[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 71 (Monday, April 26, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E450]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF FORMER SPEAKER JOE TAITANO SAN AGUSTIN

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. MICHAEL F.Q. SAN NICOLAS

                                of guam

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 26, 2021

  Mr. SAN NICOLAS. Madam Speaker. I rise today In honor the life and 
legacy of former Speakr Joe Taitano San Agustin. Speaker San Agustin 
was a devoted public servant, political pioneer, and a true advocate 
for the people of Guam. Our community will fondly remember him as a 
compassionate leader who dedicated his entire life to uplifting others 
and realizing a more prosperous Guam.
  When Congress issued legislation in 1968, which provided for the 
first popular election of the governor and lieutenant governor of Guam, 
Speaker San Agustin was instrumental in launching Guam's transition 
into self-governance. He served as the director of administration to 
both the last appointed and first elected governors of Guam, and by 
1976, he was elected to serve as a senator in the 14th Legislature of 
Guam, where he made strides in economic development and the protection 
of public finances for two decades. Throughout his ten terms in office, 
he also served as speaker of the 20th, 21st, and 22nd legislatures, and 
following his departure from the chamber, his service continued to 
prove valuable as chairman of the Democratic Party of Guam from 1997 to 
2001.
  Speaker San Agustin's contributions toward a greater quality of life 
for the island's residents extended beyond traditional politics, and 
continue to echo in today's age. Building strongholds for our 
community, he notably, led twenty government employees in donating to 
establish the Governmemt of Guam Federal Credit Union in 1962 and went 
on to serve on the board of directors for the Bank of Guam. He also 
fought for retirement security as chairman of the Government of Guam 
Retirement Fund Board and served as the executive director of the Guam 
Base Reuse and Closure Office.
  Speaker San Agustin was an esteemed leader and advocate who dedicated 
his entire life to public service. His career illustrates a remarkable 
fidelity to just and meaningful change, and his countless contributions 
to our systems of governance and historic policy continue to inspire 
many in our community. Speaker San Agustin served with my grandfather 
during their time in the legislature, and I am deeply saddened by his 
passing. My family and I wish to extend our hearts and prayers for him 
and his family, and I join the people of Guam in remembering and 
celebrating his life and legacy of selfless service. Our island has 
lost an icon, but we know he is happy with Auntie May. He will be 
deeply missed, and his love and memories will forever remain in the 
hearts of the people of Guam.

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