By Emmanuel T. Erediano
emmanuel@mvariety.com
Variety News Staff
MEMBERS and officials of the Palauan Community Association of the CNMI gathered at Garapan Central Park on Saturday to celebrate the island nation’s 31st Independence Day.
Joining them were Palau Senator Anne Pedro, Koror Delegate Mengkur Recheluk, Sonsorol Delegate Yutaka Gibbons Jr., Peleliu Delegate Nace Soalablai, Palau Senate Floor Leader Kerai Mariur, Airai Governor Norman Ngiratecheboit, Koror Governor Eyos Rudimch, CNMI Speaker Edmund S. Villagomez, former Rep. Mario Taitano, and PCA-CNMI President Johnvianni Tutiy.
Palau President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. sent a message that was read on his behalf by PCA-CNMI Vice President Thelma Mizer.
Whipps told the PCA officials and members that although the celebration in Palau took place at the beginning of October, “you were in our thoughts and prayers then, and you always will be.”
“As we look around the world and see other nations facing struggles, let us be truly grateful that we are able to celebrate 31 years of democracy and 81 years of peace. Peace and democracy are the cornerstones of the freedoms we enjoy today, such as the freedom to pray to our God, access to education for every child, and the right to work hard to achieve the Palauan Dream. We are blessed,” Whipps said.
The 31st Independence Day anniversary, he added, is a testament to the enduring strength, unity, and resilience of the Palauan people at home and abroad.
“As you come together here on Saipan to honor this occasion, you reaffirm the deep bonds that connect every Palauan across the Pacific, bound by our shared heritage and love of country. Your ongoing commitment to preserving our culture, supporting one another, and representing Palau with pride brings great honor to our nation,” he said.
He thanked Gov. David M. Apatang, Lt. Gov. Dennis James Mendiola, and other CNMI leaders and residents “not only today, but over the decades, for your warm hospitality and strong friendship to our people.”
In her opening remarks, Mizer said, “We gather tonight as one family, united by our shared heritage, bound by our deep love for our islands, and strengthened by the friendships we have built here in the CNMI. We are truly blessed to have this opportunity to come together to honor the spirit, resilience, and unity of the Palauan people at home and across the Pacific.”
She expressed appreciation to Whipps for his heartfelt message to the Palauan community in the CNMI, who were moved by the president’s words of encouragement and reminder of their shared dream for a prosperous and united Palau.
Mizer also thanked Pedro, Recheluk, Villagomez, and other CNMI officials for joining the association in the celebration. She said the Commonwealth’s continued support speaks volumes about the friendship and partnership between the people of Palau and the Northern Marianas.
She also thanked the PCA executive officers and board members for their dedication, teamwork, and tireless efforts in bringing the celebration to life. To all Palauan communities, families, friends, and distinguished guests from the CNMI and beyond, she said, “Thank you for your presence. Your support and participation make this celebration complete.”
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.