ROTA (Press Release) — Luta Cares proudly announces the success of the “1st Year Annual Tradition & Tomorrow: Back to School Celebration” held on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, at the Round House in Songsong Village, Rota. The event brought together the community in a spirit of service, culture, and celebration — providing free haircuts, food distributions, cultural presentations, and entertainment for families and students across the island.
The third free back-to-school haircut program was made possible through the sponsorship of the office of Rep. Julie Ogo, with volunteer support from Saipan beauty shops such as Creative Hair & Body Care Salon (Angella & Rowin), Ambience Salon (Joan), and Barbie’s Beauty Shop (Barbie). Over 90 students and elders received free haircuts during the event.
Luta Cares also extended heartfelt appreciation to Bridge Capital, LLC for their generous monetary donation, and to From Luta For Luta, Micronesia Climate Change Alliance, and Saipan International School for donating food for the NAP recipients, ensuring families in need received support during the month.
Special thanks were extended to Mayor Aubry Hocog and her staff for preparing delicious local delicacies for visiting YouTubers Ern & Kate and collaborating MarianasReview content creator Christian “Bucky” Manzanares, who joined the celebration to capture Rota’s beauty and cuisine. The Marianas Visitors Authority also co-sponsored Ern & Kate’s visit, highlighting Rota’s charm and hospitality for a global audience.
The 20th Rota Municipal Council, including Councilwomen Tillie Taimanao and Sandra Masga, made generous donations, along with DCCA Historic Preservation Office Officers Vincent Mesngon, Antonelli Rosario, and Resident Director Frederick Manglona, who guided Ern & Kate through Rota’s breathtaking historical sites for their upcoming content.
Luta Cares also recognized the talented local artists who showcased their craftsmanship in weaving, bayogo beadwork, and mwar-making, keeping cultural traditions alive for the younger generation.
This year’s event was made possible with the support and contributions of:
• DCCA-Art Council funding under the National Endowment for the Arts
• Sen. Donald Manglona
• Sen. Ronnie Calvo
• Islander Rent A Car
• Calvo’s Enterprises (David Calvo)
• As Paris (Gina Sasakura)
• Pizzaria (Jackie Manglona)
• Coral Garden Hotel
• A&C Car Rental
• Bernard & Valerie Apatang
• Rota Times
• David Atalig & Family
• Rebecca Norita (Artist)
• Antonelli/Flora Rosario (Artist)
• Merlita Masga (Artist)
• Sue Cabrera
In a statement, Luta Cares President Asiah A. Ogo shared, “This year was another successful event. We were able to provide over 90 students and elders with free haircuts, and we were blessed to receive food donations from organizations and schools from our sister island, Saipan. We were honored to distribute these on their behalf. Bringing in content creators to highlight our beautiful island was a step forward in promoting Rota as a must-visit destination. Luta Cares’ goal remains to serve our community while encouraging visitors, travelers, and tourists alike to come and #BisitaLuta.”
Luta Cares expresses deep gratitude to all members, partners, and volunteers who dedicated their time and effort to ensure the event’s success. Through the continued collaboration of the community, leaders, and generous supporters, Luta Cares continues its mission to uplift and empower the people of Rota.
