Ramon B. Camacho, council chairman, said they also adopted a commemorative resolution to express their sincere condolences and sympathies to the bereaved family of Villagomez, also known as “Tun Manet Kiyu.”
In its resolution, the municipal council described Villagomez as a distinguished gentleman, a farmer and fisherman, a loyal family man, a World War II survivor, a policeman, a marine scout, a pioneering businessman, a philanthropist, a statesman, a civilian aide to the U.S. secretary of the Army, a sports enthusiast and a passionate San Francisco Giants fan.
Camacho said Villagomez was a man with a worldview and a loyal and loving husband to “Nan Iching” his “partner in love” of 58 years.
“Tun Manet’s distinguished contributions extended to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands as one of a few highly successful indigenous businessman and philanthropy, a cofounder of the Territorial Party, the present Republican Party, and a frequent guest at the U.S. presidential inaugurations in Washington, D.C.,” the resolution stated.
Villagomez served with the Pacific Islands Insular Constabulary and was an advocate for the Japan-Marianas friendship league, symbolized by the Sugar King Cultural Center.
In a very significant and historic way, Villagomez’s distinguished role in the nation’s affairs was affirmed by the U.S. when President Ronald Reagan named him civilian aide to U.S. secretary of the Army in 1980.
“Through his personal devotion, support and philanthropic generosity, Tan Ne’ supported numerous community charities, cultural events and civic organizations in the CNMI and the Pacific regions,” the resolution stated.
