Noting that the CNMI has its own commonwealth tree, flower, bird, flag and seal representing the islands’ people, Palacios, R-Saipan, said “we also have an anthem but in two versions.”
Both these versions, he said, should be honored.
As stated in the Commonwealth Code, Palacios said, the commonwealth anthem “shall be presented at the beginning of all official government ceremonies in the commonwealth by voice or recording.”
House Bill 17-227 requires that the commonwealth anthem, “Gi Talo Halom Tasi” in Chamorro and “Satil Matawal Pacifico” in Carolinian be presented in either version or both at all government ceremonies.”
Palacios said the significance of the commonwealth anthem “will remain unchanged in the hearts of our people.”
