‘Unai Dangkulo’ Beach Park now open to public

Coral Ocean Golf Resort general manager Matthew Park speaks at the official unveiling of the Unai Dangkulo Beach Park Pavilion at the beachside near hole No. 18 inside the golf course. (Jon Perez)

Government officials led by acting governor Ralph DLG Torres joined Coral Ocean Golf Resort general manager Matthew Park in inaugurating the Unai Dangkulo Beach Park Pavilion at the beachside near hole No. 18 inside the golf course.

Construction of the entire facility began in July but was stalled when Typhoon Soudelor hit Saipan on Aug. 2. Work resumed a few weeks after management, staff, and several hotel guests finished cleaning up the debris left by the super typhoon.

The park, which has parking space and a barbecue pit, is now open for public use, with the Coral Ocean management planning to add toilets in the future.

“This pavilion belongs to the community and as our way of saying that we are a good neighbor to society. We are here to grow with the CNMI and its people,” said Park.

He said they also took into consideration the security of the public who will use the facility and their guests.

“We will take care of the facilities here but we are also asking the public to do their share. We’re also discussing security measures for the public’s safety,” he added.

Torres thanked Park and the Coral Ocean management for building the pavilion and opening it for the use of the public.

“This is another opportunity to expose the southern side of the island for tourism, both local and foreign. The facility will be another destination that the [Marianas Visitors Authority] could promote as a destination here on Saipan,” said Torres.

He reminded everyone who will use the facility, especially local tourists, to preserve and keep the facility clean, and not leave trash behind.

“This is for the whole community to use. I encourage everyone to protect it and enjoy spending your time with your family and friends. We must celebrate but we must also maintain its cleanliness,” Torres added.

Senate President Victor B. Hocog (R-Rota), Senate floor leader Arnold I. Palacios (R-Saipan), Sen. Sixto K. Igisomar (R-Saipan), House Speaker Joseph P. Deleon Guerrero (Ind-Saipan), Reps. Angel T. Demapan (R-Saipan), Anthony T. Benavente (Ind-Saipan), Joseph Lee Pan Guerrero (R-Saipan), and Edmund S. Villagomez (Ind-Saipan), Saipan Mayor David M. Apatang, Cabinet secretaries James Ada (Public Works) and Richard B. Seman (Lands and Natural Resources), MVA managing director Perry P. Tenorio, and United Micronesia Development Association chair Jose R. Lifoifoi were the other officials present at the dedication ceremony.

South Korea-based E-Land Group owns and operates Coral Ocean and Pacific Islands Club on Saipan.