By Bryan Manabat
bryan@mvariety.com
Variety News Staff
THE Saipan Mayor’s Office dedicated this year’s “Christmas in the Park” lighting ceremony at Sugar King Park to the memory of former Mayor Juan B. Tudela (1935-2013), whose vision helped transform the site into a cultural and recreational landmark.
Mayor Ramon “RB” Camacho led the Dec. 15 ceremony, which featured decorative displays and entertainment to usher in the holiday season. In his remarks, Camacho described Tudela, who was Saipan mayor from Jan. 2002 to Jan. 2010, as “a man of vision, integrity, and unwavering faith” who opened doors of opportunity for island residents through international student exchanges, village youth sports, and his commitment to preserving culture and history.
“It is fitting that we celebrate his memory here, in Sugar King Park, a place he cherished, a place he worked tirelessly to protect for future generations,” Camacho said. “His vision and dedication made this park what it is today — a living testament to our heritage.”
The CNMI Legislature adopted a resolution in 2002 calling for the revitalization of the Sugar King area. A year later, the Marianas Public Lands Authority entrusted the Saipan Mayor’s Office with developing and maintaining the park as a cultural site. Camacho credited Tudela’s steadfast support for making those milestones possible.
The Christmas in the Park displays will remain open nightly through Dec. 31. The Saipan Mayor’s Office expressed appreciation to its partners, including the Department of Public Safety, Kagman Elementary School Choir, the Lions Club, Ed Dela Cruz, and Jordan Paradise.
Bryan Manabat was a liberal arts student of Northern Marianas College where he also studied criminal justice. He is the recipient of the NMI Humanities Award as an Outstanding Teacher (Non-Classroom) in 2013, and has worked for the CNMI Motheread/Fatheread Literacy Program as lead facilitator.
