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‘Despite bad economy, I will never give up’
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Posted on Jan 09 2006
Thus promised two-term Mayor Juan B. Tudela of Saipan after his oath-taking and inauguration ceremony yesterday morning at the Saipan Mayor’s Office in San Antonio.
Tudela said the economic and financial condition of Saipan has grown worse in the past four years since its two major industries—garment and tourism—began downsizing, but he vowed that he would never give up in helping the economy improve in the next four years.
“Tax revenues are down, revenues that your mayor’s office badly needs to continue to get the job done,” said Tudela. “As I said in my first inaugural address four years ago, I will never give up despite the obstacles or financial difficulties that we may have to endure.”
Tudela, who read his speech both in Chamorro and in English, promised the people of Saipan that he would carry out his responsibilities to the best of his abilities and that he would do his best to meet the expectations of the community.
He said he remains optimistic about the island’s future because Saipan has survived tougher challenges in the past.
The mayor ended his speech by urging everyone to “have faith in our island and, most of all, faith in each other. We know from our past experiences that we can work together hand-in-hand for a better tomorrow.”
Commonwealth Supreme Court Chief Justice Miguel S. Demapan swore Tudela into office. He also led the oath-taking of Municipal Council members Antonia Manibusan Tudela, Marian Deleon Guerrero Tudela and Angel Songao Hocog.
Council members pledged that they would try their best to cooperate and work with the mayor for the betterment of Saipan.
Rota Mayor Joseph Inos, Philippine Consul General Wilfredo Maximo, and Guam Supreme court representatives attended Tudela’s inauguration. Other government officials also witnessed the mayor’s oath-taking, which was hosted by Frances Sablan.
Fr. Isaac M. Ayuyu led the invocation, while Immanuel Methodist Church pastor Bud “Ewing” Carroll led the benediction during the event.
Inauguration ceremony chair Tony Benavente provided welcome remarks, while the Marianas High School JROTC cadets conducted the posting and retiring of colors.
