Senate committee holds public hearing on nomination of Sixto K. Iguisomar for Department of Public Lands secretary

The Senate's standing committee on executive appointments convened a public hearing June 12 to consider the nomination of Sixto K. Iguisomar to serve as secretary of the Commonwealth Department of Public Lands (DPL).

Iguisomar, introduced by Oliver Gonzales on behalf of Governor Arnold I. Palacios and Lieutenant Governor David M. Apatang, described his prior service at DPL and outlined priorities if confirmed: increasing homestead access, improving land-lease administration, clearing land-claim backlogs and modernizing DPL's records and mapping systems. "Public lands are not just resources. They are legacy," Iguisomar told the committee, adding that transparency and constitutional compliance would guide his approach.

The hearing drew supportive testimony from DPL staff and municipal representatives. Patricia Grama, who said she worked under Iguisomar in the department, told the committee she had "complete faith" in his leadership and urged confirmation. Irene Torres, identified as a DPL staff member, said, "I wholeheartedly support his nomination or appointment." Lorna Eginoyev, representing the Northern Islands mayor's office, said the mayor endorsed the nomination and expected "positive impact" for Northern Islands residents.

Why it matters: committee members pressed practical and fiscal questions that affect homestead applicants across Saipan, Tinian and Rota, and that will shape whether the nominee can deliver on his plans. Senators and public witnesses…