‘Substantial time for recovery’ for LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort

Saipan’s hotel golf resort known for its 18-hole championship courses designed by golf legend Greg Norman may need a mulligan or two before it reopens.

This after LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort general manager Ronnie Yeom said the Kagman golf resort will need some time to reopen following the devastation from Super Typhoon Sinlaku.

“Laolao Bay Golf & Resort sustained significant damage across most of its facilities due to Typhoon Sinlaku. The clubhouse and guest rooms were heavily impacted, and essential utilities such as power and water remain disrupted,” he said in a social media message to Marianas Press.

Yeom said the resort’s golf course also experienced extensive damage from fallen trees, debris, and irrigation system failures.

“Overall, the resort is currently not in a condition to operate normally and will require substantial time for recovery,” he added.

As for how LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort took care of tourists during the LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort during the super typhoon, Yeom said, fortunately, most guests were able to check out on the last available flight prior to the typhoon, save for one guest remained at the property.

“As a precaution, the guest was relocated from a higher floor to a safer ground-level room before the storm. While they experienced discomfort due to the loss of power and water, we are relieved to confirm that the guest remained safe and was later able to depart the island on a rescue flight.”

Yeom said, at this stage, LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort is prioritizing safety, debris removal, and site stabilization with the available staff.

“Due to infrastructure challenges, including restricted access for heavy equipment, much of the work is being carried out manually, which is slowing progress. Given the scale of the damage, we expect the recovery process to take at least six months.”

He also said confirmed that, at this time, a reopening date for LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort has not been determined.

“We are closely monitoring recovery progress and infrastructure conditions across the island before making any formal decision.”

Yeom said LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort would like to express its sincere gratitude to its loyal customers and the local community for their continued support.

“Laolao Bay has always been part of this community, and especially in times like these, we believe in supporting one another. While we are also facing significant challenges, we remain committed to contributing where we can and to coming back stronger. We truly appreciate your patience and support, and we will do our best to return to serving you as soon as possible.”