TO commemorate the 126th Philippine Independence Day, the United Filipino Organizations, in collaboration with Emon Masonic Lodge No. 179, held a flag-raising ceremony at Aqua Resort Club on Wednesday morning.
Joining the Filipino community in the ceremony were Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang, Saipan Mayor Ramon “RB” Camacho, House Speaker Edmund Villagomez, Rep. Edwin Propst, Rep. Manny Castro, Department of Public Safety Commissioner Anthony Macaranas, Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services Commissioner Juan Pua. Tan Holdings President and Chief Executive Officer Jerry Tan, and other officials and dignitaries.
This year’s Philippine Independence Day theme is “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan” (Freedom, Future, History).
In her remarks, UFO President Birhen K. Martinez said, “No matter where we are, no matter how small a contribution it may be, we are all today’s heroes! Let us continue to devote ourselves to the common good and for the betterment of ourselves and the community.”
Apatang, for his part, said, “We see this flag-raising ceremony as a tribute to the numerous contributions and accomplishments made by our Filipino community, who have built their families here and call the CNMI home.”
He added, “We have seen and learned how the level of hospitality and care represented by the Filipino community is part of their valuable culture, particularly in the face of difficult times when members of your community consistently took positive actions to help those in need.”
“As we raise the flags of the U.S., the CNMI and the Philippines today, let us not overlook the crucial lesson that we will get closer to creating peace if we treat people with the intention of uniting rather than dividing,” the lt. governor said. “As I ride down Beach Road, and I see those hard-working people in the hot sun, I really feel for them. What will happen if those workers are not here? You guys make these islands the way it is supposed to be. You guys work hard for us. We want to thank you — we love you for staying with us here in the CNMI. Thank you to all our Filipino community in the CNMI, whether in Saipan, Tinian, or Rota — thank you very much for all your contributions and hard work.”
A prepared statement by Philippine Consul General to Guam Rosario Lemque was read by Consul Joaquin Ricardo Aragon:
“We wish to convey my warmest greetings to the Filipino community of the CNMI as we celebrate the 126th Anniversary proclamation of Philippine Independence. The commemoration of our Independence Day is an auspicious occasion for us to remember the courage and patriotism of our forebearers and the sacrifices they made to enjoy the freedom that we now have.”
Rev. Father Charlie Borja led the invocation, Deo and Eloisa Manese served as masters of ceremony, Shane Sabino sang the Philippine National Anthem, and Emon Lodge 179 Worshipful Master Fernando Enano provided the closing remarks.
In an interview, Apatang said like Guam officials, he and Gov. Arnold I. Palacios are in full support of the proposal to include the Philippines in the visa-waiver program.
“We’re looking forward to see that happen. We’re looking forward to Filipino visitors coming to the CNMI,” Apatang said.
CNMI officials led by Lt. Governor David M. Apatang and Tan Holdings President and Chief Executive Officer Jerry Tan join other dignitaries and Filipino community members at a Philippine Independence Day flag-raising ceremony at Aqua Resort Club on Wednesday morning.
Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang delivers his remarks.
CNMI officials with Filipino community members and Philippine Consul to Guam Joaquin Ricardo Aragon.
Emon Masonic Lodge 179 Worshipful Master Fernando Enano delivers his closing remarks.
