By Pacific Island Times News Staff
Guam mourns the passing of former Speaker Mark Forbes, who died Sunday morning.
“Speaker Forbes served our island with profound intelligence, conviction, and a deep commitment to public service. His leadership in the Guam legislature was marked by fiscal responsibility, steady governance and a principled approach to policymaking,” Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero said.
She recalled that Forbes championed legislation to strengthen government accountability—converting the Office of Public Accountability into an elective office.
Forbes was first elected as senator of the 23rd Guam Legislature and consecutively served until his seventh and last term in the 29th Guam Legislature. He authored the legislation that changed the legislature from a 21-member body to 15.
Forbes was born on Oct. 27, 1954 and was educated at St. Francis School, Father Dueñas Memorial High School and the University of Guam. After working with families and youth while at Sanctuary, Inc. for 10 years, he served as the deputy chief of staff and director for policy and communications under the Ada-Blas administration.
“He led the charge to rethink and reimagine the size and role of the legislature, and his financial foresight provided the resources for the restoration of the Guam Congress Building,” the governor said.
Forbes is survived by his wife Cina, their son Sean and his brother Pale Eric Forbes.
“It is with deep sadness that we join the people of Guam in mourning the passing of former Speaker Mark Forbes. On behalf of a grateful island, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his beloved wife Cina, son Sean, his family, friends, and all those who knew and respected him,” the governor said.
She ordered flags to be flown at half-staff.
Speaker Frank Blas Jr. said Forbes will long be remembered for his work on government reorganization and reform.
“On behalf of my colleagues, our families, and all who work in our offices and central operations, our thoughts and prayers go to his wife Cina, his son Sean and his other family members on the passing of an honorable political icon, Speaker Mark Forbes,” Blas said.
“When Speaker Forbes spoke, the island listened,” said Lt. Gov. Tenorio. "He brought change to the halls of the Legislature and was known for his sharp mind, charisma and ingenuity. Though his time with us has come to an end, his contributions to our community will endure.”
The Republican senator led the 28th and the 29th Guam Legislatures.
The Republican Party described Forbes as a “brilliant political strategist and communicator,” who “left an indelible mark at every level of the Government of Guam.”
"The Republican Party of Guam is saddened today by the news of the passing of our friend and former Speaker Mark Forbes. A public servant and mentor to many elected and appointed Guam public officials, Speaker Forbes led a movement that personified the current effort of common-sense governance
with an eye on protecting the great culture of our island society in Micronesia,” the party said in a statement.
“ Speaker Forbes had actively assisted with many elections over the past four decades-his home was ground zero for the Sinajana District efforts to elect Republicans up and down the ballot.”
The Democratic Party issued a separate statement.
, “Today, we join the island in mourning the passing of former Speaker Mark Forbes. The Democratic Party of Guam extends our condolences to his family, especially his wife, Cina and their son Sean. Former Speaker Forbes served with integrity, innovation, and intelligence throughout his seven terms in the Guam legislature,” said Anthony “Tony” Chargualaf Jr., the party’s chairman.
“We have always respected and appreciated former Speaker Mark Forbes for his willingness to work across the aisle. He was known as a statesman who would set aside differences to work for the common good of the people of Guam. This type of leadership has set the standard for those in office today and for those to come,” said Rikki Orsini, vice chair.
Sen. Sabrina Salas Matanane described Forbes as"a man of extraordinary intellect, eloquence, and vision—a leader whose words carried both wisdom and conviction."
"I have always deeply respected and admired him, not only for his leadership but for the way he inspired and uplifted those around him," Matanane said.
"Years ago, while he was still in office, he was the very first person to encourage me to run for senator. That moment, his belief in me, has stayed with me ever since."
“I had the privilege of serving alongside Speaker Forbes in the 27th, 28th and 29th Guam Legislatures. As our speaker in the 28th and 29th, he led with strength, vision, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Guam,” Sen. Jesse Lujan.
“Beyond his role in public office, Speaker Forbes was a mentor, a statesman, and a man who believed in the power of service. His legacy will endure through the work he has done and the countless lives he has impacted,” he added.
Sen. Vince Borja said Forbes was known for his profound commitment to the community, his sharp wit and his unwavering dedication to public service.
“His passing is a significant loss to our island and to all who had the privilege of working alongside him,” Borja said. “His legacy of leadership and passion for public service will continue to inspire future generations.”
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