Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Calvo Enterprises, Inc., as it marks 50 years of service to the people of Guam. From its beginning in 1938 with the island's first locally owned insurance agency, the Calvo family built more than just businesses. They built opportunity for our island.

Over the decades, Calvo Enterprises grew to include companies that became part of daily life, from Mid-Pacific Distributors and Pepsi bottling company, to KUAM, giving our community a strong media voice; and Pay-Less Supermarkets, helping to provide food and essentials to our families.

What we recognize today is not only business success but a commitment to Guam through civic and charitable work, including the Edward M. Calvo Cancer Foundation, which has supported families during some of their most difficult moments.

Mr. Speaker, three generations later, the Calvo family continues to lead with the same values of hard work, integrity, and service to community, helping to strengthen our island and create a future that our children can rely on.

I thank the Calvo family and every employee who contributed to this agency.

I congratulate Calvo Enterprises on 50 years of growing with Guam and for Guam. May the next 50 be just as strong.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this bill that ensures our veterans, including the thousands who call Guam home, receive the compensation adjustment they have earned through service and sacrifice.

Guam has one of the highest per capita veteran populations in the Nation, and these cost-of-living increases are essential for families facing high costs and limited healthcare options.

This legislation is simple, bipartisan, and just. It honors every servicemember who stood the watch, from the Indo-Pacific to every corner of the globe.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support our veterans and pass this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend from Oklahoma for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, Guam is home to 3,372 Federal employees, more than 43,000 SNAP recipients, over 9,000 WIC recipients, and more than 20,000 veterans, all of whom have been impacted by this shutdown. If we continue to put politics over our country, my constituents will continue to suffer.

Simply put, this gets us back on track, ensures funding for those who need it is in place and turns the lights back on. This bill ensures that families receive the assistance they need, veterans have access to care, and our island is reimbursed for the sacrifice we made to keep Federal programs running during this difficult time.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill and to deliver for the American people. The time for deliberation is when the government is open and people have the assistance they need.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great joy and deep admiration that I congratulate Ms. Yuri Kim on her retirement, after 29 incredible years of service as a U.S. diplomat.

Today is a day of celebration, but also one of reflection. As we look back, we honor not just the impressive milestones in her career, but the impact she has made on the lives of so many through her leadership and guidance in the direction of U.S. foreign policy.

Ms. Kim is a proud daughter of Guam. She began her journey at the Academy of Our Lady, then went on to earn her degree at the University of Pennsylvania, followed by a master's from Cambridge University. Her roots in Guam remained a strong part of her identity throughout a career that took her around the world.

Over nearly three decades, she wore many hats that shaped her vision of the future of our country. She was a champion for energy, defense, technology, and infrastructure. Early on, she showed herself to be a force of nature, leading critical work in the Political Section of the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, heading the DPRK Unit in the Office of Korean Affairs, and serving in key roles across the U.S. embassies in Turkey, Iraq, Japan, and China.

She served as Special Assistant to Secretary Colin Powell and played a central role in the Six-Party Talks aimed at ending North Korea's nuclear weapons program. Her work continued at the highest levels, becoming Chief of Staff to the Deputy Secretary of State and later Director of the Office of European Security and Political-Military Affairs, where she helped shape U.S. policy toward NATO and the OSCE.

In 2019, she was nominated under President Trump to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to Albania, where she continued her service under President Biden. During this time, she deepened our existing partnership by advancing shared interests and encouraging economic growth.

Most recently, she served as the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, helping navigate some of the most complex challenges in today's global landscape.

Through all of this, what stands out most is not just her accomplishments, but her character. Ms. Kim has led with integrity, courage, and heart. She's been a mentor, a role model, and a steadfast public servant who gave her all, every single day.

Her legacy will not only be seen in policy or diplomacy, but in the people she inspired and the bridges she built. She's helped shape the world we live in, and we are all better for it.

We thank and celebrate Ms. Kim, and we wish her nothing but happiness and fulfillment in this next chapter of her life.

Madam Speaker, I rise today with profound respect to commemorate the life and legacy of Irene Perez Ploke Sgambelluri, a CHamoru daughter of Guam, a survivor of World War II, and a tireless advocate for justice.

At just 10 years old, Irene was eating breakfast with her family when the skies above Guam roared with warplanes. Her father, a U.S. Navy pharmacist, surrendered himself to protect his family, spending years in a Japanese POW camp.

Irene, her mother, and her siblings endured displacement, hunger, forced labor, and cruel treatment under occupation. She gave up her bed so that her grandparents could rest. She helped forage for food, and bore the weight of survival with quiet strength.

At age 13, she witnessed the return of American forces and trekked through mountains and devastation to seek safety, but her story didn't end there. Ms. Irene transformed her pain into purpose. She spoke at schools, ceremonies, and even laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, becoming the first civilian to do so, in honor of Guam's liberation.

Her advocacy helped to secure war reparations for CHamoru survivors, and her home phone became a lifeline for those who were seeking help.

Her grandchildren called her ``the bionic woman,'' a fitting tribute to a woman who defied cancer, embraced technology, and danced through life with grace and grit.

Her legacy is etched not only in the history books but in the hearts of her family and the people of Guam. She reminded us that history lives among us and that the enduring CHamoru spirit would never be forgotten.

Madam Speaker, we thank her. We honor her, and we carry her life forward.

Madam Speaker, I rise today with deep sadness to honor the life and legacy of Mayor Paul McDonald, who has left us after decades of devoted service to our island of Guam.

Over the course of decades, Mayor McDonald faithfully served his village, making him not only a leader but a constant presence in the lives of the families he represented. His tenure as the longest serving mayor is not just a record of years. It is a record of trust built through commitment, humility, and care for our people.

From the earliest days of his service, Mayor McDonald understood that leadership in Guam's villages is personal. It means being present at every gathering, comforting families in times of loss, and rolling up your sleeves to fix problems no matter how small or large. He carried that responsibility with honor, embodying the true spirit of ``inafa'maolek''; ``to make good with one another.''

Mayor McDonald's leadership was never about titles or recognition. It was about ensuring that children had safe places to grow, that our ``manamko''; ``elders'' are respected and supported and that village life remained rooted in dignity, family, and tradition. Through typhoons, economic hardships, and moments of challenge, he stood as a steady hand and a reassuring voice for his constituents.

What made Mayor McDonald remarkable was not only his longevity in office but the way he never grew tired of serving. Even after decades, his door was open. His voice was steady, and his heart remained committed to the people.

He leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered not just in the record books but in the daily lives of those who called on him and knew they could count on him.

Guam has lost a true public servant. We will remember Mayor McDonald as a man whose life's work was defined by compassion, dedication, and an unwavering love for his people.

I extend my deepest condolences to the McDonald family and to all who mourn his passing. May his life of service inspire future generations to lead with the same humility and strength. ``Si Yu'os Ma'ase''; ``thank you,'' Mayor McDonald, for your many years of sacrifice and service. May you rest in eternal peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in solemn remembrance to commemorate the 81st anniversary of the liberation of Guam, a day of profound meaning to all who call our island home.

On July 21, 1944, the United States Armed Forces arrived on the shores of Guam to liberate our island from nearly 3 years of brutal imperial Japanese occupation during World War II. They courageously fought to reclaim our home and restore the promise of freedom.

Some endured unbearable suffering. Some gave their lives. Some still carry the scars of those dark and painful years. We honor them all.

Through years marked with immense loss, families were torn apart, villages destroyed, and our language and our culture silenced. Yet, Guam's Greatest Generation never gave in. They held on to hope, faith, and one another. That quiet resilience, rooted in the community, is what carried them through.

To our survivors, veterans, and every person who carries this history in their hearts: ``God bless and thank you''; ``Si Yu'us ma'ase.''

``Long Live Guam''; ``Biba Guam.'' ``Long Live liberation day''; ``Biba Liberation Day.''

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great honor to recognize War Survivor Remembrance Day.

From 1941 to 1944, Imperial Japanese soldiers occupied Guam and forced our ancestors through hardship and unspeakable violence that has left scars long after the war. In the face of darkness, it was our people's quiet resistance and sense of community that enabled us to survive.

I thank our Greatest Generation for preserving and rebuilding our community on the foundation of family and cultural virtues. Words will never fully capture the severity or intensity of their experience, but know our gratitude is immense.

As we honor this day, let us not dwell on the horrors of war, but rather celebrate the unwavering spirit and strength of the generation that carried our people through a truly difficult time. May this inspire future generations to do the same in the face of unspeakable hardship.

Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of my amendment urging the Department of Veterans Affairs to develop a comprehensive plan to relocate the VA regional office from Manila to Guam.

Guam is home to one of the highest per capita populations of veterans in the United States, but our role doesn't stop there. We serve as a critical hub for veterans across the western Pacific, from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to the Freely Associated States. Yet, despite this regional responsibility, Guam still lacks a full-service VA regional office.

Today, veterans throughout our region are forced to rely on remote services or travel thousands of miles to Honolulu, more than 3,800 miles away, just to meet with a benefits counselor or resolve a claim. That is not just inconvenient. It is unjust, and it is unacceptable.

My amendment seeks to change that. It would direct the VA to develop a plan within 1 year for transitioning its regional office from Manila to Guam. This isn't about turning off the lights in the Philippines overnight. It is about creating a deliberate, responsible roadmap that ensures veterans in the western Pacific and the Philippines continue to receive care while aligning the VA's footprint with our evolving strategic reality.

The men and women who sacrificed for our country did not do so with an expiration date on their service. Our commitment to them must be equally enduring. We have a duty to ensure they are not forgotten or left behind.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great honor to recognize War Survivor Remembrance Day--a day that commemorates the sacrifices of those before us and the strength of those still with us from Guam's Greatest Generation. The generation that survived the atrocities of the Japanese occupation during World War II.

From 1941 to 1944, following the attack on Pearl Harbor, Japanese soldiers occupied Guam and forced our ancestors to endure hardship and unspeakable violence that has left scars long after the war. Many were uprooted from their homes, suffered the loss of loved ones, and were coerced into manual labor without food or medical care to prepare our island against an invasion.

Our people were forced into camps--where resources were scarce and many lives ended in starvation or massacre, and where they were beaten for any signs of disloyalty, including the practice of our culture. And yet, in the face of this darkness, it was our people's quiet resistance and sense of community that kept some alive.

For us in Guam, this event not only honors the sacrifices of our ancestors but reminds us of the power of the CHamoru people. Today, we honor our Greatest Generation and thank them. Without their perseverance through three years of relentless tragedy, we would not be here.

I thank our Greatest Generation for holding on for the freedom of tomorrow. I thank them for persevering and rebuilding our community on the foundation of family and cultural virtues. Words will never fully capture the severity and intensity of your experience, but know our gratitude is immense.

As we celebrate our War Survivors from World War II, let us not dwell only on the horrors of war, but rather highlight the unwavering spirit and strength of the generation that carried our people through a truly difficult time. May this inspire future generations to do the same in the face of unspeakable hardship.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure to honor the life of Ms. Alfonsina Diaz--a World War II survivor; lifelong educator; a woman of God; mother, grandmother, and great grandmother to her family and community; and most importantly, her legacy of 100 years of life that demonstrate the values of spiritual strength and the significance of family.

Known to her family and friends as Ancin, she is the eldest of six children born to Maria Santos Tanaka Diaz and Joaquin Flores Diaz. Despite her childhood and much of her youth remembering the painful occupation of the Japanese during World War II, she intentionally lives and chooses to carry her life with the spirit of resilience and joy. A fond memory of her youth includes working alongside her sister Cecilia Tanaka Diaz Reyes, first cousin Matilde Cruz Baron, and aunt Asuncion Tanaka Santos at Tommy's Soda Fountain. Owned by her uncle Tom Santos Tanaka, Sr. and father Joaquin Flores Diaz, it was a popular spot for the teenagers during the 1950's. She always had fun when she worked.

After graduating from high school, she worked at C.L. (previously Sinajana) Elementary as an elementary school teacher for the 1st to 3rd grades. She met her husband and they've stayed together since marrying in June of 1950. When they moved to Agana Heights, they've welcomed their seven children: Carmelita, Robert, Marie, Joaquin, Martha, Daniel, and Nora. As she raised her family, she continued to be a full- time teacher.

The love she had for her job can be felt through her previous and present students--

many of which have shared fond memories during their time together. About 10 years ago, a former student accidentally bumped into Ancin and asked for a picture. He intended to share it with his friends in Los Angeles who all went to the same elementary school. Another student, who is now a proud retired registered nurse, shared her experiences with Ancin. She shares that when she was in 3rd grade, Ancin had a patient and nurturing demeanor that made learning fun and easy. She was also the pioneer for many of these students ``firsts''--first person to introduce students to the Scholastic Book Club, fostering the love of reading classics; first person to take them on a field trip to Fena Dam/Lake; etc.

Another fond memory a student shared was the performance during the Christmas Pageant, where everyone dressed as angels with tinsel halos and wings and sang to their hearts content. She was also noted to have the best dresses.

Moreso, she was best remembered in awe for her strength and passion of raising a family of seven while being a full-time educator in an era where it was considered progressive at the time.

Her influence reached beyond her students started many of the traditions that her family has come to love. Her daughter recalls one specific tradition of setting up and reciting the Nobena Nino every year on the front porch. The Nativity they used was given to Ancin by her mom and is now with her grandniece Norene Reyes Aldridge. Her children and her grandchildren credit Ancin for their love of dancing and for the recipe for the best homemade flour titiyas served during large celebrations.

Although she was the oldest, only she and her youngest sibling Maria Tanaka Diaz Nauta remain. She has survived all three of her sons yet remains loving and faithful. Her eyes and smile speak genuinely when she bids goodbye with a ``Thank you, God bless you.''

Ancin attributes her longevity to two things: physical activity, and interaction with others, especially with the youth. Two wonderful lessons I think we can all take away from such a life well-lived centered on family and intentionally finding gratitude in every day.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great pride to commemorate the 127th anniversary of Philippine's independence and to honor the remarkable resilience and spirit of the Filipino people.

On June 12, 1898, the Philippines declared independence, breaking free from centuries of colonial rule. Like Guam, the Philippines displayed extraordinary strength and unity during World War II under occupation.

The Filipino community has long been a cornerstone of our island. They are educators, healthcare professionals, businessowners, and servicemembers. More importantly, they are our neighbors, friends, and family.

Mr. Speaker, Philippine independence celebrates not just the past but the people who continue to carry its legacy of freedom, unity, and cultural pride forward.

That is why today I introduced a resolution with Representative Bobby Scott to officially recognize June 12, 2025, as this year's observance of Philippines Independence Day.

I thank the Filipino community in Guam, across our Nation, and around the world for your countless contributions and lasting impact.

``Hoorah to the Philippines''; ``Mabuhay Pilipinas.''

Happy Philippines Independence Day.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce a resolution to condemn the illegal and international use of flag of convenience practices in maritime efforts. I am honored to be working alongside Representative Tokuda and the Oceana in this effort, a leading maritime conservation NGO.

Flags of convenience is a practice that allows a ship to register their ship under another country to avoid certain regulations, taxes, and fees associated with their country. Among other things, this is a growing threat to U.S. maritime security, labor standards, and economic interests.

To quote Dr. Max Valentine of the Oceana organization:

Transparency at sea isn't just a tool for ocean

conservation. It is essential for protecting workers,

enforcing maritime security, and ensuring a level playing

field for the global fishing industry.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize three extraordinary individuals from Guam who were honored today at the 2025 Guam Centenarian celebration: Ms. Victorina Dulay Robeniol, Mr. Frank Manangan, and Ms. Cerafina Fejeran.

Each of these individuals has reached or surpassed 100 years of age. This is a remarkable milestone on its own; but more than longevity, they represent a generation whose lives were shaped by some of the most defining moments in our island's history, including World War II.

As we approach Guam's 81st Liberation Day this July, we are reminded of the resilience, determination, and strength of those who endured the occupation of Guam during World War II and witnessed the delivery of freedom to our people in 1944. The centenarians lived through those difficult years and helped rebuild our island in the decades that followed.

Their lives are a testament to the enduring spirit of the people of Guam.

They remind us that our history is not only told in books or monuments, but also in the lives, hearts, and experiences of those who were there. They embody everything that is great about Guam, and we celebrate the incredible lives they lived.

I extend my warmest congratulations and deepest respect from this Chamber. On behalf of the people of Guam and the United States Congress, I thank Ms. Robeniol, Mr. Manangan, and Ms. Fejeran for their strength, their wisdom, and the example they continue to set for us all.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the MIL-FMLA act, legislation that honors the sacrifices of our military families and veterans by ensuring they receive the family and medical leave protections they deserve. I am honored to co-lead this bipartisan legislation with Congresswoman McClain Delaney.

Too often, the loved ones of our servicemembers are left behind without adequate support when duty calls. The MIL-FMLA act fixes this by extending the Family and Medical Leave Act benefits to family members of the National Guard and Reserve troops, recognizing the unique burdens they bear when their loved ones are deployed.

This act also extends these same protections to our veterans and their families, ensuring they can take the time they need to care for their health without fear of losing their jobs. This is not just about fairness, it is about readiness. When families are supported at home, our servicemembers can focus on the mission.

As the proud Representative of Guam, where service to our Nation runs deep, I urge my colleagues to stand with our military families and pass this bill without delay.