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Resolution defending Rota in bayogo dispute introduced
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Posted on Dec 13 2005
Sen. Paul A. Manglona has introduced a resolution reaffirming the Rota people’s right to continue designing and manufacturing handicrafts utilizing bayogo seeds.
Manglona authored Senate Resolution 14-68 in light of a recent controversy concerning a Saipan-based company’s trademark interest in the “Bo Jo Bo” wishing dolls.
Saipan Handicraft is currently litigating an intellectual property dispute concerning dolls made by a Rota family. The dolls, sold mostly to tourists, are made using bayogo seeds that are abundant on Rota.
“It…remains the stated preferred public policy of the [CNMI] that the people of Rota be encouraged to utilize bayogo to produce handicrafts both as a means of preserving culture as well as for financial gain,” a portion of the resolution read.
Rota Local Law 13-3, or the Bayogo Exportation Ban Act of Rota, prohibits the exportation of raw bayogo outside of Rota.
“The Senate hereby reaffirms the Legislature’s desire that the people of Rota continue to design, craft, and manufacture handicrafts utilizing bayogo, thereby preserving what is considered to be a distinct aspect of cultural heritage as well as for commercial gain,” the resolution stated.
“[B]usinesses producing handicrafts made of bayogo are encouraged to establish operations on the island of Rota and that these businesses are encouraged to employ the people of Rota in all aspects of the harvesting, production, sales marketing, and management of such businesses,” he added.
