Easy Rider Motorcycle Club brings hot meals, hope to storm-hit Rota

Members of the Easy Rider Motorcycle Club of Saipan traveled to typhoon-ravaged Rota over the weekend to serve free hot lunches to residents, saying the outreach was their way of showing solidarity with families recovering from the devastation of Super Typhoon Bavi.

The humanitarian outreach was held last July 25 at the Sinapalo Youth Center in coordination with the Rota Mayor's Office, with club members raising funds, gathering donations, and preparing meals for the community.

Rota Mayor Aubry M. Hocog thanked the volunteers for the gesture.

"We are so blessed to have welcomed the officers from the Easy Rider Saipan team. Their donation to our people showed their compassion and generosity to provide a meal for our residents during this difficult time. On behalf of our people, we extend our deepest gratitude and appreciation to the Easy Rider family. We love and appreciate you all," Hocog said.

Easy Rider Motorcycle Club of Saipan secretary Romeo "Bong" Malasarte said the club organized the food distribution after learning of the challenges many Rota families were facing following Bavi.

"Following the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Bavi, we learned that many families in Rota were facing difficult circumstances. As fellow island residents, we felt it was need to extend a helping hand. Our goal was simple, to show compassion, provide a warm meal, and let the people of Rota know that they are not alone during this challenging time," he said.

He said members worked alongside local officials to make the outreach possible.

"The Easy Riders Motorcycle Club of Saipan organized a humanitarian outreach in coordination with the Municipality of Rota and the Mayor's Office. Our members raised funds, gathered donations, and prepared free hot meals for distribution at the Sinapalo Youth Center. Volunteers worked together to prepare, serve, and distribute the meals while spending time with community members and offering encouragement and support," he said.

Malasarte said the response from residents reinforced the club's decision to make the trip.

"The people of Rota welcomed us with genuine warmth, gratitude, and kindness. Their smiles and heartfelt appreciation made the trip truly worthwhile. Despite the hardships they have endured, their resilience and positive spirit inspired all of us. We were also deeply touched by the hospitality they showed us, even while recovering from the typhoon," he said.

He also left a message of encouragement for the island.

"To the people of Rota, thank you for welcoming us with open hearts. Your strength, unity, and resilience are truly inspiring. We hope this small act of kindness brought encouragement and reminded you that your neighbors in Saipan stand with you. Together, we can overcome any challenge. May God continue to bless Rota and all its people," Malasarte said.