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Torres supports IPI’s hiring of Yumul as CEO
Gov. Ralph DLG Torres has expressed support for Imperial Pacific International (CNMI) LLC’s recent hiring of former Saipan senator Ray N. Yumul as its chief executive officer, saying Friday it is humbling to have a CEO who is from here and understands the culture and the history why the casino industry was approved in the beginning.
Responding to Saipan Tribune’s request for comments about Yumul being IPI’s new CEO during a radio news briefing, Torres congratulated Yumul on his new job and expressed hope that Yumul will prioritize what is set not just in the law but all other issues that IPI has.
“It’s definitely challenging and I think we all know that. But [Yumul] taking that helm is something that the industry and the company need…,” Torres said.
The governor said the administration is here to support what it can and understands the company’s goal in moving forward. At the same time, Torres said, they want to make sure that IPI’s arrears and numerous pending issues need to be addressed. He hopes that Yumul will address the community’s concerns and those pending issues involving IPI.
Ray Yumul
“And I hope that the company can come back and is able to assist the community and move forward in their vision here in the CNMI, while making sure that they address the issues that’s before them, whether it’s federal issues or local issues,” Torres said.
Yumul started working as IPI’s CEO last month.
When asked at a recent House Committee on Gaming hearing why he is now IPI’s CEO, Yumul said he is here to help clean up IPI and get them back on track. He said it’s a big challenge, but he is optimistic and that he is going to ask for legislative support.
Yumul’s brother, House of Representatives floor leader Rep. Ralph Yumul (R-Saipan), earlier requested to withdraw as a committee member. Committee chair Rep. Edwin K. Propst (D-Saipan) accepted the request.
Donald R. Browne resigned as interim IPI CEO last December. IPI appointed him as CEO effective July 17, 2020.
