First lady Wella Palacios and family members accompanied the governor’s body, which received a ceremonial water salute on arrival at Francisco C Ada/Saipan International Airport. Photo: Marianas Press
Residents of the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands braved the rain on Saturday to pay their respects to the late govenror Arnold Palacios as his remains returned home aboard a US military C-130 aircraft.
First lady Wella Palacios and family members accompanied the governor's body, which received a ceremonial water salute on arrival at Francisco C Ada/Saipan International Airport.
Palacios, who served the CNMI in multiple leadership roles over decades-from cabinet secretary to legislator, lieutenant governor, and finally governor-died last week while receiving treatment in Guam.
CNMI governor David Apatang personally greeted the family at the tarmac before joining the motorcade to the ONRA Life Memorials (formerly Cabrera Funeral Home).
Dozens of residents lined the route, many waving CNMI flags or bowing their heads as the hearse passed.
Apatang, who ran alongside Palacios on the 2023 winning ticket, called him "a good friend and a relative."
"He has a long history of service to the people of the Commonwealth," Apatang said, noting Palacios' willingness to assist municipal governments and community projects throughout his career. "He was a hard worker who often skipped lunch and stayed late at the office, focused on helping our people."
The late governor's family released a statement expressing "profound gratitude and deep appreciation to friends, colleagues, and community members-from across the CNMI and beyond-who have offered their prayers and shared stories of his meaningful impact."
The Palacios family also thanked Guam Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero, Lt Gov Josh Tenorio, US Indo-Pacific Command, Joint Region Marianas, and the medical teams at Guam Regional Medical City and the Commonwealth Health Center Corporation for their support.
During the procession, public and private entities such as the American Red Cross NMI Chapter, Joeten-Kiyu Public Library, Saipan Mayor's Office, Commonwealth Utilities Corp (CUC), and the Carolinian Affairs Office honored Palacios' memory.
CUC staff formed an archway with two bucket trucks, while members of the Carolinian community performed a traditional atiwa ritual, meant to honor leaders as they transition to the next life.
Funeral arrangements are pending, with more details expected in the coming days.
