Acting Gov. Joshua Tenorio vetoed Bill 7-38 on Friday, rejecting a proposal that would have allowed 60 acres of Chamorro Land Trust property in Fadian to be used for a commercial quarry operation supporting military construction projects.
Environmental advocacy group Prutehi Guåhan praised the administration’s decision and credited community activism for influencing the outcome. The organization reported that more than 530 emails were sent to government officials as part of a coordinated letter-writing campaign, alongside islandwide demonstrations and individual submissions opposing the measure.
In a statement, Prutehi Guåhan said the veto represents progress in protecting CHamoru lands, Guam’s water aquifer, and habitats for endangered species. The group added that the decision reinforces residents’ commitment to resisting actions that could worsen the island’s vulnerability to climate change.
However, the group cautioned that the fight may not be over. Bill author Sen. Joe San Agustin could seek to override the veto if he secures enough votes from lawmakers. Prutehi Guåhan urged residents to continue contacting senators to uphold the Chamorro Land Trust’s mission and preserve Guam’s natural and cultural heritage.