Senator Therese M. Terlaje issued a statement calling for a full investigation, transparency, and accountability in response to a complaint filed against the Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB).
Terlaje said she read the complaint "with great concern" and commended the courage of the person who brought the allegations forward, voicing hope that all victims can achieve justice and feel safe coming forward. She stressed that sexual assault, sexual harassment, or any form of workplace misconduct must never be tolerated within any Government of Guam agency, autonomous agency, or public corporation, and that any effort to conceal, minimize, or disregard such allegations is equally unacceptable.
"Public trust depends upon the willingness of government institutions to respond promptly, transparently, and appropriately when serious allegations arise," she said.
The senator called on the Attorney General to investigate and prosecute to the fullest extent any employee, supervisor, or elected official who committed or was complicit in such conduct, who knew or should have known of the allegations and failed to prevent further harm, or who used public funds for illicit activities.
She also urged GVB, the Governor, and Lieutenant Governor to state clearly and publicly what policies or actions have been implemented since the allegations surfaced and how those measures will prevent further harm.
Terlaje further asked the Speaker and her colleagues that, given the nature of the allegations, any legislative investigation be conducted only by those who did not travel with GVB and are not potential witnesses in a criminal or civil action.