Embedded Files
06/14/2025—The 79th Liberation Day opening ceremony kicked off last June 12 at the Civic Center grounds in Susupe, a site with deep historical resonance, located just steps from the original gates of Camp Susupe, where on July 4, 1946, the gates were finally opened and Chamorros and Carolinians were freed from internment after World War II.
With one year to go before the milestone 80th anniversary, organizers moved the event from the traditional Garapan Fishing Base to the Civic Center to highlight the original liberation site, benefit from recently completed road upgrades, and take advantage of improved parking and accessibility.
Frances Santos, chairwoman of the 2025 Liberation Day Committee board of directors, gave kudos to everyone who made this year’s festivities possible.
“Tonight marks the beginning of a celebration rooted in remembrance, resilience, and the deep pride we carry as a community. These festivities are made possible by the dedicated efforts of the Liberation Day Committee. I'd like to take a moment to recognize the incredible team behind this celebration,” she said.
"We are back where it all began," said Saipan Mayor Ramon "RB" Camacho in his keynote remarks. "The very soil we stand on was once Camp Susupe. This is where our ancestors took their first steps toward freedom."
Camacho acknowledged the challenging economic and political times facing the CNMI and urged unity and resilience.
"Seventy-nine years ago, as our island lay in the ruins following the war, our people back then had no idea what the future would be. They may have wondered what will become of the future generation and what will happen in our home. Seventy-nine years later, we now see that our community has grown stronger, closer, has continued to advance itself in the modern world, while still honoring our tradition, culture, and our history. However, yet again, our islands find themselves on the international stage, caught in between the struggle of a major power in the Asia-Pacific region, as we contend with rising tensions in our neighborhood.”
He added that the CNMI economy continues to struggle, as seen by many local businesses being forced to shut down.
“Even every day, many of our residents leave our island to find opportunities not available here, and many not out of choice, but of necessity. I will not beat around the bush. Our future is unknown, and in doubt. Who knows what will happen in the next month, or six months, or even the next couple of years, like our people 79 years ago asked the same question.”
Camacho said that’s why the community must stick together and endure the tough times as one.
“When working in our community, we wish we could promise you that in a short amount of (time, we could turn all this around and bring back the good times, but this is just not possible. What we can promise you is that despite whatever is thrown at us, whatever obstacles and challenges we have to go through and endure, we will never give up in serving our community. The hard times we are currently going through only strengthen our resolve to overcome this hardship and bring us back better times.”
However, we cannot do it by ourselves. (29:36) We need the support of you, the community. Most importantly, we all need to be united.
House Speaker Edmund Villagomez echoed the mayor's message, thanking the community and vendors for bringing life to the new site: "Different scenery, same island, same spirit. This year’s theme—'Weaving Heritage and Embracing Peace'—reminds us to reflect on our past and stay committed to peace and progress."
He said although everyone going to the Liberation Day ground enjoy spending time with friends and family—and also spending money—everyone should also remember their collective commitment to preserving the legacy of the islands’ history and promoting the future.
“Let us always remember the significant events in our history, honor our veterans, and celebrate the culture, the people, the strength, and the resiliency. Once again, thank you all and enjoy the festivities.”
The program began with a presentation of colors by the Marianas High School JROTC Dolphin Battalion, followed by the national anthems sung by the Department of Public
Safety Blues and an invocation by Fr. Charlie Borja.
The event also showcased the 2025 Liberation Day Royal Court candidates: Kaypeonie Mendiola (Rota); Aunika Camacho (Saipan); Teresita Diaz (Saipan); Debbiann Selepeo (Saipan); and Pritzel Carreon (Tinian).
The royal court now features representation from Rota, Tinian, and Saipan, a change Camacho described as a "reflection of the unifying role of the mayors across the islands."
He said a representative from the Northern Islands was supposed to be part of this year Liberation Day Royal Court candidates, but she backed out in the last minute.
Bridget Maratita-Deleon Guerrero, vice chairwoman of the 2025 Liberation Day Committee board of directors, closed the ceremony by thanking sponsors, law enforcement, volunteers, and royal court families: "Let us never forget the sacrifices that gave us our freedom and let us honor them by coming together as one community."
The monthlong festivities continue through July 4 and will feature nightly entertainment, food concessions, cultural performances, and sporting events.
The 79th Liberation Day theme, "Weaving Heritage and Embracing Peace," sets the tone as the CNMI prepares for the 80th anniversary of one of the most important chapters in its modern history.
By Mark Rabago
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