May is Tourism Month in the Commonwealth

Acting Gov. Tim P. Villagomez underscored the importance of the tourism industry to the Commonwealth during a proclamation signing held at the Governor’s Office on Friday, declaring May as Tourism Month.

Villagomez urged residents and visitors alike to observe Tourism Month by participating in ceremonies and activities and celebrating the month’s theme, “Tourism is Everybody’s Business.”

Villagomez stressed the unique significance of tourism to the Commonwealth, saying that the industry contributes not only to economic prosperity and employment, but also to international trade and understanding.

“I call upon all the people of the CNMI and visitors to observe this month with a renewed and keen sense of value in tourism and how each and everyone of us has a direct stake in a thriving and sustainable tourism industry through improving the quality of life of our people now and into the future,” Villagomez said.

This year, the Marianas Visitors Authority has lined up a series of activities that are aimed at luring more tourists to the islands.

On April 24, MVA conducted a beach cleanup with its tourism partners, JSTA and KTAS, to prepare the islands for Golden Week. MVA gave out Tourism Month t-shirts to the first 100 volunteers that showed up for the cleanups.

Every Saturday beginning May 3 through May 31, the Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival and Beer Garden will be held at the American Memorial Park from 6pm to 10pm. The event will feature local and international cuisine sold by participating hotel and local restaurant outlets.

On May 31, Tourism Month “Ayuda” Mountain Bike Race will take place from the AMP to Mt. Tapochau and back. The mountain bike race will also have a short course for children 12 and under. All proceeds from this event will be donated to a non-profit organization chosen by the MVA.

Interviews with key people in the CNMI tourism industry will also be featured in local newspapers explaining the importance of tourism to the economy and community.

A “Did You Know” Radio Trivia Program will be aired regularly throughout the month of May. The program is aimed at educating the public on the values and benefits the CNMI’s tourism industry brings. Questions about the facts will be asked a radio DJ at a later date and winners will receive prizes courtesy of MVA.

Villagomez said that in recognition of the unique significance of the tourism industry in the lives of people of the CNMI, “let us remind ourselves that ‘Tourism is Everybody’s Business’ and I ask each and everyone of us to do a small part in creating a magical, memorable experience for all our visitors by smiling, greeting, and personifying the authentic and renowned Hafa adai, Tiroow and Olomwaay hospitality and spirit everyday.”