UFO inducts new officers

The newly elected and appointed UFO officers are sworn in at the Fiesta Resort last Friday night. (Contributed Photo)

The United Filipino Organizations inducted this year’s newly elected and appointed officers during a ceremony at the Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan last Friday night.

Romeo D. Malasarte is the organization’s new president; Fernando E. Enano is vice president; Pepito O. Reyes is secretary; and Evelyn B. Dezeata is treasurer.

Lt. Gov. Ralph Torres and Philippine Consul General Marciano De Borja in Guam were some of the night’s special guests.

Torres recognized De Borja—who challenged him to a karaoke contest during a meeting a day before—and remarked on the need for collaboration between the CNMI and Philippine governments to protect Filipino workers present in the Commonwealth.

Torres recognized UFO for cementing itself within the island community as an advocate for the people and as an active participant in island activities. He congratulated the new officers and wished them the best.

“As we head into a future bustling with new development and industries, we will have to trust upon the work ethic and skills of our Filipino brother and sisters more than ever. As the old saying goes, ‘A single stick is easy to break, but many sticks bundled together can be indestructible. Kind of like the coconut broom, the walis tingting,” Torres said.

The lieutenant governor closed by saying that although many present could not vote in last November’s elections, he was still their lieutenant governor and his door is open to them and their concerns.

In his speech, Malasarte highlighted the UFO’s accomplishments over the past year and introduced a new volunteer and collaborative project called “Bantay Kapwa.”

“The plan is to accept a dollar donation every month from many kababayans and that donation will serve as their membership fee to qualify for emergency help,” he said.

The president said they will be crafting strict conditions to avail of the welfare fund, which aims to help pay some portions their compatriots’ medical emergency or the repatriation of remains.

Malasarte said they would also focus on transparency reports and strengthening the structural integrity of their organization, hoping that “this journey will leave a legacy for our organization.”

UFO is known for its regular community events like the Mt. Tapochao Community Service every Holy Friday, Pusong Pinoy, Pistang Pinoy, as well as their participation in July 4th celebrations and sport events.