GCA Construction News Bulletin July 2025 by Guam Contrators Association

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ATTENTION Developers, Contractors, and Engineers

The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), in collaboration with the Bureau of Statistics and Plans, the Guam Environmental Protection Agency, and the Department of Public Works, developed the Guam Stormwater Manual and Storm Drainage Runoff Calculation Tool in 2024.

The tool is intended to simplify the process of performing multiple calculations. These include pre-development and post-development calculators for:

• Runoff Curve Number

• Time Of Concentration And Travel Time

• Tr 55 Peak Runoff Calculation (Graphical Method)

• Runoff Volumes Using Manual Rainfall

• Simpliﬁed Inﬁltration Basin Design From GEPA

• Swale Design

• Bio-Remediation Measures

• Sand Filter

For more information on the Stormwater Management Manual and to watch the Calculation Tool Training Video, visit: https://bsp.guam.gov/guam-stormwater-management-manual/

JULY

THEDIRECTORS THEEDITORIALS

INTERIM PRESIDENT

Desiree Lizama

Guam Contractors’ Association

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMAN

Joe Roberto East Island Tinting

CHAIRMAN

Matthew Hunter Dylan Mechanical Construction Services

VICE-CHAIRMAN

Kathleen David Pacific Rim Constructors

SECRETARY / TREASURER

Soraya Vongjalorn Vertex Guam

CONTRACTOR DIRECTORS:

Dean Bates Black Construction Corporation

Nadia Holm ECC

John Limtiaco Pacific Unlimited

AJ Perez Hawaiian Rock Products

Randolf Salas Proferre

ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS:

Mark Cruz Mid Pac Far East

Jose Garcia First Hawaiian Bank

Geraldine Leon Guerrero Adztech Advertising and PR

Camilo Lorenzo Matson Navigation

Guam Contractor’s Association (GCA) in conjunction with Adztech and Public Relations, Inc. publishes the Construction News Bulletin (CNB) monthly. Reproduction of materials appearing in this publication is strictly forbidden without written permission by GCA.

While we always strive for accuracy, we will from time to time overlook mistakes. In order to help us improve the quality and accuracy of this publication, we ask that you take the time to look at the information provided and notify GCA or Adztech of any corrections as needed. Opinions and editorial content of this publication may not necessarily be those of the publisher, production team, staff, GCA members, GCA Board of Directors and advertisers

For more information about advertising in the GCA Construction News Bulletin contact the advertising department at (671) 477-1239/2239 or email at adztech@teleguam.net.

Distributed to GCA members or can be obtained by stopping by the Guam Contractors’ Association office located at 506 Mariner Ave., Barrigada, Guam 96913

To find out more about how you can become a GCA member contact Guam Contractors’ Association at Tel: (671) 647-4840/41 or Email: info@guamcontractors.org www.guamcontractors.org

Postmaster: Send address changes to Guam Contractors’ Association, located at 506 Mariner Ave., Barrigada, Guam 96913

THETEAM

PUBLISHER: Desiree Lizama

PRODUCTION TEAM LEAD: Geri Leon Guerrero

AD SALES: Alyssa Roces

Josephine Hagen

PRODUCTION: Jason Davis

Alyssa Roces

Christopher “Taco” Rowland

PHOTOGRAPHY: Alyssa Roces

Christopher “Taco” Rowland

EDITOR: Adztech

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Francine Taitague

Patricia “Patti” L. Diego

Myracle S. Mugol

Rodney “RJ” Ricarte

GCA STAFF: Francine Taitague

Trevor Cruz

Rosielyn Holgado

Peter Finona

COVER: Keep your workforce compliant with the latest HR and Training updates every contractor needs to know.

APPRENTICESHIP

By Francine Taitague Education Director Guam Contractors Association

YOUR COMPANY CAN BUILD THESE QUALITIES IN YOUR WORKFORCE

In today's competitive construction landscape, developing a skilled, self-reliant workforce isn't just beneficial—it's essential for long-term success. As the education director at the Guam Contractors Association, I've witnessed firsthand how apprenticeship programs transform not only individual workers but entire companies by cultivating two critical qualities: independence and confidence.

Cultivating Independence in Your Workforce

Apprenticeship programs excel at developing independent thinking and problem-solving capabilities. Unlike traditional training methods where workers passively receive information, apprentices actively engage with real construction challenges from day one. They learn to analyze situations, make informed decisions, and solve problems with minimal supervision. This hands-on approach gradually builds their autonomy, creating workers who can think on their feet and adapt to unexpected situations—invaluable traits in our dynamic industry.

Building Unshakeable Confidence

Confidence emerges naturally through apprenticeship's structured learning environment. As apprentices master technical skills under experienced mentorship, they gain the expertise needed to tackle increasingly complex projects. Each successfully completed task builds their self-assurance, while regular feedback from seasoned professionals validates their growing competence. This systematic confidence-building creates workers who aren't afraid to take on challenging assignments or propose innovative solutions.

The Competitive Advantage of Quality Development

Companies investing in apprenticeship programs reap substantial rewards. Independent, confident workers

require less supervision, make better decisions, and solve problems more efficiently—directly boosting productivity and profitability. These skilled professionals adapt more readily to new technologies and industry changes, keeping your company at the forefront of innovation. Moreover, workers who feel valued and competent through apprenticeship training demonstrate higher job satisfaction and loyalty, significantly reducing costly turnover rates.

What are You Waiting For?

Your company's apprenticeship program represents a strategic investment in developing an independent and confident workforce—the cornerstone of construction industry success. I strongly encourage you to explore implementing apprenticeship programs within your organization, as the long-term benefits will drive growth and prosperity throughout your company.

Remember, the foundation of a strong construction company lies in the capable hands of those who build our world, one brick at a time.

The Guam Contractors Association keeps track of hours worked and the education progress of the apprentices in your program. We can guide your company through the whole process. What have you got to lose?

Join the list of companies that have, or are in the process of, creating an apprenticeship program to enhance the skills of its workforce.

I can help you! Interested in learning more? Please contact me at (671) 647-4841 or francine.taitague@guamcontractors.org.

CONSTRUCTION

GUAM CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION BOARD NAMES DESIREE LIZAMA PRESIDENT

"The Guam Contractors Association's board of directors has appointed Desiree Lizama as president of the association during this morning's board meeting.

Lizama became interim president on August 7, 2024, following the resignation of President James Martinez. She previously served as the association's ofﬁce manager.

"Desiree has provided steady leadership since becoming interim president," said Matt Hunter, chairman of the GCA board of directors. "The board is impressed with her management of the association, and we look forward to many years of her leading the GCA."

A 15-year GCA employee, Lizama brings extensive experience in managing the association's administration, ﬁnances, activities, and events.

I am deeply honored by the board's conﬁdence in appointing me as president of the Guam Contractors Association. Having worked alongside this incredible organization for 15 years, I've witnessed ﬁrsthand the vital role GCA plays in supporting our local construction industry and building stronger communities across Guam,” said Lizama. “I’m committed to working hard to continue our mission of advancing the interests of our members, promoting safety and excellence in construction, and fostering the next generation of skilled professionals. Together, we'll keep building a stronger future for Guam's construction industry."

During the past year, Lizama has successfully planned and managed several key GCA events:

• Pizza, Pop and Power Tools: A program introducing middle and high school girls to construction careers

• Joseph Leasiolagi "Samoan Joe" Annual Safety Conference: An industry safety-focused event

• Industry Trade Fair & Expo: A construction sector showcase featuring innovations and networking opportunities

• Meet the Generals Networking: Connecting prime contractors with subcontractors to expand industry relationships

• Excellence in Construction and Contractor of the Year Awards: Celebrating outstanding achievements in Guam's construction industry

"Desiree's dedication and leadership have been invaluable to our organization," said Hunter. "Her deep understanding of the association makes her the ideal choice to lead the GCA into the future. We're excited to see the association continue to thrive under her guidance."

Happy Year 15 Desiree! Anniversary

CELEBRATING 15 YEARS WITH GCA!

From your GCA Family

THE MONTHLY

JUNE 2025 GCA MEMBER MONTHLY LUNCHEON RECAP: H-2B WORKFORCE & POLICY UPDATES WITH GREG MASSEY

At the June GCA Membership Luncheon, Greg Massey from the Guam Department of Labor delivered a comprehensive update on the H-2B program, outlining current workforce numbers and critical changes to federal regulations impacting employers in Guam.

As of June 16, 2025, Guam has 5,022 H-2B workers, with the vast majority (4,740) from the Philippines. Other source countries include Thailand, Turkey, Korea, and more.

Key updates shared by Massey included:

• USCIS Regulation Changes (Effective January 2025)

▪ Portability: Workers can now transfer between employers with valid labor certifications once an I-129 petition is filed.

▪ 3-Year Limit Reset: Workers must leave the U.S. after three years, but can reset the clock with a 60-day absence.

▪ Prohibited Fees: Employers are barred from charging legal, visa, or recruitment fees.

▪ Petition Denials: USCIS must or may deny petitions based on I-9 violations, employer debarments, or past penalties like workforce housing or OSHA violations.

▪ New Grace Periods: After employment ends, workers now have 30–60 days before being considered unlawfully present.

• Workforce Housing Concerns: Massey stressed the importance of industry-led efforts to reduce dependency on commercial housing for H-2B workers. He urged support for potential legislation to make dedicated workforce housing more attainable, warning of possible regulatory intervention if public pressure grows.

For more information, attendees were encouraged to contact GDOL directly at https://dol.guam.gov

A copy of the presentation can be attained by connecting with the GCA office.

By Myracle S. Mugol

Guam's construction industry is running at full throttle. Fueled by billions in Department of Defense investments and ongoing disaster recovery efforts, the island is witnessing an unprecedented pace of development. But as cranes rise and contracts roll out, the real work lies in cultivating a reliable, skilled, and compliant workforce.

With new mandates, evolving labor policies, and stricter oversight from both local and federal agencies, contractors must stay informed to stay in business. Here's what matters now.

H-2B Visa Relief Extended Through 2029

Guam's unique exemption from the national H-2B visa cap continues to be a lifeline for the island's contractors. Extended through 2029 under the FY2024 National Defense Authorization Act, this provision allows Guam employers to bring in skilled foreign labor without the constraints placed on mainland businesses.

As of early 2025, Guam has over 5,000 H-2B workers on island, supporting everything from military base expansion to major civilian infrastructure projects. "This extension gives our contractors the certainty they need to plan for long-term projects and meet the demands of both public and private sector development," said Governor Lou Leon Guerrero in a January 2025 statement.

Acting Governor Josh Tenorio added, "We will continue advocating for Guam-specific solutions to ensure that workforce gaps do not derail critical progress."

Prevailing Wages Updated for 2024-2026

In mid-2024, the U.S. Department of Labor introduced new prevailing wage rates for construction work in Guam. Most trades saw notable increases, with hourly rates rising by $1.75 to nearly $3.00 depending on the job classification. These updated rates are legally binding and apply equally to H-2B employees and local workers performing comparable duties. For contractors, this means recalibrating bids, updating payroll systems, and ensuring internal classifications align with federal standards. The changes underscore the importance of fair compensation across the board and signal a broader push toward equitable workforce practice.

OSHA Enforcement Sharpens Focus

Safety violations are under tighter scrutiny in 2025. In a high-profile case from late last year, a Guam contractor faced over $1 million in fines for failing to implement basic trench safety protections.

Roger Forstner, OSHA's Honolulu Area Director, remarked in a February 2025 bulletin: "There is zero tolerance for employers who knowingly endanger their workers. Guam’s construction sector must meet the same safety expectations as anywhere else in the United States."

Contractors should expect more site inspections and document reviews. Firms with 100 or more employees are now required to submit OSHA Forms 300 and 301 electronically each year. The deadline is March 2, and penalties for non-compliance have increased.

Local Workforce Development Gains Momentum

Apprenticeships are becoming central to workforce sustainability. Through the Guam Registered Apprenticeship Program (GRAP), employers can recover up to 50% of an apprentice’s wages and training costs via tax credits.

This year, GRAP has expanded to include more trades and broader eligibility for both employers and apprentices. The Guam Department of Labor hosted its Apprenticeship Forum in April 2025, with more than 200 business leaders and educators in attendance.

"Our mission is to reduce reliance on off-island labor," said GDOL Director David Dell’Isola at a recent event. "By training our own residents, we’re building a workforce that stays with Guam."

Governor Leon Guerrero echoed that sentiment: "Apprenticeships are a proven pathway to stable, well-paying jobs. We urge all contractors to tap into this resource."

Environmental Compliance: No Certification, No Permit

Since the beginning of 2023, the Guam Environmental Protection Agency has required site supervisors on projects involving land disturbance to hold valid erosion and sediment control (ESC) certifications. As of 2025, enforcement remains active and non-negotiable.

Construction activity that includes clearing, grading, or grubbing must have a certified supervisor on site. Without proof of ESC certification from a Guam EPA-approved provider, such as Guam Trades Academy, permits may be denied, and work stopped in the field.

Contractors are strongly encouraged to factor ESC certification into early project planning. Certification should be obtained well before submitting permit applications to avoid administrative delays and potential enforcement actions.

Smarter Permitting and Planning Tools

To streamline compliance, the Guam EPA, in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, launched an updated Stormwater Drainage Tool earlier this year. The tool helps designers and contractors calculate runoff impacts and plan mitigation strategies more effectively.

The government is also working to digitize its permitting process and consolidate agency reviews under a single

platform, cutting down on turnaround time and administrative burden.

Final Thoughts: Compliance is Capacity

Contractors today face more rules, but also more support. Those who take the time to invest in compliance, training, and planning will be the ones best positioned to win and execute Guam’s most ambitious projects.

As the late past GCA President James Martinez put it in a June 2025 panel, "The rules aren’t just boxes to check. They’re part of how we build credibility, capacity, and confidence in the industry."

Quick Tips for 2025:

• Budget for the new prevailing wage rates.

• Get site supervisors ESC-certified before pulling permits.

• Submit OSHA logs on time (Forms 300/301 due by March 2).

• Use apprenticeship tax credits to grow local talent.

• Check with Guam EPA and DPW for updates on digital permitting tools.

Stay informed. Stay compliant. Build better. For more info:

Guam DOL: www.dol.guam.gov

Guam EPA: www.epa.guam.gov

Guam Trades Academy: www.gcatradesacademy.org OSHA: www.osha.gov

PURPOSE

Certifications

Apprenticeships (GRAP)

ESC Certification Requirement

Guam Department of Labor –ALPCD (Alien Labor Processing & Certification Division)

Guam Registered Apprenticeship Program via DOL

Guam Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Apply for H-2B labor certifications, wage determinations, and submit monthly reports

Receive a 50% tax credit for wages and training of registered apprentices

Required ESC training for site supervisors on projects with land disturbance; enforced since Jan 2023

dol.guam.gov (671) 475-7000 alpcd@dol.guam.gov

dol.guam.gov/apprenticeship (671) 475-7000

epa.guam.gov (671) 475-1658 admin@epa.guam.gov

OSHA

Building

Business

Guam Trades Academy (GTA)

Guam Department of Labor –Workforce Development

Guam Department of Labor & U.S. DOL – ETA

OSHA Region IX (covers Guam)

Guam Department of Public Works (DPW) – Building Permit Section

Guam Department of Revenue & Taxation (DRT) – Business License Branch

Offers Guam EPA-approved erosion & sediment control (ESC) certification, OSHA 10/30, and trade courses

Connects employers with WIOA-funded training programs and local worker pipelines

Latest H-2B construction prevailing wages (as of June 2024) required for foreign & local workers on H-2B projects

Guidance on OSHA 10/30 training, Form 300/301 recordkeeping, and workplace safety rules

Oversees issuance of residential, commercial, and grading permits

For contractor licenses, renewals, and proper worker classification

gcatradesacademy.org (671) 647-4842 info@gcatradesacademy.org

dol.guam.gov/workforce (671) 475-7000

dol.guam.gov dol.gov/agencies/eta

osha.gov (800) 321-6742 (OSHA Hotline)

dpw.guam.gov (671) 646-3131

guamtax.com (671) 635-1840

GUAM CONTRACTOR COMPLIANCE & WORKFORCE RESOURCE TABLE

GCA June Luncheon

June 18th, 2025

The Westin Resort Guam

GCA

Building History:

GUAM CELEBRATES 75 YEARS OF THE ORGANIC ACT

By Patti L. Diego

Guam's construction industry builds our island's future, but it's also deeply connected to our past. Our community is coming together for a major celebration of Guam's history and self-governance, marking the 75th Anniversary of the Organic Act of Guam. This special occasion, which kicked off on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, with a press conference in the Session Hall of the Guam Congress Building in Hagåtña, promises significant opportunities for public engagement and a renewed appreciation for our island's unique journey.

The theme for this special event is "Lumåla’ I Estoria-ta," meaning "History Comes Alive." This launch sets the stage for a series of commemorations. On Friday, August 1, 2025, history will truly come alive with two Flag Raising Ceremonies: one at 8:00 a.m. at the Adelup Courtyard (Office of the Governor), and another at 12:45 p.m. at the historic Plaza De Espana in Hagåtña. An official Opening Ceremony will then take place from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by a lively Historic Revitalization Festival open to the public, continuing right there in the Plaza De Espana. These events are designed not just for looking back, but for understanding our island's path and looking forward.

At the press conference, Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio welcomed everyone to this historic milestone, emphasizing the importance of honoring our island’s history, heritage, and progress. He further underscored that, "75 years ago, the Organic Act gave our families U.S. citizenship, established the Guam Legislature, and began the critical shift to let Guam start governing itself." This is foundational for every single one of us, because it set up our basic rights, our local government, and how we run our island. It shows how the Organic Act built the foundation for our schools, services, and laws. While the press conference has passed, the opportunity to be part of this important celebration of our island's journey and growth remains.

The Organic Act of 1950 represents more than just a change in how Guam was governed. It was the result of decades of determined efforts, born from the courage of our local leaders and the lasting hope of our people. One of the most important moments was the 1949 Guam Congress Walkout, led by Speaker Antonio Borja Won Pat. This peaceful protest bravely challenged the strict rules of U.S. Naval control and firmly stated our island’s right to be treated with dignity, to have a voice, and to be represented.

That powerful spirit of self-determination truly shaped the Organic Act and continues to inspire generations of Guamanians even today.

By giving us U.S. citizenship, setting up a civilian government, and moving control from the Navy to the Department of the Interior, the Organic Act became a major turning point in our political journey. Even though we are still working through the challenges of being a U.S. territory, this law built the foundation for us to participate meaningfully in our government and continue our efforts toward greater self-rule.

The 75th Anniversary celebration offers a unique journey through Guam's self-governance, culture, and community, designed to bring our history to life for everyone. The public is invited to experience a wide range of educational and engaging activities, including:

• Tours and Exhibits: Explore the History of the Courthouse with special exhibits and tours, and visit exhibits at the Guam Congress Building and the Guam Museum.

• Cultural Revitalization: Witness the revitalization of the Guam "Håfa Adai Pledge."

• Historical Conversations: Listen to talks on "Critical Conversations of Guam’s Journey—Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow," offering insights into our island's past, present, and future.

• Community Events: Participate in a Mass of Thanksgiving and attend the Governor’s Awards event, which includes the Longest Service Award & Director’s Choice Award.

For our construction industry, this celebration presents a valuable opportunity. Understanding Guam’s history, its challenges, and its journey of self-governance is key to building for its future. These events foster community pride and highlight the importance of infrastructure in supporting our island's development. As Lieutenant Governor Tenorio reminded us, this anniversary is a powerful moment to reflect on our island's journey of self-governance and to collectively build an even stronger Guam for the years ahead. We encourage all members to participate and embrace "Lumåla’ I Estoria-ta." Mark your calendars for awareness and join us as history truly comes alive on August 1st at Plaza De Espana!

AROUND THE

REVIVING GUAM’S TOURISM: A COMMUNITY-DRIVEN PATH TO ECONOMIC RENEWAL

Guam’s visitor industry has long been a cornerstone of the island’s economy and cultural exchange. Over the past fifty years tourism has generated more employment and contributed more tax revenue than any other industry in Guam. Our airport, the hotels, the development of retail outlets, restaurants attractions and a large proportion of Guam’s small businesses all were made possible because of tourism. It has been one the largest contributors to the quality of life on the island.

In the wake of recent global challenges, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic, the industry faces unprecedented uncertainty. Since 2019, visitor arrivals have plummeted by over 65%, and more than 30% of businesses that once thrived in this sector have permanently closed. Investment and reinvestment have stagnated due to uncertainty about the industry's future. The fragility of the industry became evident, raising concerns about job security and economic stability. As we move forward, it is crucial to acknowledge these impacts and learn from them to build a more resilient industry.

people, reflecting our friendliness and innate sense of hospitality. The visitor experience is a collective effort, influenced by our values and pride as a community. The more visitors connect with our culture and identity, the more meaningful their experiences become.

Concerns about the industry's future are growing, with employees expressing worries about job security and the potential for recovery. Many are hesitant to return to jobs in the visitor sector, and while properties are changing hands, reinvestment has been slow due to a market that is less than half its previous size. Financial constraints and rising risks are complicating the recovery efforts for tourism businesses, the Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB), the Guam Travel and Tourism Authority (GTTA), and the Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association (GHRA). The speed and strength of the recovery will depend on collective efforts. The industry must address these concerns by investing in infrastructure, training, and support for workers.

The responsibility for the future of tourism does not rest solely with the tourism industry. Visitors are looking for authenticity—experiences shaped by what they see, touch, taste, and feel. Much of this experience is created by our

A recent tourism recovery study funded by the Bureau of Statistics and Plans (BSP) indicates that Asian visitors are seeking authentic, culturally immersive, and memorable travel experiences. They want to engage with what they can only find outside their home countries. GVB has resumed collecting feedback from visitors about their experiences in Guam, and the results show that despite the industry's current state, two-thirds of visitors are either satisfied or very satisfied with their stay. Additionally, two-thirds would recommend Guam as a destination, and 94% expressed a likelihood of returning. These findings suggest a promising future for the industry. They present a unique opportunity to reimagine Guam’s tourism industry. By focusing on quality experiences, cultural authenticity, and sustainable practices, Guam can attract a new generation of travelers. Open-source data from the BSP study shows high visitor satisfaction, indicating a strong foundation for growth.

It is a source of pride for the entire community that our culture and history attract visitors. This is an opportunity to showcase our significance and the respect we deserve through the hospitality we extend. Our economic growth is tied to how we treat one another and how we present our unique qualities to visitors. The values we embody are admired throughout Asia, drawing visitors back. It is not our past but our present identity that captivates them.

The visitor experience in Guam is shaped by its people but at the same time it affected by the environment visitors encounter. Factors such as potholes, dilapidated buildings, unclean restrooms, litter, and inadequate public transportation all contribute to the visitor experience. These same issues affect how Guamanians perceive their island,

highlighting the interconnectedness of the visitor industry and the broader future of Guam.

Historically, tourism leadership in Guam has viewed the industry as separate from the community, believing it thrived due to external forces. This perception suggested that visitors were drawn to Guam by forces outside of Guam, rather than by the community's efforts. The GVB was established to market Guam as a destination but was often relegated to maintaining the industry, which led to a misallocation of resources and reinforced the notion that tourism was an external phenomenon rather than a community-driven initiative.

Consequently, tourism was not prioritized in Guam's overall economic development strategy, as there was uncertainty about the industry's ability to sustain itself and thus should not be relied upon. The COVID pandemic and Super Typhoon Marwar have underscored the fallacy of this perspective. The visitor industry exists because of Guam and its people, and it remains the most immediate avenue for creating employment opportunities and building wealth for our residents. Trust in the industry as a viable career path must be restored, not just for the industry's sake, but because the success of the visitor industry will influence all other economic development efforts.

Revenues from the visitor industry enhance the quality of life for all Guamanians, making the island an attractive location for outside businesses. More importantly, it creates a customer base for local small businesses that is six times larger than Guam's population. This provides opportunities for future generations to build wealth and careers on the island. Currently, 8% of our population is leaving Guam due to the high cost of living, lack of housing, and insufficient career opportunities. While tourism alone cannot solve all economic challenges, it is essential to recognize its integral role within the local economy. By adopting a holistic approach to economic stimulation, we can harness Guam's unique spirit and way of life to drive recovery and growth.

It is time for all stakeholders—government, businesses, and citizens—to come together and support the recovery of Guam’s tourism industry. This includes investing in infrastructure, promoting the island globally, and ensuring that workers are protected and valued. With collective effort, Guam can emerge stronger and more vibrant than ever. Guam’s tourism industry is at a crossroads. By learning from the past and embracing a community-driven approach, we can build a future that is both prosperous and sustainable. The impact of tourism on society is profound, and with the right strategies, it can continue to be a source of pride and economic vitality for generations to come.

ONE STOP CONVENIENCE FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY’S MEDICAL NEEDS

By Rodney “RJ” Ricarte

Patient care that is more than just healing. It is professionalism, personal caring, and a connection built on trust between the patient—you and your family— and the medical provider.

At the FHP Health Center, you and your family experience multiple specialties and diagnostic services, mostly under one roof, enabling a convenient, one-stop health care facility for all medical, dental, and vision needs.

FHP Health Center offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services including Primary care for both child and adult, specialty care and occupational services, dental, vision, home health and hospice. It has been serving the community for over 50 years.

FHP’s exceptional centers of care are known throughout the island: Urgent Care is for illness and injuries that are not-life threatening but still require immediate medical care.

Primary Care including pediatrics, internal and family medicine. Pediatricians specialize in the physical, mental and social health of children from birth to age 18. Family and internal medicine care encompasses preventive health and management of acute and chronic diseases.

Medical Imaging offers patients comprehensive diagnostic imaging including MRI, CT scan, Ultrasound, Digital Mammography and X-Ray; supported by a full time radiologist.

Occupational Health provides comprehensive medical services for your corporate team members including physicals, drug testing, respiratory certifications, health certificates, and management of workers’ compensation cases.

Specialty Services – FHP provides specialty care in cardiology, pulmonary medicine, and infectious disease. Cardiology focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing heart conditions such as heart attacks, heart failure, and arrhythmias. Pulmonary medicine addresses respiratory issues including asthma, COPD, and lung cancer. Infectious disease offers comprehensive management for chronic and acute infections like HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and tuberculosis, including outpatient antimicrobial therapy and LTBI programs.

The Cancer Center is operated by a U.S. board-certified Oncologist and oncology nurses trained in chemotherapy and biotherapy. Guiding patients through their path to wellness, the FHP Cancer Center offers a sophisticated, home-like atmosphere giving you the best seat in the house.

Home Health and Hospice (now located at the Century Plaza in Tamuning) is Medicare certified for both Hospice and Skilled Services and offers the most comprehensive treatment options available. All in the comfort of your loved one’s home.

The FHP Dental Center offers cosmetic and restorative dentistry with a combination of advanced technology. Art, science, and comfort join to improve the smiles — and lives — of every patient.

The FHP Vision Center (now located at the Century Plaza in Tamuning) offers the latest, most fashionable eyeglasses. We have more than 1,000 top-of-the-line, quality, warranted frames and lenses. We also offer contact lenses and brand name sunglasses. Eye examinations by our experienced and professional Optometrists use technology to evaluate for cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye diseases to facilitate early detection and treatment.

In addition, FHP offers a convenient, in-house, full-service pharmacy, owned and operated by MegaDrug, and full-service laboratory owned and operated by Diagnostic Laboratory Services (DLS).

This quality healthcare is available to GCA members with the TakeCare GCA Employee Health Insurance Benefit.

Call for an appointment, 671-646-5825, Press 1, or go to www.FHPGUAM.com.

Rodney “RJ” Ricarte is the TakeCare account executive for GCA. He can be contacted at (671) 487-7121 or rodney.ricarte@takecareasia.com.