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“Divided by the Land, Connected by the Ocean/ Man Apattáo gi Tano’, lao Man Chetton gi Tasi"
Tribute
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We want to honor the spirits of our ancestors, those who have departed from this world as well as our manåmko' who continue to shape our tomorrow with their wisdom and contributions to our culture and traditions.
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We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our brave veterans who have served and continue to serve our nation selflessly.
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We want to come together to pay tribute, acknowledge, and offer our prayers to those who are currently facing illness or going through challenging times.
We invite you to join us in this tribute by submitting the names of your loved ones. By doing so, we can create a meaningful tribute that honors their legacy and the impact they made on our lives. Together, let us celebrate the resilience, strength, and the sacrifices of those who have come before us. Share their names and photo below, and we will ensure they are included in our tribute.
Serene Peter Mettao Salas
Some people become part of an organization. Others become part of its heart. To the MÅGI family, she was so much more than a public figure or a name recognized throughout our community. She was our friend, our family, a valued committee member, and someone whose presence helped strengthen the very spirit of what MÅGI represents.
Her love for our people and our culture was reflected not simply in what she said, but in how she showed up. She understood that preserving our culture means living it, sharing it, protecting it, and creating spaces where the next generation can experience the traditions, stories, values, and connections that make the Marianas home—no matter how far away we may be.
She gave her time, her voice, her knowledge, and most importantly, her heart. Her contribution to MÅGI and our community cannot be measured by a title or a list of accomplishments. Her legacy lives in the people she encouraged, the culture she helped carry forward, the relationships she built, and the countless moments—both seen and unseen—when she chose to serve her community.
For those of us who had the privilege of knowing her personally, the loss is even deeper. We remember not only the woman the public knew, but our friend. We remember the conversations, the laughter, the ideas, the encouragement, and the moments behind the scenes that never make it into biographies or public recognition.
At MÅGI, our mission has always been about more than celebrating where we come from. It is about making sure our culture, identity, and stories continue long after us. She was part of that work, and because of her, a piece of her will forever remain woven into ours. As we continue gathering our people, celebrating our islands, teaching our children, and carrying the Marianas with us wherever we go, we will carry her memory too. Her chair at the table may be empty, but the space she created in our hearts and within the MÅGI family will never be filled by anyone else. We honor her not only by remembering the life she lived, but by continuing the work she believed in.
With love, gratitude, and the deepest respect, you will always be in our hearts.
Candido "Candy" Taman
He was a former CNMI Congressman, a renowned local Music Icon and Legend in the Marianas and throughout Micronesia and most especially a beloved family man, the one and only, Candido "Candy/Candyman" Taman.
Ignacio Borja
Born 1889-1979
Grandpa who taught and molded me to be what I am today. Speak not only Chamorro, but Palauan, Yapese, Refaluwasch/Carolinian, German and Spanish. Worked for German Administrator Georg Fritz during his childhood and later as a cook and personal servant.
I followed him practically everywhere during my upbringing…planting crops, gardening, harvesting, listening his oral history/storytelling and many unforgettable memories.
Lawrence Raymond “Bo” Tydingco Aflague
Master Plateru Goldsmith Vicente Torres Aflague or "Tun Ben Katson"
Marilyn Rose Chaviers Duenas
My mom was the embodiment of love and warmth. She had a special way of making everyone feel welcome, with her infectious sense of humor and her knack for making friends wherever she went. Generosity was second nature to her; she gave freely of herself, always going out of her way to help others.She had a passion for decorating and hosting, creating beautiful, inviting spaces where everyone felt cherished and appreciated. But above all, her greatest love was for her children. She devoted herself to giving us the best life possible, always striving to ensure we were happy, safe, and loved.Her legacy of love, laughter, and generosity will forever remain in our hearts. We miss you, Mom, and we are forever grateful for the incredible life you gave us.
Antonia Reyes
A Mother of 17 children, a devoted Wife of 51 Years before she became a widow. A true testament of "until death do us part. She lived to be a 102
Juan Quichocho Balajadia
