Andrew Salas, 69

10/14/2025 - Former representative Andrew S. Salas passed away last Oct. 4 at the Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. He was 69 years old.

Salas is survived by his wife, Ritchel Jocson Salas, and children Crystin S. and Ryan C. Aguero (grandchildren Ryan, Rylei), Angela S. and Robert P. Wilson, Hyanna J. Salas, Mathew J. Salas, and Maria J. Salas.

His children said their father’s greatest loves were clear to anyone who knew him—he loved his family deeply, his wife, his children, and family and seeing them grow into kind, successful people. 

“He had a passion for martial arts, paddling, and active living in general. Dad enjoyed simple pleasures: Farming outside in the morning or afternoon to feed the dogs and chickens, swimming at the beach, making his famous salmon fried rice, reading books or the news, and sharing stories with laughter and a smile. Above all, his love for the CNMI was unwavering, and he carried that pride and dedication into every part of his life,” they said in a statement to Marianas Press.

Salas’ children said some of their fondest memories of their father were the lessons he taught them—never lie, steal, or cheat, and always face challenges head-on. 

“He led by example, showing us how to persevere through difficulties and hold ourselves to high standards. We will always remember his stories, his contagious laugh, his smile, and the way he made everyone around him feel cared for and inspired.”

As for public service, his children said Salas approached it with integrity, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to doing what was right. 

“To him, serving the people wasn’t about recognition or popularity—it was about principle, fairness, and giving hope to those who felt unheard. He believed in serving the CNMI with dignity and righteousness, always putting the needs of the community above his own,” they said.

Salas served as a member of the 13th House of Representatives from 2002 to 2004. He also served as Department of Commerce secretary under former governor Juan N. Babauta from 2004 to 2006. 

In a social media interview, Babauta said, “He was a leader and a dedicated public servant. He was an outstanding secretary of Commerce. He was my jogging partner and a true friend.”

House Speaker S. Edmund Villagomez, meanwhile, extended his prayers and condolences to Salas’ family. “He served in the House of Representatives and was a public servant at heart. May he rest in peace,” he told Marianas Press in a social media interview. 

Salas was born on June 21, 1956, to Antonio Taitano Salas and Avelina Sablan Salas.

Report by Mark Rabago