Celebrating the 25th Year of Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Week

Saipan, CNMI – The Judiciary's Office of Adult Probation Supervision, in collaboration with the DYS Juvenile Probation Unit and the Division of Parole of the Department of Corrections, gathered today at the Guma’ Hustisia for the Proclamation Ceremony commemorating the 25^th anniversary of Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Week. This year’s theme, as recognized by the American Probation and Parole Association, is “Heroes Behind the Mission: Changing Lives, Enhancing Public Safety,” paying tribute to the critical behind-the-scenes work of pretrial, parole, and probation professionals.

Governor Arnold I. Palacios, Chief Justice Alexandro C. Castro, and Judge Kenneth L. Govendo signed the proclamation declaring July 20 to 26, 2025, as Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Week. Inspirational speeches were delivered by Ryan Babauta, Eloise Castro, and Keahi Manglona.

Mr. Babauta, currently a Probation Officer with the Office of Adult Probation Supervision, shared a powerful testimony of his personal experience—from being a probationer to now serving the community by assisting probationers in their rehabilitation journey.

“Being placed on probation helped me learn patience, proper forms of communication, from problem-solving, without creating problems for others, and to appreciate the freedom that we share,” said Babauta.  “It helps me as a probation officer because I lived the experience that my clients are going through right now—it helps build a form of respect with my clients because I always tell them if I got out of a life that was meant for jail or death, they can, too.”

Probation Officer Ryan Babauta shared his personal story as one of the event’s inspirational speakers.

Governor Arnold I. Palacios extended his gratitude to all individuals who provide pretrial, probation, and parole services. He acknowledged their dedication and commitment to strengthening public safety and protecting the community.

Chief Probation Officer Weena Gwendolyn T. Iguel gave the closing remarks before a packed room and noted the significance of this milestone year. She pointed to “25 years of dedicating this week to Community Supervision Professionals in the CNMI, 25 years of staying true to their agency’s mission, and 25 years of continuous service to our community as a force for positive change.” Iguel also recognized the “heroes and sheroes who have the responsibility to encourage and support long-term behavior modification and promote public safety.”

Chief Probation Officer Weena Gwendolyn T. Iguel delivered her closing

As part of Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Week, outreach events will take place in Saipan throughout the week. On July 21, 2025, resolution signings will be held at Rota Centron Hustisia and Kotten Tinian, where the public is invited to attend.

2025-PR-09

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 18, 2025

This press release has been prepared by court staff for the convenience of the public. For further information, contact the Supreme Court at Supreme.Court@NMIJudiciary.gov