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Pepero-Kiyu: We will respect the people’s decision
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Posted on Nov 06 2000
Lt. Gov. Jesus R. Sablan and Senate Vice President Thomas P. Villagomez graciously accepted their defeat in the Republican primary Saturday saying they will honor the people’s decision.
“I’m going to keep my word. I’ve told the people that I’m going to support the party and that means I’m not going to run,” Mr. Sablan said, as he wished rivals CNMI Resident Representative to Washington Juan N. Babauta and Rep. Diego T. Benavente the best of luck.
After his term of office in December 2001, Mr. Sablan said he will now be able to spend more time with his family. “I think I should now consider my future and my family. I’ll let the young ones do the job. I’ve worked hard and dedicated my life to serving the people but now is the time that I should work hard for my family,” he added.
Immediately after the last votes were tallied, Mr. Sablan and Mr. Villagomez thanked their supporters who had gathered at the Joeten estate in Dandan. Some supporters donned in red T-shirts shed tears and hugged each other after the two candidates gave their speech.
Mr. Villagomez said in a separate interview he will devote his last year in office serving the people, as he did not discount the possibility of seeking re-election in next year’s general election.
“I still have one year to serve the people. I’m not sure yet about my political plans. One thing I know is that I am going to support the party,” he said.
A former senate president, Mr. Sablan ran under the GOP banner in 1997 with Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio. He was elected to the Senate in 1989 and won a fresh four-year term in 1993.
During the first two terms of Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio in the 1980s, Mr. Sablan served as director of Commerce and Labor.
