PICRC’s raised $88,000 during its 22nd anniversary fundraising dinner gala
PICRC’s supporters donated $88,000 at its 22nd anniversary fundraiser dinner gala. The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) celebrated its 22…
Palau gov’t mum on MOU details; FSM still to sign but revealed details of package
Palau government has kept the details of the MOU signed last month in Washington DC on the Compact Review Agreement under wraps. The only information from the press…
Former Palau journalist passes away
A former Palau journalist, Jose Rodriguez Señase passed away yesterday at the age of 41. Señase worked for Palau Horizon, Tia Belau, and Island Times before moving to…
Gov’t 1st qtr 2023 revenue on track
Government revenue for the 1st Quarter of FY 2023 shows 23% collected. The quarterly report provided to Olbiil Era Kelulau reports actual collections against projected revenue. Taxes collected…
Palau observes month-long Cancer Awareness Month
Palau is observing a month-long Cancer Awareness Month awareness, encouraging among unity in the community to combat cancer.“Cancer continues to be among the top three leading causes of…
Ms Tewid, PVA Marketing Representative speaks on Palau’s Ocean Conservation
initiatives during PATA Youth Webinar
The ocean is an essential element to our everyday lives and to combat climate change today would require much more effort in ocean conservation and resiliency. The Pacific…
MAFE and PCS endorse mutual partnership
Minister Steven Victor and PCS Executive Director Elbuchl Sadang signed a Partnership Agreement endorsing a longtime common relationship between the two agencies. The Agreement provides a framework for ongoing cooperation…
Shin Kong Hospital provides medical assistance to Palau
January 26, 2023 Since November of last year, medical teams from the Shin Kong Wu…
Global growth will be weak in 2023 before rebounding next year: IMF
WASHINGTON (UN NEWS CENTRE) —The global economy is set to slow down this year before…
New JICA volunteer for NCD Unit arrived in Palau
On January 30, new JICA Volunteer, Ms.FUNAKI Norie, arrived in Palau. FUNAKI will work as…
Underwater volcano erupts in Vanuatu, triggering warnings for residents, ships and aircraft
PORT VILA (AFP) — Vanuatu’s East Epi underwater volcano erupted Wednesday, hurtling ash into the…
Forum SG welcomes Kiribati return to the Pacific Islands Forum
SUVA (PACNEWS) — Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Henry Puna has welcomed Kiribati’s decision to…
US, Philippines agree on larger American military presence
By JIM GOMEZ Associated Press MANILA, Philippines (AP) — The United States and the Philippines announced an agreement Thursday to expand America’s military…
Hong Kong woos tourists with air tickets and vouchers
Hong Kong (AP) — Hong Kong will give away air tickets and vouchers to woo tourists back to the international financial hub, racing…
Tom Brady retires at 45, insisting this time it’s ‘for good’
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — This time, Tom Brady says he’s done for good. The seven-time Super Bowl winner with New England and Tampa…
With the Indo-Pacific’s centrality to global prosperity and security, the cost would extend far beyond us and reach into every region.
Opinion by Penny Wong, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs CANBERRA, 02 FEBRUARY 2023 (AFR) — With the Indo-Pacific’s centrality to global prosperity and…
Making Lemonade
The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way. ~Marcus Aurelius I have accepted the fact that all…
SSA former chair resigns, another lawsuit on the way
On Monday, former chairwoman and member of the Social Security Administration Johanna Ngiruchelbad submitted her resignation to President Surangel Whipps Jr. The letter…
Court order return of Roisekebesang rental monies to Ngerkebesang hamlet
Court has ordered the return of monies received from lease rental proceeds of Roiskebesang to…
Palau is one of the hottest countries in the world
Palau is considered one of the hottest countries in the world, according to the World…
Senate eyes professional licensure for architects, engineers
The Senate is eyeing a system that will license engineering and architecture professions. Senate Bill…
PPUC and IP&E Palau Sign Fuel Supply and Cargo Line Agreement
Palau Public Utilities Corporation (PPUC) announced that on January 23, 2023 it signed a Five-Year…
FSM signs communique with Nauru and Kiribati on new East Micronesia Cable Project
PALIKIR, 31 JANUARY 2023 (PACNEWS) — After a series of…
Noumea beaches closed after shark mauls woman
NOUMEA, 30 JANUARY 2023 (RNZ PACIFIC) — A shark attack…
Mr. Takao Yasuda and his company, Palau Coral Club Company, Ltd., for the generous donation of $5,000
Palau Conservation Society would like to thank Mr. Takao Yasuda…
Taiwan Digital Opportunity Center (TDOC) Opening Ceremony
Ambassador Jessica Lee of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Minister…
2023 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE PREPOSITIONED FUNDS
Palau continues to experience major weather systems. These weather systems…
New Zealand’s north island hit by flash floods, landslides for third day, as death roll rises to four
WELLINGTON (REUTERS/AP/ABC NEWS) — Heavy rainfall hit New Zealand’s north…
Government of Kiribati confirms its return to the Pacific Islands Forum
TARAWA, 31 JANUARY 2023 (PACNEWS) —- The Government of Kiribati…
Palau celebrates International Customs Day
“What you do is very important. Our children are our…
Koror State granted summary judgment in the Estate of George Kebekol;
Tikei Kebekol performance as administrator questioned by court The court,…
Propose increase in labor fees adds to worry over increasing costs
“What is the justification for the proposed increase in Labor…
Rengulbai claims Ngircheteet title, asks court to dismiss HOTL complaint
Clarence Sriderio Rengulbai, a defendant in Civil Case No. 23-007,…
Senate eyes juvenile Restorative justice program
The Senate has passed on first reading the proposed bill…
Aimeliik agrees to a Constitutional Convention
Aimeliik State voted to have a Constitutional Convention in a vote of 70 yes over…
Palau Participates in Pacific Islands Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Training Program in Australia
Palau, along with many other nations of the world, collectively have pledged to initiate efforts…
Titiml and Remeliik set to perform at PICRC’s 22nd Anniversary Fundraising Dinner Gala
Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) will be holding its largest, and most significant event…
Centre official on war game: Guam and Taiwan ‘frighteningly entangled’
HAGATNA (GUAM DAILY POST) — Local officials are reacting to…
Palau Judiciary welcome
Fatjon Kaja on-island Court Counsel
Originally from Albania, Fatjon joined the Palau Supreme Court from…
Gender Country Plan to inform Australian funding
25 January 2023- Consultants from the Pacific Community (SPC), Pacific…
６ DMSFWP Officers participated in engine manufacturer training
The Nippon Foundation’s “Enhancing Coast Guard Capability in Micronesian States” Program is supporting the training…
Asia travel hotspots quiet as Chinese tourists stay away
By TASSANEE VEJPONGSA and ELAINE KURTENBACH Associated Press CHIANG MAI, Thailand (AP) — Just a…
Asian shares mixed on hopes for avoiding recession
By JOE McDONALD AP Business Writer BEIJING (AP) — Asian stock…
Henry Puna wants another crack at Pacific Islands Forum top job
SUVA (RNZ PACIFIC) — The current Secretary General of the Pacific…
Jacinda Ardern farewells supporters on final day as New Zealand prime minister
WELLINGTON (ABC/REUTERS) — Jacinda Ardern has bid an emotional farewell on her last day as prime minister, speaking of the kindness and empathy New Zealanders have shown her, but saying she is ready…
4 with Russian flags kicked out of Australian Open by police
MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Four people were kicked out of the Australian Open after displaying…
Davis scores 21 points in return as Lakers defeat Spurs
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Anthony Davis scored 21 points in his return from…
More rains expected this week
Palau is expected to experience more rain this week.According to the National Weather…
Koror Jail internal investigation near completion, top guys suspended
(Koror, Palau) Investigation into the reported incident in Koror Jail early this month…
Court dismisses Ngiraingas lawsuit against VP
Palau Supreme Court Trial Division dismissed Jackson Ngiraingas’s lawsuit against Vice President J. Uduch Sengebau-Senior in…
Optimist sailing boats donated to Palau Sailing Association
Palau Sailing Association happily accepted the donation of two Optimist…
Establishment of the National Security Coordinator Office bill endorsed for final reading
The bill calling for establishing an Office of the National…
PICRC partners with PRR and Shimbros International for Anniversary Fundraising Gala Dinner
The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) will celebrate its 22nd anniversary with…
Kual to attend JICA KCCP Training
Lester Rehuher, Water Leak Detector Supervisor at Palau Public Utilities Corporation, has been…
Kishida prioritizes arms buildup,
reversing low birthrate
TOKYO (AP) — Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Monday that Japan faces the…
Guam, American Samoa delegates join powerful House committees
HAGATNA/PAGO PAGO (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — James Moylan, Guam’s delegate to the U.S…
Delayed Gratification
You cannot get rats addicted to cocain if they live in their natural…
Journalists step in where
platforms have no answers
By Eleonora Maria Mazzoli, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) in…
Coral larvae to stay local, finds new PICRC Study
Most coral larvae stay within the area where it is spawned, a research…
5th Ngatpang State government inaugurated
The 5th Ngatpang State Government was sworn into office yesterday at the Ngatpang…
PICRC Program
Students from different schools learn the importance of waste management, waste segregation, and recycling and the environmental impact during the Waste Segregation program at the Palau International…
Takasi takes on responsibility for receiving police complaints
Asterio Takasi, Special Assistant to the Vice President and Minister of Justice, has been assigned to take on the responsibility of receiving and compiling reports of police…
2022 Pig production doubled over 2021
Production of piglets for the local piggery industry in 2022 doubled that of 2021. The 2022 progress report from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Environment (MAFE)…
AG charges six more people with drug trafficking
The Office of Attorney General filed charges of drug possession and drug trafficking against six individuals in December of 2022. In December 2022, Vice President Uduch Sengebau-Senior…
Palau eyes 20 percent green energy this year
KOROR (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — Palau has set an ambitious target of achieving 20 percent of its electricity generation from renewable energy sources this year as it works toward hitting the goal of 100 percent by 2032. As a developing nation, Palau is focused on reducing reliance on imported oil, said President Surangel S. Whipps…
FIC designated as Registrar of Corporations
Palau’s Financial Institution Commission (FIC) is designated as the Registrar of Corporations, according to a recent Executive Order signed by President Surangel Whipps Jr. According to Executive Order No. 477., FIC has the “technical capacity and institutional knowledge to be designated as the Registrar Corporation that will administer the Corporate Registry promulgate regulations and adopt…
State Department asked to disclose details of Compact deals with Palau, RMI
KOROR/MAJURO(PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata Coleman Radewagen urged the State Department to promptly share with the U.S Congress the details of packages…
Whipps said Palau wants to reduce reliance on imported oil
President Surangel Whipps Jr. reiterated Palau’s aim to reduce reliance on imported oil. The president said this during the Small Island Developing States Ministerial…
More than 200 millionaires urge global leaders at Davos to tackle extreme wealth and tax the ultra-rich
DAVOS, (OXFAM) — Millionaires from 13 countries petition world leaders at Davos to tackle the…
3 PCC students to visit Japan on JENESYS Program
On January 17, 3 students from PCC who are participating in the JENESYS program made a courtesy call…
Applications open for the Australian Embassy’s Director Aid Program
18 January 2023- Applications for the Australian Embassy’s Direct Aid Program are open 19 January to 20 February…
Ngarchelong State leaders renew OneReef Partnership
Ngarchelong State leaders came together last week to renew their partnership with OneReef Micronesia. This will be…
Japan offers to meet high level Pacific delegation next month over plans to dump treated radioactive nuclear waste water into the Pacific Ocean
By Makereta Komai, PACNEWS Editor SUVA, 18 JANUARY 2023 (PACNEWS) — A month away from the expected…
Elon Musk depicted as liar, visionary in Tesla tweet trial
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Elon Musk was depicted Wednesday as either a…
New Zealand’s Jacinda Ardern, an icon to many, to step down
By NICK PERRY Associated Press WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — New Zealand…
Flavored cannabis marketing is criticized for targeting kids
NEW YORK (AP) — When New York’s first licensed recreational marijuana outlet…
LeBron drops 48, Lakers beat Rockets 140-132 to snap skid
LOS ANGELES (AP) — LeBron James had a season-high 48 points, nine assists and eight rebounds in…
A’s finalize $3.25M deal with Japanese pitcher Fujinami
OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — Japanese right-hander Shintaro Fujinami and the Oakland Athletics finalized a $3.25 million, one-year…
No Brady or Rodgers, no problem for NFL in divisional round
For the first time in 13 years, neither Tom Brady nor Aaron Rodgers reached the divisional round…
Pacific Islands Forum looks forward to working with PM Rabuka as Chair
SUVA (FIJI GOVT) — “Your Secretariat stands prepared and ready to work with you and your government.…
Palau ranks 48th in the latest world most powerful passport index
Palau ranks 48th in the list of most powerful passports…
Bill to delay implementation of PGST until 2025 proposed
Ten days after the new tax law went into effect,…
Whipps urges OEK to look into the development of the Domestic Arbitration Act
President Surangel Whipps Jr. is urging the Olbiil Era Kelulau…
Keep reading
FSM President hints March election will be his last, to pave the way for new leaders
SUVA, (PACNEWS) — The President of the Federated States of…
Keep reading
Japan Air Self-Defense Force Displays a U-4 Aircraft to the Government of Palau
On Thursday, January 12, 2nd Tactical Airlift Wing, Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) visited Palau International Airport for international flight training and…
LOVE IS
Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but expecting different result. ~1981 Narcotics Anonymous Pamphlet There are…
SPREP welcomes landmark Biodiversity Framework
APIA (SPREP) — The Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) has applauded the outcome of the 15th Conference…
FSM proposes early discussion between Micronesian leaders to decide on next PIF Secretary General
SUVA, 16 JANUARY 2023 (PACNEWS) — The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) says it will continue to ‘offer an olive…
‘Please stop’ – Pacific pleads with Japan over nuclear waste release
SUVA, 16 JANUARY 2023 (STUFF NZ) — Japan must work with the Pacific to find a solution to its nuclear…
John Kerry tells AP he backs UAE oil chief overseeing COP28
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — U.S. climate envoy John Kerry backs the…
Expanded US training for Ukraine forces begins in Germany
BRUSSELS (AP) — The U.S. military’s new, expanded combat training of Ukrainian forces began…
Alabama basketball player, 2nd man charged with murder
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) — Alabama basketball player Darius Miles and another man have been…
Bills hang on for 34-31 wild-card win over Dolphins
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — Josh Allen and the Buffalo…
US – Palau Compact Review MOU promises double financial assistance
The United States and Palau signed the COFA Review Memorandum…
Koror State receives brand-new garbage trucks from Taiwan
Koror State Government received two brand new garbage trucks from…
Signing Ceremony of the Japan’s Grant assistance for Grassroots Human Security Project
The Project for Procurement of Equipment to Norwegian People’s Aid to promote Unexploded Ordnance Disposal in Peleliu…
Sons of Sureor Completes Project with Ngara Maiberel
The Sons of Sureor recently completed a project in support of the Ngara Maiberel women’s group of…
PCC board of trustees holds annual organizational meeting
Monday, January 09, 2023- Palau Community College Board of Trustees held its annual organizational meeting on Monday,…
Sabonis nearly has triple-double, Kings top skidding Rockets
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Domantas Sabonis had 25 points, 14 rebounds and nine assists as the Sacramento Kings beat…
Australia finalizing new security pact with Pacific neighbor
By NICK PERRY Associated Press WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — The leaders of Australia and neighboring Papua New Guinea…
Taiwan chipmaker TSMC says quarterly profit up 78%
TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., the biggest contract manufacturer of processor chips for smartphones and other…
House votes to block China from buying oil from US reserves
By MATTHEW DALY Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) — The Republican-controlled House on Thursday voted to…
House votes to block China from buying oil from US reserves
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Republican-controlled House on Thursday voted to block oil from the country’s emergency…
US inflation eases grip on economy, falling for a 6th month
WASHINGTON (AP) — Rising U.S. consumer prices moderated again last month, bolstering hopes that inflation’s…
Boy told mom ‘be calm’ before being swept away in floodwater
By BRIAN MELLEY Associated Press LOS ANGELES (AP) — Lindsy Doan didn’t think the water…
Murder convict Amador suspected in sexual assault of female minor in custody
The convicted murderer and rapist Amador Osima is alleged to have entered the juvenile holding area in Koror jail and sexually assaulted a minor female in custody, vetted…
Palau Funeral Home & Chapel had the most impact in 2022
The Palau Funeral Home & Chapel and its owners, Lisa Borja-Tmetuchl and Uchel Tmetuchl, were accorded the Most Impactful Persons and/or Entity of 2022 Award from the Palau…
Whipps leaves for another two-week overseas trip
President Surangel Whipps Jr. left for another two-week overseas travel this January, departing last Saturday and returning on the 25th of the month. Whipps left Palau on Saturday,…
Can Social Security Retirement Funds be appropriated by OEK?
The civil case filed by Olbiil Era Kelulau and four Social Security beneficiaries against Palau Social Security Administration is currently…
MHRCTD and JICA sign record of discussions on “JICA Technical Cooperation Project on Establishing an Eco-Friendly Transportation System”
On January 9, 2023, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed a Record of Discussions (R/D) with the Ministry of…
Hurts returns from injury, leads Eagles to No. 1 seed in NFC
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Jalen Hurts walked into the Linc wearing a Michael Jordan “I’m Back” T-shirt from the former Chicago Bulls’ star’s…
The money is gone’: Bahamas tries to turn page after FTX
NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — Dressed in a canary blue suit on a warm December night, sweat dripping from his brow, Bishop Lawrence Rolle belts out the lyrics to his latest hit song for the hundreds of children…
Philippine military chief replaced by retiring general
MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday cut short the term of the military chief of staff he appointed five months ago and replaced him with a retiring general without explaining the surprise…
Palau’s first woman governor passes away
The first governor of Angaur State, and the first woman to become a governor in Palau, Theodosia Faustino Blailes, was a trailblazer, an educator, an author, a mother, a grandmother, an aunt, a role model, a Palauan…
Pacific fisheries observers can now be redeployed
Pacific fisheries observers’ redeployment started on January 1, following the decision of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission to lift the suspension of 100 percent observers’…
Introductory meeting with chairman Sen. Tellames
Introductory meeting of Senate Committee on Labor and Employment chaired by Senator Salvador Tellames.
New Senate Labor & Employment Committee holds first public meeting
Farmers seek priority in labor policy “A soad ma sebeched ma ngara llechud a diak losisiu,” Minister Ngirai Tmetuchl of HRCT&D said yesterday, announcing the publication of…
Over $10 million collected from funerals in 2022
“Funerals remain one of the most important of all Palauan rituals. As in the past, this is the occasion for major gathering of the lineages and clans,…
Whipps congratulates Fiji PM Rabuka
President Surangel Whipps Jr. congratulated Sitiveni Rabuka on his office as the new Prime Minister of Fiji. In his congratulatory message on Dec. 30, 2022, Whipps said…
Palauan mom retires from US Army, son joins Space Force
A Palauan mother retires from the United States Army while her son becomes the first Palauan recruit to the United States Space Force. CW4 Naomi Leila Barcinas-Davis, daughter of Senri Sugiyama Barcinas, and granddaughter of Nobuya and Simane Sugiyama, officially retired on January 3 as Chief Warrant Officer 4. The position is a senior-level technical…
President of Palau and Taiwan Embassy to co-host PICRC’s
22nd Anniversary Fundraising Gala Dinner The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) will celebrate its…
Corporate partner for conservation donates to PCS
On December 30, 2022, Palau Conservation Society (PCS) received a generous donation of $5,000 from…
Can Ronaldo keep the eyes of the world on him in Saudi?
By JAMES ROBSON AP Soccer Writer RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — Cristiano Ronaldo’s latest coach…
Hamlin’s collapse spurs new wave of vaccine misinformation
By ALI SWENSON, DAVID KLEPPER and SOPHIA TULP Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) — Unfounded claims…
Australia to buy US-made HIMARS in boost to defense systems
CANBERRA, Australia (AP) — Australia announced Thursday it will boost its defense capabilities by spending…
Hong Kong cardinal, Taiwan at papal funeral, but not China
BEIJING (AP) — The attendance of both the former bishop of Hong Kong and an…
PGST causes havoc and confusion on the first day
“…but in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” Benjamin…
Study of “Long COVID” in Palau underway
Experts from US Health & Human Services are in Palau assisting Palau’s doctors at the Ministry…
US awards $118 million contract for US radar system in Palau
The United States Department of Defense have awarded a $118.4 million contract to Gilbane Federal for the…
Tourism recovery lagging with arrivals at 11% in 2022
Palau’s tourism industry recovery is lagging far behind despite being one of the first countries in…
2022 milestones and highlights
Never has there been a year like 2022 where several significant events and changes occurred within 12 short months that, looking back, seemed improbable. Health Palau experienced its first COVID-19 infections surges at the beginning of the year, with the first four COVID-19 deaths reported. By the end of 2022, the number of deaths reached…
Changes
On the eve of the New Year 2023, news about the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI was shared world wide. He was the head of the Catholic Church and…
State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) need less state interference
It is Day 3 of 2023, still the beginning of the New Year, a good time to make resolutions for the rest of the year. So, one resolution should be…
Canada, Australia impose COVID rules on travelers from China
BEIJING (AP) — Australia and Canada have joined a growing list of countries requiring travelers from China to take a COVID-19 test prior to boarding their flight, as China battles…
Macao eases COVID rules, but tourism, casinos yet to rebound
MACAO (AP) — Only a few tourists crisscrossed the wavy black and white paving of Macao’s historic Senado Square on a recent weekday and many of the shops were shuttered.…
Newly elected Fiji PM vows to tackle growing national debt
MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka vowed to address the “litany of woe” created by the nation’s former government while raising concerns about the Pacific nation’s massive…
Steelers still alive after last-minute 16-13 win over Ravens
BALTIMORE (AP) — Kenny Pickett threw a 10-yard touchdown pass to Najee Harris with 56 seconds remaining, giving the Pittsburgh Steelers a 16-13 victory over the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday night and improbably keeping their playoff hopes alive for another week. It was the first touchdown allowed by Baltimore at home in four games, and…
James has season-high 47 on 38th birthday, Lakers beat Hawks
ATLANTA (AP) — LeBron James started this journey 20 years ago, and there are times when he still feels like a kid on the basketball court. Friday was one of those nights. James scored…
Car accidents
Accident on this week involving two vehicles racing at Malakal. As New Year approaches, Ministry of Justice, Bureau of Public Safety and Office of the President remind everyone to drive safely, wear seatbelts, get…
Palau welcomes all visitors but prosecutes law violators
Palau welcomes all visitors and investors into the country but will prosecute if they violate laws, responded President Surangel Whipps to the article by Organized Crime and Reporting Project (OCCRP) – “Pacific Gambit: Inside the…
2022 in Review
The year 2022 feels like five years packed into one, with significant events and changes occurring within 12 months. January In January, Palau is combatting COVID-19’s entry into the community. By January, Palau had reached…
Two-thirds of Palauans employed earn below 15k a year: Ikeda
Two-thirds of the Palauans employed in Palau are earning $15,000 a year or less, according to Elway Ikeda, Director of the Bureau of Revenue and Taxation. Based on…
New tax law takes effect January 1st without delay
The new tax law – Palau Goods and Services Tax, will take effect on January 1st, 2023, despite efforts to delay its implementation. “The petition raises a lot…
22
Australia Awards Scholarship recipients
29 December 2022 The Australian Embassy is proud to announce the 2023 Australia Awards Scholarship Recipients – Ms Hannah Fakatou and Ms Mizora Nakamura. Ms Fakatou will commence her studies in January 2023 at the University of Newcastle, studying Masters in Cybersecurity. Ms Nakamura will also commence her studies in January 2023 at Griffith College,…
Over $1.3M of PNSB Awards ready for disbursement
As the fall 2022 semester ends and the Palauan students are getting ready to begin their winter/spring 2023 semester, Palau National Scholarship Board is ready to disburse over $1.3 million in financial assistance to recipients. PNSB recipients are generally awarded based on one academic year. The award is paid in two equal installments to ensure…
JICA Volunteer sustaining stable provision of electricity in Palau
Social infrastructure is essential to our lives, but we may not often think about it on a daily basis. For many people, the importance is realized only when their daily life was hindered by loss of power outages, destruction of roads, landslide and other natural disasters. However, we must not forget that the social infrastructure…
ROP’s first IPP Solar Farm expected to be completed April 2023
The Palau Public Utilities Corporation (PPUC) remains committed in achieving Palau’s target of 45% renewable as contemplated under the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) declared in 2015. At nearly 94% of energy generation deriving from…
2022, a decade within a year
The past three years have been surreal, but none more so than 2022. Looking back over the past 12 months, I constantly had to check the dates to ensure that said event happened this…
Newly elected Fiji PM vows to tackle growing national debt
By COURTNEY WALSH Associated Press MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka vowed to address the “litany of woe” created by the nation’s former government while raising concerns about the Pacific nation’s…
Lifestyle diseases responsible for 50 percent of PNG deaths
PORT MORESBY (POST COURIER) — Lifestyle diseases are on the rise and recently have been responsible for 50 percent of deaths in Papua New Guinea hospitals. Health Minister Dr Lino Tom said in the past death by infections had…
US to sell Taiwan anti-tank system amid rising China threat
WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. State Department has approved the sale of an anti-tank mine-laying system to Taiwan amid the rising military threat from China. The department on Wednesday said the Volcano system and all related equipment would cost…
Rain, floods in Philippines leave 32 dead, others missing
MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Heavy rains and floods that devastated parts of the Philippines over the Christmas weekend have left at least 32 dead and 24 missing, the national disaster response agency said Thursday. More than 56,000 people were…
Palau Olympians and athletes commission host first forum
On Dec. 28, 2022, the Palau Olympians and Athletes Commission (POAC), a commission within the…
Doncic has 60-21-10, rallies Mavs to wild OT win over Knicks
By SCHUYLER DIXON AP Sports Writer DALLAS (AP) — Luka Doncic thought his improbable tying…
Solar IPP on track to be completed by April 2023
Palau’s IPP (Independent Power Producer) Solar/Battery project’s construction phase will be completed by April 2023.…
New ICU Isolation Unit turned over
Palau gained a brand new, state-of-the-art self-contained ICU Isolation unit last week during an official…
U.S territories secure permanent Federal Medical Assistance Percentage
WASHINGTON, 23 DECEMBER 2022 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — The Consolidated…
MIDAO awarded Facilitation of DAO registry process by government of Marshall Islands
MAJURO, 23 DECEMBER 2022 (MARSHALL ISLANDS GOVT) — In a…
Signing ceremony of the Japan’s Grant assistance for Grassroots Human Security Project to PPUC Wastewater Operations
On December 23, 2022, Ambassador of Japan Hiroyuki Orikasa and Chief Executive Officer of Palau Public Utilities Corporation (PPUC) Frank Kyota signed the contract…
JICA donates research boat to PICRC as part of joint coastal ecosystem management
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) donated a research boat to the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) at the end of November 2022.…
PICRC’s outreach team visits Kayangel Elementary
In November, the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) brought their outreach programs to Kayangel Elementary School in Palau’s northernmost state. 16 students attended…
Risk of Growing-UP
If it doesn’t kill you, it will make you strong. – UnknownA life without reflection is not worth living – SocratesWhen I was eighteen,…
Leaving a lasting ocean legacy
Island communities have developed some of the most effective practices to support the sustainable use of coastal and ocean resources, we just need to take heed, says Robert Richmond HONOLULU (CREATIVE COMMONS/360 INFO) — In a vast ocean area with about 30,000 known islands, traditional navigators of the Pacific have been known to say, “first you…
Japan prepares to discharge Fukushima water into the sea
TOKYO (EURO NEWS) — 11 years after the Fukushima disaster, Japan is working hard to overcome challenges posed by its water. Since the Tohoku tsunami of 11 March 2011, Japan has been decommissioning and decontaminating the nuclear power plant, which is expected to take 30 to 40 years. Now, the plant must urgently empty its…
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United States launches $1 Million UXO Project in Solomon Islands
WASHINGTON/HONIARA (US GOVT) — The U.S Department of State provided US$1 million to The HALO Trust (HALO) to launch a comprehensive unexploded ordnance (UXO) project in Solomon Islands beginning 01 January, 2023. This project…
Pacific nations are bracing to lose tons of Tuna from their waters
HONOLULU (HONOLULU CIVIL BEAT) — Pacific leaders are developing a new warning system, not against hurricanes, tsunamis or even erupting volcanoes but rather the looming departure of vital tuna from their territorial waters in…
Extreme cold, travel chaos: Woes from deadly storm continue
BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) — The deep freeze from a deadly winter storm that walloped much of the United States will continue into the week as people in western New York deal with massive snow…
Packed ICUs, crowded crematoriums: COVID roils Chinese towns
BAZHOU, China (AP) — Yao Ruyan paced frantically outside the fever clinic of a county hospital in China’s industrial Hebei province, 70 kilometers (43 miles) southwest of…
Tom Brady, Buccaneers rally to beat Cardinals 19-16 in OT
GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — There were times during the slog of a football game Sunday night when Tampa Bay quarterback Tom Brady looked frustrated. There were other…
With Curry out, Poole scores 32 and Warriors beat Grizzlies
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Jordan Poole is far from a finished product, and the fourth-year guard showed both signs of brilliance and struggles controlling his emotions on…
Super maxi Andoo Comanche leads Sydney-Hobart fleet
SYDNEY (AP) — Super maxi Andoo Comanche overcame a challenging…
Palau’s famed marine sanctuary is intact for now
The famed Palau National Marine Sanctuary is intact for now.…
SSA fails to respond to allegations it made against former Administrator
By: L.N. Reklai Social Security Administration (SSA) has failed to…
Salvador “Sadoi” Tellames seated as Senator
Senate of the 11th Olbiil Era Kelulau welcomed and seated,…
Palau pushed higher ambition in the Global Biodiversity Framework, ensuring 30% target
By: L.N. Reklai Palau pushed for higher ambition in the…
New tax program doesn’t equal excessive price increases
President of Palau Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. reminds the community that the new Palau Goods and Services Tax is effective Jan. 1, 2023, and its implementation will ensure a fair and equitable tax system. “Cost of goods should not increase by 10%,” President Whipps said during a recent media briefing, reiterating that the PGST replaces…
Palau Election certifies results of December elections
Palau Election Commission certified the results of the three elections held this month of December, two state elections and one Senate special election. A special election fill in an At-Large…
Palau Elementary Schools helping hands Initiative
Church initiative to give every elementary school child in Palau a backpack with school supplies It all started with a small handful of backpacks being donated to the Koror Elementary…
PICRC staff support coral restoration in Ngaraard
The Palau Aquarium team at the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) has performed a site assessment of the patch coral on…
Ngaraard State Sign Streetlight MOU with PPUC
On December 20, 2022, the Palau Public Utilities Corporation and Ngaraard State Government entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the…
PICRC researchers receive training for new state-of-the-art equipment
Researchers Ikelau Otto and Victor Nestor from the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) recently received training on how to use a new water titrator—VINDTA 3S. This state-of-the-art equipment was developed to precisely calculate how alkaline a water sample is, meeting the requirements for precision in open ocean research. The PICRC researchers will use the…
JICA handovers ICU unit to MHHS
Upon the completion of the Project for Capacity Development of ICU Using Telemedicine under COVID-19 Pandemic, a handover ceremony was held on Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at…
CHUTZPAH
“Erei e lak ko bong. Nglocha diak el sorir a chobong. Ke merur, ngdiak.” Mother kept saying without looking at me. I believe she was shamed because…
The hidden costs of PGST.
Reasons prices will go up more than 10% To begin tax reform is necessary. The timing and implementation could be…
Shift in tuna populations could cost small Pacific islands $90 million a year
MAJURO (YALE CLIMATE CHANGE CONNECTION) — In Tuvalu, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, and other small Pacific island nations, the tuna…
Ardern, rival turn her hot-mic vulgarity into charity’s win
By NICK PERRY Associated Press WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — When New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was caught on a hot mic using a vulgarity against a rival politician last week, it seemed the nation’s political discourse could be taking an ugly turn heading into an election year. But Ardern and her target, lawmaker David Seymour,…
Palau swimmers snag new national records
Palau swimmers snagged new national records at the 16th FINA World Swimming Championships in Melbourne, Australia, held from December 12 to 18th of, 2022. The previous national record for the 4 x 50m Mixed Freestyle Relay was 1:56”17, set by Osisang Chilton, Noel Keane, Jericho Mido, and Jamica Oiterong in 2019. This year, this was…
Nets score 91 in 1st half, wallop weary Warriors 143-113
NEW YORK (AP) — Jacque Vaughn wasn’t aware his Brooklyn Nets had the best first half in their history. One of the best in NBA history, actually. Kevin Durant scored 23 points, all but two in a 91-point first half that was the third-biggest in the league, and the Nets routed the Golden State Warriors 143-113 on…
FijiFirst clarifies it’s still in government until the election of PM on the floor of Parliament
SUVA (PACNEWS) —- FijiFirst General Secretary, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has spoken out for the first time after the result of the election was made public on Sunday – clarifying that Voreqe Bainimarama and his cabinet remain in government until a new Prime Minister is elected in Parliament. Khaiyum said there is no other Prime Minister until…
‘Kunming-Montreal’ deal sets up new fund for biodiversity by 2023
MONTREAL (CLIMATE HOME) — Countries committed to mobilise US$200 billion “from all sources” to…
New tax to cause greater hardship, warn businesses
With less than a month to go before the new tax law takes effect,…
Deaths to surpass births for the first time, COVID-19 a factor
The number of deaths occurring each week is noticeably high based on the number…
“Tal Ngimch/One Drop” by Kendall Titiml wins PNMS song contest
Out of 22 song submissions, out of seven final selections, one original song, “Tal…
Digitization of hospital systems now in operation
Ministry of Health and Human Services launched the remaining components of the hospital digital…
“Trajectory of biodiversity loss simply not acceptable,” Palau reminds leaders at COP15
MONTREAL (SPREP) — The sombre reality of biodiversity loss is simply not acceptable and the…
Enhanced support for ocean conservation should consider Pacific’s special circumstances
As a large ocean state, #Palau has called on the United Nations…
PICRC brings its program to the Kayangel Community
The outreach team from the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) travelled…
Personal protective equipment delivery to strengthen border management in Palau
Koror, Palau: With support from theGovernment of Japan, the United Nations Development…
Regional Integrated Border Management Meeting Opens in Nadi, Fiji
Nadi, Fiji: A regional consultation was staged last week in Fiji, bringing…
Environment There’s no such thing as a climate refugee
By Sanjay Chaturvedi NEW DELHI, 19 DECEMBER 2022 CREATIVE COMMONS/360 INFO) — Billions of people are likely to be displaced by climate change. But calling them ‘climate refugees’ oversimplifies the complex reasons people flee their homes. In the world of migration law no one has successfully defined what a ‘climate refugee’ is. The United Nations…
Micronesia calls for Special Circumstances of Small Islands Developing States to remain in global biodiversity agreement
MONTREAL, 19 DECEMBER 2022 (SPREP) — The Federated States of…
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14 days wait for next government
SUVA, 18 DECEMBER 2022 (PACNEWS)—-The Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA)…
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11 people seriously injured amid turbulence on Hawaii flight
HONOLULU (AP) — Severe turbulence rocked a flight from Phoenix…
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Messi wins World Cup to push claim to be soccer’s GOAT
LUSAIL, Qatar (AP) — After finally winning the World Cup, Lionel Messi made his strongest case yet to be considered soccer’s greatest player of…
Crypto’s ties to sports raise ethical questions
Sports fans who view their favorite players as role models might think twice before taking their financial advice, too. The bankruptcy of FTX and the arrest of…
Nuggets’ Jokic has career-high 27 rebounds in triple-double
DENVER (AP) — Nikola Jokic had 40 points and a career-high 27 rebounds in yet another triple-double to help the Denver Nuggets beat the Charlotte Hornets 119-115 on Sunday night. Jokic also had 10 assists for his fifth triple-double of the season and 81st overall. He had 20 rebounds in the first half. Wilt Chamberlain…
Japan, Palau “tokubets” relationship demonstrated
“Japan and Palau have “tokubets” special and exceptional relationship based on long histories, and the bond is very strong,” expressed Ambassador Orikasa Hiroyuki, during the press tour to visit three ongoing projects through Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). There are several ongoing technical and infrastructure projects, but the JICA press tour focused on three. The…
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Palau supports Australia’s bid to host COP31
“It’s about time we bring this to the Pacific,” said President Surangel Whipps…
$80k package offer to attract new assistant AGs
With only five lawyers serving under the Office of the Attorney General, it…
Whipps warns businesses against raising prices by 10% comes January
President Surangel Whipps Jr. warns businesses not to raise prices up 10% from…
Top Stories
Transition facility to open after February
The “Transition Facility,” formerly referred to as a “step-down” facility, will be open for service after February 2023, reported Minister Gaafar Uherbelau of the Ministry of Health and Human Services. The “transition facility” refers to the new wing at the Belau National Hospital that was constructed to house individuals that have completed their hospital care…
6.2 magnitude earthquake shakes Taiwan’s east coast
TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — A 6.2 magnitude earthquake originating in the waters off Taiwan’s eastern coast shook the island Wednesday, but no injuries or major damage were immediately reported. The earthquake struck 29 kilometers (18 miles) southeast of Hualien, a city on Taiwan’s east coast, the island’s Central Weather Bureau said. The depth was 5.7…
Fiji’s main opposition leader Sitiveni Rabuka says he has ‘no faith’ in vote count after glitch in election results app
SUVA (ABC PACIFIC) —Fiji’s main opposition leader Sitiveni Rabuka says he doesn’t have faith in the vote count underway from Wednesday’s general election, and will complain to the Fijian Elections Office (FEO). Provisional counting was suspended late last night after the FEO reported a glitch in the election results app. After the app went back…
France-Morocco in the World Cup semifinals
AL KHOR, Qatar (AP) — The Latest from the World Cup semifinal match between France and Morocco: France forward Antoine Griezmann says any team with Lionel Messi in it “is a totally different proposition.” Argentina will face France in the World Cup final on Sunday. Griezmann says Argentina is “on top form.” “There isn’t only Messi —…
8
Celtics blow big lead, rally back, beat Lakers 122-118 in OT
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Jayson Tatum scored 44 points, Jaylen Brown added five of…
Fighting for freedom from violence: Activism to End All Forms of Violence
“It is your right, it’s every person’s right to be free of any form…
Australian parliamentary delegation led by Senator Penny Wong visits Palau this week
An Australian parliamentary delegation led by Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong…
The First two drug charges of 2022 filed
The Office of the Attorney General filed the first two drug charges of 2022…
Special election today, your vote matters
Today, Tuesday, December 13th, is the special election to elect a senator to fill…
UN finds Pacific Island Nations hit hard by rising food, feed, fuel, and fertilizer prices
FAO and WFP in the Pacific identify significant challenges to ensuring agrifood systems transformations…
Life-threatening infections on the rise due to drug-resistant bacteria, new WHO report reveals
NEW YORK, 12 DECEMBER 2022 (UN NEWS CENTRE) — Over 50 per cent of…
Tenorio eyeing gubernatorial run in 2026
HAGATNA, 12 DECEMEBR 2022 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — Receiving a fresh mandate after getting…
International Swimming Federation visits Palau and Palau Swim Team
On Dec. 6, 2022, the international governing body for swimming…
Mets add latest pricey arm, land Japanese ace Senga for $75M
NEW YORK (AP) — Japanese pitcher Kodai Senga and the…
Use of hard drugs on the rise, admits VP Senior
Use of hard drugs, especially methamphetamine or “ice,” is on…
OSP conducts DUI Outreach with Mindszenty High School
KOROR, PALAU – Wednesday afternoon, December 7, 2022, the Office…
FROM PLEDGE TO PROGRESS:
CELEBRATING FIVE YEARS OF THE PALAU PLEDGE Palau celebrates…
Otong leads votes in Ngatpang general election unofficial results
Incumbent Governor Francesca R. Otong leads in the race for…
World
New Blue Carbon Climate Fellow to support Palau in conserving coastal ecosystems
For the first time, the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs is sponsoring a climate fellow devoted to blue carbon under the long-standing Climate Fellows program. The new blue carbon climate fellow, Dr. Richard MacKenzie, has been a scientist at the U.S. Forest Service Pacific Southwest Research Station’s Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry in Hawaii for the…
Governance Clinic for the Office of the Governor & Legislature
On the 5th of December 2022 to the 7th of December 2022, the “Governance Clinic for the Office of the Governor and Legislature” was held with the four participating States of Melekeok State, Sonsorol State, Ngeremlengui State, and Ngardmau State at the West Lebuu Street. The Government of Palau strongly recognizes the need to strengthen institutional capacities and awareness within the Office of the…
PICRC consults with marine science experts from around the world to develop the PNMS Science and Monitoring Strategy
This week, the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) is hosting the Science & Monitoring Strategy Development Workshop with experts from around the world to further develop the science and monitoring strategy for the Palau National Marine Sanctuary (PNMS).While most of the participants will attend the meeting in person, those who could not make it to Palau are attending virtually. This workshop follows consultations…
Greetings from Ambassador ORIKASA Hiroyuki
Alii! My name is ORIKASA Hiroyuki, and I presented my Letter of Credence to H.E. Mr. Surangel S. Whipps, Jr., President of the Republic of Palau on December 6, 2022, succeeding former Ambassador KARASAWA Akira as Japanese Ambassador to Palau. On the occasion of my arrival, I would like to extend a few words to all of you. It is a great honor for…
My observations of worrying trends
During my recent trip overseas, I had the opportunity to observe how countries around us were doing compared with what is happening here at home, which got me worried about us. On the first leg of my travel, I stayed in the Philippines for three and a half days. It was a great feeling just to be in the Philippines after nearly three and…
February jury trial set for Northern Marianas governor
SAIPAN (RNZ PACIFIC) — The Northern Marianas Superior Court has set the jury trial date in the criminal case against outgoing Governor Ralph Torres. Last April, the Office of the Attorney General filed criminal charges against Torres, alleging misconduct in public office and theft relating to the issuance of airline tickets for premium class travel for himself and/or his wife Diann Torres. He was…
BREAD and WATER
I believe that an abundant life that Hesus promised is about becoming one with God – He is love, exceedingly, very highly, beyond measure, more, a quantity so abundant as to be considerably more than what one would expect or anticipate. It doesn’t mean wealth, safety, or status. It’s spiritual, NOT material. It’s your heart. I’ve been contemplating on this column, Women’s Corner, these…
Negative economic growth on Pacific countries due to Covid-19
SINGAPORE (PACNEWS) — The Pacific Islands experienced negative economic growth of -2.3 percent in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, stated the International Labour Organisation (IMO) Director General, Gilbert F. Houngbo in a report tabled at the ILO’s 17th Asia Pacific Regional Meeting in Singapore. He said smaller island countries with a strong Gross Domestic Products (GDP) dependency on tourism were largely affected. “The…
Lawmakers to vote on victim protection bills in final session
HAGATNA (GUAM DAILY POST) — With the Guam Legislature now a few days into its final session this term, several measures have managed to push through debate and have been placed on file for later voting. These include measures that create additional protections for children and victims of sexual assault or abuse. One measure, Bill 314-36, would establish a protection order for victims of…
Some newlyweds only last two weeks before seeking divorce, Justice Minister tells House
AUCKLAND (KANIVA TONGA) — Some marriages in Tonga are lasting only two weeks. The revelation that some couples only stay together for a fortnight came from the Minister of Justice, Samiu Kuita Vaipulu, who told Parliament recently that the number of divorces had risen. The news came as Tonga’s wedding season approaches. Many families plan throughout the year for a wedding in the weeks…
Billboard
Rotary Club Palau Raises $50,000 to Install Critical Dental X-Ray Wall
Koror, Palau, November 21, 2022 —Rotary Club of Palau and Rotary Club of Asaka joined Minister of Health and the Belau National Hospital (BNH) Dental Care Team to transfer over the installation of a critically needed x-ray wall in the Dental x-ray room at BNH. All proceeds of the collaboration between the Ministry and the…
Governance Clinic for the Office of the Governor & Legislature
On the 29th of November 2022 to the 2nd of December 2022, the “Governance Clinic for the Office of the Governor and Legislature” was held with the four participating States of Ngarchelong State, Ngiwal State, Angaur State, and Kayangel State at the West Lebuu Street.The Government of Palau strongly recognizes the need to strengthen institutional…
JICA Volunteer’s challenge to increase the
choices in the future of children with disabilities
Mr.OWADA Akira, JICA Volunteer in the field of special education, has been working for Special Education Program, Ministry of Education since October 2021. Owada, who has more than 14 years’ experience as a SPED teacher in Japan, is the first JICA volunteer in the field in Palau even though JICA volunteer program has 25 years’…
Support for our Veterans and Justice System
The honorable Vice President J. Uduch Sengebau Senior had the pleasure of meeting personnel from the United States Government, specially employed by U.S. Congressman Greogorio Kilili Camacho Sablan who paid a visit to the Vice President’s office this week.Congressman Greogorio Kilili Camacho Sablan was originally scheduled to meet with The Honorable Vice President J. Uduch…
Local Product Showcase set for Sunday
An exciting lineup of local producers is set to showcase their arts, crafts, and souvenir/packaged food products at the 2nd Biodiversity-Friendly Local Product Showcase on Sunday, December 4 at Ngarachamayong Cultural Center. Public sales begin at 2 pm. A special Buyer Preview will be held from 12-2pm for businesses and policymakers to meet producers and…
PICRC researchers conduct two-week research cruise to the PNMS
Researchers from the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) have returned from surveying the Palau National Marine Sanctuary (PNMS) using baited remote underwater videos (BRUVs). The work, carried out in October, aims to investigate the biodiversity, abundance, and distribution of species in Palau’s offshore environment. “Palau’s offshore environment is much less studied than the well-known…
Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) and the U.S. Air Force are to perform Operation Christmas Drops (OCD) in Koror and Kayangel
On Sunday, December 4th, 2022, at 12:03 p.m. JASDF and the U.S. Air Force perform OCD at Skojo in Meyuns, Koror. The public is welcome to view the JASDF plane flying for OCD. This Japan-U.S. joint effort will deliver Christmas gifts for children in Palau while giving aircrews experience in airlift and strengthening the friendly…
KUAL TO ATTEND JICA KCCP TRAINING
Hedrick Kual, Dean of Continuing Education at PCC, has been accepted to JICA’s KCCP Training in Japan. Kual will be attending the Non-Formal Education: The Learning Opportunities Leaving No One Behind. The Training will begin on November 29 to December 15, 2022. This program aims to share and discuss theories, practice and challenges of Non-formal…
EQPB partners with US EPA to address Chemicals in Palau
In an ongoing project to promote sound chemical management in Palau, EQPB’s partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) chemical experts were on island on Nov. 07 – 18, 2022 to begin the work of documenting, processing and preparing hazardous chemicals for final disposal. The U.S. EPA team included, On-Scene Coordinators Chris Reiner and…
PVA visits Taiwan for the ITF and Taiwan Indigenous Community visit hosted by CIP
From November 06-10, 2022, Palau Visitors Authority visited Taiwan for the International Travel Fair (ITF) in Taipei. From there, PVA traveled down to Hualien for the Taiwan Indigenous Community Visit hosted by the Council of Indigenous Peoples (CIP). The International Travel Fair ran from November 4-7 with over 1,000 booths from the tourism industry. It…
Opinion
Pew Commends Pacific Fisheries Managers for Adopting Landmark Policy for Skipjack Tuna, but Calls Non-Binding Plan ‘Disheartening’
Despite adoption of significant new management structure, no requirement for participation will complicate implementation DA NANG, Vietnam—The Pew Charitable Trusts today praised the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) for adopting a modernized management plan for the Pacific skipjack tuna fishery, which makes up one-third of the world’s tuna catch. However, Pew also called…
In a sea of climate disappointment,
the ocean must take centre stage
in all future climate discussions
By Henry PunaPacific Ocean Commissionerand Secretary General,Pacific Islands Forum SUVA (OPOC) —This year, our Leaders endorsed the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, setting out our collective approach to achieving sustained security, development, and prosperity for all peoples in the Pacific.In charting this ambitious course, our Leaders are well aware that climate change remains…
Walking the talk…we are not
It is becoming common to say one thing and do the opposite. Such behavior is self-defeating and counterproductive to individuals but more so at higher levels of organizations and government.Palau’s 2022 Economic Brief, published by Graduate School USA, gives a bleak picture of Palau for this year and the next until the projected recovery in…
Why Western Central Pacific Ocean Tuna Fisheries’ certification is under threat
DA NANG (MSC) — Approximately half of the world’s tuna catch comes from the Western Central Pacific Ocean. However, the long-term sustainability of these important stocks could be at risk if governments cannot agree joint strategies to prevent them from ever becoming overfished. To resolve this, progress must be made on harvest strategies for tuna…
EXPLAINER: How will UN climate deal on loss and damage work?
By DANA BELTAJI and PETER PRENGAMAN SHARM EL-SHEIKH (AP)—The decision Sunday by nations around the world to establish a fund to help poor countries hit hard by a warming planet was one of the most significant since UN climate talks began 30 years ago. It was an unequivocal confirmation that poor countries, with limited resources,…
On Loss and Damage, Palau and FSM demand action at COP27
SHARM EL SHEIKH (SPREP)—As negotiations at COP27 in Sharm El Sheikh continues, two Pacific nations whose populations are at the mercy of worsening climate change impacts, have issued a desperate plea to world leaders and negotiators to ensure a deal is reached on Loss and Damage funding in Egypt. The Republic of Palau’s Minister of…
Taiwan’s meteoric rise to a first-world country is a success story to emulate
Taiwan’s meteoric rise from a developing country to a first-world country is nothing short of phenomenal. It has gone from being a recipient of development aid to a contributor of development assistance to many of the small island states but also to countries larger than itself. Furthermore, it has excelled in technology and medicine to…
Bribe or gift … which one is it?
By Henry S. Falan YAP (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) —Much has been written and even more has been talked about on the “coconut wireless” in recent years about attempted bribes and other forms of corruption throughout these islands. Money and all-expenses-paid trips to foreign lands have been offered to and, in some cases, accepted by traditional…