GOVERNOR Ralph DLG Torres on Thursday signed a proclamation designating May as Historic Preservation Month in the CNMI.
Joining the governor at the canoe house in Susupe for the proclamation signing ceremony were Department of Community and Cultural Affairs Secretary Joseph Guerrero, Historic Preservation Office Director Rita Chong, NMI Museum Director Daniel Aquino, Education Commissioner Dr. Alfred Ada, lawmakers, and various government and community partners.
Master of Ceremonies John Gonzales and fellow cultural advocate Frances “Kai” Sablan recited a traditional chant, following the blowing of “kulus,” or conch shells, led by Sablan and other community members, including Northern Marianas Humanities Council Executive Director Leo Pangelinan and Rep. Leila Haveia F. Staffler.
The proclamation signed by the governor was read by student Carmelita P. Castro.
“The rich and diverse cultural heritage of the [Marianas] is represented by a vast number of archaeological and historical sites, historic buildings, and landscapes that have been discovered and recorded through the CNMI,” the proclamation stated.
“The preservation of the CNMI’s past for future generations is set on a foundation of public appreciation and understanding,” it added
The protection and preservation of these sites, buildings, and landscapes provide educational, scientific, and economic benefits for CNMI citizens, the proclamation stated.
Historic preservation is an effective tool for managing growth, revitalizing neighborhoods, fostering local pride, and maintaining community character while enhancing livability, the proclamation added.
“It is important to understand the role of history in our lives to appreciate the contributions made by individuals who preserve the heritage that shapes us as a people.”
Gov. Torres underscored the importance of preserving the indigenous language, and called upon all citizens “to celebrate the role of history in our lives and the contributions of people who helped to preserve the history that shaped the people of Northern Marianas Descent as a people, and to take part in the appropriate events, ceremonies, and observances of this month.”
The Historic Preservation Office, under the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, was created to educate the public about the disciplines of archaeology and historic preservation.
In fulfilling its mandates, the HPO partners with other government agencies, private companies, archaeologists, historians, students, and private citizens in enhancing archaeology and historic preservation.
“People Saving Places” is the theme for the CNMI Historic Preservation Month. Commonwealth residents are urged to recognize and celebrate the significance of their precious historic, archaeological, and cultural resources as a source of economic development, education, and identity.
In his remarks, DCCA Secretary Guerrero mentioned illegal acts of taking indigenous items with historic significance as he urged community members to leave such items alone.
He said he has seen people post photos of such acts on social media, and noted that there have been no repercussions as of late.
Guerrero called on the community to respect such items, as well as places with historic and indigenous significance.
HPO Director Chong, for her part, said there will be activities throughout the month to celebrate historic preservation, including classes on weaving and “talaya” or fishing net-making.
Education Commissioner Dr. Alfred Ada said the Public School System will be incorporating more indigenous-based courses.
Following remarks by various public officials, students from Francisco M. Sablan Middle School performed a traditional Refaluwasch dance.
From left, NMI Museum Director Daniel Aquino, DCCA Secretary Joseph Guerrero, Gov. Ralph DLG Torres, HPO Director Rita Chong, and Education Commissioner Dr. Alfred Ada listen as Carmelita P. Castro reads the proclamation.
Gov. Ralph DLG Torres signs the proclamation as DCCA Secretary Joseph Guerrero and HPO Director Rita Chong look on.
HPO Director Rita Chong, center, delivers her remarks.
Cultural advocate Frances “Kai” Sablan recites a traditional chant.
Master of ceremonies John Gonzales
Student Carmelita P. Castro reads the proclamation.
Northern Marianas Humanities Council Executive Director Leo Pangelinan blows a “kulu” or conch shell.
Rep. Leila Haveia F. Staffler blows a “kulu” or conch shell.
