First lady Josie Fitial and the governor’s special assistant for women’s affairs Remy Buniag said the 30-ft. Christmas tree and the decorations were all recycled materials.
“We didn’t spend anything for this,” said Buniag.
Eleven inmates from the Department of Corrections cleaned the area around the multi-purpose center and helped construct the Christmas tree along with employees from the Department of Public Works and the Commonwealth Utilities Corp.
Fitial, who heads the First Lady’s Vision Foundation, said the spirit of the holiday season should be kept alive despite the islands’ economic crisis.
Buniag said they are grateful to the volunteers who helped them with the project.
On Monday night, the CNMI’s first lady turned on the lights of the Christmas tree project after the ceremonial blessings and prayers.
Gov. Benigno R. Fitial and Lt. Gov. Eloy S. Inos were also in attendance as well as other government employees who congratulated the two for winning the runoff election.
The Gloria Dei Choir serenaded the crowd with Christmas songs.
Beside the Christmas tree, is the nativity scene depicting the birth of Jesus Christ in a manger with the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph.
Mrs. Fitial and Buniag thanked the United Filipino Organization, Corrections Commissioner SN. Dolores Aldan, Primtek Construction, Nora Alepuyo, CUC, DPW, Lucy Aldan, Arnold Seman, Frances Pangelinan, Del Johnson, Del Sablan, Linda Arriola and Nelida Atllig who volunteered their time for the project.
