CHCC advises CNMI community of increase in hand, foot, and mouth disease cases

SAIPAN — The Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation is advising the community of an increase in reported cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease, saying 14 cases have been identified so far in 2026 through CHCC surveillance.
Acting Governor Mendiola meets with U.S. Air Force leaders on vendor access, local contracting and “shared benefits” from buildup

SAIPAN — Acting Governor Dennis James C. Mendiola met with Major General Thomas M. Sherman, commander of the Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center, and other senior military leaders on February 19 to discuss strengthening collaboration between the ongoing military buildup and the CNMI, according to the Office of the Governor.
Governor Apatang continues Section 902 consultations in Washington, cites fiscal crisis and pushes for EVS-TAP, cover-over payments, CW-1 reforms

SAIPAN — Governor David M. Apatang and the CNMI’s Section 902 Consultations Team continued negotiations with the federal government in Washington, D.C. this week, with the administration urging immediate regulatory changes and financial support as the Commonwealth faces what it described as a fiscal crisis.
Polish army bans Chinese vehicles from military premises citing concerns that modern cars’ sensors and connectivity could enable sensitive data collection

WARSAW, Poland (AP) — The Polish army has banned Chinese cars from entering military facilities hoping to prevent the collection of sensitive data by technologically advanced automobiles.
US plans to deploy more missile launchers to the Philippines despite China’s alarm

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — The United States plans to deploy more high-tech missile systems to the Philippines to help deter aggression in the South China Sea, where the treaty allies on Tuesday condemned what they called China’s “illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive activities.”
Saipan International School recruiting middle school math teacher for Singapore Math, Pre-AP program

SAIPAN — Are you a teacher looking for a change of scene? Saipan International School is recruiting a Middle School Math Teacher for its Singapore Math and Pre-AP program.
Rota sets 8th Annual Gilita Festival for March 20-21 at Chamorro Village

ROTA — The CNMI is being invited to Rota next month for the 8th Annual Rota Gilita Festival, scheduled for March 20 and 21 at Chamorro Village, with activities set to begin at 6:00 p.m., according to an event announcement.
Guam DYA says two 16-year-olds escaped Mangilao youth facility; one recaptured, search continues for other

MANGILAO, Guam — Guam’s Department of Youth Affairs said two 16-year-old males escaped custody from the DYA Youth Correctional Facility in Mangilao at about 12:40 p.m. on February 18, after climbing over barbed-wire fencing.
Saipan Chamber backs proposed NMI Labor Stabilization Act, calls bill “practical” path to workforce stability through 2039

SAIPAN — The Saipan Chamber of Commerce is backing the proposed “Northern Mariana Islands Labor Stabilization Act,” saying the measure would provide long-term workforce stability for businesses while reinforcing protections for U.S. workers in the Commonwealth.
Guam Governor issues statement on death of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr., cites “keep hope alive” message

HAGÅTÑA, Guam — Governor Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero issued a statement Wednesday on the death of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., calling him a leader who “believed that America belongs to all of its people” and who spent his life pressing the nation to expand inclusion and civic participation.