The Guam Legislature held a significant naturalization ceremony on August 1, 2025, marking the 75th anniversary of the Organic Act of Guam. The event celebrated the swearing-in of new U.S. citizens, with a notable emphasis on the strong cultural ties between Guam and the Philippines, as 62 of the new citizens hailed from the latter.

During the ceremony, officials highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on naturalization rates, noting a drop in new citizens during the height of restrictions. However, numbers have been gradually increasing, reflecting a renewed interest in citizenship. The ceremony recognized the diversity of the new citizens, including the oldest applicant, Miss Rita Fernandez Garcia, and the youngest, 18-year-old Carl Daniel Marzan Rogojas.

Several families were acknowledged for their simultaneous naturalization, showcasing the importance of community and family in the citizenship process. The event also featured remarks from dignitaries, including Congressman Moylan and representatives from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, who played a crucial role in facilitating the ceremony.

In addition to the naturalization, the ceremony provided resources for new citizens, including information on obtaining Social Security cards, U.S. passports, and voter registration through the Guam Election Commission. This outreach aims to help new citizens integrate into their communities effectively.

The ceremony concluded with a group photo session and a reminder for new citizens to take advantage of the services available to them. The event not only celebrated individual achievements but also underscored the ongoing relationship between Guam and the United States, as well as the importance of citizenship in fostering community ties.