Education & Workforce: Jacqueline Padiernos Che was named acting commissioner of education for CNMI’s Public School System, stepping in as the district faces a fiscal cliff from expiring pandemic funds, Super Typhoon Sinlaku recovery, and the lowest local appropriation in PSS history. Budget Process: House Ways and Means Chair John Paul Sablan is weighing a bicameral FY27 budget committee with Senate counterparts to pressure-test revenue projections amid weak tourism and business conditions. Tourism & Air Service: The Marianas Visitors Authority approved a $1.5M sole-source contract to keep Korea–Saipan summer service alive, while Philippine Airlines’ Manila–Saipan return was pushed to October, adding pressure to a still-fragile post-Sinlaku travel market. Public Utilities & Recovery Costs: GPA estimated about $5.8M to date for Sinlaku power restoration (labor and materials), with payment timing still uncertain. Maritime & Trade Policy: Trump’s proclamation reopens parts of Pacific marine monuments to commercial fishing, including waters tied to the Mariana Trench, while CNMI lawmakers and officials stress stewardship and local voice. Legal & Risk: A federal lawsuit in Guam over the Guam Visitors Bureau could expose the territory to up to $61.5M in debt liability, raising concerns for public finances. Business & Construction: A contractor sued Black Construction over an alleged pipe-crush incident at a $225M Tinian fuel-tanks jobsite. Hotel Spotlight: Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan earned Tripadvisor “Best of the Best” recognition for 2026.