Now that the board of directors of MPLA has voted to deny Azmar's permit request, it would appear that a long, difficult fight has come to a close. MPLA's action ended the immediate threat to Pagan. But the underlying situation that caused the crisis remains.

This is an open letter to Cinta and Gus Kaipat, and members of PaganWatch.

A watchdog group filed an Open Government Act request yesterday with the Marianas Public Lands Authority to uncover details about mining permits and applications on Pagan.

A House joint resolution is set to be introduced today in a session of the House of Representatives on Capital Hill, requesting Gov. Ralph DLG Torres to oppose any increase military presence or training in the CNMI. Pre-filed by Rep. Sheila Babauta (Ind-Saipan), the resolution...