AGP Executive Report

Museum Milestone: Chicago’s National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture in Humboldt Park earned top U.S. accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, becoming the only accredited Puerto Rican museum in the continental U.S. and highlighting plans for expansion. Health & Public Safety: Florida confirmed a dengue death as cases spike in Hillsborough County, with officials calling the surge “wildly unusual,” and noting mosquitoes are expanding as conditions allow spread. Boxing Spotlight: Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz stopped Puerto Rico’s Nestor Bravo in six rounds to retain his interim WBC light welterweight title, with Bravo pointing to timing and visibility issues after the loss. Sports & Puerto Rico Ties: Carlos Beltrán said he wouldn’t rule out interviewing for the Mets manager job, but emphasized he’s focused on family and his Puerto Rico baseball academy after his No. 15 was retired and he was inducted into the Mets Hall of Fame. Community & Culture: USPS Operation Santa is now accepting holiday letters from children and families, including Puerto Rico, with letters due by Dec. 5.

Puerto Rico & U.S. Health Policy: The White House says all 50 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico will join Trump’s “most-favored-nation” Medicaid drug pricing plan, aiming to cut costs for states and the federal government. Puerto Rico & Local Economy: Puerto Rico’s unemployment rate rose to 6.1% in August, adding pressure to an affordability squeeze. Puerto Rico & Infrastructure/Power: LUMA is set to replace 25 poles as part of modernization work in Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico & Public Safety: U.S. and Puerto Rico police interdict a human smuggling event near Culebra. Puerto Rico & Sports: Guyana’s Concacaf Nations League schedule includes a Sept. 24 opener vs. Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico & Culture: A Puerto Rican street food spot shut down by fire, while other Latino Heritage Month events keep communities celebrating. Regional Security: The U.S. is shifting MQ-9 Reaper drones from Africa to Latin America as operations expand against drug cartels.

Puerto Rico Water Crisis: Drought and aging infrastructure are still forcing rationing and service disruptions across the island, and advocates say the gap between residents and the agencies running essential services is widening as accountability and transparency questions grow. Local Economy: Puerto Rico’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate climbed to 6.1% in August (from 6.0% in July), with about 76,000 people estimated unemployed, while employment and labor force participation rose year-over-year. Disaster Recovery Deadline: A new bill would extend FEMA disaster recovery project deadlines for Puerto Rico to 2035, aiming to reduce the bureaucratic burden of requesting extensions project by project. Hurricane Maria Anniversary Policy Push: Lawmakers are backing the extension as the island approaches the ninth anniversary of Hurricane Maria, arguing Puerto Rico needs more time to finish federally funded work. Healthcare Costs (US-wide, includes PR): President Trump says Puerto Rico and all 50 states will join a “most-favored-nation” Medicaid drug pricing model, using manufacturer rebates to target lower prescription costs. Business/Finance: MassMutual Puerto Rico opened new offices in a 11,002-square-foot facility as part of its growth and technology upgrade plan. Sports (PR connection): Isaac Cruz’s next fight card remains in the spotlight as boxing schedules shift, and Puerto Rico is also tied to upcoming Concacaf Nations League action.

Medicaid Drug Pricing: President Trump says “most-favored-nation” drug discounts now extend to Medicaid in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, with rebates meant to keep prices from exceeding what other developed countries pay. Earthquake & Tsunami Watch: A magnitude 4.8 quake struck just off Puerto Rico’s southwest coast; the Tsunami Warning Center quickly said there’s no tsunami threat. Border Security: U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Puerto Rico police intercepted a suspected human smuggling attempt near Culebra, detaining a family unit and charging the vessel operator. Miss Universe Turmoil: The Miss Universe Organization says it revoked Nawat Itsaragrisil’s franchise agreement amid a dispute between rival factions. Local Culture & Heritage: A Willimantic community plans a Sept. 26 celebration marking the 25th anniversary of Julia de Burgos Park, honoring the Puerto Rican poet. Sports Spotlight: Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, training in San Diego, defends his interim WBC title Saturday against Arecibo’s Nestor Bravo.

Puerto Rico Economy & Jobs: DDEC is backing eight Puerto Rican food and beverage firms to exhibit at the Americas Food & Beverage Show in Miami, aiming to open new export deals for companies like Campo Caribe, Dulzura Borincana, Pan Pepín, Papa Pedro Rum and others. Local Business Watch: Retail sales rose 1.2% in fiscal year 2026, but merchants say it may be mostly inflation-driven, not a real jump in units sold. Energy & Oversight: The Puerto Rico Senate is launching an investigation into social-media property raffles, questioning whether some promoters are properly certified and warning winners may face big surprise taxes. Economic Development: Warmkraft Puerto Rico will invest over $16M in Mayagüez to treat military uniforms with a closed-loop process, creating about 65 jobs and targeting disease-repelling textile applications. Culture & Community: The San Juan Festival of Speed returns Sept. 20 at Hiram Bithorn Stadium with hypercar displays and timed driving competitions.

Puerto Rico & U.S. policy: The U.S. House has approved a bill to make daylight saving time permanent, but the Senate still hasn’t voted—so Puerto Ricans and most Americans should still “fall back” on Nov. 1, 2026. Local governance & food security: The Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration says the Senate Agriculture Committee approved its version of the federal Farm Bill, aiming to modernize farm risk programs, expand conservation, and invest in rural infrastructure and food supply. Security & human rights: A Haiti human rights report details the Kenscoff massacre near Port-au-Prince, saying security failures and delayed response may have worsened killings and kidnappings. Tech & cyber risk: Researchers warn China-aligned “FamousSparrow” shifted to a new “SparroWocky” backdoor and targeted government entities across Latin America, including Puerto Rico. Culture: Hispanic Heritage Month continues to spotlight Puerto Rican roots—from a Puerto Rican culture mural in Atlanta to Puerto Rican defender Caitlin Cosme making history with Crystal Palace in England’s Women’s Super League.

Puerto Rico Senate Oversight: Lawmakers kept digging into the island’s “crudita” oil tax in a public hearing, with the Institute of Statistics urging rigorous, transparent analysis that separates the tax’s impact from global fuel costs and local margins. Health Funding Pressure: Puerto Rico and hospital leaders warned Medicaid could face a massive funding cliff in 2027 unless Congress extends the current federal agreement, threatening access to doctors, meds, and hospitals for nearly 1.3 million residents. Energy & Utilities: The Senate probe comes as the broader fiscal and power debate continues, with PREPA debt and infrastructure modernization still in the spotlight. Local Sports & Youth: Puerto Rico named 18 players for the U-12 Pan American Championship in the Dominican Republic, aiming for the island’s first-ever U-12 World Cup berth. Women’s Volleyball: Puerto Rico advanced undefeated to the Pan American Cup semifinals after beating the Dominican Republic 3-1. Community & Culture: Hispanic Heritage Month coverage highlights Puerto Rican and broader Hispanic contributions, while events like El Boricuazo 2026 celebrate island traditions in Pennsylvania. Transit & Safety: US Marshals released its 15 Most Wanted list, including a fugitive described as extremely violent wanted in Puerto Rico. Everyday Life: Costco’s nationwide delivery push via DoorDash and Uber Eats could soon make warehouse shopping easier for Puerto Rico residents who already see those services expand. Cost of Living: Gasoline prices in Puerto Rico are expected to keep climbing as geopolitical tensions tighten fuel supply. Entertainment: Tyler Perry says he plans to move to Puerto Rico in 2027 and slow down work to spend more time with his son.

Local Economy & Mobility: Puerto Rico’s vehicle fleet keeps growing even as the population shrinks, with newly updated data showing how many cars still have valid registration stickers as of June 30, 2026—fueling a “fewer residents, more cars” paradox. Infrastructure Modernization: LUMA says it will replace 25 aging poles in Ponce and upgrade distribution components to cut outages and improve safety, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. Energy & Resilience: The island’s push for reliability also shows up in broader FEMA Public Assistance arbitration guidance, as applicants face long waits and increasingly turn to CBCA arbitration to settle disputes. Tourism & Culture: Bad Bunny’s “Debí tirar más fotos” is credited with turning global attention into a potential tourism boost, though the full payoff for Puerto Rico remains to be seen. Public Spending Oversight: Puerto Rico lawmakers are escalating scrutiny of the Miss Universe $8.7 million public funds, with a House resolution calling for an investigation into contracts and disbursements. Food & Health: The FDA issued a recall affecting salted caramel ice cream sold in Puerto Rico, and Puerto Rico’s agricultural competitiveness debate continues as new research points to where local products can beat import prices.

Puerto Rico Politics & Utilities: The First Circuit heard arguments over whether PREPA bondholders can claim administrative expense priority for the utility’s post-petition use of pledged net revenues—an outcome that could reshape the long-running Title III restructuring. Procurement & Oversight: A Puerto Rico House committee heard testimony that the procurement office identified three people or firms tied to lobbying by bidders for the island’s temporary generation contract, raising questions about sworn statements from companies. Labor & Public Services: The Independent Authentic Union of PRASA employees says it will meet PRASA officials this Thursday to push for concrete commitments on the long-delayed Classification and Compensation Plan after a strike vote. Health: A new American Heart Association statement says cardiovascular disease now kills more Hispanic adults than cancer, with heart failure and strokes diagnosed years earlier—highlighting earlier risk factors and gaps in blood pressure control. Local Sports: Puerto Rico stayed perfect in the Women’s Pan American Volleyball Cup, beating Nicaragua 3-0 and setting up a group-decider vs. the Dominican Republic. Community & Culture: Puerto Rico’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is growing but still faces hurdles like limited grant funding and financial-skill barriers, according to a new profile of entrepreneurs and SMEs. International Security: The U.S. Coast Guard and FBI boarded two foreign tankers bound for American shores after suspected cyberattacks, with Puerto Rico referenced in the Coast Guard imagery tied to the investigation.

Hispanic Heritage Month: The AHA says cardiovascular disease now kills more Hispanic adults than cancer, with heart failure and first strokes hitting years earlier—plus only about 1 in 5 Hispanic adults meets “ideal” heart health. Puerto Rico in the spotlight: Tyler Perry confirmed he’s moving to Puerto Rico at the start of 2027 and “pulling back a whole lot,” while MLB and fans marked Roberto Clemente Day with Puerto Rico pride moments like Rico Garcia honoring Clemente’s No. 21. Local culture & community: Chicago’s Puerto Rican domino tradition continues at Pe Erre La Casa del Dominó, keeping the game—and heritage—alive for younger players. Policy & economy: The IRS extended drought-related tax relief for farmers and ranchers, including Puerto Rico, letting eligible people defer tax after drought-forced livestock sales or exchanges. Business/industry: Corteva approved splitting into Vylor and New Corteva, with state attorneys general (including Puerto Rico) asking a judge to stop the move.

Puerto Rico Spotlight: MLB is marking Roberto Clemente Day with a reminder that the island still faces a major pipeline problem, even as scouts say the talent is there—highlighted by coverage of a new high-school tournament and the ongoing push to turn Puerto Rico’s baseball depth into more opportunities. Local Governance & Public Safety: Puerto Rico’s lawmakers and officials are also in the news for follow-through on infrastructure and oversight, including FEMA recovery funds and debates over how older telecom money should be redirected to towns. Health & Equity: A new American Heart Association statement says cardiovascular disease has overtaken cancer as the leading cause of death among Hispanic adults in the U.S., pointing to earlier risk factors and gaps in culturally tailored prevention. Business & Accountability: A securities class action notice targets Flotek Industries over claims tied to a Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority project, with an investor deadline set for late October. Culture: Tyler Perry says he’s relocating to Puerto Rico in 2027 and talks about slowing down—adding another high-profile spotlight on the island.

Disaster Recovery: Gov. Jenniffer González Colón announced FEMA approved $108.9M for 14 Puerto Rico recovery projects, including $107.1M to modernize and strengthen the island’s electric infrastructure in Vieques, Culebra, and mountainous and western communities. Local Business & Jobs: The Puerto Rico Department of Economic Development and Commerce (DDEC) is inviting entrepreneurs to apply for the Digital Store Academy, offering training and one-on-one support to build and manage e-commerce stores on Shopify. Public Health: A new health explainer highlights how HIV prevention has changed—especially the role of PrEP—but stresses that stigma and access barriers still hold people back. Culture & Community: Hispanic Heritage Month coverage spotlights how Hispanic entrepreneurs and residents help drive local economies and downtown revitalization, with Puerto Rico’s broader cultural influence echoed in the week’s music and arts stories. Aviation Safety: Amazon said it will pause operations with 21 Air after a deadly Miami cargo crash involving a flight from San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico Music Scene: Urban artist Yan Block dropped “Modo Oculto,” the fourth single ahead of his debut album Individual, leaning into a darker, more atmospheric sound and teasing a private, nightlife-driven romance. Local Economy & Community: A Puerto Rican parade in Springfield celebrated culture and pride, while other Hispanic Heritage Month events across the U.S. highlighted Puerto Rican identity and community ties. Agriculture Tech in Puerto Rico: Solinftec says its SOLIX autonomous robot is operating in Puerto Rico and 13 U.S. states, using solar power to continuously spot weeds and apply targeted herbicide—aiming to cut chemical use by up to 85%. Aviation Safety Watch: Amazon paused operations with cargo carrier 21 Air after a fatal Miami runway crash involving a flight from San Juan, Puerto Rico, with investigators reviewing speed and landing alerts. Public Life & Aging: A Puerto Rico-focused piece highlights how adults over 55 are a major economic force on the island, urging a shift from only discussing poverty to recognizing work and leadership.

Miss Universe Funding Firestorm: Puerto Rico Senate President Thomas Rivera Schatz escalated criticism over the $8.7 million in public money tied to Miss Universe, pointing to Culebra’s reported $200,000 medical-services gap and demanding the funds be found. Federal Court Clash Over Oversight: A U.S. District Court judge in Puerto Rico permanently blocked a Trump administration move to fire members of the Federal Oversight and Management Board, ruling the firings were unlawful. Water & Public Health: EPA gave tentative approval to Puerto Rico drinking-water reporting rules as rationing continues, while separate coverage highlights the island’s deepening water crisis and drought easing. Local Governance & Infrastructure: Puerto Rico lawmakers push desalination as a future drought-proof water source, and leaders strengthen emergency management partnerships. Aviation Safety: Amazon suspended operations with cargo carrier 21 Air after a fatal Miami crash involving an Amazon-branded plane that had arrived from San Juan. Culture & Community: Hartford’s Puerto Rican Day Parade went on despite rain, with the Festival del Coquí drawing vendors and performers. Sports (Puerto Rico in focus): Canada beat Puerto Rico in men’s continental volleyball, ending the team’s run; Puerto Rico’s Francisco Lindor powered a Yankees win over the Mets in MLB coverage.

Puerto Rico Senate & Miss Universe: Senate President Thomas Rivera Schatz is denouncing the $8.7 million in public funds tied to Miss Universe, saying it’s “scandalous and unacceptable” and pressing for answers as he spotlights Culebra’s medical funding gap. Local Politics & Public Services: Rivera Schatz is demanding at least $200,000 to keep Culebra’s health services running, arguing the pageant spending contrast is unacceptable. Earthquakes in the region: USGS reports 13 quakes across Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands in 24 hours, with no tsunami threat for the U.S. East Coast or Gulf. Sports (Volleyball): Canada beat Puerto Rico 3-0 in NORCECA men’s continental volleyball, improving to 2-0 in Group A. Community & Culture: Milwaukee’s Puerto Rican Festival is underway along the lakefront, celebrating music, food, and local representation. Health & Safety (U.S. lawsuit tied to Puerto Rico): A Puerto Rico resident is suing Clorox over recalled Mistolin and Lestoil cleaners contaminated with a harmful bacterium.

NORCECA Volleyball: Canada kept rolling at the men’s continental championship, beating Puerto Rico 25-19, 25-17, 25-17 to move to 2-0 in Group A. Earthquakes: USGS reported 13 quakes across Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands in 24 hours, with no tsunami threat for the region or the U.S. East Coast. Puerto Rican Community Events: Milwaukee’s 13th annual Puerto Rican Festival is underway on the lakefront, highlighting music, food, and community through Saturday night. Hispanic Heritage Month Culture: A Puerto Rican Festival of Wisconsin update says the event is back at Summerfest grounds, aiming for a bigger crowd. Energy & Power: A securities lawsuit filing claims Flotek misled investors about a 10-year PREPA power project tied to Puerto Rico’s energy crisis. Public Health: The FDA expanded a Walmart berries recall to include Puerto Rico, warning about possible E. coli contamination.