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Start of LibDay fest moved
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- A tent is completely blown away by the harsh winds during what was supposed to be the start of the Liberation Day festival last Saturday at the Garapan Fishing Base. (Kimberly A. Bautista)
The opening ceremony for the 2017 Liberation Day festival has been put on hold until tomorrow, June 27.
Last Saturday’s scheduled grand opening ceremony did not push through due to strong winds brought by a passing tropical storm disturbance that toppled several tents at the festival grounds. Heavy rains were already pouring before the start of festivities but the committee chose to push through despite the harsh rains.
Once the Department of Public Safety had posted the colors and the national anthems were sung, the rain became stronger and winds picked up speed. Tents started to fly and conditions worsened. Tent poles were detached and sent flying. Members of the community tried to hold down the tents as the staff of the Saipan Mayor’s Office fastened them with rope.
The harsh rains also caused the power to go off at the festival grounds.
The winds and rains were strong enough to rock the huge stage that was set up at the festival. Those on stage were later asked to evacuate.
Due to the threatening conditions, Saipan Mayor David M. Apatang decided it was for everyone’s safety to postpone the festivities for that day.
The festival’s grand opening was supposed to showcase the Liberation Day Royal Court and introduce the 2017 Liberation Day Committee.
