The Legislature unanimously advanced Bill 173-38 COR to the third-reading file, a measure authorizing renewal of a 20-year lease for Lot 2288-111 (the Manila Coban) to the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Chapter 668. The sponsor described the site’s transformation under the chapter’s stewardship and the work the organization has done to maintain the memorial and surrounding grounds.

"This bill will ensure continued use of the site as a veterans gathering place and community facility for another two decades," the author said, recounting the 2005 law (Public Law 28-04) that initially authorized the lease and noting subsequent memorial improvements and community events hosted at the site. The director of the Guam Office of Veterans Affairs, Joseph Augustine, testified in committee in strong support, and Mayor Alan Ngato of Manila also submitted written support.

Floor speakers highlighted the organization’s investments, including a Vietnam Veterans Memorial and ongoing upkeep at no cost to government. The committee adjusted the bill to dedicate the entire lot to the Coban’s purposes. The sponsor moved to add multiple senators as cosponsors, which carried without objection, and the bill was placed into the third-reading file.

The measure does not appropriate government funding; supporters emphasized that the chapter’s investments and volunteer maintenance are the basis for the extension. The bill will appear on the third-reading calendar for a final vote.