Hafa Adai Catherine,

Just wanted to drop in real quick to send a note of thanks to you for your part in getting the word out, in sending testimony, participating in the public hearings, and signing the petition in support of Bill No. 11-38 (lowering the BPT to 4%). Senator Duenas' office is still accepting written testimony until Monday, July 14th. So, if you would like to add additional comments or would like to encourage others to lend their voice to the issue, we encourage you to send your testimonials to senator.duenas@guamlegislature.gov. Your Chamber will continue to speak with members of the Guam Legislature to seek their support to move swiftly to finalize and report out the committee report for the bill, as well as to seek their support in passing the bill on the session floor. We will keep you posted on the status of the bill.

In July, we remember and reflect on the final days of Japanese occupation before the liberation of Guam on July 21st. There are a number of ceremonies scheduled for the month to commemorate the bravery and the tragedies that transpired 81 years ago. Scroll to read about the various ceremonies and activities scheduled to commemorate Guam's 81st Liberation Day.

This weekend's newsletter is full of great information, and you may want to take notes so you don't miss out on some important events! Enjoy the next few days, and I look forward to seeing you at a Chamber event again soon!

Onward together,

Catherine Castro

President

Guam Young Professionals

2025 - 2026 Sponsorship

Last call! The Guam Young Professionals (GYP), a committee of the Guam Chamber of Commerce, is closing in on the deadline for our July 2025–June 2026 sponsorship packages. Don’t miss this final opportunity to support Guam’s next generation of leaders while boosting your brand’s visibility. Sponsoring GYP is more than just a logo placement—it’s a meaningful investment in leadership, innovation, and community. Scan the QR code to view sponsorship tiers and packages. The deadline to commit is July 15, 2025—secure your spot today!

Get ready for a jam-packed year of high-energy mixers, inspiring professional development events, and feel-good community initiatives! By sponsoring GYP, your company takes center stage in driving progress and making a real impact. Don’t miss the chance to champion Guam’s brightest young talent and connect with the island’s most motivated movers and shakers. Let’s make big things happen—together!

Deadline for sponsorship and logo submission is scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Download the flyer!

NEW EPISODE ALERT

This month, we shine the spotlight on another inspiring member of the Chamber, Robert Jackson, the Owner of The M.O.S.T. Services! Join us as we delve into an insightful episode that offers a glimpse into Robert's journey as a local entrepreneur. Through his story, we are reminded of the power of collaboration and community involvement that the Guam Chamber of Commerce champions. We invite you to listen in and discover how Robert's insights can empower you and your business, and we encourage you to share your thoughts on this episode.

We aspire to feature each of our Chamber members who serve our community and make a difference in their industries, one episode at a time. Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more united business community!

Click on any of the links below to get started!

Youtube • Spotify • Apple Podcast

General Membership Meeting

Wednesday, July 30, 2025

The Guam Chamber of Commerce General Membership Meeting is scheduled to take place in the Micronesian Ballroom at the Hilton Guam Resort and Spa on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. Doors open at 11:15 a.m. The call to order is at 12 Noon.

Members are encouraged to RSVP and make advanced payment by contacting the Chamber team to ensure a smooth check-in on the day of the event. Mark your calendars and save the date as we announce our guest speaker for this month.

Guam Department of Labor Swears in New Labor Law Enforcement Specialists

Hagåtña, Guam – The Guam Department of Labor (GDOL) is proud to announce the swearing-in of its newest Labor Law Enforcement Specialists, marking a significant step toward strengthening labor enforcement and worker protections across the island.

A total of five specialists were sworn in by Director David Dell’Isola at a ceremony on July 10. Jenna Young, Genevene Sablan, Ernisha Topasna, and Keith Quiblat are now joining the Alien Labor Processing and Certification Division (ALPCD) as Labor Law Enforcement Specialists. Kahllyah Sanchez joins the Fair Employment Practice Division (FEPD) as a Labor Law Enforcement Specialist.

“The addition of these newly sworn-in specialists shows our commitment to fair employment practices and protecting both workers and employers. This is something we have been working on for some time and will continue to do,” said Director Dell’Isola. “As our workforce and economy grows, it’s important that we have a strong team in place to enforce labor laws and address any potential violations.”

As part of their duties, ALPCD team members work as inspectors enforcing H-2B-related labor laws. FEPD investigators protect wage earners from any potential employment discrimination or unlawful employment acts.

To learn more about ALPCD or FEPD, contact GDOL at 671-475-7044.

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Community Invited to Participate in Memorials Leading to Guam’s 81st Liberation

Hagåtña, Guam — As Guam prepares to commemorate the 81st anniversary of its liberation, Acting Governor Josh Tenorio invites the entire island community to join in a series of events that honor the memory of those who endured the occupation and celebrate the enduring spirit of the people.

The first of these commemorations begins this Sunday, July 6, 2025, with the annual Manenggon Memorial March at 9 a.m., followed by the ceremony at 10 a.m.

“Eighty-four years ago, the terrible pain of a world at war scarred our people and our island home,” said Acting Governor Tenorio. “And while we have known relative peace ever since, the true meaning of Manenggon is to remember that no darkness can live forever and that life finds its way forward, and that hope will always overcome.”

The march follows the path of thousands of CHamorus who were forced to march to the Manenggon concentration camp in 1944. Through bombing and internment, forced marches and forced labor, our ancestors held on to their faith, protected our language, and preserved the foundation of who we are today.

The schedule includes islandwide ceremonies and tributes, culminating in the 81st Annual Liberation Day Parade, which will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025, along Marine Corps Drive in Hagåtña. Click to read full schedule.

DPR ANNOUNCES PARADE ROUTE RESERVATIONS

The Department of Parks and Recreation announces today that the issuance of camping permits along Marine Corps Drive from KFC to Bank of Hawaii (Daog Northbound) and from GWA Waste Treatment Plant to Last Parking lot beachside (Southbound) for the 81st Annual Liberation Day Parade will be held on WEDNESDAY, July 16th, 2025 beginning at 8:00 am at the Paseo Stadium Building.

Applicants are requested to enter through the Paseo Center Court main gates. As with last year’s parade, both sides of the street will be permitted. Note: From Andrews Lock and Key to Adelup (Southbound) and from Adelup Mobile Gas Station to District Court of Guam (Northbound) Department of Parks and Recreation will not be issuing permits for these areas, private owners & businesses will be responsible for their respective areas. Reservations will be handled on a first-come, first-serve basis. The fee is $50.00 per 20x20 space, and $25.00 per 10x10 space. Fees are (non-refundable) and payable upon registration. Only one permit will be issued per adult applicant after showing proof of valid picture identification.

Temporary Vendor Permits will be issued to vendors. Click to read the full release.

81st Liberation Day Fireworks

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

Time: 7:21 p.m.

Hagåtña Treatment Plant: 15 minutes

Fort Apugan: 5 minutes

Paseo Point, Statue of Liberty: 5 minutes

Biba Business Series: Interview Skills

Ready to land your dream job? Join us for the next installment of the Biba Business Series, a free workshop focused on Interview Skills. July 23rd 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Dot Miller, brings over 20 years of experience interviewing candidates at every level—from entry positions to the executive suite. She's led classes across the country on how to stand out and succeed in interviews—and now she’s sharing her best tips right here at Biba.



Whether you're entering the workforce, changing careers, or aiming for that next big opportunity, this seminar is for you. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a pro in a relaxed and supportive environment.

2025 - 2026 Junior Achievement of Guam Sponsorship Proposal

The JA Guam Student Company of the Year competition recognizes student entrepreneurs who present their 16-week business journey to judges. Teams are evaluated on company success, innovation, personal growth, and continuous improvement. The program aims to inspire and prepare young people for success in a global economy by promoting work readiness, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. Your support helps further this mission.

View how you can help

Run for Wishes: September 13, 2025

Make a Wish proudly presents its run for Wishes 2K, 5K, 10K & Half Marathon, scheduled to take place at the LeoPalace Resort Guam on Saturday, September 13, 2025.

Bring your family, friends, enjoy the fun, and turn the miles into miracles! For more information and to register for this upcoming event, scan the QR code!