Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Casa de Ninos Manuel Fernandez Juncos as it commemorates its 120th anniversary of service to the children and youth of Puerto Rico.

Founded in 1906 in San Juan, Puerto Rico, under the leadership of the distinguished educator Don Manuel Fernandez Juncos, the institution was established to provide shelter, protection, and guidance to vulnerable children who lacked stable homes and opportunities. What began as El Refugio de Ninos Desamparados evolved into Casa de Ninos Manuel Fernandez Juncos, a nonprofit organization that has transformed the lives of generations of young people for more than a century.

Today, Casa de Ninos Manuel Fernandez Juncos provides preventive and therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and young adults who have experienced abuse, abandonment, or neglect. Through educational, rehabilitative, and counseling programs led by a dedicated team of professionals, the organization helps young people develop the skills, values, and confidence necessary to build productive and meaningful lives.

Throughout its history, Casa de Ninos Manuel Fernandez Juncos has remained steadfast in its mission to provide a safe and supportive environment where young people can overcome adversity and reach their full potential. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term development, the organization has strengthened communities and created opportunities for countless young people across Puerto Rico.

For 120 years, its commitment to education, protection, and personal development has made Casa de Ninos Manuel Fernandez Juncos an enduring source of hope for Puerto Rico's youth.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Casa de Ninos Manuel Fernandez Juncos on the occasion of its 120th anniversary and in commending its remarkable legacy of service and continued dedication to improving the lives of Puerto Rico's children and youth.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the municipality of Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, as it celebrates its 250th anniversary.

Vega Baja was officially founded on October 7, 1776, thanks to the vision of Don Antonio Viera and the generosity of Don Manuel Negron Benitez, who provided the land to establish the town. It is a remarkable coincidence of history that Vega Baja shares its founding year with our Nation, making this semi-quincentennial an especially profound milestone for both.

Over the past two and a half centuries, the city has been a cornerstone of Puerto Rico's development. It grew into an agricultural powerhouse, known for its sugarcane and citrus. Later, in 1873, the establishment of the Central San Vicente, the island's first sugarcane refinery, transformed the local economy and cemented Vega Baja's legacy in our island's industrial history.

But the true heart of Vega Baja lies in its people. Walking through its historic downtown, you can feel the deep cultural identity of a community that has raised generations of educators, artists, athletes, and public servants who have made Puerto Rico proud. This year 2026, the 69th edition of the National Puerto Rican Day Parade was dedicated to Vega Baja, affectionately known as the ``Ciudad del Melao Melao,'' in commemoration of this 250th anniversary.

Reaching 250 years is no small feat, and it reminds us of the critical role of sound public administration. Simply put, no city endures and thrives for two and a half centuries without dedicated administrators and leaders who consistently prioritize the well-being of their citizens.

I invite my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mayor Marcos Cruz Molina and the thousands of proud vegabajenos on this historic occasion. Here's to the next 250 years of progress and prosperity for Vega Baja.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Grupo Guayacan, Inc. on the occasion of its 30th anniversary. The organization's roots trace back to a 1994 study commissioned by founder Enrique ``Ricky'' Adsuar Gonzalez, which proved that Puerto Rico lacked a local private capital market to drive economic development. Founded in June 1996 as a private-sector-driven nonprofit, Grupo Guayacan officially marked this milestone on June 13, 2026, and will honor it with a public celebration on October 3, 2026--the event that occasions this submission into the Record. Adsuar Gonzalez established the organization under three guiding principles: it must be a non-governmental effort, have a governance structure led by the private sector, and be structured as a non-profit entity. For three decades, Grupo Guayacan has been a cornerstone of Puerto Rico's economic development, spurring the local private equity market by providing local institutional investors with access to top tier private equity investing through a partnership with Abbott Capital, leading the creation of the entrepreneurial ecosystem by offering world class education and tools to entrepreneurs at different stages of growth and facilitating access to capital to early- stage entrepreneurs in order to achieve lasting prosperity for the Island. This partnership with Abbott Capital was strategically designed to give Puerto Rican investors access to private equity investments and protect public funds, often referred to by Adsuar Gonzalez as ``the people's savings.''

Puerto Rico's economic future cannot rest solely on federal transfers or public spending. It must be built on new businesses, sustained growth of both SME's and innovation-based companies, the successful transition of legacy family businesses, retained talent, and well- paying jobs that keep Puerto Ricans at home. Grupo Guayacan has understood this from the beginning. Its founding premise--that a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem equals a strong economy, and that a strong ecosystem needs risk capital to grow--has been validated over three decades by over 3,500 entrepreneurs who have built extraordinary companies across the Island, hundreds of instructors and mentors, and dozens of investors who have seen their capital grow and remain in Puerto Rico with Guayacan's support.

Grupo Guayacan's portfolio of programs addresses economic development at every stage of a venture's growth. I-Corps Puerto Rico, aligned with the National Science Foundation's Innovation Corps initiative and delivered in partnership with the Georgia Institute of Technology, converts research and innovation into viable businesses--a direct investment in Puerto Rico's knowledge economy, now in its 22nd cohort. The EnterPRize Competition, which has been running uninterruptedly since 2005, was the first program in Puerto Rico to provide equity-free seed capital to early stage entrepreneurs. This year, it welcomed 30 startups from nearly 150 applicants across sectors central to Puerto Rico's economic diversification: health, technology, education,

agriculture, and retail. The Scale Up Bootcamp program designed in collaboration with Banco Popular, the Island's principal financial institution, just awarded a $50,000 seed capital prize and a $20,000 special prize to two SME's--a direct private-sector investment in the Island's high-growth companies. The Guayacan Venture Accelerator program, now in its 16th year, has served 202 growth companies, each with well over a million dollars in revenue, and 675 participants. Notably, the participating companies in this program only represent 13,000 jobs in Puerto Rico's economy.

On October 3, 2026, Grupo Guayacan will host its public anniversary celebration at Liberty Square in San Patricio Plaza, showcasing over 50 alumni entrepreneurs and a full day of performances by program alumni. It will notably launch its first children's book, Enrique y el guayacan, to instill the possibility of becoming an entrepreneur in the next generation and illustrate the lasting impact of three decades of investment in Puerto Rican talent.

Mr. Speaker, expanding economic opportunity in Puerto Rico is among my highest priorities in Congress. Grupo Guayacan is one of the most important private-sector partners in this work. I commend Executive Director Laura Cantero and the entire Guayacan team for their extraordinary service to Puerto Rico's economic future, and I congratulate this institution on 30 years of building the entrepreneurial foundation from which our Island's talent can build upon and thrive.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the College of Business Administration of the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus, as it celebrates its centennial anniversary (1926-2026), commemorating 100 years of academic excellence, leadership, and service to Puerto Rico.

Established in 1926 as the School of Commerce and Business Administration, the institution marked the beginning of formal higher education in business and management disciplines in Puerto Rico. Over the past century, it has played a pivotal role in preparing generations of professionals who have contributed to the island's economic development, strengthened its public and private sectors, and served communities both in Puerto Rico and abroad.

A defining milestone in the college's history came in 2013, when it earned accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This internationally recognized distinction reaffirmed the college's commitment to the highest standards of academic quality and established it as the only public institution of higher education in Puerto Rico to hold this prestigious accreditation.

Today, the college continues to advance its mission through a strong commitment to innovation, international collaboration, sustainability, and continuous academic improvement. These efforts have strengthened its reputation as a center of excellence and reinforced its role as an essential pillar of Puerto Rico's public university system.

The celebration of its centennial, under the theme ``One Hundred Years Building Success Stories,'' provides an opportunity to reflect on the college's remarkable legacy while recognizing the invaluable contributions of its faculty, students, administrative personnel, alumni, and supporters, whose dedication has shaped the institution's success throughout the past century.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I recognize the centennial of the College of Business Administration of the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus. May this milestone serve not only as a celebration of its distinguished history, but also as an inspiration for future generations to continue advancing excellence in education, leadership, innovation, and service to Puerto Rico.

Mr. Speaker, the people of Puerto Rico want us to prioritize the basics of water and energy, and to fight corruption.

Last year in this Congress, I denounced alleged irregularities in the procurement process for an emergency energy generation contract.

That concern was bipartisan. Former Congressman Mark Green and I cosigned a letter asking questions that weren't answered.

It turns out those concerns were warranted.

Let's take a cold look at the facts. On August 28, 2025, last year, Power Expectations and Reyes Contractor won a $5.9 billion contract for temporary energy generation in Puerto Rico. But Power Expectations and Reyes Contractor didn't have the required expertise or financial capacity to perform the contract. The government agency in charge of procurement essentially told them: find a partner who does, create a consortium, and then you have a deal.

Eventually Power Expectations and Reyes Contractor found Enchanted Rock. A person called Jhoby Weaks, COO of Caribbean Operations, signed the contract on Enchanted Rock's behalf.

The oversight board, which must authorize contracts over $10 million, approved the contract. Everyone was happy. Puerto Rico would have emergency energy generation in time for the summer peak.

The happiness didn't last. It turns out, Enchanted Rock had warned the government that there was a mistake: that they didn't sign the contract, that Jhoby Weaks was not an Enchanted Rock employee, and that the position of COO for Caribbean Operations did not even exist within their company.

Apparently, someone forged the firm's signature.

But it gets worse. Before the alleged forgery, Enchanted Rock got a letter from a law firm. They claim the letter attempted to blackmail them, and when they replied, the law firm denied having sent that letter. The firm denied having ever represented Power Expectations or Reyes Contractor. Apparently, someone forged the law firm's letter.

Enchanted Rock informed the Government of Puerto Rico even before the contract was executed. You would expect that after all these irregularities, the relevant government agencies would have responded decisively, that they would have rescinded the contract, that they would have reported the fraud. But they didn't. Instead, they went and substituted Enchanted Rock with another company through an assumption and assignment agreement.

Nearly 2 months later, someone blew the whistle. An investigative journalist broke the news. Someone forged a signature in a $5.9 billion energy contract.

The government knew, and the government hid it from the public, hid it from the oversight board, and hid it from the power authority.

When the oversight board found out, they canceled the contract. Under public pressure, the government referred the matter to law enforcement--again, 2 months late.

The people of Puerto Rico deserve answers and accountability.

Congress, which has assigned $17 billion for Puerto Rico's energy grid, deserves answers and accountability. What did the Government of Puerto Rico know? When did the government know it? Why did the government hide it? Was it corruption, incompetence, or both?

This scandal has direct consequences over the people. There are power outages because we don't have emergency energy generation.

As the people of Puerto Rico's Representative in Congress, I want to emphasize the following: The vast majority of Puerto Ricans are neither corrupt nor incompetent. Like the vast majority of American citizens and Members of Congress, we detest corruption, and we stand up to it.

I urge my colleagues to join me in this crusade of good government. Let's ask the questions and demand the answers. Let's work together to hold the crooks accountable, to fix the basics, and turn the lights back on in Puerto Rico.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Colonel John D. Samples, Garrison Commander of United States Army Garrison Fort Buchanan, as he concludes his distinguished military career and transitions to a well-deserved retirement. It is both a privilege and an honor to recognize a leader whose service has left an indelible mark on our island, our military community, and the broader Caribbean region.

Puerto Rico has a deep and proud military tradition. Our sons and daughters have served in every major conflict in American history, and the bonds between the people of Puerto Rico and the United States Armed Forces run generations deep. Fort Buchanan, Sentinel of the Caribbean and the Army's only installation in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, stands as a symbol of that enduring relationship, and Colonel Samples understood that responsibility from the moment he assumed command.

What distinguished Colonel Samples was not simply his rank or his record, impressive as both are. It was his genuine investment in the people and the place entrusted to his care. He approached his command not as a temporary assignment, but as a calling. He walked into communities, built relationships, and worked to ensure that the men and women under his charge, and the veterans and military families who depend on Fort Buchanan, were seen, heard, and supported. In a role that could have been administrative, he chose to be present.

Under his leadership, Fort Buchanan grew stronger as an installation and deeper in its ties to the communities surrounding it. He recognized that the strength of an installation is inseparable from the strength of its relationships: with local government, with civic organizations, with veterans' groups, and with the families who sacrifice alongside those who serve. He nurtured those relationships with consistency and with purpose.

Colonel Samples also understood the unique strategic significance of Fort Buchanan. As the Army's stronghold in the Caribbean, the installation serves not only the people of Puerto Rico, but also those of the United States Virgin Islands and the broader region. He stewarded that mission with seriousness and vision, ensuring Fort Buchanan remained a place of readiness, resilience, and genuine service.

For all of this, the people of Puerto Rico are grateful. We are grateful for the years Colonel Samples devoted to this island, for his professionalism, his steadiness, and his care. We are grateful to his family, who shared in the sacrifices that military life demands and who made their home among us. Their presence here has been a gift, and their departure leaves a void that speaks to their level of devotion.

Mr. Speaker, when we speak of public service at its finest, we speak of people like Colonel John D. Samples, individuals who give more than is asked, lead with more than authority, and leave every place better than they found it. Fort Buchanan is better because of his command. Puerto Rico is better because of his presence.

As the Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico, and on behalf of the people of our island, I offer Colonel Samples our deepest gratitude, our highest respect, and our warmest wishes for his next remarkable chapter.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Colonel Charles L. Decker as he retires from the United States Army after a distinguished military career. Colonel Decker served as the inaugural Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Caribbean District, and I want to thank him for taking on this mission during a time of transition and growth for the district's operations in our region.

Throughout his military career, Colonel Decker has served with professionalism and dedication. His education, including a Master of Science degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Stanford University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Clarkson University, prepared him well for the duties he faithfully executed. He is also a licensed Professional Engineer and a Project Management Institute certified Project Management Professional.

Colonel Decker's military record reflects his unwavering commitment to service. His education and training, spanning the Naval Civil Engineer Corps Officer School, the Command and General Staff Officer Course, Airborne training, and the Special Warfare Center and School, demonstrates his dedication to professional development. His military decorations, including the Meritorious Service Medal with Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster and the Army Commendation Medal with Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, illustrate his contributions to his organization and his peers.

Colonel Decker accepted command of the Caribbean District as a newly established operation, and he has managed that transition with competence and professionalism. We are grateful for his willingness to serve in this capacity and for the leadership he has provided to the organization.

On behalf of the people of Puerto Rico, I wish Colonel Decker well as he enters this next chapter of his life. We thank him for his service to our country and for answering the call to lead the Caribbean District during its formative years. I extend my best wishes to him and to his family.

Mr. Speaker, 10 years ago, PROMESA became law. It established a financial oversight board capable of overriding Puerto Rico's elected officials on fiscal matters.

PROMESA is a democratic tragedy. We surrendered our self-government in exchange for fiscal relief. Ten years later, we have restructured most of our debts and balanced our most recent budgets, but we still dream about restoring our democratic self-government.

The 10th anniversary of PROMESA begs the question: Where do the people of Puerto Rico stand today? As their voice in Congress, I say: We oppose the bad government practices that created the impression that PROMESA was a necessity. We oppose the vulture funds that want to profit from our misery and energy crisis. We oppose unelected oversight boards that can override our democratic will.

We support good government. We support responsible bankruptcy relief. We support restoring democracy and electing the people who govern us.

Puerto Rico was once an example of good government in Latin America, but it became an example of how politics and corruption erased the path to prosperity.

On the 250th anniversary of the United States, let us not forget the parts of this country of States, territories, and commonwealths that had and lost their government by consent of the governed. Let us not forget that we the people must continue to work toward a more perfect Union, a more perfect Union of States, territories, and commonwealths.

Now, for the benefit of my constituents, I will repeat my remarks in Spanish.

(Spanish translation of the statement made in English is as follows:)

Hace diez anos, PROMESA se convirtio en ley. Le impuso a Puerto Rico una junta de supervision no electa, con la capacidad de pasar por encima de los funcionarios electos en asuntos fiscales.

PROMESA es una tragedia democratica. Entregamos nuestro autogobierno a cambio de alivio fiscal. Diez anos despues, hemos reestructurado la mayoria de nuestras deudas. Hemos balanceado nuestros presupuestos mas recientes. Pero todavia sonamos con restaurar la democracia en nuestra isla.

El decimo aniversario de PROMESA obliga a plantearse la pregunta: qdonde se encuentra hoy el pueblo de Puerto Rico?

Como su voz en el Congreso, digo:

Nos oponemos a las malas practicas de gobierno que hicieron que PROMESA pareciera necesaria.

Nos oponemos a los fondos buitre que quieren lucrarse de nuestra miseria y de nuestra crisis energetica.

Nos oponemos a las juntas de supervision no electas que pueden pasar por encima de nuestra voluntad democratica.

Apoyamos el buen gobierno.

Apoyamos un alivio responsable ante la quiebra. Apoyamos restaurar la democracia y elegir a quienes nos gobiernan.

Puerto Rico fue una vez un ejemplo de buen gobierno en America Latina y

en los paises emergentes. Se convirtio en un ejemplo de como la politica y la corrupcion destruyen el progreso y borran el camino hacia la prosperidad.

En el aniversario 250 de los Estados Unidos, no olvidemos aquellas partes de este pais de estados, territorios y estados libre asociados que tuvieron--y perdieron--su gobierno por consentimiento de los gobernados.

No olvidemos que ``nosotros, el pueblo'' debemos continuar la labor hacia una union mas perfecta: una union mas perfecta de estados, territorios y estados libre asociados.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Elizabeth Martinez Gonzalez of Dorado, who will be sworn in as Department Commander of The American Legion, Department of Puerto Rico. Her service to our Nation and leadership within our community exemplify the finest traditions of patriotism and civic engagement.

Elizabeth served nearly fifteen years in the United States Army and Puerto Rico National Guard, rising to the rank of Master Sergeant. Throughout her military career, she distinguished herself in areas of critical responsibility--security operations, emergency preparedness, military police work, recruitment,

and retention. Her expertise in chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense earned her recognition as a CBRN specialist. More significantly, she became the first woman to serve on the 22nd Civil Support Team's Weapons of Mass Destruction Survey Team in Puerto Rico, breaking new ground and opening doors for those who followed.

Elizabeth's service took her to missions across the globe--operations in the War on Terror, support at Guantanamo, and humanitarian assistance following Hurricane Katrina. She demonstrated unwavering discipline, courage, and dedication in each assignment.

Her commitment to service did not end with her military career. Elizabeth has devoted herself to advancing the veteran community and our young people through the American Legion, Department of Puerto Rico. She has served as Commander of Post 45 in Dorado, First Vice Commander of the Department, and as Chairwoman of Americanism, Conventions, Communications and Media, and our Youth Oratorical Program. Most recently, she was elected Commander of the Department of Puerto Rico for the 2026-2028 term--making her only the second woman to hold this position in the organization's 103-year history.

In this role, Elizabeth leads efforts to strengthen programs for veterans and young people across Puerto Rico, promoting civic responsibility, constitutional respect, youth leadership, discipline, athletics, education, and community service.

Throughout her journey, as a soldier, as a leader, as a voice for her community, Elizabeth has carried with her the values of Dorado and Puerto Rico. She embodies integrity, perseverance, compassion, and a profound love for our people.

I urge my colleagues and all citizens of Puerto Rico to recognize her example and celebrate her achievements as inspiration for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Ramon Padilla, who has concluded his service as Department Commander of The American Legion, Department of Puerto Rico, for the administrative term 2024-2026. His leadership of this historic organization reflects the finest traditions of veteran service and community commitment.

The American Legion, with more than a century of service to veterans and the people of Puerto Rico, carries with it the weight of significant responsibility. Ramon assumed that responsibility with discipline, institutional loyalty, and unwavering commitment to the Legion's mission. His leadership focused on unity, participation, and the strengthening of posts throughout the Department.

During his tenure, Ramon worked to improve the administrative standing of posts across Puerto Rico, ensuring that a significant percentage remained current and in good standing. This effort strengthened the institutional structure of the Department and enhanced its capacity to serve.

Under his administration, the Legion's signature programs flourished, Legion Baseball, the Oratorical Contest, American Legion College, Operation Honor Guard, and the second Honor Flight for veterans were all advanced during his term. These initiatives represent the Legion's commitment to youth development, veteran recognition, and service to our communities.

Beyond programmatic accomplishments, Ramon defended the rights and benefits of veterans, supported military families, and promoted patriotism grounded in service. He demonstrated that leadership in the veteran community is not about position, but about putting the needs of those who served before personal recognition.

Throughout his administrative years, Ramon embodied the values that make the American Legion vital: service, responsibility, fellowship, respect, and commitment to the principle that veterans help veterans. His willingness to serve during a period of considerable institutional responsibility made a meaningful difference in the lives of legionnaires, veterans, their families, and the communities the Legion touches.

The Department of Puerto Rico is stronger because of his leadership. The legacy he leaves behind--one of service, strengthened programs, and renewed commitment to veteran advocacy--will benefit Puerto Rico for years to come.

I urge all citizens of Puerto Rico to recognize Ramon Padilla's distinguished service and his enduring example of leadership, integrity, and devotion to those who have answered the call to serve.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Jorge Andres Torres Gonzalez on winning the 2026 Oratorical Contest of The American Legion, Department of Puerto Rico. Jorge's achievement reflects the excellence, discipline, and civic commitment that define his character and promise as a young leader.

From his early years, Jorge has demonstrated exceptional qualities of responsibility, discipline, and service. Throughout his academic career, he has maintained an outstanding record, earning recognition as Student of the Year in sixth grade and graduating as Valedictorian of his eighth-grade class. He continues as an Honor Roll student at TASIS Dorado, setting a standard of academic excellence that speaks to his dedication and intellectual curiosity.

Beyond the classroom, Jorge has taken on meaningful leadership roles. He has served as Freshman Class Vice President, Historian and Secretary of the Executive Student Council, and Secretary General of the Model United Nations Club. Through these positions, he has demonstrated maturity, responsibility, and a genuine commitment to representing his peers with integrity.

Jorge has distinguished himself in debate and oratory, communicating complex ideas with clarity, respect, and critical thinking. These skills are essential to active and responsible citizenship. He has also demonstrated a profound commitment to community service, dedicating his volunteer work to supporting the elderly, recognizing in them an invaluable source of wisdom and experience.

As a member of Sons of the American Legion and a representative of American Legion Post 45 of Dorado. Jorge prepared rigorously for the Department contest, practicing faithfully each Thursday after school. His discipline and preparation paid off. He was selected as winner of the Puerto Rico Department Oratorical Contest and will now represent Puerto Rico at the national level at Hillsdale College in Michigan, an extraordinary honor for a young leader from our island.

Jorge exemplifies the values of leadership, patriotism, civic responsibility, academic excellence, community service, and respect for our Constitution. He represents the best of Puerto Rico's future: citizens who are educated, committed, and willing to serve others with purpose and integrity.

I urge all citizens of Puerto Rico to recognize Jorge's achievement and celebrate his example as inspiration for the next generation of young leaders.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the SBO-- Storm Baseball Organization on winning the 2026 Legion Baseball Championship of Puerto Rico. This victory represents the dedication, discipline, and teamwork of outstanding young athletes, their coaching staff, families, volunteers, and sponsors.

Legion Baseball stands as one of the most significant youth programs of the American Legion. For over a century, it has developed young athletes not merely as ballplayers, but as responsible citizens and future leaders. Through this program, young men learn discipline, teamwork, respect, civic responsibility, and a commitment to excellence that extends far beyond the baseball field.

I recognize Manager Alexis Ortiz and Coaches Jovany Santiago, Pedro Perez, Dalwin Roman Rodriguez, and Christian Lopez, whose leadership, expertise, and commitment to developing these young men made this championship possible. I also honor Pedro J. Rodriguez Oquendo of American Legion Post 129, whose sponsorship and support strengthened this organization.

The championship was earned by nineteen exceptional young athletes and I include in the Record their names:

Carlos Colon, Yadriel Delgado, Elimelec Flores, Diego

Lopez, Ken Luis Lopez, Lorenzo Melendez, David Orellano, Joel

Orellano, Ian Perez, Andres Quintana, Alexander Rivera,

Carlos Rodriguez, Dereck Rodriguez, Xavier Rovira, Dereck

Soto, Victor Tirado, Jeddriel Villegas, Sebastian Villegas,

and Marcos Acevedo.

Their perseverance, competitive spirit, and representation of Puerto Rico reflected the true meaning of sportsmanship and pride.

Legion Baseball also offers our veterans from all eras the opportunity to continue serving by investing in youth. Through their participation, veterans strengthen the bonds between generations and reaffirm The American Legion's mission: serving veterans, families, youth, and our Nation.

I urge all citizens of Puerto Rico to recognize the importance of programs like Legion Baseball, which unite young athletes, veterans, families, and communities. These young champions represent the future of our island and the enduring spirit of excellence and service.

Mr. Speaker, Puerto Rico faces a water crisis, and, ironically, the Governor's office is drowning.

Last week, decades of mismanagement and poor maintenance left hundreds of thousands, including me and my family, without water.

There was a stench, but it was not just the stench of unflushed toilets. It was the stench of corruption.

The former Secretary of Economic Development filed a criminal complaint against the Governor's chief of staff for alleged intervention in a government bidding process.

When the Governor testified in the Senate last week, Senator Mike Lee asked her: How can Congress be assured that Federal funds sent to Puerto Rico are not being misused?

I would tell Senator Lee: The people of Puerto Rico share your concern.

On behalf of the honest, hardworking majority of Puerto Ricans, I tell this Chamber: We will not be quiet. We will not stand still. We will fight to restore integrity in public service in the great Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

Mr. Speaker, yesterday students from the University of Puerto Rico gave me this graduation cap. It says: I want to graduate without hunger.

Eating is a basic need. Puerto Rico is not eligible for SNAP. As a result, many people, including our students, have to choose between buying a textbook or buying food. We are working to change that, and today I have very important news.

For the first time in this initiative's history, we have a Republican cosponsor in the Senate, and I thank Senator Roger Wicker for joining Senator Gillibrand and 17 other Democrats in extending nutrition fairness for Puerto Rico. I thank the Senate Republicans as well and 58 Democrats who cosponsored my bill to extend SNAP to Puerto Rico.

The fight goes on. We are making progress, and the people have hope.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Sofia V. Melendez-Santiago, an extraordinary young leader from Puerto Rico and a psychology student at the University of Puerto Rico--Rio Piedras Campus, upon her selection as a 2026 Harry S. Truman Scholar.

Sofia is pursuing a degree in Psychology with a greater academic goal of earning a PhD in Public Health, a path that reflects both her ambition and her deep commitment to the well-being of her community and island. She was selected from among 781 candidates nominated across 305 colleges and universities nationwide, chosen by independent regional review panels based on academic excellence, leadership accomplishments, and the likelihood of becoming a public service leader.

This achievement carries special significance for Puerto Rico. Sofia is the 58th Puerto Rican to be named a Truman Scholar and the 28th from the University of Puerto Rico--Rio Piedras, a testament to the enduring strength of Puerto Rico's academic institutions and the exceptional quality of the graduates it produces.

Established by Congress in 1975 as the living memorial to President Harry S. Truman, the Truman Scholarship is the premier graduate scholarship for aspiring public service leaders in the United States. Each Truman Scholar receives financial support for graduate studies, leadership training, career counseling, and special internship and fellowship opportunities within the federal government. Puerto Rico is fortunate to have young leaders like Sofia Melendez-Santiago, a student of intellect, purpose, determination, and heart, who will carry the values of our island as she works to build a healthier and more just future for all Puerto Ricans.

I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Sofia V. Melendez- Santiago on this remarkable achievement.