AGP Executive Report

Visa Waiver Push: Guam and CNMI officials met Philippine immigration leaders in Manila to set up a joint working group for the Philippines’ inclusion in the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program—aimed at easing travel and boosting tourism demand. Airport & Tourism Watch: Guam airport revenues rose $11M in FY2025 on a clean audit, but leaders warn of near-term strains as seat capacity shifts and cancellations hit traffic; in parallel, GIAA extended the Lotte Duty Free concession to keep terminal retail running while a new bid process moves forward. Veteran Care Closer to Home: VA opened a new Dededo outpatient clinic annex, expanding primary care, mental health, labs, and prosthetics for Guam’s veterans—good news for families and visitors tied to military communities. Invasive Species Outreach: UOG and partners ran a Brown Treesnake workshop and nighttime hunt at Tarague Beach, teaching residents how to spot, safely handle, and help dispatch the invasive threat. Travel Disruption Alert: Another tropical disturbance (Invest 94W) is expected to bring showers and gusty winds to Guam as early as Tuesday. Saipan Flight Update: Jeju Air resumed direct Seoul–Saipan service after Sinlaku, with multiple weekly flights planned through late October. Family-Friendly Deals: IHG launched a 25%–30% off “Destinations Deals” sale for select stays June 29–Aug. 9, booking through June 28.

Andersen AFB Runway Readiness: A 53rd CAOS team fast-tracked critical runway repairs at Guam’s Andersen Air Force Base ahead of Indo-Pacific exercise Valiant Shield, compressing a typical setup into two days after Super Typhoon Sinlaku damage. Veteran Care Expansion: VA opened a new Dededo outpatient clinic annex, adding primary care, prosthetics support, lab services, and in-person mental health for Guam’s veterans. Visa Waiver Push: Guam and Philippine officials in Manila advanced a working group to bring the Philippines into the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program, a move supporters say could lift tourism. Air Service & Tourism Recovery: Saipan welcomed the return of international flights as Jeju Air resumed direct service from Seoul Incheon, with four weekly flights through Oct. 25 and daily service during peak periods. Airport Revenue Watch: Guam airport revenues rose $11M in FY2025 on a clean audit, but leaders warn of near-term strains tied to seat capacity and flight changes. Brown Treesnake Hunt: UOG and partners hosted a community workshop and nighttime snake hunt at Tarague Beach to help protect native species and reduce invasive spread. New Dining Option: Machida Shoten opened in Guam, bringing Yokohama-style ramen to Tumon-area food lovers. GVB Oversight Scheduled: A June 30 legislative hearing will review GIAA and GVB tourism recovery and airport/visitor funding, with sensitive GVB legal matters listed under attorney-client privilege. Weather Alert: Another tropical disturbance (Invest 94W) is expected to bring showers and gusty winds to Guam as early as Tuesday.

Invasive Species & Community Safety: UOG CIS & Sea Grant and Joint Region Marianas held a Brown Treesnake Control Workshop and SnakeHunt at Tarague Beach, teaching residents how to identify, safely handle, and humanely dispatch the invasive snake to protect Guam’s birds and prevent spread. Tourism & Air Access: Saipan welcomed the return of international flights as Jeju Air resumed direct service from Seoul Incheon, with four weekly flights through Oct. 25 and more frequent service during peak periods—an important boost for Marianas visitor recovery. Airport Business & Passenger Experience: Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport reported FY2025 revenues up $11M in a clean audit, while officials warned of near-term strains tied to seat capacity shifts; the airport also extended Lotte Duty Free’s retail concession and introduced a Concourse Access Pass allowing non-ticketed shoppers to access airside dining/shops with validated parking. Local Governance & Oversight: A June 30 legislative oversight hearing will review GIAA and GVB operations, finances, air service development, and tourism recovery forecasts. Weather Watch: Another tropical disturbance (Invest 94W) is nearing the Marianas and could bring showers and gusty winds into Tuesday. Food & Culture: Machida Shoten opened in Guam, bringing Yokohama-style ramen to the island.

Airport & Retail Updates: Guam airport revenues rose $11M in FY2025 on a clean audit, but officials warn of near-term pressure as seat capacity and flights shift; the board also extended Lotte Duty Free’s terminal retail concession through the transition to a new operator. Tourism Recovery & Air Service: GVB says tourism’s economic impact grew about $200M from 2024 to 2025, with hopes that easing jet fuel costs and returning South Korean flights (including Busan/Incheon) will help; meanwhile, United announced new nonstop Japan routes that should open easier connections to Guam, Saipan, and Palau. Community & Visitor Experience: GIAA launched a Concourse Access Pass letting non-ticketed visitors shop and dine airside, with a $3 validated parking flat rate for qualifying purchases. Local Nature & Outdoor Fun: More than 125 people joined a brown tree snake workshop and nighttime hunt at Gab Gab Beach to protect native wildlife and prevent spread to other islands. Health & Access: VA opened a new Dededo outpatient clinic annex aimed at filling veteran care gaps, adding primary care, mental health, and lab services. Culture on Guam: Sakai Liberal High School returned for a Friendship Recital at Micronesia Mall during the Mall Ball 3×3 tournament. Disaster Aftermath: DPW estimates about $104M in Sinlaku damage to Marine Corps Drive, with bridge stabilization work underway.

Airport & Tourism Finance: Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport revenues rose by $11M in FY2025 on a clean audit, but officials warn of near-term pressure as seat capacity and flight schedules flatten; the airport also extended the Lotte Duty Free retail concession to keep services steady while a new bid process moves forward. Air Service & Visitor Recovery: Guam Visitors Bureau says tourism is seeing “light at the end of the tunnel” as Iran-war tensions ease could reduce jet fuel surcharges and help restore suspended South Korean routes, while GVB reports tourism impact climbed to $1.6B in 2025 and jobs rose to 15,100. Marianas Connectivity: United Airlines announced new nonstop Japan routes that should open easier one-stop connections to Guam, Saipan, and Palau. Local Experiences: Machida Shoten opened its Yokohama-style ramen spot in Guam, adding another family-friendly dining option for visitors. Invasive Species & Nature Tourism: More than 125 people joined a brown tree snake workshop and nighttime hunt at Gab Gab Beach to protect native wildlife. Weather Watch: Tropical Depression 07W brought Guam its roughest night in months with gusts up to 55 mph, and Invest 92W is also expected to bring heavy rain and gusty winds.

Father’s Day on Guam: Families marked the holiday at Ypao Beach Park and Matapang Beach, sharing traditions and the values they want to pass to the next generation. Airport & tourism access: Guam International Airport rolled out a Concourse Access Pass letting non-ticketed visitors shop and dine airside, with a $3 parking flat-rate for qualifying purchases. GVB audit + visitor rebound: Guam Visitors Bureau says it received its first clean financial audit in more than six years, alongside 2025 tourism gains—direct spending up to $1.2B and total impact to $1.6B. Air connectivity boost: United added new nonstop Japan routes (Tokyo-Narita and Sapporo), opening easier one-stop connections to Guam, Saipan, and Palau. Disaster readiness for visitors: GHRA says Guam hotels are key for mass care and temporary housing during disasters, coordinating with GVB and emergency officials. Storm watch: Tropical Depression 07W/Invest 92W brought Guam’s roughest night in months and forecasts warn of heavy rain and gusty winds, with residents urged to prepare. Airport retail continuity: Lotte Duty Free agreed to extend its airport retail concession contract while GIAA completes a new procurement process. Road recovery after Sinlaku: DPW estimates about $104M in Marine Corps Drive road damage and is moving to shore up Ajayan Bridge after storm surges. Tourism market push: GVB brought “Guam With Me: The Manila Event” to the Philippines with cultural performances and direct travel packages aimed at boosting recovery.

Airport Revenue Watch: Guam International Airport Authority says it has a “revenue problem,” with signatory revenues, concession income, and passenger facility charges all running below budget—linked to tourism softness and flight cancellations after Super Typhoon Sinlaku. Tourism Accountability: Guam Visitors Bureau celebrates its first clean financial audit in over six years, while reporting tourism spending and economic impact gains in 2025. Retail Continuity at the Airport: Lotte Duty Free will extend its airport retail concession contract for up to three more years to keep services steady while a new concessionaire is selected. Disaster Recovery & Roads: DPW estimates about $104M in Sinlaku damage to roads and $10.59M to bridges, including urgent stabilization work for Ajayan Bridge. Weather Alert for Travelers: Tropical Depression 07W/Invest 92W brings Guam its roughest night in months, with strong gusts and heavy rain risk—expect impacts on beach plans and outdoor activities. Getting More Visitors In: GVB pushes market momentum with a “Guam With Me” event in Manila featuring CHamoru culture and travel deals, aiming to boost Guam’s recovery. Connectivity & Airfare Pressure: Guam and CNMI leaders again press U.S. lawmakers on high Marianas air costs and the need for better air service options. On-the-Ground Visitor Experience: GIAA’s Concourse Access Pass lets non-ticketed visitors shop and dine airside, plus discounted parking for qualifying purchases. Culture on the Calendar: Sakai Liberal High School returns to Micronesia Mall for a Friendship Recital, continuing Guam-Japan cultural exchange.

Tourism Finance Win: Guam Visitors Bureau says it just received its first clean financial audit in over six years, with zero findings or material weaknesses, as it prepares for FY2027 budget talks and targets 1.1 million visitors. Visitor Economy Update: GVB also reports tourism impact rose to about $1.6B in 2025 (up from $1.4B), with direct visitor spending climbing to $1.2B and tourism-supported jobs increasing to 15,100. Airport Retail Access: Guam International Airport rolled out a Concourse Access Pass letting non-ticketed visitors shop and dine airside, plus a $3 parking flat-rate deal for approved participants who spend $25+. Air Connectivity Boost: United Airlines announced new nonstop flights from the U.S. to Japan (Tokyo-Narita and Sapporo) starting Oct. 24, opening easier one-stop connections to Guam, Saipan, and Palau. Disaster Readiness & Recovery: Guam hotels are being positioned as key mass-care and temporary housing partners during emergencies, with GVB and GHRA coordinating crisis communications and visitor support. Infrastructure After Sinlaku: DPW estimates about $104M in damage along Marine Corps Drive from Super Typhoon Sinlaku, including road, drainage, and bridge impacts. Weather Watch: Invest 92W is expected to bring rougher conditions to Guam and the CNMI, with gusty winds and heavy rain possible. Tourism Policy Pressure: Senator Jesse Lujan scheduled an oversight hearing on the GVB scandal, keeping tourism governance in the spotlight. Local Tourism Push: GVB brought Guam culture and travel deals to the Philippines via “Guam With Me: The Manila Event,” aiming to grow a key emerging market.

Airport & Retail: Lotte Duty Free will keep operating at Guam International Airport under a contract extension approved by the GIAA board, giving the airport time to run a new specialty retail concession search and transition to a new operator. Tourism Finance: The Guam Visitors Bureau says it received its first clean financial audit in more than six years, while reporting tourism growth in 2025, including higher visitor spending and tourism-supported jobs. Visitor Access: GIAA launched a Concourse Access Pass program letting non-ticketed visitors shop and dine airside, with a $3 validated parking flat rate for qualifying purchases. Disaster Readiness: Invest 92W is expected to bring unsettled weather and locally heavy rain to Guam and the Marianas, with gusty winds and possible flooding in low areas—officials are urging residents to secure loose items and limit beach activity. Air Connectivity: United Airlines announced new nonstop flights from the U.S. mainland to Japan, opening easier one-stop connections to Guam, Saipan, and Palau. Infrastructure & Tourism Safety: A letter urges Guam to fix neglected sidewalks and pedestrian access near the airport, arguing safety issues are hurting the visitor experience. Hotel Role in Emergencies: GHRA says Guam hotels are key mass-care and temporary housing partners during disasters, coordinating with GVB and emergency officials.

Tropical Weather: Invest 92W (from Invest 92W) is expected to bring Guam its roughest conditions in months, with gusts reported up to 55 mph at Antonio B. Won Pat and forecasts warning of heavy showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds as the system passes close late Thursday into early Friday. Airport Access & Visitor Experience: GIAA launched a Concourse Access Pass letting non-ticketed visitors shop and dine airside, with a $3 validated parking flat rate for approved participants spending $25+ within a 3-hour access limit. Air Connectivity: United Airlines will add new nonstop Japan routes (Tokyo-Narita and Sapporo) starting Oct. 24, opening easier one-stop connections to Guam, Saipan, and Palau. Tourism Finance Milestone: The Guam Visitors Bureau secured its first clean financial audit in over six years, while 2025 tourism numbers show direct visitor spending rising to $1.2B and total economic impact reaching $1.6B. Market Push (Philippines): GVB brought Guam culture and travel deals to Manila through “Guam With Me,” featuring CHamoru performances and direct-to-consumer packages. Local Policy & Infrastructure: A bill proposes a public-private partnership for a permanent Guam Department of Revenue and Taxation headquarters to reduce long-term leasing costs, and another measure would revamp DMV driver licensing with adults potentially skipping the permit phase if they pass an on-road test. Safety & Planning: Guam EPA issued an advisory for 12 beaches, and residents are urged to prepare for rain and wind as the storm threat develops.

Airlift & Costs: Guam’s leaders told a U.S. Senate panel that airfare to and from the Marianas is being driven up by cabotage rules, with roundtrips now costing thousands and limiting options for residents and veterans. Tourism Finance: The Guam Visitors Bureau says it received its first clean financial audit in more than six years, while tourism’s economic impact rose to about $1.6B in 2025 and visitor spending climbed to $1.2B. Fuel & Flight Recovery: GVB expects jet fuel surcharges to ease and says suspended South Korea routes could return as early as July, boosting Incheon service. Disaster Readiness: Guam Hotel Restaurant Association says hotels are key mass-care and temporary housing partners in emergencies, coordinating with GVB and Civil Defense through established emergency support functions. Weather Watch: Invest 92W is reorganizing and may pass near Guam, bringing showers, thunderstorms, gusty winds, and locally heavy rain into late Thursday/Friday. Visitor Marketing: GVB brought Guam culture and direct travel deals to Manila through “Guam With Me,” targeting the Philippines as a growing recovery market. Tourism Spotlight: Guam was named a top U.S. destination to watch fireworks from a boat for the Fourth of July. Local Travel Pressure Point: A letter argues Guam’s unsafe, neglected sidewalks are hurting tourism and visitor safety.

Tropical Weather Watch: Invest 92W is reorganizing and could pass near Guam late Thursday into early Friday, with a slower track raising the odds of locally heavy rain, showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds—residents are urged to secure outdoor items and limit unnecessary beach activity. Tourism Finance Win: The Guam Visitors Bureau landed its first clean financial audit in more than six years, and new figures show tourism growth in 2025, including higher visitor spending, jobs, and tax revenue. CNMI Recovery & Air Service: In a U.S. Senate hearing, CNMI leaders pushed for more disaster recovery cost share and restored air service to support tourism rebuilding after Super Typhoon Sinlaku. Airlift Policy Push: A Guam-focused op-ed argues federal air cabotage rules are limiting competition and raising fares across Guam, CNMI, and American Samoa—calling for a cabotage waiver. Northern Marianas Travel Update: Hong Kong Airlines plans to resume Hong Kong–Saipan service July 12 with two weekly flights, boosting a key China-to-Saipan connection. Guam Visitor Services: Guam’s Rev & Tax is reserving Wednesday passport services for families with minor children, with July appointment slots opening June 24. Guam Tourism Community Events: DAWR announced a free Youth Fishing Derby and pre-derby clinic June 20 and June 27 at Mangilao Softball Field and Ypao Beach Park.

Tourism Finance Win: The Guam Visitors Bureau landed a historic clean financial audit for FY2025—zero findings and no material weaknesses—while reporting $1.6B in tourism impact and targeting 1.1M arrivals for FY2027. Market Push (Philippines): GVB brought CHamoru culture and travel deals to Manila’s Glorietta event (“Guam With Me”), partnering with major Guam hotels and airlines to boost a key recovery market. Wellness Branding: GVB also showcased Guam as a “Wellness Island” at the Seoul International Travel Fair, winning top marketing honors and drawing strong inquiries on packages and pricing. Airlift Update (NMI): Hong Kong Airlines will resume Hong Kong–Saipan service July 12 with two weekly flights, supporting more direct access for travelers. Visitor Experience Warning: A letter argues Guam’s neglected sidewalks and unsafe airport-to-road access are hurting tourism and risking lives. Local Tourism Disruption Risk: A $15.4M Guam Veterans Cemetery expansion grant is in legal limbo, with officials warning it may miss a Sept. 30 federal deadline—an issue that could affect community planning. Family Travel Convenience: Rev & Tax is reserving Wednesday passport services for families with minor children under “Passports for the Pack,” with phone-only reservations. Sports Tourism Angle: Guam takes on Subic Ironman 70.3, with athletes earning slots for world events—another sign of Guam’s growing endurance-travel appeal. Infrastructure & Safety: Residents were advised to prepare for heavy rain, gusty winds, and rough seas as Invest 92W approaches the Marianas.

Court & Community: A Guam judge allowed murder suspect Nicholas Moore to attend nightly masses, rosaries, and a friend’s funeral, granting a temporary tweak to his house-arrest conditions while his trial date was previously pushed back. Tourism Travel: Guam’s Visitors Bureau and Marianas Visitors Authority both highlighted “Wellness Island” marketing at the Seoul International Travel Fair, with Guam’s delegation winning top honors and reporting strong interest from Korean travelers. Airlift & Access: United Airlines announced new nonstop flights from the U.S. mainland to Japan (including connections onward to Guam/Saipan/Palau), while Philippine Airlines delayed its Manila–Saipan restart to October after Typhoon Sinlaku. Local Services for Visitors: Guam’s Department of Revenue and Taxation is reserving Wednesday passport services for families with minor children under “Passports for the Pack.” Weather Watch: CNMI officials urged residents to prepare for heavy rain, gusty winds, and rough seas as Invest 92W passes late Thursday into Friday. Family Fun: Guam DAWR announced a free Youth Fishing Derby and clinic (June 20 and June 27) for ages 5–17. Safety & Security: In the GPO robbery case, Korean victims may testify by Zoom as the judge weighs evidence challenges and possible separate trials.

Airlift Boost for the Marianas: Hong Kong Airlines will resume Hong Kong–Saipan service July 12 with two weekly flights, giving China travelers a direct route to Saipan. Tourism Marketing Win: The Guam Visitors Bureau and 12 partners brought Guam’s “Wellness Island” pitch to the 41st Seoul International Travel Fair, earning top honors (Best of the Best Marketing Award) and strong interest in packages and pricing. Wellness Tourism Push: GVB also highlighted Guam’s relaxation, sports, and culture at SITF, with local hotels, golf, and experiences operators drawing inquiries from Korean consumers. Northern Marianas Flight Update: Philippine Airlines delayed Manila–Saipan flights to October after Typhoon Sinlaku, with night operations at Saipan’s airport resuming June 20. Family Fun on Guam’s Coast: The Guam Youth Fishing Derby and free pre-derby clinic are set for June 20 and June 27 at Mangilao Softball Field and Ypao Beach Park, aimed at ages 5–17. Weather Watch: CNMI officials urged residents to prepare for heavy rain, gusty winds, and rough seas as Invest 92W passes late Thursday into Friday. Local Tourism Friction: A $15.4M Guam Veterans Cemetery expansion faces legal delays tied to contract processing, raising concerns it may miss a Sept. 30 federal deadline. Infrastructure Pressure: FEMA placed Guam grants on restrictive drawdown status due to longstanding concerns about federal grant management and compliance issues. Tourism Culture Angle: Opinion pieces and community debate continue around whether Guam is still delivering what visitors want post-COVID, with tourism framed as people-first.

Wellness Tourism Push: Guam Visitors Bureau brought a “Wellness Island” pitch to the 41st Seoul International Travel Fair, winning a “Best of the Best” marketing award and racking up strong inquiries from Korean travelers. Airlift Updates: United Airlines announced new nonstop service from the U.S. mainland to Japan (Chicago–Tokyo-Narita and San Francisco–Sapporo), with connections that can route travelers to Guam, Saipan and Palau. Family Fun on Guam: The Guam Department of Agriculture’s Youth Fishing Derby and free pre-derby clinic are set for June 20 and June 27 at Mangilao Soft Ball Field and Ypao Beach Park. Visitor Safety Alerts: Guam EPA issued a weekly advisory flagging 12 polluted beaches where swimming or fishing could make people sick. Local Tourism Climate: An opinion piece argues tourism is “about people,” urging Guam’s election debate to treat tourism as a workforce and community issue, not just hotels and marketing. Regional Weather Watch: Residents were advised to prepare for heavy rain, gusty winds and rough seas as Invest 92W approaches the Marianas.