Flores: Hold high purpose of freedom

  The 2012 Liberation Day festivities fired up Friday night with calls to remember the real meaning of the event-to remember the lessons of war and conflict 68 years ago and to continue building a peaceful and safer world for future generations.

Mayor Donald G. Flores, in his opening remarks, said those who lived during the war experienced fear, sorrow, and uncertainty on what the future held for them, leaving them with scars that turned to hope when Camp Susupe was finally liberated from its captors.

“We pray that, despite all the hurt and losses, we are here today, safe and free, and that we have a purpose. We must hold high the purpose of freedom, for it gives meaning to everything we value, cherish, honor, that we are one people with the same rights-the rights to live and be free,” Flores told hundreds of community members who took part in Friday’s opening ceremony at the Garapan Fishing Base.

The event began with the posting of colors by the Marianas High School JROTC color guard, followed by the invocation led by Fr. Celso G. Magbanua, Jr. The award-winning Umang Glee Club led the singing of the national anthems.

Flores reminded his audience to keep this year’s Liberation Day celebration alcohol and smoke-free and thanked all sponsors and partners that help make the event possible.

“We start a new way of celebrating July 4th: eat healthy, drink healthy, and celebrate alcohol and smoke-free,” he added.

Friday’s ceremony also introduced the Liberation Royal Court candidates who were all dressed up in a white island dresses with red hibiscus flowers prints.

Carmelyn T. Agulto, Loria Dee A. Hocog, Maria Angelica B. Malasarte, Lydee Rose S. Pangelinan, and Susanne Park waved to the crowd as they were introduced one by one on stage. The girls’ sponsors are Kevin’s Corp., Trench Tech, Handbags, etc., United Filipino Organization, Northern Marianas Business Process, Konbetsa Café, Walk-in Closet, and P&A Corp.

Coronation night for the five Liberation candidates will be held tonight.

The public enjoyed live performances during the opening event, which were provided by Pua Hinano, Favor Mission Group, Saipan Music & Dance, Pyrrhic Victory, Tinaktak Dancers, and Underground.

The 2012 Liberation Day festivities will culminate on Wednesday, July 4 with the traditional parade and program that will begin at 10am at the National Office Supply and end at the festival grounds.

By Clarissa V. David
Reporter