AGP Executive Report

Rip-Current & Surf Alerts: Guam remains under life-threatening rip current risk this weekend, with a high surf advisory (9–12 ft waves) and a small craft advisory through Monday as Typhoon Dolphin churns regional waters. Beach Safety: Guam EPA issued a bacteria advisory for all 43 beaches after heavy rainfall—stay out of unsafe water to avoid minor to serious illness. Airport Costs Watch: Guam International Airport Authority says airline fees could rise by about $20 per passenger next fiscal year if senators don’t approve $27M to keep current rates. Tourism & Travel Demand: Narita Airport is packed for the Bon holiday, with departures for international destinations peaking—Guam remains a popular long-haul choice. Community & Visitors: Guam Coastal Cleanup registration opened for Sept. 19, with online preregistration required and service-learning hours available. Sports Tourism: IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu (Aug. 8) brings 1,400 athletes from 48 countries to Cebu, highlighting the region’s endurance-travel draw. Local Youth Sports: Guam Rovers U12 boys return from Taiwan after a Cup Division finish and an Excellence Award. Public Safety (Roads): Two people were taken to GRMC after a Dededo crash involving a pedestrian and two vehicles.

Guam Police Department: GPD identified four people who died after a vehicle crash into a utility pole in Talo’fo’fo on Aug. 1, naming Daviah Julia Crisostomo (19), Michael Ulloa (33), Juanita Ashley Vilenna Quitugua (42), and Kalena Ha’ani Saeka Agustin (18). Missing Person Update: GPD suspended the active search for Robert “Berta” Taimanglo, but the investigation remains open. Travel Safety: A flood advisory is in effect for Guam until 12:30 p.m. Thursday, with heavy rain expected to cause urban and small-stream flooding; motorists are urged to avoid flooded roads. Coastal Conditions: Dangerous surf and rip currents remain in effect through Monday, along with a small craft advisory until 5 a.m. Monday. Sports Tourism: Guam Rovers U12 boys are returning from Taiwan after an Excellence Award and an eighth-place finish in the Cup Division at the 2026 Taiwan International Football Invitational. Local Community & Tourism Support: GTA’s back-to-school supply drive delivered 375 items to Sanctuary, Inc., supporting local families ahead of the school year. Coastal Cleanup: Guam’s International Coastal Cleanup (Sept. 19) now requires online preregistration, with spots capped by site conditions.

Tourism Numbers: Guam visitor arrivals fell for the fourth straight month, with June arrivals down 35.7% vs. June 2025 as reduced air capacity, flight suspensions, and higher travel costs continued to bite—plus early-July dips tied to Super Typhoon Bavi. Airport Funding Watch: Lawmakers kept working through a $42.4M supplemental bill, including airport financial obligations; officials warned airport needs could be higher than first discussed. Airfare Pressure: Airlines told the Guam International Airport Authority they may raise fares if operations fees rise, citing concerns about sustaining Guam service. Beach Safety: A dangerous surf and rip-current advisory stays in effect through Monday, with a small craft advisory until 5 a.m. Monday—warning swimmers and small-vessel operators to stay out. Community & Culture: Guam’s 82nd Liberation Day observances continued with Mass and memorial efforts, while Super Typhoon Bavi disrupted the usual parade format. Local Giving: GTA’s back-to-school drive delivered 375 items to Sanctuary, Inc. Coastal Cleanup: Guam’s 32nd International Coastal Cleanup is set for Sept. 19, with online preregistration required and no in-person signups.

Tourism Economy: Guam’s visitor economy generated about US$1.6 billion in total economic impact in 2025, supporting 783,000 visitors and reinforcing tourism as a major jobs and tax driver. Visitor Trends: But the latest Guam Visitors Bureau data shows arrivals down for the fourth straight month, with June arrivals down 35.7% vs. June 2025, citing reduced air capacity, flight suspensions, and higher travel costs—plus early July disruptions from Super Typhoon Bavi. Airport Costs: Airlines warned Guam International Airport Authority rate hikes could mean higher airfares and reduced service, potentially hurting demand and Guam route sustainability. Local Travel & Safety: A flood advisory is in effect for Guam until 12:30 p.m., with heavy rain risks for urban and small-stream flooding; motorists are urged to avoid flooded roads. Sports Tourism: Guam Rovers U12 boys returned from Taiwan with a top-tier Cup Division finish, earning an Excellence Award after placing eighth overall. Culture & Remembrance: The 29th annual KAL Flight 801 memorial continues despite heavy rainfall, with families cleaning and preparing the Nimitz Hill monument ahead of the ceremony.

Airport Costs & Service: Airlines warned Guam International Airport Authority that proposed operations fee hikes could mean higher airfares and reduced service, threatening demand and local route sustainability. Tourism Numbers: Guam visitor arrivals fell for the fourth straight month, with June down 35.7% vs. last year as reduced air capacity and flight disruptions continued to bite. Tourism Economy: A new report says tourism generated about US$1.6B in total economic impact in 2025, supporting roughly one in five jobs. Sports Tourism: Guam Rovers U12 returned from Taiwan with an eighth-place Cup Division finish and an Excellence Award after scoring key goals in group play. Weather & Safety: A flood advisory is in effect until 12:30 p.m. for heavy rain-driven urban and low-lying flooding; separate surf hazards remain after Typhoon Dolphin’s aftermath. Local Governance: Lawmakers recessed a $42.4M spending special session until Friday as they continue airport-focused funding talks. Nature & Conservation: Award-winning research mapped green sea turtle journeys across the Pacific, highlighting Guam’s role in endangered species recovery. Resort Update: Pacific Star Resort & Spa renovations are expected to start in October, with a target completion in early 2028. Community & Culture: Liberation Day unity themes resurfaced as fireworks in Hagåtña and Tumon helped mark the holiday after typhoon disruptions.

Tourism Economy: Guam’s visitor economy generated US$1.6 billion in total economic impact in 2025, supporting about 1 in 5 jobs, with US$1.2 billion in direct visitor spending, according to a new Tourism Economic Impact Report for the Guam Visitors Bureau. Arrivals Watch: Guam visitor arrivals fell for the fourth straight month, with June arrivals down 35.7% vs. June 2025, as reduced air capacity and flight disruptions—linked to Super Typhoon Bavi and earlier Sinlaku impacts—continued to weigh on recovery. Airport Funding: Lawmakers in a special session grilled officials on A.B. Won Pat International Airport needs, including $8.4M for operational/safety shortfalls and nearly $9.3M to cover aviation fuel tax arrearages, with airport leaders warning the request could be higher. Port Resilience: Port leaders at the Association of Pacific Ports conference met with FEMA to share typhoon lessons and resiliency steps, including how partnerships helped keep cargo and fuel moving after storms. Sports Tourism: The Guam Rovers U12 returned from Taiwan with a top-tier Cup Division finish, highlighting youth sports as a draw for international competition. Culture & Markets: Guam’s 82nd Liberation Day brought Japanese and Taiwanese cultural groups to Tumon, capped by a Liberation Day Tumon Night Market—another tourism-friendly push for key visitor markets. Travel Policy: Guam-CNMI visa waiver talks continue, with stakeholders discussing models like Taiwan’s Philippine-nationals visa-free travel to boost arrivals. Weather Safety: Even after Typhoon Dolphin moved out of Guam’s forecast area, high surf and dangerous rip currents kept beach conditions risky.

Tourism Numbers: Guam visitor arrivals fell for the fourth straight month, with June arrivals down 35.7% vs. June 2025 as reduced air capacity, flight suspensions, and higher travel costs weighed on demand. Visitor Economy: A new 2025 tourism impact report says Guam’s visitor economy generated about US$1.6B in total economic impact and supported roughly 1 in 5 jobs, with US$1.2B in direct visitor spending. Weather & Safety: Typhoon Dolphin has moved out of Guam’s forecast area, but hazardous surf, rip currents, and strong winds remain in effect, with advisories continuing through the week—so beach plans should be put on hold. Ports & Resilience: Port leaders at the Association of Pacific Ports conference met with FEMA to discuss shared storm recovery and how partnerships helped keep cargo and fuel moving after Super Typhoon Bavi. Sports Tourism: Guam’s Rovers U12 boys returned from Taiwan with a top-tier Cup Division finish, highlighting Guam’s growing presence in international youth sports. Infrastructure Update: Pacific Star Resort & Spa’s renovation is slated to begin in October, with an estimated finish in early Q2 2028. Travel Facilitation: Guam-CNMI visa waiver talks continue, with port and tourism stakeholders pointing to international examples they say could boost arrivals.

Tourism Pulse: Guam visitor arrivals fell for the fourth straight month, with June down 35.7% vs. June 2025 as reduced air capacity, flight suspensions, and higher travel costs hit key markets like South Korea (-68.7%) and Japan (-12.2%). Storm Watch: Even as Typhoon Dolphin moves away from Guam’s forecast area, hazardous surf, rip currents, and strong winds remain a concern, with a high surf advisory through Saturday and a small craft advisory for coastal waters. Tourism Impact Numbers: A new report says tourism generated about US$1.6 billion in total economic impact in 2025, supporting 783,000 visitors and nearly US$1.0 billion in GDP. Sports Tourism Buildout: The Northern Marianas Sports Association is pushing sports tourism by upgrading facilities like the Oleai Sports Complex to attract international competitions and training camps. Maritime & Ports: Regional port leaders met on Guam to focus on infrastructure modernization and supply chain resilience, tying port readiness to both economic stability and military posture. Visitor Economy & Culture: Guam’s Liberation Day celebrations featured cultural groups from Japan and Taiwan, with GVB highlighting cultural exchange as a tourism driver. Policy/Planning: A public hearing is set for Aug. 11 on proposed rules for the GWA Sewer Hookup Revolving Loan Fund.

Typhoon & Surf Watch: Super Typhoon Dolphin is still far from Guam, but it’s already bringing a small-craft advisory and high rip-current risk across the Marianas, with dangerous surf expected through the week. Marianas Storm Season Prep: After Super Typhoon Bavi’s July 6 impacts, officials are warning businesses and leaders to brace for an extended 2026 tropical cyclone season tied to El Niño. Resort Update: Pacific Star Resort & Spa is moving toward a major renovation—demolition has started and the company expects construction approvals, with a possible October start and targeted completion in 2028. Sports Tourism Push: The Northern Marianas Sports Association says upgraded facilities like the Oleai Sports Complex are key to landing more international competitions and training camps. Ports & Security: Regional port leaders met on Guam to discuss infrastructure upgrades and maritime security, linking commercial readiness to military posture and local stability. Visa Waiver Talks: A CPA board member says Guam-CNMI visa waiver discussions are progressing, with hopes it could boost tourism and improve air service. Workforce Training: Guam’s Department of Labor received a $609k federal grant to expand apprenticeship training, aiming to grow opportunities for youth and job seekers. Tourism Culture Abroad: Inetnon Gefpa’go marked its 28th country tour with performances in Spain, continuing to spotlight CHamoru culture internationally. Local Shopping Event: Micronesia Mall will host a 38th anniversary fair Aug. 8 with entertainment, tenant showcases, games, and giveaways.

Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Talks: A Commonwealth Ports Authority board member says recent working-group discussions on a proposed Guam–CNMI visa waiver were encouraging, with stakeholders pointing to international models (including Taiwan) that could boost tourism and even improve air service to the Northern Marianas. Weather & Safety: Typhoon Dolphin has weakened to Category 3 but Guam remains under advisories, including high surf and rip-current risk, as the storm’s outer bands and a monsoon surge keep conditions rough. Wildlife Protection for Travelers: Guam Agriculture is urging free brown tree snake inspections for cargo, vehicles, and vessels before leaving Guam and again upon arrival in CNMI—especially as people travel to help with recovery after Typhoon Bavi. Tourism Culture Spotlight: Inetnon Gefpa’go marked its 28th country milestone with performances in Spain, continuing to bring CHamoru culture to international audiences. Community & Heritage: A Guam archaeological field school at Plaza de España is making headway on older-than-expected settlement possibilities, adding fresh context to Guam’s deep history. Local Events: Micronesia Mall will host a 38th anniversary fair Aug. 8 with entertainment, tenant showcases, games, and giveaways. Tourism-Linked Policy Debate: Letters urge safer alternatives to routine open detonations at Tarague Beach to better protect coral reefs and marine life.

Typhoon & Surf Watch: Super Typhoon Dolphin remains well north of Guam, but it’s already driving dangerous surf and a high risk of rip currents across the Marianas, with a small craft advisory in effect for Guam waters through Friday. Local Travel Safety: The Guam Department of Agriculture is urging free brown tree snake inspections for all cargo, vehicles, and vessels before leaving Guam and again before arriving in CNMI—especially as people travel to help with Rota recovery. Workforce & Tourism Jobs: The Guam Department of Labor secured a $609,335 federal grant to expand apprenticeship training (with potential to grow to $1.8M over three years), aiming to build a stronger pipeline for in-demand careers. Community & Culture: Inetnon Gefpa’go marked its 28th country milestone with major folklore festival performances in Spain, continuing its push to share CHamoru culture internationally. Visitor Economy: June 2026 visitor spending in Guam rose slightly to $1.98B, with 858,577 total visitors—up a bit, but with shorter average stays. On-Island Events: Micronesia Mall will host a 38th anniversary fair Aug. 8 with live entertainment, tenant showcases, games, and giveaways. Sports: Guam and CNMI karate teams trained together and competed at the Karate Dream Festival in Tokyo, with the event certified as the largest full-contact karate championship ever.

Typhoon & Ocean Safety: Super Typhoon Dolphin is still hundreds of miles from Guam, but the National Weather Service says it’s already bringing dangerous surf and a high risk of rip currents across the Marianas, with a small craft advisory in effect through the week—so swimmers and boaters are urged to stay alert. Submarine Milestone: The nuclear-powered fast-attack USS Minnesota has returned to Naval Base Guam after its first deployment as the Navy’s first forward-deployed Virginia-class boat, including training with allies and port calls in Japan and Australia. Tourism & Culture Spotlight: Inetnon Gefpa’go marked its 28th country performance milestone with major folklore festival appearances in Spain, continuing its push to represent CHamoru culture internationally. Community Events: Micronesia Mall is set for its 38th anniversary fair on Aug. 8 with live entertainment, tenant showcases, kids’ activities, and giveaways. Local Travel Economy Policy: A Guam-CNMI bill passed the House aiming to curb “birth tourism” in the CNMI, with supporters arguing it threatens tourism and related programs.

Storm Safety for Travelers: Super Typhoon Dolphin is still hundreds of miles from Guam, but the National Weather Service says dangerous surf and a high risk of rip currents are already affecting the Marianas, with a small craft advisory in place through Friday and rip-current risk continuing through Saturday afternoon. Culture & Tourism: Guam’s Inetnon Gefpa’go marked its 28th country performance milestone with major folklore festival appearances in Spain, continuing its post-hiatus international run and spotlighting CHamoru culture abroad. Local Events: Micronesia Mall is set to celebrate its 38th anniversary with an Aug. 8 fair featuring live entertainment, tenant pop-ups, games, giveaways, and kids’ activities—an easy way for visitors and locals to plug into Guam community life. Tourism Economy: Guam’s June 2026 visitor numbers edged up slightly, with total spending rising to $1.98B and average daily spend increasing, though average length of stay fell. Travel Access: Philippine Airlines is running a limited-time anniversary flash sale tied to its 80th anniversary of its first flight to Guam, with discounts up to 40% on select fares. Heritage Spotlight: A new Guam Archaeological Field School at Plaza de España is making progress on understanding early settlement history, potentially reaching pre-latte time periods.

Guam Culture on the Global Stage: Inetnon Gefpa’go marked its 28th country milestone with performances at major folklore festivals in Spain, continuing its post-hiatus international touring and cultural exchange. Local Community & Family Fun: Micronesia Mall is set to celebrate its 38th anniversary with an Aug. 8 fair featuring live entertainment, tenant pop-ups, games, giveaways, kids’ activities, and a raffle. Tourism Connections Through Travel: A Guam-based cultural group shared how performances at the Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C., sparked curiosity and conversations that can turn into future visitors. Island Hospitality Workforce: SKÅL International Guam awarded a $1,000 scholarship to a Dusit Beach Resort Guam employee to support education and professional growth in hospitality. Regional Travel & Events: Guam and CNMI karate athletes competed at the Karate Dream Festival in Tokyo, while Guam’s Virtual Island Summit is confirmed for Sept. 15–17 with a new three-day format. Off-Island Military News (Guam-based): USS Minnesota returned to Naval Base Guam after its first deployment, including Valiant Shield 2026 and port calls in Japan and Australia. Policy Watch (Tourism Impact): A CNMI bill passed to curb “birth tourism,” with local business leaders warning it could threaten EVS-TAP and the broader tourism economy.

Guam Tourism & Community: Micronesia Mall is gearing up for its 38th anniversary fair on Aug. 8 (noon–3 p.m.) with live entertainment, tenant pop-ups, kids’ activities, games and giveaways, and a ceremonial cake cutting. Tourism Culture & Visitor Appeal: A Guam Visitors Bureau cultural piece highlights how sharing CHamoru dance, music, and storytelling at the Great American State Fair helped spark curiosity and new connections that can turn into future travel. Travel Economy Watch: DBEDT reports June 2026 visitor spending in Hawai‘i rose slightly to $1.98B (+0.6%) with 858,577 visitors (+0.2%), while average length of stay fell to 7.86 days—useful context for regional tourism demand. Off-Island Sports & Guam Pride: Guam and CNMI karate athletes competed at the Karate Dream Festival in Tokyo, with the event drawing thousands of fighters and Guinness recognition. Local Hospitality Workforce: SKÅL International Guam awarded a $1,000 scholarship to a Dusit Beach Resort Guam employee to support education and professional growth in hospitality. Travel Planning Note: CAB raised Guam-related passenger fuel surcharge levels to Level 13 for Aug. 1–15, which could affect airfare costs.

Visitor Economy Update: June 2026 visitor spending in Guam rose to $1.98B (+0.6%) with 858,577 total visitors (+0.2%), though average length of stay fell to 7.86 days (-11.3%), while daily spend jumped to $293 (+13.2%). Tourism & Travel Deals: Philippine Airlines marks 80 years of its first flight to Guam with a flash sale (July 30–Aug 1) offering up to 40% off roundtrip base fares for travel starting Sept. 1. Culture & Heritage: The 2026 Guam Archaeological Field School is making headway at Hagåtña’s Plaza de España, exploring layers that may reach pre-latte settlement history. Island Happenings: Guam and CNMI karate athletes turned heads at the Karate Dream Festival in Tokyo, with training and competition featuring a Guinness-certified record-setting event. Hospitality Workforce: SKÅL International Guam awarded a $1,000 scholarship to a Dusit Beach Resort Guam employee to support professional development. Big Picture for Travelers: The Virtual Island Summit returns Sept. 15–17, with Day 2 focused on rethinking tourism before pressures become irreversible. Safety Watch: Super Typhoon Dolphin intensified to Category 5 in the Northwest Pacific, with no immediate threat to land but worth monitoring.