DOZENS of community members gathered on Ghalaghaal — the Refaluwasch word for Managaha —for the 53rd Annual Chief Aghurubw Day celebration on Saturday, Sept. 30.
“Today is a very special day for our Refaluwasch community as we annually celebrate the man who helped to start bringing the migration and settlement of the Refaluwasch from all over the Caroline islands,” said Kodep Ogumoro-Uludong, president of the Chief Aghurubw Foundation.
In the 1800s, Chief Aghurubw, originally of Satawal, sailed to Guam after his island was damaged by a typhoon. On Guam, he gained permission from the Spanish governor to settle on Saipan, which at that point had been depopulated.
On Saturday, Mass was celebrated at the chief’s grave and memorial site on Managaha, where community members placed woven coconut leaves on his statue and adorned his grave with lavalavas and other offerings.
Community members were able to attend Mass after taking advantage of free rides on the Lucky Harvest, Hagan Tasi, and Sirena.
Lunch was offered after Mass.
The statue of Chief Aghurubw on Managaha.
Lunch was offered after Mass.
Chief Aghurubw’s grave is adorned with offerings on Chief Aghurubw Day.
Community members took advantage of rides on the Lucky Harvest, Hagan Tasi, Sirena or personal vessels in order to attend the 53rd Annual Chief Aghurubw Day celebration on Managaha.
A man places woven coconut leaves on the statute of Chief Aghurubw.
Kodep Ogumoro-Uludong, president of the Chief Aghurubw Foundation.
