LibDay festivities kick off next Thursday

Get ready, Marianas!

It’s that time of the year again for the islands’ signature event, as the CNMI Liberation Day festivities kick off next Thursday, June 27, starting at 6pm at the Garapan Fishing Base.

This year’s theme is “Marianas Strong,” celebrating resiliency and freedom. The festivities will run from next Thursday through July 6, 2019. 

“The Marianas has remained resilient in the face of great change,” said Mayor David M. Apatang. “From the liberation of Camp Susupe, to our fight for self-determination, to the creation of a Commonwealth in political union with the United States, and through some of the worst storms on record, our people overcame the greatest odds in order to build a unique community that is rich in culture and stronger than any typhoon.”

Liberation Day Committee chair Joe Ayuyu Jr. said that that resiliency “represents our story of struggle, triumph, and love.”

“The struggle to build a brighter future for the next generation, the triumph over the biggest of challenges, and the love we have for our families and friends represent the continuing story of the Marianas,” Ayuyu added. “Freedom represents the opportunities we enjoy today because of the sacrifices of our ancestors and those who fought bravely for our islands.”

Committee vice chair Shayne Villanueva invites all families, friends, and tourists of the CNMI to the Liberation Day festivities.

“We have prepared a great lineup of entertainment, new carnival games, and several sweet and savory food items,” Villanueva said. “Our 73rd Liberation Festivities theme, ‘Marianas Strong,’ will be seen throughout our grounds and our parade. Let us celebrate, but most importantly, remember our history and culture.”

Press secretary Kevin Bautista, who is also the committee’s marketing and public relations chairman, said this year’s theme “is a celebration of our story as a community and represents the spirit of inafa’maolek and tipiyeew that will guide our islands toward the future.”

The 2019 CNMI Liberation Day Committee invite the public to the opening ceremony of the Liberation Day carnival grounds next Thursday, June 27, at 6pm at the Garapan Fishing Base.

The carnival will be open every night at 6pm beginning next Thursday.

The 2019 CNMI Liberation Day Committee will be providing more updates of the festivities and the annual Liberation Day parade and entertainment lineup.

For more information, visit saipanmayor.net or the 2019 CNMI Liberation Day Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CNMILiberationDay. (PR)