A former lawmaker is urging the Legislature to pass a bill legalizing casino gaming on Saipan, saying this will help improve the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands’ (CNMI) economy, which has been in a slump since 1998. Manasses Borja, who served in the 1st CNMI House of Representatives, said if the people of Saipan have allowed the poker industry to thrive on their island, he doesn’t see any reason why a casino industry should not be welcomed as well.

In a press conference, Borja said: "I am alarmed that the CNMI government does not have sufficient funds to meet its obligations and commitment to the people of the commonwealth. I am also concerned by the continued lack of economic growth in the islands, especially in tourism. Japan Airlines is no longer flying to the commonwealth, garment factories are closing down, there is continuous increase in fuel prices even as economic conditions have improved elsewhere in the region. I believe that expanding opportunities for casino gambling on Saipan and Rota will jumpstart the economy, increase tourism, and provide both a short-term and long-term rise in government and private sector revenues."

But the local administration does not support former Representative Borja’s proposal, saying it prefers to further develop the gaming industry on Tinian Island, where casino operation is legally allowed. Press Secretary Charles P. Reyes Jr. said in a statement: "I understand that Mr. Borja is a staunch ally of former Governor Froilan C. Tenorio, who has long supported such an industry for Saipan. We wish Mr. Borja good luck. The administration does not object to a vote by the people. We believe in democracy. Even with the CNMI’s weak economy, Mr. Borja is likely to face stiff opposition."

Reyes said the administration "does not currently support a gaming industry for Saipan, but if the people feel differently and vote for Borja’s proposal, then the will of the people should prevail. We can respect and appreciate democratic action, but we are also keen on developing Tinian’s gaming industry." Tinian is allowed to issue a maximum of five casino licenses. The island has one establishment, Tinian Dynasty Hotel & Casino, operating a casino there. Borja said he has drafted a measure to legalize a "controlled casino industry" on Saipan as well as on Rota. He said he has asked at least three lawmakers to introduce the measure.

According to Borja, the three seemed positively interested but have remained noncommittal. One of the lawmakers from Rota that he approached, Senator Paul A. Manglona, said that the administration and the lawmakers from the three main islands should discuss Borja’s proposal. But Manglona said he believes that the people of Saipan are unlikely to support the proposal.

The former lawmaker said there is a market for a casino industry on Saipan since the majority of tourists stay here. There are 1,414 poker machines licensed in the CNMI. Of this figure, 1,226 are on Saipan, 106 are on Tinian and 82 are on Rota. (E-07.03.06)

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