THE reported rift between Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang and Saipan Mayor Ramon “RB” Camacho was evident during the United Filipino Organization’s induction ceremony on Saturday at Chowtime Restaurant in Garapan.
The two were the group’s guests of honors.
Apatang swore in the new UFO officers while Camacho administered the oath to the organization’s board members.
When asked to sit beside Camacho for a group photo with the UFO officials, Apatang said he preferred to stand behind them. The lt. governor also did not shake hands with the mayor.
Variety was told that it’s “common knowledge” that Apatang doesn’t like Camacho’s “attitude and use of language.”
Camacho, for his part, said Apatang’s dislike of him will not discourage him.
“I will focus on looking forward to accomplishing my goals for the community,” the mayor added.
Camacho lost to Apatang in the 2014 and 2018 mayoral elections, but in 2022, the two ran and won on the Independent slate led by Gov. Arnold I. Palacios.
Recently, Mayor Camacho said he would evaluate the performances of employees working for his office.
These employees served under Apatang.
RB Camacho, left, and David M. Apatang
