Kensington closing temporarily; PIC dropping 100 staff

BY MARK RABAGO
Saipan Correspondent

SAN ROQUE and SAN ANTONIO, Saipan — One of E-Land Group’s three hotels in the Northern Mariana Islands — the Kensington Hotel Saipan — will close temporarily from June 9 to July 6, according to a notice posted on its website.

“To provide a safer and more pleasant environment for our valued guests, Kensington Hotel Saipan will undergo a temporary closure for comprehensive facility inspections and environmental improvements … ,” the notice said.

The hotel said guests with existing reservations during this period are eligible for free cancellations, and separate guidance will be provided through booking channels.

“We kindly ask for your understanding and look forward to welcoming you back with enhanced services,” the notice concluded.

On top of the temporary closure, Kensington Hotel is also said to be laying off more than 100 staff.

Kensington Hotel. Photo courtesy of E-land Group

Last year, another E-Land hotel, Pacific Islands Club Saipan, temporarily closed its water park and rooms from Nov. 7 to 30.

PIC’s management said it will eliminate 100 positions, citing financial difficulties due to slow tourism figures that has affected the NMI’s hotel occupancy numbers.

The San Antonio hotel said this in a “Reduction in Force Notice” memo to all employees dated April 24..

“As you are aware we have explored many options to survive. Unfortunately, our efforts have been unsuccessful, and we find that we must reduce our workforce to ensure the financial stability of the company. After reviewing our options, we have concluded that we must eliminate approximately 100 positions,” YS Choi, general manager of PIC; said.

A staff member confirmed the memo in a phone conversation with the Journal.

Choi shared the timeline of the reduction in force.

“It is with deepest regret that I inform you that some of your position (sic) will be eliminated effective May 24, 2025. Within the next week, a representative from human resources will contact you to schedule for your exit interview. During this meeting you will learn about available separation benefits.”

Choi did offer a ray of hope for the hotel’s employees.

“We are diligently working with all stakeholders in the CNMI to improve our tourism and hotel industry. Please know that we greatly appreciate the contributions you have made during your time at PIC Saipan and hope to see you back when our business situation improves.”

The Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands reported a 28.57% average occupancy rate among 11 member hotels for March, 18% lower than the 34.98% in March 2024.

A total of 18,587 of 65,062 available room nights sold in March compared to 26,205 of 74,906 available rooms sold in March 2024. The average room rate was $112.81 in March compared to $118.89 in March 2024.

The March figures excluded the former 315-room Hyatt Regency Saipan — now the Marianas Beach Resort — reported in 2024.

In related news, the Regal Cinemas Megaplex in Saipan closed April 30, adding further to the unemployment pool. The movie theater, formerly known as Hollywood Theaters, opened in September 1999, according to Journal files.

The Regal Guam Megaplex is located at Guam Premier Outlets. mbj

Kensington closing temporarily; PIC dropping 100 staff