Friendship month kicks off preparations for PHL Independence Day in CNMI

Friendship month proclamation kicked off preparations for the marking of the 113th Philippine Independence Day in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said over the weekend. The DFA cited a statement from the Philippine Consulate General in Saipan saying CNMI Lieutenant Governor Eloy Inos signed the proclamation declaring June 2011 as Northern Mariana Islands-Philippines Friendship Month. “The proclamation highlights the important cultural and economic contributions of the Filipino community in the development of the CNMI through several decades," the DFA said. The proclamation likewise “recognizes the historical ties between the CNMI and the Philippines, the common struggles for freedom and democracy, the intermarriages between Filipinos and residents and the solidarity exhibited by Filipinos with the local community," it added. The signing ceremonies were held at the Conference Room of the Secretary of Health at the Commonwealth Health Center in Saipan, according to the statement. The Friendship Month will also kick off preparations for the 150th birth anniversary of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, according to the DFA. For his part, Philippine Consul General Medardo Macaraig said Filipinos are grateful for the opportunities given to them by the CNMI. Several activities have been lined up during the month to commemorate the 113th anniversary of the Declaration of Philippine Independence. The highlight of the activities will be the flag-raising ceremony to be led by officers and staff of the consulate general on June 12 at the grounds of the Marianas Business Plaza in Susupe in Saipan. — JE/LBG, GMA News