ACTING Gov. David M. Apatang denied the rumor that he suffered a mild stroke earlier this month while en route to the U.S. mainland.
In an interview, Apatang said when he traveled to the U.S., he didn’t realize he had pneumonia. He had been coughing for almost two weeks before his flight, so he had to see a doctor.
“I had to take care of myself first,” said the lt. governor, who was the acting governor while Gov. Arnold I. Palacios was in Washington D.C. for the Pacific Islands Forum.
“Yes, I was in the hospital for a couple of days, and all that, but I am back. I am in good health,” said the 75-year-old Apatang.
“I will be around for a long time. I am in good health. Don’t believe in rumors,” he added.
Sen. Celina R. Babauta, in a separate interview, said she believes that Apatang is in good shape.
She said she has not observed any indication that he is ill. She also doesn’t think he will “step down.” “I don’t anticipate it,” she added.
She said she wishes the lt. governor well and wishes him God’s blessing for a healthy future. She looks forward to continuing working with him.
David M. Apatang
