Although they raised funds for the fare of the senior citizens from the screening of the “The Enchantrees” movie and other activities, only 25 of the 80 senior citizens can go to Guam, Mondala said.
The others are not U.S. citizens and cannot travel to Guam without a U.S. visa, she added.
“It’s not fair that some will be left behind,” Mondala said.
She said they will discuss other options with the Manamko’ Council.
But the coronation of the Manamko’ Queen and King will go on as scheduled on Friday at the Palm Resort Saipan.
This year’s search generated $11,000 — the largest amount since the manamko’ began holding the annual event, Mondala said.
Rita Flawau will be crowned Manamko’ Queen while Jose Torres will be the Manamko’ King.
Mondala said this is the first time that a senior citizen from Rota won the title with $4,700 ticket sold. Flawau is from Rota but she already resides in Saipan.
Siyau Muna will be the royal princess; Teodoro Guiao, royal prince; Manual Mesa, prince; and the princesses are Meryalen Conrad, Soledad Cabrera, Felisa Baza and Virginia Prado.
Mondala said 20 percent of the funds raised will be returned to the candidates.
The manamko’ will use the rest of the funds to pay for the hotel accommodations and food during the coronation night.
