FOR IMMEDIATE NEWS RELEASE (September 7, 2018) – The year 2021 will mark the 500th anniversary of the first circumnavigation of the earth initiated by Ferdinand Magellan, which includes his stopover to Guam and the Marianas Islands in March 1521. The government of Spain will host a number of international commemorative events including a retracing of the voyage, conferences, exhibits, and other programs.

Vice Speaker Therese Terlaje has introduced Bill No. 346-34 (COR) to establish a provisional commission named Inentnon Estudion I Umali’e yan Umafana’ I Taotao Hiyong Yan Taotao Tano’, which will be dedicated to overseeing Guam’s participation during the 500th anniversary of the circumnavigation.

Former University of Guam President Robert Underwood began discussions with Spanish government representatives from several agencies and was informed that plans may include a stop on Guam by the Spanish Navy, which will be coordinated with the United States.

“It is important that representatives of the Guam government and community also play a critical role to help ensure that indigenous Chamorro perspectives are given voice and that Guam be appropriately recognized in research, discussions, and various activities,” Vice Speaker Terlaje stated.

The commission will include representatives from the Office of the Governor, the Guam Legislature, the Department of Chamorro Affairs, the Guam Museum, I Kumision i Fino’ CHamoru yan i Fina’nå’guen i Historia yan i Lina’la’ Taotao Tåno’ (The Commission on CHamoru Language and the Teaching of the History and Culture of the Indigenous People of Guam), University of Guam, Guam Preservation Trust, Guam Visitors Bureau, and various local cultural and historical organizations.

“The group will help ensure that the people of Guam have an opportunity to share our unique view of the first encounter between Pacific Islanders and Westerners in this region,” Vice Speaker Terlaje stated.