The program is sponsored by the Nippon Travel Agency as part of its package tour for the Natso Family Summer Festival that will held from July 20 to Aug. 21 this year.
Ramon Valeros, Nippon Travel Agency supervisor, said they will provide honorarium for each senior citizen participating in the program.
Walter Manglona, the event coordinator, said the program is also a fundraising activity for the manamko’s goodwill trip to Tinian this year.
The program sessions are held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday until the end of August.
The manamko’ originally wanted to go to Rota, but they can’t afford the travel expenses and will instead visit Tinian.
“It’s a lot cheaper yet is a most wonderful destination with an amazing history, beautiful casino and friendly people,” Manglona said. “The manamko’ have been there in the past and are eager to visit the island again later this year.”
Through this arts and crafts tutorial program, the manamko’ are given a chance to give back to the community by teaching tourists local arts and crafts, Manglona said.
“This will definitely help the tourism industry,” he added.
Siyau Muna, 75, one of the program participants, said they will receive $17 each for every session they attend from 9 a.m. to 12 noon.
