UFO adopts San Isidro Beach Park

In creating the Public Private Partnership initiative, the Governor’s Council of Economic Advisers emphasized that the destination enhancement campaign must also include areas that are often used by island residents.

With this in mind, the United Filipino Organization, which is among the non-profit groups supporting the PPP initiative, has chosen to adopt the San Isidro Beach Park in Chalan Kanoa.
UFO president Mar Masilungan said the San Isidro Beach Park is one of the most accessible sites in the southern side of Saipan and hosts big community gatherings as it has eight pavilions and a playground.

“We want to help rehabilitate a site that is frequented by many residents for their family parties, group meetings, recreational and wellness activities, and other community events. We at the UFO also use pavilions for our events so we understand the importance of having a facility that is readily available and well-maintained for the safety and convenience of its users,” Masilungan said.

UFO has identified the major repairs needed for the Chalan Kanoa location, including roof/ceiling and chairs replacement, repainting, and posts resurfacing. The playground is also no longer safe for use and UFO is recommending to have it demolished and replaced with a new one.

Masilungan said UFO is coordinating with GCEA to see how they will move forward with the rehabilitation plan for the beach park. UFO is also working with the nine groups under its fold to schedule regular cleanup drives at the site while waiting to proceed with its major improvement project.

Last month, representatives from Akap Pinoy, Bayani Association, Marianas Association of Filipino Engineers & Architects, MDX Amateur Radio Club, Marianas Institute of Filipino CPA’s and Accountants, Northern Marianas Bartenders Association, Saipan Building and Fixing Computer User’s Group, Sto. Nino Group, and Tau Gamma Phi/Sigma trimmed loose tree branches at the beach park, cleared the ground, and picked up trash along the shore and surrounding areas. Masilungan said UFO members will be doing cleanup drives at the site every month.

Taking care of the San Isidro Beach Park is just one of the many activities UFO has consistently engaged in to provide service to the community. The group, for more than 20 years, has been involved in disaster relief operations, sports, health, and wellness promotions, cultural, educational, and entertainment activities, and livelihood projects. (PR)