SAIPAN — Dr. Joshua Wise, general manager of PHI Pharmacy, was recognized as the Saipan Chamber of Commerce 2025 Business Person of the Year during the Chamber’s annual awards and board installation gala on Saturday evening, January 31 at the Kensington Hotel.
Earlier that night, Wise was also sworn in as the Chamber’s incoming president and used his inaugural remarks to thank outgoing president Joseph C. Guerrero for his leadership and continued service on the board.
In his speech, Wise acknowledged the pressures facing the local economy, pointing to factors including a declining population, reduced visitor arrivals, foreign currency volatility, and airline capacity constraints. He told members that, despite the headwinds, local businesses continue to “show up,” adapt, and stay committed to their teams and customers.
Wise also emphasized the Chamber’s role as a forum for business-to-business connection and for constructive engagement with government and community partners, especially when viewpoints differ, encouraging dialogue as a way to move the business community forward.
Other category winners announced during the gala were the CNMI Small Business Development Center Network as Chamber Member of the Year, Kumoi Farms as Small Business of the Year, Northern Marianas College as Public Agency of the Year, and Project Buddy Check 670 as Non-Profit of the Year.
