MVA lines up events for 2016, Tourism Month
The Marianas Visitors Authority unveiled their activities for this year as May was once again was proclaimed Tourism Month.
The proclamation was signed by Gov. Ralph DLG Torres in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of MVA.
According to Carol Chargualaf, special assistant to the managing director, their celebrations will kick off this weekend with the Hot Pepper Festival on Tinian.
The annual event highlights the island’s famously potent “donne sali” pepper. It showcases local cuisine laced with the “pika” or spicy, eye-watering condiment.
However, this year will see the return of the old Ayuda Fun Run on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, which will also mark the reenergizing of the Beach Road pathway.
“The day of the fun run will be on the day the pathway lights are re-energized as a way to bring awareness that the lights are on while also raising money for a good cause,” said Chargualaf.
Aside from the fun run, they will also hold their signature sports events such as the Tagaman, XTERRA Saipan, and the Saipan Marathon,
From March to December, MVA will be holding a social media contest on Instagram.
“We invite the community to post their favorite photos of the tourism industry over the last 40 years using the hashtag #MV40,” Chargualaf said.
The MVA will also be holding a “Staycation Celebration” contest on Facebook.
For the month of May, MVA will have their newspaper supplement and will hold the essay, painting, and video clip contests for Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, respectively.
“Our anniversary logo will be featured on all signature events, and all advertisements, giveaways, and banners,” Chargualaf said.