A DEVOUT Catholic couple, Eloisa and Deogracias “Deo” Manese, as well as businesswoman Lilia King, were among the 21 individuals who were sworn in as U.S. citizens at a naturalization ceremony at the federal courthouse on Tuesday morning.
“Every milestone in our life happened here,” said Eloisa Manese, general manager of Joeten Ace Hardware. “We met on Saipan, we got married here, we had children here, we built our family here. Saipan is home for us,” she added.
“As U.S. citizens now, we could contribute more to the community,” said Deo Manese, an accounting manager at J.C. Tenorio Enterprises.
The couple, who have lived in the CNMI for more than 30 years, said they have no plans of moving to the mainland U.S. “We will get our U.S. passports, register to vote, and do our duty as citizens here,” Deo Manese said.
The two have been members of a Mount Carmel Cathedral choir since their arrival on Saipan, and have also served as lecturers or commentators during Mass.
“That’s one good thing living in a small community — you have more time to assist the church,” Deo Manese said.
A small business owner, Lilia King said she was emotional during the swearing in ceremony. “I’m so happy and proud to be a U.S. citizen,” she added.
King said she has been a U.S permanent resident since 1992, and a resident of the CNMI for 40 years. “I’ve decided to apply for U.S. citizenship because I also want to vote,” she said. “Also, there’s too much hassle when traveling outside the mainland U.S. When we went to Germany and Japan, there were so many required documents required,” King added.
King is inviting community members to visit her booth at Kada Dia in Chalan Kanoa. “We have Chelu Shave Ice, and we also sell jewelry and accessories.”
She said she has a branch on Tinian and is a regular vendor at the weekly Sabalu Market in Garapan.
Chief Judge Ramona V. Manglona of the District Court for the NMI presided over the special session during which Patricia Phelan, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officer, made the motion to accept the new citizens, 18 of whom are from the Philippines, one from China, one from South Korea, and one from Thailand.
Besides the Manese couple and King, the other new citizens are Luvi F. Babylon, Jim D. Cabanes, Nat Noihong Castle, Lou Kristin B. Cruz, Megan C. Grageda, Mi Soon Jeon, Jasmine Liang Johanson, Efren G. Lacsina, Aldrin V. Legaspi, Catlyn G. Ortiz, Leo O. Pertudo, Violeta C. Rallo, Rizalina B. Reyes, Evelyn F. Roda, Arman Saria Sanarez, Dawn Margaret V. Sarmiento, Evelyn J. Tamangided, and Eulaine L. Uberita.
Attorney Charity Hodson, the NMI Bar Association president, was the guest speaker.
“As you take the oath of citizenship,” she said, “and…uphold…the principles and values making the U.S. the beacon of hope and opportunity for a lot of people in the world…do your part to ensure that other people also practice these principles of equality. As new citizens you have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process and to take the many advantages that are available to you. Whether pursuing an education, self-improvement, or just committing yourself to those people in your life with…compassion. The U.S. is a country that rewards hard work and dedication. But these opportunities also come with responsibilities. As citizens, it is our duty to be informed, engaged, and active members of our community. You will strive to understand each other, and respect the cultures, traditions, and beliefs of those around us. And to work together to build a more just, equitable and compassionate community….”
The 21 new U.S. citizens with District Court for the NMI Chief Judge Ramona Manglona, attorney Charity Hodson, and Patricia Phelan, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officer.
Eloisa and Deogracias “Deo” Manese pose for Variety outside the federal courthouse on Tuesday.
