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MVA cleans Last Command Post, other sites
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- Community Projects coordinator Jack Aranda, left, and acting marketing manager Thomas Kim are part of a team from the Marianas Visitors Authority cleaning the Last Command Post and its adjacent memorials on Oct. 31, 2018. The MVA was joined in the cleanup by Japan Travel Association of Saipan, Northern Marianas Dive Operators Association, and Kinpachi Restaurant. (MVA)
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- Rota trades technician Perry John Taimanao, front, and other staff of the Marianas Visitors Authority clear Tonga Cave on Rota following Super Typhoon Yutu, which passed through the Marianas in October 2018. (MVA)
As recovery needs continue to be addressed following Super Typhoon Yutu, scenic and recreational sites in the Marianas are also being restored to normalcy by the Marianas Visitors Authority and its tourism partners.
Volunteers from tour operator Saipan Adventure took the lead beginning Oct. 30, just five days after the storm, restoring access to and cleaning popular dive site Grotto, clearing trees to open the main roadway in Marpi, and clearing the access road and hiking trail to Forbidden Island.
Last Nov. 6, the MVA wrapped up several days of work clearing debris and trees at Last Command Post in Marpi, as well as the adjacent Korean Peace Memorial, Japanese Peace Memorial, and Okinawan Peace Memorial.
“Although in general northern Saipan fared better than southern Saipan in the storm, many large trees in Marpi were heavily damaged, and there were many trees and branches strewn across historic and iconic sites,” said MVA managing director Christopher A. Concepcion. “As we resume tourism, we’re pleased to say that, thanks to the efforts of many government agencies, our staff, and good fortune, Marpi is still accessible,” Concepcion said. “Their contribution of manpower and resources has been a tremendous help, and we know there are many others helping across the Marianas. Definitely, we are stronger together.”
Concepcion particularly cited MVA’s private sector partners—Saipan Adventure, Northern Marianas Dive Operators Association, Japan Saipan Travel Association, and Kinpachi Restaurant—who have assisted with the restoration of tourist sites.
Over the next few days, the MVA will join other tourism representatives in cleaning at the Francisco C. Ada/Saipan International Airport and other important sites around Saipan.
On Rota, the least impacted by the storm, all sites have remained open while MVA conducts cleanup.
On Tinian, the most impacted by the storm, site restoration will be prioritized after the more immediate needs of the community are met.
For more information or to volunteer, contact the MVA at 1 (670) 664-3200 or info@mymarianas.com. (MVA)
