He also proclaimed June 2011 as Northern Mariana Islands-Philippines Friendship Month, and Pacific Islands Bilingual/Bicultural Association or PIBBA.
In his brief remarks, Philippine Consul General Medardo G. Macaraig expressed confidence that no matter what the future brings, the friendship between the local people and the Filipinos will never waver.
Inos also urged everyone to recognize the importance of the Historic Preservation Week and work toward a greater understanding of the islands’ history and culture.
He likewise called upon the community members to “take part in the efforts to celebrate the NMI’s inalienable rights to our indigenous language and culture, to promote, take pride and use it in our daily communications.”
Organized in Jan. 1980, PIBBA’s mission is to advocate for the promotion of bilingual education and promote unity among Pacific Islands in matters relating to bilingualism, and serve as a forum for the Pacific community to share research findings, data and strategies, and to protect and promote the cultural and language heritage of each integrity.
