Local News

The CNMI government is challenging Imperial Pacific International’s proposed liquidation plan, arguing that the casino license should be formally rejected as part of the bankruptcy proceedings. In a filing with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Chief Solicitor Robert Glass Jr. contended the plan fails to …

The return of a casino on Saipan will help save NMI retirees’ benefits, Sen. Paul A. Manglona said Tuesday. Manglona, vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Gaming and representing Rota, is presiding over a meeting today, Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, to open discussion on Gov. David M. Apatang’s reco…

For decades, Grandvrio Hotel Saipan has been a home to its workers and a pillar for the local tourism industry. Now, economic realities have led to its impending temporary closure. Thirty-nine employees will be displaced as the hotel closes its doors in April 2026, but the Department of Labor’s rap…

(PR) – The U.S. District Court for the Northern Mariana Islands is mourning the loss of the Honorable Alex R. Munson, the second chief judge of the District Court, who died on December 5, 2025 in Sandpoint, Idaho. Judge Munson was 84 years old. “Judge Alex Munson’s judicial service to the peo…

Philippine Airlines (PAL), the flagship carrier of the Philippines, will resume its Manila-Saipan direct flight next year. According to a release published by the leading online platform AeroRoutes, the Philippines’ full-service career will return to Saipan “in Northern summer 2026.” The airline wi…

For nearly forty-four years, Grandvrio Hotel Saipan has stood by the people of the Northern Mariana Islands, weathering changes, challenges, and periods of growth. Opened in 1982 as the islands’ tourism industry took off, the hotel quickly became a fixture to both locals and tourists. As one of Sai…

Because long-term housing for Tinian medical referral patients is “outside the scope” of its responsibilities, the Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. is urging Tinian Mayor Edwin P. Aldan to seek assistance from the Northern Marianas Housing Corp. and the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs. Al…

The Senate Committee on Gaming is inviting the public to share their opinions on Gov. David M. Apatang’s recommendation to amend the casino law in hopes of reviving Saipan’s gaming industry. The committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, in the Senate chamber. Committee Vice Chairm…