OFW Repatriation: Seven distressed overseas Filipino workers were repatriated from Saipan after the island’s economic downturn, with airfare and cremation costs covered by the Philippines’ AKSYON and OWWA emergency funds, coordinated with the Guam consulate and supported by the local Filipino community. Local Politics: The CNMI Senate filed suit to block DPS Commissioner Anthony Macaranas, arguing a 30-day rule was missed when he was reinstated, seeking court action to declare him disqualified. Tourism & Travel Policy: A new push from CNMI and Guam lawmakers would expand the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program to include the Philippines plus five other countries, aiming to boost visitor arrivals and spending. Education Funding Pressure: Acting PSS Commissioner Jacqueline Che outlined a 5-day school “Promise” plan to restore instruction by Oct. 1 while navigating the PSS’s deepest deficit in 30 years. Disaster & Small Business Support: SBA opened a new Disaster Loan Outreach Center at the Koblerville Youth Center to help typhoon survivors, including applicants facing denials or withdrawals. Infrastructure Funding: A House committee unanimously advanced a bill to raise the federal share of airport project costs to 95% for rural and remote areas, including CNMI and Guam. Energy Costs: Diesel prices jumped to nearly $8 per gallon after a 50-cent increase, raising concerns about higher power bills tied to fuel adjustments. Government Workforce Rules: The Civil Service Commission submitted proposed amendments to modernize furlough rules, adding safeguards like documented prerequisites, oversight, and guaranteed notice and recall rights.