Just over a month after Super Typhoon Sinlaku swept through the CNMI, Saipan’s flame trees are blooming once again, lighting up the island with brilliant orange blossoms. A striking reminder that even after the strongest storms, new growth and renewal can emerge. Video by MP contributor Leo Tsukagoshi.

The Fuel Adjustment Charge will drop from $0.44489 per kilowatt-hour to $0.41280 per kilowatt-hour, according to an official from the Commonwealth Utilities Corporation. It will take effect on June 01, 2026. Marianas Press also learned that the CUC did not petition the previous $0.60481 per kilowatt-hour FAC to CPUC as discussed at their last board meeting. This is a developing story on Marianas Press.

Northern Marianas College (NMC) will hold its 45th Commencement Ceremony on Friday, July 24, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the American Memorial Park Amphitheater. The ceremony was originally scheduled for May 22, 2026, but was postponed following the impacts of Super Typhoon Sinlaku. The typhoon disrupted College operations and affected students, employees, and families throughout the Commonwealth, leading College officials to delay the event until conditions and institutional capacity allowed for a safe and meaningful celebration. NMC acknowledges the extraordinary challenges that students and the entire community have faced in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Sinlaku and notes that the decision to postpone commencement was made to prioritize the safety and well-being of students, employees, and families first. NMC also extends its appreciation to the National Park Service for its partnership and support in hosting this year's commencement ceremony at the American Memorial Park Amphitheater. The venue will provide graduates, families, and community members with an opportunity to gather and celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026 in one of the Commonwealth's most iconic public spaces. The ceremony will recognize students who have completed associate and bachelor's degree programs during the 2025-2026 academic year. Family members, friends, alumni, community leaders, and members of the public are invited to join the College in celebrating the achievements of the graduates. The Class of 2026 joins thousands of NMC graduates who have gone on to serve the Commonwealth as educators, nurses, healthcare professionals, business owners, public servants, elected officials and leaders in countless other fields. Their success reflects the important role higher education continues to play in strengthening the CNMI's workforce and future. Additional details regarding graduate participation, guest seating, parking, accessibility accommodations, and commencement-related activities will be announced in the coming weeks. Graduating students are encouraged to monitor their College email and official NMC communication channels for important updates and deadlines. For more information about the 2026 Commencement Ceremony, please contact the Office of Admissions and Records at oar@marianas.edu or call (670) 237-6728 or 6772.

CNMI Lt. Governor Dennis Mendiola is calling for a new approach to tourism marketing, saying the Commonwealth must adapt to the realities of the modern digital landscape instead of relying on outdated strategies. Mendiola emphasized the growing role of social media and digital engagement in shaping consumer behavior and travel decisions worldwide. "In today’s digital era, consumer behavior and travel decisions are increasingly driven by social media influence and online engagement," he said. The lieutenant governor suggested the CNMI should reconsider how tourism promotion funds are spent, proposing greater investment in content creators and digital influencers who can promote the islands to global audiences through authentic storytelling and online platforms. "Instead of relying heavily on outside consultants, we should consider investing in credible and influential content creators who can authentically showcase the beauty, culture, and experiences of the CNMI to a global audience. This approach may provide a far greater return on investment while modernizing the way we promote our islands to the world." The statement also questioned whether continuing traditional tourism marketing strategies is enough to address the CNMI’s long-standing tourism challenges. "If tourism has been a challenge for quite some time now, then continuing to do the same things we did many years ago while expecting a different outcome may be shortsighted."

Agape Christian School administrator Kok H. Pang warned that a new U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services policy tightening Adjustment of Status applications for green cards could severely disrupt private schools and ministries in the CNMI that depend heavily on foreign teachers and staff. The USCIS memorandum issued May 21, 2026 emphasizes that Adjustment of Status, or AOS, is considered “extraordinary relief” and that many applicants should instead pursue immigrant visa processing overseas through U.S. embassies or consulates. Pang said the shift could create serious uncertainty for schools like Agape, where many educators are foreign workers legally employed in the CNMI while pursuing permanent residency. “This new USCIS policy is potentially very serious for schools like [ours] that depend on foreign teachers and staff who are working legally in the CNMI/U.S. while hoping eventually to obtain permanent residency,” Pang said. He said the biggest concern is that teachers may now be required to leave Saipan and return to their home countries for consular interviews and processing instead of remaining in the CNMI while waiting for green card approval. “That means the teacher may no longer be able to remain continuously employed in Saipan during the PR process,” Pang said. “For a school ministry, this is extremely disruptive.” Pang said long overseas waits, administrative processing, visa delays, and uncertainty could leave schools understaffed and separate families for extended periods. “This is especially difficult in CNMI because Saipan is geographically isolated and dependent on foreign workers,” he added. He noted that schools across the CNMI rely heavily on Filipino, Chinese, Korean, and missionary educators, as well as foreign dorm parents and support staff. “If staff members must leave the U.S. for consular processing, staffing continuity becomes unstable, retention becomes harder, [and] schools may hesitate to invest long-term,” Pang said. The USCIS memo has sparked concern nationwide, with immigration attorneys warning the policy could increase scrutiny of green card applications already filed or pending.

BankGuam Holding Company announces the appointment of Soledad "Somia" T. Quan to the Boards of Directors of BankGuam Holding Company, Bank of Guam, and its affiliated subsidiaries, effective May 28, 2026. Somia brings over 15 years of executive leadership experience across industries including automotive retail, fuel operations, financial services, construction oversight, and nonprofit governance. She currently serves as President of AFE Marianas, LLC and President of Joeten Motor Company, Inc., leading diversified operations spanning vehicle sales, leasing, rental services, parts distribution, and service operations. Over the course of her career, she has built a strong record of strategic leadership, operational transformation, financial management, and organizational development with experience overseeing multi-entity operations, negotiating complex operator agreements, strengthening financial controls, and advancing long-term growth initiatives. A proud daughter of the Northern Mariana Islands, Somia holds a Global MBA from the University of Hawaii at Manoa's Shidler College of Business and a Bachelor of Science in Management with concentrations in Finance and Marketing from Boston College. Her academic journey also included studying abroad in Rome, Italy, enriching both her global perspective and leadership outlook. Beyond her executive roles, Quan remains deeply committed to community and nonprofit service throughout the Marianas, currently serving as Vice Chairperson and Board Member of the Mariana Islands Nature Alliance, along with leadership roles in several regional organizations, a reflection of her dedication to giving back to the community that helped shape her. Somia's appointment follows the retirement of Board Secretary, Roger Crouthamel. BankGuam Holding Company extends its deepest gratitude to Roger for 28 years of service to the company. His leadership, wisdom, and commitment have helped guide the organization through many important milestones. Beyond his contributions to the Board, Roger's kindness, professionalism, and genuine care for the people and communities served by the Bank have left a lasting impact that will be sincerely appreciated for years to come. "We are excited to welcome Somia to the BankGuam Familia. Her extensive leadership experience, sharp business acumen, operational expertise and deep commitment to our community make her an incredible asset. We also send our heartfelt appreciation to Roger for his service. Our company has without doubt benefited from his insights and countless contributions over the years and We wish him all the very best in his retirement journey ahead!" - Joaquin P. LG. Cook, Vice-Chair, BankGuam Holding Company and President and CEO, Bank of Guam (PR)

SAIPAN, CNMI – SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announced that on May 27, 2026, Venerando Aquino Martin, age 56, an illegal alien originally from the Republic of the Philippines, was sentenced in the United States District Court for the Northern Mariana Islands to 18 months imprisonment for Visa Fraud Against the United States, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1546(a). The Court also ordered him to serve one year of supervised release and pay a $200 mandatory assessment fee. Between September 23, 2023, and April 9, 2025, Martin submitted approximately 242 fraudulent Form I‑765: Application for Employment Authorization applications, falsely claiming that the applicants qualified for employment. As a result of this scheme, 66 Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) were unlawfully issued and subsequently used by undocumented aliens to obtain employment within the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. “Martin engaged in fraudulent conduct at every step of his scheme,” stated United States Attorney Anderson. “All 66 EAD recipients have had their work authorizations revoked. The aliens involved have either been placed in or are pending initiation of removal proceedings. We will aggressively enforce immigration violations to ensure that foreign nationals meet the qualifications of our work visa programs.” “Visa fraud weakens our immigration system and puts our communities at risk,” said CJ Ammons, Acting Special Agent in Charge at Homeland Security Investigations. “We’re keeping a close eye on everyone and everything crossing our borders. If you violate our customs or immigration laws, you will face consequences. Don’t risk it.” The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations Saipan and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Garth R. Backe for the District of the Northern Mariana Islands. (PRESS RELEASE)

For Joseph Reyes, owner of Saipan’s Joe’s Bar, the physical wreckage left behind by a recent storm was only the beginning. As a US Army veteran and former CNMI Representative, Reyes has weathered his share of adversity over 24 years in business. But he recently shared a raw, unfiltered perspective on what truly threatens the island’s business community: an unrelenting post-storm economic crisis. ​While the immediate aftermath of a typhoon leaves a visible trail of destruction, the true survival test for local businesses unfolds in the grueling weeks that follow. As establishments fight to reopen their doors, they are forced to navigate a maze of unreliable utilities, skyrocketing overhead, and a crippling labor shortage. While a backup generator is practically a prerequisite for running a business in Saipan, the staggering cost of diesel and the unpredictability of the Commonwealth Utilities Corporation (CUC) have pushed operating expenses to the breaking point. “Having a generator is a plus, and we come prepared. What is not expected is the high cost of diesel,” Reyes explained. “Operations are disrupted, and overhead is increased. I can understand the government’s notices on price gouging, but they must also recognize that businesses' operational costs have surged.” Beyond the price of fuel, the island's inconsistent power grid poses a severe threat to heavy equipment. Sudden, violent power surges frequently destroy expensive air conditioning units and refrigeration systems. Repairing this vital equipment runs into the thousands of dollars—a financial burden made significantly heavier by an island-wide shortage of specialized technicians. ​ Water quality remains another critical operational hurdle. Citing a past federal mandate by Judge David O. Carter requiring the CUC to provide potable water, Reyes expressed deep frustration over the persistent rust and calcium in the tap water, noting the severe contamination risks this poses in a post-typhoon environment.

ASC Trust has generously donated $10,000 to help victims of Super Typhoon Sinlaku in the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas (CNMI). ASC Trust Chief Operations Officer Gabrielle Bamba, right, presented the check to Archbishop Ryan P. Jimenez and Archdiocese of Agaña Interim Finance Officer, Almira B. Balagtas on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 in the archbishop’s office at the Chancery in Ordot. As part of a typhoon relief fund organized by our Church on Guam, Catholic parishes, schools, organizations, ministries, families and individuals have donated funds and important items to help the many people who are suffering from the devastation of the recent super typhoon in Saipan, Tinian and Rota. One of the first activities of the typhoon relief drive was parishes taking up a second collection to benefit the CNMI after Masses on May 3 and 10 in response to an appeal by Archbishop Ryan. Archbishop Ryan extends a big thank you to ASC and all who have contributed to the typhoon relief drive. [Archdiocese of Agaña photo and press release]

The Salvation Army on Saipan is preparing to launch a cooling station today, May 27, for residents still struggling with the aftermath of Super Typhoon Sinlaku, with CNMI Salvation Army leader and pastor Wayne Gillespie clarifying that the initiative is not another food donation drive. The cooling station will operate from 10am to 3pm, Monday through Saturday. Gillespie said confusion began circulating online after flyers and announcements about the event started spreading in the community. “This is not a food distribution,” Gillespie said. “This is a cooling station for the community.” He explained that the Salvation Army wants residents—especially families still without stable power—to have a safe place where they can cool down, rest, charge devices, and access basic relief support during the continuing recovery from Sinlaku. Gillespie emphasized that the organization wanted to manage expectations ahead of the May 27 opening to avoid overcrowding or disappointment from residents expecting relief goods. “We just want people to understand what this is really for,” he said. The pastor also used the opportunity to thank the many businesses, civic groups, churches, and volunteers that partnered with the Salvation Army’s food distribution events during the height of post-Sinlaku relief efforts. “We really appreciate all the sponsors and everybody that stepped up after Sinlaku,” Gillespie said. “A lot of people came together to help this island.”

Attorney Janet King of King Law Office, LLC is urging CW-1 workers, C-37 residents, and their families in the CNMI not to panic following a new national policy memo from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services regarding adjustment of status applications for green cards. “The practical message is not panic. The message is preparation,” King said. “Applicants should work with an immigration lawyer and present strong positive factors showing why they merit a favorable exercise of discretion.” King said the USCIS memo tells officers to closely examine whether a person applying for permanent residency should be allowed to complete the process inside the United States or instead go through consular processing abroad. However, she cautioned against interpreting the memo as an automatic order forcing CNMI workers and families to leave. She said the impact on the CNMI will likely be decided on a case-by-case basis, especially since the local economy heavily relies on foreign labor. USCIS officers, she said, will review a person’s immigration history, work history, family ties, and other factors before making a determination. King also pushed back against suggestions that the policy effectively ends the green card pathway for long-time CW-1 workers. “I would not describe this as eliminating the green card path,” she said. “It makes the process more demanding, but it does not completely block it.” According to King, long-term CW-1 workers may still present positive factors such as lawful residence in the CNMI, steady employment, family and community ties, good moral character, and the needs of local employers. She stressed that workers should seek immigration advice before filing applications or making travel plans. King also addressed concerns that filing for adjustment of status could automatically be viewed as violating the temporary intent requirement of the CW-1 program. “I would not say that a person with a valid CW-1 filing an adjustment application automatically means a violation,” she said. Editor’s note: This post is general information and not legal advice for any individual case.

"I want to make clear that I am speaking in my personal capacity and not on behalf of the Commonwealth Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) My decision to oppose increasing the Fuel Adjustment Charge cap from 24.5 cents per kWh to 44 cents per kWh was rooted in my belief that utility rates must remain just, reasonable, transparent, and mindful of the real-life impact on our people. I am also deeply concerned that before customers have even received the full impact of the latest billing increases, CUC is now petitioning for an increase up to 60 cents per kWh. As a 13-year Army veteran, I have been taught throughout my service to make decisions grounded in integrity, accountability, ethics, and responsibility to the people we serve. Those values continue to guide me today. I believe public officials have a duty to ask difficult questions, demand transparency, and ensure decisions are made in the best interest of the community, especially when those decisions directly affect the financial wellbeing of our people. I also want to clear the air that I am not running for political office, nor am I making decisions based on popularity or politics. My position on this issue is based solely on what I believe is the right and responsible direction forward for ratepayers. Electricity is not a luxury in the CNMI. It is a necessity for families, seniors, small businesses, and working households already struggling with inflation and the rising cost of living. In an island community where utility costs affect nearly every aspect of daily life, increases of this magnitude can create serious financial hardship for our people. At the same time, I also recognize the very serious financial challenges facing CUC, especially in the aftermath of typhoon recovery efforts and ongoing operational demands. As discussed during CUC’s special board meeting, if the concerns raised by CFO Mrs Betty Terlaje Mr Allen Perez and Mr. Simon Sanchez are accurate, the financial condition of the utility may be more severe than many realize." Read the full opinion piece by Bruce Camacho on our website.

The MP Raiders basketball club, led by coach Marlene Lumabi, flew to Guam yesterday with six players to take part in the YIMPACT 9th Annual Summer Camp, which runs today, Monday, May 25 to Sunday, May 31 at the George Washington High School Gymnasium. Representing the Raiders are Edward Manibusan, Marc Tengco, Nolan Cultura, Kenny Laquian, Derrick Tenorio, and Dane Tibayan, all looking to sharpen their skills and gain experience against a different level of competition outside the CNMI. Hernando L. Planells Jr., Technical Director for the NBA Basketball School in Dubai and the UAE, is serving as the camp’s special guest. Lumabi said the experience is about more than just skill work. “Camps like this expose players to different coaching styles, faster pace, higher competition, and new perspectives on the game,” she said. “As a program, we believe development happens when athletes are challenged and placed in environments that push them beyond their comfort zone.” She added that despite ongoing recovery at home following Super Typhoon Sinlaku, the group made it a priority to attend. “Even after the challenges and recovery following the typhoon, we still made it a priority to make this trip and camp happen because we believed the experience would be valuable for our athletes,” Lumabi said. “It was important for us to continue creating opportunities for them despite the circumstances.” Players were selected based on commitment, work ethic, attitude, coachability, and consistency, with the program aiming to send athletes who represent MP Raiders values on and off the court. Lumabi said the goal is for the athletes to return with improved confidence, discipline, and a better understanding of what it takes to compete at a higher level. Read the full story by Leigh Gases on our website.

The NMI track and field team came home today, Monday, May 25, from the 2026 Oceania Championships in Darwin, held from May 18-23, with four medals, two national records, and a string of personal bests, led by Landen Taflinger and Simon Tang against strong fields from Australia and New Zealand. Behind the medal haul of one gold and three silver, the rest of the NMI squad also put up solid performances, with Addalee Taflinger, Theodore Rodgers, Tania Tan, and Maria Quitugua all holding their own and picking up personal bests in a meet that was fast and competitive all week. Landen came away with a breakout international debut, running a personal best and national record in the 800m (2:05.70) and another PB in the 1,500m (4:25.23), while picking up double silver medals. He said, “It felt great and refreshing to represent the NMI for the first time on an international level,” adding that he was excited but also nervous because of the level of competition. He also mentioned how tough the heat was in Darwin, saying, “Darwin is very hot and I didn’t really expect it.” Even with that, he said he was happy with how it all came together. “I felt great accomplishing all my goals and even doing better than expected,” he said, adding that he’s now looking ahead to cross country, future international meets like the 2027 Pacific Games, and possibly college running in the U.S. On the hurdles side, Tang added one gold in the 110m hurdles at 15.02 seconds and one silver and national record in the 400m hurdles at 57.43 seconds. He said, “I feel that this is a great start to the Oceania Champs as we all witness the level of competition here,” noting that it meant a lot to bring home medals during a tough time back home for the NMI community. Tang, who runs at Oberlin College, said his training there has helped him step up, with structured workouts and strength training building his base. He said, “The records only continue to prove that progress is inevitable when you believe in yourself, your team and your country,” and added he’s still focused on bigger goals ahead in the hurdles. Read the full story by Leigh Gases on our website

The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Public School System is navigating a severe dual crisis, facing both a multi-million-dollar budget shortfall and millions in typhoon-related facility damages. During a special meeting of the CNMI Board of Education on May 20, Commissioner of Education Dr. Lawrence Camacho revealed a stark financial reality: the governor’s budget submission to the legislature allocates only $37.7 million for the school district. This figure falls drastically short of the $52 million the district says it needs, and rests below the $40 million minimum required to maintain a standard 80-hour work week for employees. The current $37.7 million proposal would force the district to implement a 64-hour austerity work week. “A 37.7 at the bottom, at the end of the day, really means a 64-hour austerity measure for us with no furlough,” Camacho stated. He warned that any funding below this level would force PSS to revisit the severe measures experienced last year, including direct employee furloughs. The situation mirrors broader economic anxieties across the territory. Board of Education member Andrew Orsini expressed deep concern over circulating rumors that the central government may be slashed to a 20-hour work week to accommodate a projected $101 million limit in available general funds. “My concern right now is looking at the next school year based on this forecast," Orsini said. And added “At a 64-hour week, I’m not too sure that is going to be compelling to even go further... It really baffles me and concerns me as to how we’re going to move forward." If the legislature reduces the PSS budget even further, the consequences will be catastrophic. Dr. Camacho warned that a budget dropping below $31 million would trigger immediate school shutdowns and staff furloughs. Furthermore, crossing that threshold would jeopardize the district's ability to provide mandatory matching funds for vital federal grants, including Special Education and Head Start.