PRESS RELEASE AMENDED For Immediate Release 02 May 2012

Resolution sets foundation for regional resources campaign Senator Aline A. Yamashita and Senator Rory J. Respicio introduced yesterday Resolution No. 405-31 (LS), which recognizes the rights of Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau, to take part of the economic gains to be had by the recent and future explorations of the Challenger Deep in the Marianas Trench. In the coming weeks, the Micronesian Image Institute (MII) -- a Guam-based non-profit foundation dedicated to securing the Micronesian legacy in media, communications and public policy-- will begin preparing a campaign to increase awareness and strengthen public policies for resource management on Guam and for the nearby islands of the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas, Republic of Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia. "We are proud to be Chamorro-founded and very honored to work with the Guam Senators and regional leaders to secure what is rightfully ours," says Dan Ho, MII CEO. “The legislature’s action in adopting this resolution is the first step towards correctly and properly addressing attribution of the location of Challenger Deep.” The resolution’s adoption shows strong bi-partisan support of its intent. "You can't explore Mt. Everest without fees upwards to $70,000 per person paid to the Nepal government,” says Democratic Majority Leader Respicio. "The Legislature’s approval of Resolution 405 is a smart business decision for Guam and the region. The people of Guam and the rest of Micronesia deserve their share, and this Resolution lays the groundwork for that."

Sen. Yamashita reiterated Sen. Respicio’s statements, saying that when one thinks of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia is recognized. When conversations focus on the Rock Islands or shark sanctuaries, Palau is thought of; if you think Golden Gate Bridge, your next thought is San Francisco. The Nepalese government imposes fees to explore Mt. Everest and if you're going to film in New York, a production company is required have permits, insurance, and adhere to agreements to hire local unions. “Guam, the Northern Marianas, and our entire region should have similar policies and regulations in place, and Resolution No. 405 begins laying the groundwork for our island and for collaboration between our brothers and sisters in the region," Senator Yamashita states. For more information contact the FamiliesFirst! Office at 648-3474 or email the Senator at [email protected]. A copy of the document is attached. ####