She was crowned last night at the Garapan Fishing Base carnival grounds by 2008 Liberation Queen Kaylynn Angelynn L. Sablan.
Sablan’s sister, Kayla Roseann Lizama Sablan, 17, was the first runner-up while Richelle Mungwaath, 15, who represented the Palauan Community, was the second runner-up.
As of press time, Variety had yet to get the total amount of the tickets sold by the three candidates.
In an interview, Muna said she was “very happy” to be named the 2009 Liberation Queen.
The competition, she added, was stiff, but “I think I got the edge because of the strong support of my family and friends.”
In her message, she encouraged the youth to pursue and continue their education and to be good role models in the community.
Thousands
Liberation Day committee chairman Jack Omar said they are ready for tomorrow’s event as he encouraged members of the community as well as tourists to enjoy the celebrations.
Parade and float committee chairman Felipe Atalig said they are expecting thousands of participants in the parade.
“We are expecting hundreds of participants from the JROTC program and the United Filipino Workers. The Chinese and Korean communities have also confirmed that they will mobilize a hundred of their members,” Atalig said.
The 2009 Liberation Queen will have her own float.
Camping
As early as Sunday, tents were being set up along the parade route on Beach Road.
Vince Reyes from Dandan said his family observes the celebration every year.
His sister, Dyna Reyes, was born on July 4.
“This is a traditional event and we usually come here to see the parade and celebrate the birthday of a family member,” Vince Reyes said.
He is hoping that the participating floats will convey a message about the preservation of the environment and global warning awareness.
This year’s theme is “Path for Peace.”
Committee vice chairman Isidoro Cabrera has asked the mayor’s office to trim the protruding tree branches along the parade route to allow for the smooth passage of the floats.
The parade will start at 2 p.m. outside the National Office Supply.
Atalig said they expect a two-hour parade.
Fireworks
In a press conference, Mayor Juan B. Tudela said there will be no fireworks display this year because of financial constraint.
He said his request for additional funding was not granted by the Saipan legislative delegation.
Even if someone donates the fireworks, it would still be impossible to have a display because they need at least one day or more to secure and prepare the area, he said.
However, with or without fireworks, Tudela urged the members of the community to unite in celebrating Liberation Day.
He said the director-general of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Affairs Office on Guam, Vince Tsai, will join the festivities.
