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

The Senate standing committee on executive appointments and government investigation held a public hearing June 12 in Saipan on the nomination of Sixto K. Iguisomar to serve as secretary of the Commonwealth Department of Public Lands.

Iguisomar, who previously served as DPL secretary and as a senator, told committee members he is “focused on transparent and fair land administration with priorities on homestead distribution, responsible land use, and constitutional compliance.” He outlined stalled projects, a reliance on self-generated revenue for operations, and plans to modernize records and operations if confirmed.

The hearing took place at the Susie Mofna Memorial Building, Senate Chamber, Capitol Hill. Acting special assistant Oliver Gonzales introduced the nominee on behalf of Governor Arnold I. Palacios and Lieutenant Governor David M. Apatang. Committee members present included Chairman Francisco K. Cruz, floor leader Senator Donald Manglona and Vice President of the Senate Senator Carl R. King Neighbors, among others.

Why it matters: The Department of Public Lands manages homestead allotments, land leases and land-claims payouts that affect residents across Saipan, Tinian and Rota. Committee members and public witnesses focused on whether the nominee would address backlogs on land claims, stalled homestead permits and the department’s financial and data-management practices.

Major points raised by the nominee

- Past projects and current status: Iguisomar said projects begun in his prior tenure had stalled, often because promised ARPA funding did not arrive. He listed prior work including…