Recovery efforts are underway on Tinian following the onslaught of Super Typhoon Sinlaku, with Mayor Edwin P. Aldan assuring residents that government agencies are mobilized while church leaders reported significant damage to one of the island’s key places of worship.
In a statement issued Saturday, April 18, Aldan said the island is now transitioning from emergency response to rebuilding.
“With Typhoon Sinalaku now behind us, we are grateful that our community has come through safely. As we move forward, our focus shifts to recovery and rebuilding together,” the mayor said.
He added that multiple levels of government are engaged in the ongoing response.
“Rest assured that our local government departments, state and federal agencies are working tirelessly to support recovery efforts across our island. Our disaster response plans remain in effect as we transition into recovery, and [Mayor of Tinian’s] emergency management team, together with CNMI [Homeland Security and Emergency Management], continue to assess damages, restore services, and provide timely updates and assistance to our community.”
Aldan appealed for patience from residents as crews work to restore normalcy.
“We kindly ask for your continued patience and understanding during this time. Everyone is working hand in hand with a shared commitment not only to recover from this storm, but to strengthen our island for the future.”
The mayor expressed confidence in the island’s resilience.
“Together, we have faced adversity before, and I have no doubt that we will overcome this as well. I urge everyone to stay informed through official channels and continue to follow advisories as recovery efforts progress. By working together and prioritizing our safety, we will emerge from this stronger just as we have in the past.”
He said updates will continue to be posted on the Tinian Mayor’s Office official Facebook page, underscoring a unified message moving forward: “Together, we recover. Together, we rebuild. Together, we move forward.”
Meanwhile, the Diocese of Chalan Kanoa reported heavy damage to San Jose Parish, a central hub for the island’s Catholic community.
“Currently, both the San Jose Catholic Church and the pastor’s rectory have sustained significant damage. While our physical house of prayer is temporarily unfit for indoor liturgical assemblies, our faith remains strong.”
Despite the damage, parish activities will continue in adjusted form.
“Until further notice, our Eucharistic Celebrations will be held outside at the gazebo area.”
Church officials expressed gratitude for the safety of residents during the storm.
“We offer our deepest gratitude to the Lord and the intercessions of our patron, St. Joseph the Worker, for the safety of our parishioners during the storm.”
Even as debris and destruction remain visible, the message from the parish emphasized hope and perseverance.
“Though we are surrounded by the rubble of this recent trial, we remain an Easter people. We will rise, rebuild, and continue to serve as a beacon of hope for Tinian and all of the CNMI.”
Residents seeking assistance from the parish were advised to contact Fr. Guido Bagunas at (670) 287-7619 or frguidobagunas@rcdck.org as recovery efforts continue across the island.
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