Tiguac Cemetery in Disarray: A Call to Action for the Community

Tiguac Cemetery, a resting place for many of our loved ones, has become a painful reminder of neglect for families across Guam. Overgrown weeds, faded names, and a general sense of abandonment have made this sacred space a topic of frustration for residents. As gamers and tech enthusiasts, we may not typically concern ourselves with such issues, but the care—or lack thereof—shown by the local government is something we can rally around as a community.

The cemetery falls under the Department of Parks and Recreation, but they’ve outsourced the upkeep to a private contractor named Comfort Cuts. If that sounds familiar, it’s because the owners are among the seven people recently indicted in a $1.9 million Pandemic Unemployment fraud case. Ironically, while they’re supposed to keep the grounds in check, the reality is grim. Reports indicate they’ve barely met their contractual obligations; neglecting to mow the cemetery as required—twice a month in dry season and three times during the rainy months.

Local leaders like Vice-Speaker Tony Ada, who chairs the Committee on Parks, have voiced their concern. “It looks like it hasn’t been maintained in months,” Ada stated, emphasizing the urgency of the matter. It’s embarrassing that our loved ones rest in a place that’s visually unappealing and unkept. Piti Mayor Jesse Alig echoed this sentiment, pointing out that the issue isn’t new but has been ongoing for years—only said to be addressed right before All Souls Day.

Just days after this went public, it appeared that action was finally being taken, with Parks and Rec crews showing up to clear the area. However, critics like Mayor Alig are rightfully angered. “Where’s the accountability?” he asked, stressing the need for inspections to ensure compliance with the contract. Tax dollars should be spent on services that honor our community, not line the pockets of contractors who fail to deliver.

Despite the grim reality, Comfort Cuts insists they’re meeting their obligations and attribute recent delays to heavy rains. However, concerns remain about why public funds are being allocated to a company with such a troubled past. As we gather in heavy lobbies during gaming tournaments or strategize in our favorite VR spaces, let’s not forget our community ties. Issues affecting our islands deserve our attention—and who knows, perhaps this could even inspire a game idea about civic responsibility and accountability!