GOVERNOR Arnold I. Palacios on Wednesday said President Joe Biden has approved the CNMI’s request for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration for Category B (emergency protective measures), and Direct Federal Assistance to further support the Commonwealth’s disaster response and recovery efforts following Typhoon Mawar.

This declaration is in addition to the declaration announced on May 23, 2023 by President Biden, which was a pre-landfall emergency declaration.

According to the White House, “The President’s [latest] action makes federal funding available to Commonwealth and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance for the island of Rota.”

“I would like to extend my gratitude to President Biden, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency for acting on this request for a major disaster declaration,” said Governor Palacios. “This declaration will aid the Commonwealth’s response and recovery for Rota following the effects of Typhoon Mawar.”

The request for the Major Disaster Declaration was signed by Governor Palacios on May 30, 2023 in consultation with the CNMI’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management Office. Benigno B. Ruiz of FEMA has been appointed to coordinate federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

“Damage assessments are continuing, and additional areas and forms of assistance may be designated after the assessments are fully completed,” the White House announcement stated.
[Submitted by Robert Mendiola]