Senate honors first Chamorro architect on his 80th birthday

09/21/2025 - The Senate chamber was overflowing with family, friends, and well-wishers last Sept. 15, as lawmakers honored Herman Blas Cabrera—the first Saipan-born Chamorro native licensed to practice architecture in the Commonwealth—on the day he turned 80.

For Cabrera, the recognition was more than a personal milestone. It was, as he told the packed chamber, an unforgettable gift that represented not only his journey as an architect but the resilience and progress of the community he has always called home.

“I am deeply humbled and grateful for this legislative resolution in my honor. I want to express my sincere appreciation to each and every one of you who supported this recognition. This resolution is not just a personal acknowledgment, but also a testament to the hard work and dedication that goes into making a difference in our community,” he said.

Born in 1945 to Francisco San Nicolas Cabrera and Regina Blas Cabrera, Cabrera grew up in a household rooted in faith, hard work, and service. The values instilled by his parents carried him from his early education on Saipan and Guam to the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, where he graduated in 1975 with a degree in architecture.

Cabrera went on to blaze a trail in a profession that barely existed in the young Commonwealth at the time. By 1989, he became the first Saipan-born Chamorro to be licensed as an architect—a distinction he continues to hold with pride.

His professional path began in the public sector. He spent more than two decades as a planner and architect for the CNMI Department of Education, helping to design and improve the schools that would serve generations of students.

In 1996, he struck out on his own, founding Herman B. Cabrera & Associates. The firm grew into a respected multidisciplinary practice, handling everything from architectural and structural designs to environmental assessments. His projects—ranging from homes and schools to community landmarks—have left an imprint across Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.

Among the works closest to his heart are public spaces that bring people together, like the Kiosko Center in Garapan and the Bay Park at Poña Point in Rota. “These projects showcase our heritage and create spaces for the community,” Cabrera told senators.

Even at 80, his vision for the Marianas remains ambitious. Cabrera has floated plans to develop a recreational state park at Mount Tapochao, complete with a 360-degree view of the island, which he believes could create jobs and boost tourism.

Beyond design, Cabrera has long been committed to education and mentorship. He taught architectural design and drafting early in his career, and his continuing education work with professional associations like the American Institute of Architects reflects his belief in lifelong learning.

“We would like to, for your public service, for the first Saipan-born Chamorro native licensed to practice architecture in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, congratulations on behalf of your family, the people of the CNMI, and most importantly, the Senate,” said Senate President Karl King-Nabors as he presented Cabrera with the Senate resolution. 

Amid the accolades and professional achievements, Cabrera counts his family as his greatest accomplishment. With his wife, Abelina, he raised four children—Londa, the late Francisco, Herman Jr., and Crystal—and today takes joy in his grandchildren and extended family.

Last Sept. 15, the chamber was filled not only with Cabreras but also relatives from the Blas clan, many of whom traveled from Guam just for the occasion. Their presence turned the session into more than a legislative ceremony—it felt like a family reunion.

As he accepted the Senate resolution, Cabrera’s voice was steady but filled with emotion as he reflected on the journey that brought him to this moment.

“I’m proud to be part of a community that values public service and recognizes those who strive to make a positive impact,” he said. “Your support means the world to me, and I'm also committed to continuing my work in serving our community with integrity and passion.”

Report by Mark Rabago