Tourism & Economy: President Luis Abinader told REPICA 2026 that ports are the backbone of Dominican growth, citing Pedernales, La Romana, the planned Port of Samaná and Manzanillo modernization, with port upgrades projected to create 10,000+ jobs. Tourism Workforce: MESCyT will fund 4,000 new English scholarships for tourism workers, with fast uptake reported for the first round and a push for management training. Tourism Pricing Push: Tourism Minister David Collado urged a “next stage” focused on higher hotel rates and higher tourist spending so growth benefits Dominicans more directly. Education Watch: PISA 2025 results show Dominican 15-year-olds still below OECD averages in math, reading and science, with very low top-level proficiency. Trade & Security: MICM seized 30,000+ illicit goods from Chinese-owned businesses in Santiago, including unregistered medicines and sexual stimulants. Sports: Club Sando booked the Concacaf Caribbean Cup final four after a goalless draw with Delfines Del Este; in the DR, Delfines’ next match is key for their Caribbean Cup hopes. Connectivity: Air Canada announced a new seasonal Montreal–Santo Domingo route for December 2026, adding full-service options beyond resort corridors.