Pepero-Kiyu team vows to block takeover

Hundreds of supporters of the Pepero-Kiyu team attended its dinner fundraiser held last Friday at the Diamond Hotel in which the two made a pitch on their plans, including efforts to block federal takeover attempts as well as to improve education on the islands.

Lt. Gov. Jesus “Pepero” R. Sablan, who is seeking Republican nomination for governor in next month’s primary, and running-mate Senate Vice President Thomas “Kiyu” P. Villagomez took the stage as supporters cheered them on.

With their wives — Annie Sablan and Vicky Villagomez — beside them, the two aspirants expressed confidence of winning the first round ahead of the 2001 general elections.

Pepero-Kiyu is facing the team of Washington Rep. Juan N. Babauta and Rep. Diego T. Benavente during the primary scheduled on Nov. 4, the winner of which will become GOP’s official standard bearers in next year’s polls.

Mayors of the three election districts in the CNMI were also in attendance at Friday’s fundraiser, vowing to deliver votes for Pepero-Kiyu team.

Rota Mayor Benjamin T. Manglona, in a rousing speech, called on voters to pick them in the primary as he noted their firm position against federal takeover of the islands’ immigration and minimum wage standards.

“The other camp is sending mixed signals,” he told the crowd which applauded in approval.

Both Tinian Mayor Francisco M. Borja and Saipan Mayor Jose C. Sablan also praised Pepero-Kiyu during their speeches.

Edward S. Tenorio, chair of the campaign committee, said the team will step up their campaign in the next few weeks in the run-up to the primary.

Pocket meetings in villages will continue to “get an opportunity for the grassroots to listen to the plans they have,” he told in an interview.

Asked if they are certain of victory come Nov. 4, Mr. Tenorio said: “Of course. Either camp will say that but I have good confidence that we’re going to pull it off.”

He claimed there are more supporters going over to their camp from the business community and the government where he noted several officials have officially endorsed Pepero-Kiyu.

“A lot of directors are here, supporting and backing up the Pepero-Kiyu team,” Mr. Tenorio explained. “The bottom-line is to really continue what the Teno-Pepero has set. It takes time for any program [to be implemented].”

He said now that the economy is beginning to rebound after four years of decline, it is the hope of the two candidates to follow through and continue the growth.

For now, Mr. Tenorio added, they are working hard to win the primary. “Our understanding with the other camp is to have a united group after November 4. And to win the general elections — that should be our goal.”

The GOP gubernatorial candidate is expected to face in 2001 Democratic bet former Lt. Gov. Jesus C. Borja, and Reform Party stalwart former Gov. Froilan C. Tenorio. (Benhur C. Saladores)