“The Bantalan Boys,” which frequent the dock, joined Fr. Jesse Reyes in blessing the project yesterday. Also participating were Department of Public Works Secretary Martin Sablan, Rep. Raymond D. Palacios, RPCF president Brian Reyes and other community members. RPCF was the contractor.
Rep. Ralph S. Demapan, Covenant-Saipan, and Palacios pushed for the completion of the repair project, which included the construction of two pavilions.
Demapan was not able to attend the ceremony but issued an appreciation statement.
He said he is working on the third pavilion “which we hope will be built with “natural materials to depict and celebrate our rich and unique Chamorro and Refaluwasch culture.”
Sablan said the area was an eyesore in the past but now more people, including tourists, are visiting it.
“I’m glad that the people continue to help clean and maintain the place. It’s a big help,” he said.
In an interview, Palacios, Covenant-Saipan, said community members using the place should help maintain it.
He thanked former Speaker Oscar M. Babauta and former Rep. Jesus SN. Lizama for initiating the project when they represented Precinct 2 in the House of Representatives.
Former Coastal Resource Management Director John Joyner should also be credited for his “all-out” support, Palacios said.
He likewise thanked Art Camacho and Ben Cabrera of the Department of Public Works “for their persistence” in ensuring that the project was realized.
Jose C. Sablan Jr., one of the leaders of the Bantalan Boys, said they appreciate the government for completing the project.
But he said they will also ask the Legislature to fund the construction of a small shelter in the area and install streetlights as well as a ramp for persons with disabilities.
“This is a very historical site and a lot of people continue to come here. The small boats from Tinian also use the dock,” he said.
Palacios said they will look into the request of the Bantalan Boys.
He said they are planning to develop a parking area and build restrooms at Sugar Dock.
Ray Bermudes, another Bantalan Boys leader, said their group is hoping the government can open a mini-police station in the area.
