Tourism

During Thursday’s meeting, the directors were presented with a motion to sponsor the new Jingle on the Block party and Mad Collab 2027 for $189,800.

The bill introduced in Congress would add the Philippines to the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program and expand eligibility to Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, India and Mongolia.

Guam tourism arrivals continued to decline in July, with arrivals down about 37% compared with the same month last year.

Cost-U-Less is opening its new flagship hagåtña location on Aug. 28, giving customers a larger store with expanded fresh food, grocery, and household selections.

The Saipan Chamber of Commerce and MVA are evaluating DHS’s proposed EVS‑TAP revisions, saying the automated vetting system could introduce new procedures for travelers but preserve a key tourism pathway.

Gov. David M. Apatang has ordered the Commonwealth Council for Arts and Culture to be transferred from the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs to the Marianas Visitors Authority, citing the need for more efficient administration and stronger alignment between cultural preservation and tourism.

While international flights have begun returning to the Northern Marianas Islands, tourism numbers remain far below normal levels, with June visitor arrivals falling 81% year over year following the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Sinlaku

The Marianas Visitors Authority has unveiled a concept to transform Saipan’s historic Japanese Lighthouse into a visitor and cultural experience center while urging businesses, government agencies and community groups to help develop new attractions and experiences that strengthen the Marianas tourism industry.

Jeju Air has committed to four flights a week until Oct. 25, with daily flights during peak periods.

The Marianas Visitors Authority is welcoming Philippine Airlines’ plan to restart Manila–Saipan service in October, calling the route vital for tourism and community travel.