Council and partners take Hafa Adai & Tirow Pledge to promote Marianas’ cultural values
(Capitol Hill, Saipan, The Marianas – August 27, 2021) The Governor’s Council of Economic Advisers (GCEA) concluded its first-anniversary celebration by appreciating and recognizing its partners from the Public Private Partnership (PPP) program, hosting an islandwide PPP clean-up, and becoming the largest group to take the Hafa Adai & Tirow pledge. The ceremony was held on Aug. 21 at the Civic Center in Susupe.
During the islandwide PPP event, partners simultaneously performed a clean-up or beautification activity at their adopted sites. Partners then made their way to the Civic Center where the council presented certificates of appreciation to each group. To date, 58 partners have adopted 61 sites.
During his remarks, Governor Ralph DLG. Torres recognized the council and partners for their commitment to improving the Marianas. Gov. Torres said, “It will take a united effort to turn the Marianas into a world-class destination, one that could benefit our children and the future generations to come.”
Chairman Jerry Tan highlighted that the Marianas has survived two strong typhoons and now the COVID-19 pandemic. He said, “Throughout all three devastating disasters, one thing was clear for all of us who call The Marianas home -- we helped each other get back on our feet. The Marianas is our home, and we have the responsibility to take care of our islands. The government can’t do it alone. We need to level up to achieve our end goal of providing a better quality of life for all our residents.”
The ceremony culminated with 31 PPP partners taking the Håfa Adai & Tirow Pledge (HAT), the largest group since the program began early this year. HAT was proposed by Saipan Chamber of Commerce president Joe Guerrero and launched by the Marianas Visitors Authority. HAT calls for companies, organizations, and individuals to commit to promoting and preserving the Marianas’ local cultures, traditions, and values through day-to-day interactions with fellow residents and visitors.
The organizations recognized on Saturday included the Tinian Mayor’s Office; Japanese Society of the Northern Marianas; Japan Saipan Travel Association; Tasi Tours & Transportation, Inc.; Mariana Islands Nature Alliance; Marianas Association of Filipino Engineers and Architects; United Filipino Organization; Triple J Enterprises, Inc.; Lions Club International District 204, Region 2; Mount Carmel School; E-Land Group; Northern Mariana Islands Cycling Federation; Triathlon Association of the NMI; Lezon International Inc. (Loco & Taco); Saipan A-venture, LLC. (Saipan Adventure): Tasi & the Ali’is’ Divewish; Bibong Corporation; Palauan Community Association - CNMI; Socho Basketball Club; Northern Mariana Islands Football Association; Marianas Racing Association; POI Aviation Inc.; Airport Operators Committee; the Commonwealth Ports Authority— Saipan; CTSI Logistics; Kanoa Resort Saipan; Chinese Association of Saipan; Kanoa Football Club; Tan Holdings/ Tan Siu Lin Foundation; Hotel Valentino; Beach Road Tourism Development, Inc.’ Marianas High School Class of 1987; LJ’s Lawn Care, LLC.; Bridge Capital, LLC.; I Love Saipan; Office of Precinct 5; Office of Precinct 4; Office of Precinct 2; Office of Precinct 1; Office of the House Minority; P&A Corp.; Rotary Club of Saipan; Emon Masonic Lodge 179; Korean Community of Saipan; Talaabwogh Stars; Korean Diving Association; Samoa - Marianas; Bank of Guam; and Pride Marianas Youth.
###
Media Contacts:
Edna Nisola
Governor’s Council of Economic Advisers
Kevin Bautista
Press Secretary
Office of the Governor