed out you Dim-witt
oooooohhh!!! thats write
Jim
Psycho, your name represent what kind of person you are. The site says you can comment on this bill. You better shut up if you have nothing to say.
Psycho2
Psycho, "Dim-witt", even a first grader can spell this correctly, you did not. thats write? do you mean "that's right"?
Jun
Me agree with Albert.
Bizness men in Saipan only wanna make da money.
I iz wo