National Pesparawi: DPD Member Urges Manokwari Residents to Uphold City's Image

Manokwari (ANTARA) - Chairman of Committee III of the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI), Filep Wamafma, has called on all residents of Manokwari Regency, Papua Barat, to maintain the city’s cleanliness, order, and hospitality during the XIV National Church Choir Festival (Pesparawi) from 18 to 28 June 2026. Pesparawi Nasional is an important momentum for Papua Barat to present its best face to the thousands of participants, companions, and guests from across Indonesia who will gather in Manokwari. ‘Let us support the government in making this city better and more beautiful so that guests take home positive stories about Manokwari and Papua Barat,’ Filep said via an official statement received in Manokwari on Thursday (18/6). He stated that Manokwari’s appointment as host of the XIV National Pesparawi in 2026 reflects the central government’s trust and recognition of the region’s strategic position as the City of the Gospel in the Land of Papua. ‘Manokwari received special consideration because it holds very strong historical value as the City of the Gospel and one of the centres of civilisation in the Land of Papua. Historically and theologically, hosting Pesparawi carries profound significance,’ he said. He also urged the public to support the efforts of the Papua Barat Provincial Government led by Governor Dominggus Mandacan and the Manokwari Regency Government under the leadership of Regent Hermus Indou during the XIV National Pesparawi. The success of this national religious event is measured not only by the smooth running of activities but also by the impressions taken home by each contingent from the 37 provinces. ‘The entire community must give maximum support so that the National Pesparawi proceeds successfully. We must be good hosts,’ Filep stated. The XIV National Pesparawi carries the theme ‘Environmentally Friendly National Pesparawi’ as a commitment to preserving nature while strengthening national unity and harmony. Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka is scheduled to open the XIV National Pesparawi 2026 at the Borarsi RTP in Manokwari on 20 June 2026, after which he will continue his visit to a cocoa development centre in South Manokwari Regency.