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'He never stopped leading:' Gov. Palacios laid to rest



U.S. Rep. Aumua Amata Radewagen of American Samoa and CNMI Del. Kimberlyn King-Hinds paid their last respects to the late Gov. Arnold Palacios and expressed their condolences to his widow, Wella Palacios during a state funeral Aug. 2, 2025 Photo by Bryan Manabat
U.S. Rep. Aumua Amata Radewagen of American Samoa and CNMI Del. Kimberlyn King-Hinds paid their last respects to the late Gov. Arnold Palacios and expressed their condolences to his widow, Wella Palacios during a state funeral Aug. 2, 2025 Photo by Bryan Manabat

By Bryan Manabat


Saipan--Amid the Northern Mariana Islands' struggles, Gov. Arnold Palacios carried on his tasks and worked "tirelessly to move the Commonwealth forward,” according to his successor, David Apatang.


“He never gave up. He never stopped showing up. He never stopped leading," Apatang said in his remarks at the late governor's funeral Saturday.


Apatang highlighted the ongoing struggles to maintain essential services, pay vendors and utility bills, uphold insurance premiums, ensure timely pension payments, sustain Medicaid, reduce expenditures and manage debt.


Local, regional, national and defense leaders gathered Saturday to honor Palacios' life and legacy during a Commonwealth state funeral.



As the CNMI’s 10th governor, Palacios was remembered for championing good governance and fiscal responsibility.


His administration focused on diversifying the economy, reducing dependence on a single market, and building resilience through strategic planning, federal partnerships, and long-term investments in infrastructure and human capital.


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Following a Mass of Christian burial at Mount Carmel Cathedral, Palacios, 69, was laid to rest at the newly opened Marpi Cemetery.


At the state funeral held at the Susupe multi-purpose center, Apatang reflected on his conversations with Palacios about steering the CNMI through difficult times.


Despite the challenges, Apatang said they remained committed to restoring public trust and strengthening the government.


Palacios and Apatang won the 2022 general election as governor and lt. governor. After Palacio’s passing on July 23, Apatang was sworn in as CNMI’s 11th governor.


Apatang added that Palacios never doubted the CNMI’s ability to recover.

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“Governor, we walked into the administration building together on Jan. 9, 2023. You left before our term ended, but I promise to walk out of those same doors with you in my heart. Pray for me to stay strong and carry on our pact. I will pray for you, my friend, that God rewards you for all you did for our Commonwealth.”

 

During the ceremony, memorial tributes were presented to Palacios’ wife, Wella Sablan Palacios, and their family.


Guam Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero praised Palacios as a passionate leader who deeply loved his culture, people, and family.


“I witnessed his compassion, clarity, and strength in advocating for the Marianas — whether speaking to Congress, the White House, or federal partners,” she said. “He represented the CNMI with distinction locally, regionally, and globally.”


Leon Guerrero pledged continued support for CNMI’s leadership.

“To Governor Apatang and Lt. Governor Mendiola — Guam stands with you. We must remain united for the success of our people.”


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