The man’amko and manhoben show

The evening of May 8 was special for both the man’amko and manhoben: their collaboration resulted in a nice concert at the Multi-Purpose Center. For me, it was exciting to see the elderly and the youth coming together in honor of the Older Americans Month. It was such a good coincidence that the man’amko and manhoben found each other, discussed their common interests, and hatched the man’amko-manhoben concert plan and realized it.

The man’amko’s performance was OK as usual but the manhoben’s talents were more impressive, as it should be. First, we enjoyed ukulele singing. Then came a bold series of dances by students of Uncle Ben’s Studio. I liked watching the spectators enjoy the works of art created by coordinator Coru Ogo and his associates. Also, they sold tickets for about $475, thanks to the big and highly positive efforts of Mr. Ben Castro and Ms. Shermaine Casquero.

I later suggested to Ogo that the manhoben talents should also perform in the U.S. mainland and promote our culture there. I think they will find time and resources to do so someday because he liked the idea. When the time comes, I am willing to volunteer to sell tickets.

The man’amko performance was focused on the ethnic diversity of the man’amko. All cultures and traditions came together in a nice harmony. Trukese songs were well appreciated. Mr. Ben singing a moving Chamolinian song provoked even more interest; some people gave standing ovations.

Then the Man’amko Fashion Show came—the manhoben tactfully yielded the whole time and floor to the elderly! The man’amko did their best. Even though there were some bleeps, they just caused hearty laughter among the forgiving audience.

Among the ladies, Mrs. Rosa Ebanes, Mrs. Minerva Machanoy, and Virginia Mallare presented their national costumes, with gracious movements that touched people’s hearts. Following the designer’s vision, they looked really beautiful.

Among the men, Mr. Diego Pua presented the Spanish colonial style of dressing, moving on the stage freely. By the way, he is a good friend of mine, lives in Tanapag and is a good father. Mr. Asuncion worked the stage hard and as graciously as possible, presenting the Philippine costume. It was kind of interesting, too!

While enjoying the concert, I caught myself being a little sad. Some man’amko couldn’t attend the event due to the lack of money. Some of them had no means of transportation to share the evening with us. For some of them, evening shows are out, due to their age-related circumstances. Some of them told me earlier that they would not be able to drive evening hours. I hope our active Aging Office administration and the Man’amko Advisory Council will find ways to be of help to them next time.

Teddy Guiao
Lower Navy Hill, Saipan