Governor: ‘We expect not charity, but fairness’ - Leon Guerrero-Tenorio Administration Promotes ‘Human Security’ During First-Ever Guam Defense Forum

Hagåtña, Guam - Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio today welcomed senior federal, military, and community leaders to the inaugural Guam Defense Forum, a historic two-day gathering focused on strengthening civil-military collaboration and ensuring Guam's strategic role is matched by tangible investments in its people and infrastructure. The forum convened leaders from the U.S. Department of Defense, federal agencies, the Guam Legislature, village mayors, nonprofits, industry, and the men and women in uniform who serve on Guam.

'The nation we love must meet its duty to us'

Governor Leon Guerrero opened the event, stressing that Guam's defense significance cannot be separated from the well-being of its people. She stated, "There is no national security without human security-without hospitals that heal, schools that teach, utilities that sustain, cyber systems that defend, and homes and jobs that keep families safe. The United States cannot rely on Guam without also uplifting Guam. We expect not charity, but fairness."

She added, "Guam is not just limestone, dirt, and sand in the Pacific. It is the birthplace of our CHamoru people-where our ancestors built homes, told stories, and planted hope. As their heirs, we will continue to fulfill our duty to the security of this nation. But we must also be clear: the nation we love must meet its duty to us."

The morning keynote was delivered by U.S. Indo-Pacific Commander Admiral Samuel Paparo, who underscored the urgency of deterrence amid rising threats in the region. He said, "China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran seek to dismantle the security order that has delivered peace and prosperity since the Second World War… Guam is the homeland, and defending Guam is defending America. The Guam Defense System will shield the island and U.S. forces from ballistic, cruise, and hypersonic weapons. But it's more than a shield-it's also a catalyst. It creates jobs, modernizes infrastructure, expands training, and builds lasting opportunity for the people of Guam."

Asst. Sec. Marks: 'The status quo will not get us here'

In the afternoon, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment Dale Marks, who was confirmed by the U.S. Senate in June, delivered his first keynote address on Guam. He said, "The status quo will not get us there. We need a new mindset. Our installations are weapons systems. They are no less vital than our ships, our tanks, our planes, and they must be postured to maximize survivability while supporting the communities that surround them."

Marks also highlighted energy security, housing, and workforce needs, and stated, "Our adversaries are targeting infrastructure-our grids, our water, our systems that sustain daily life. That is why we must build resilient installations and communities together. Partnerships with Guam are critical. This is not just about military bases. It's about our community, our people, and building a stronger, more sustainable future."

The Guam Defense Forum continues on Thursday with panel sessions on infrastructure, healthcare, workforce development, and civil-military coordination. The Leon Guerrero-Tenorio administration intends to make the forum an annual platform to align resources with Guam's needs and to strengthen the island's role in a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Governor Leon Guerrero closed with a call to unity and shared purpose, and added, "Our journey is guided by our greatest love-our people, our island, and the cause of freedom and democracy. Together, let us ensure our work here not only meets the needs of today but also lays the foundation for generations to come."

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