

178 high school diplomas and 84 college degrees conferred this 2022
One hundred seventy-eight (178) students from five high schools and one adult high school in Palau are receiving their diplomas this…

Fishermen transiting through Palau to RMI
Palau International Trading Inc., a foreign fishing company that used to fish in Palau waters before the PNMS closure, is transporting its’ fishermen through Palau to the Republic…

Bilung claims Ibedul is highest title in Palau, rejects Alex as Ibedul
Writing to President Surangel Whipps Jr., Bilung Gloria Salii, the matriarch of Idid Clan of Koror State, rejected the letter from the Palau Council of Chiefs announcing Alexander…

People of Ngerkebesang win case against Ibedul and Ikluk
The people of Ngerkebesang hamlet of Koror State won their case against Ibedul Yutaka Gibbons and Santos Ikluk, claiming back the payment of $1.850 million from the lease…

Palau gears up for 2025 Pacific Mini Games
Palau is gearing up for the hosting of the 2025 Pacific Mini Games.President Surangel Whipps Jr. on May 13 signed a Presidential Directive establishing the 2025 Pacific Games…

US seeks to expedite Compact negotiations
United States has expressed keen interest in expediting the Compact negotiations with Palau, reported President Surangel Whipps Jr. after his visit early this month to Washington D.C. President…

Obakerbau, Aimeliik’s new speaker
Lucio Oisebokel Obakerbau is the new speaker of the 12th Aimeliik State Legislature after the legislature adopted a resolution appointing him speaker. He is slated to take his…

Japanese Government Scholarships for School Year 2023 Now accepting applications
The Embassy of Japan in Palau is now accepting applications for the 2023 Japanese Government Scholarships. There are three (3) types of Japanese Government Scholarships offered annually to Palauan’s nationals…

PVA team attended the Scuba Show in Long Beach, California- first in-person tradeshow in over two years
For the first time since the pandemic began in 2019,…

UH Undergrad Maikani Andres Secures Internship with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute at PICRC
Maikani Andres, a marine science major at the University of…


Solomon Islands, China and geographic metaphors
By Robert Underwood HAGATNA, 13 MAY 2022 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES)…

Cook Islands worker ‘exodus’ causes problems
RAROTONGA (COOK ISLANDS NEWS) — A Rarotongan businessman is claiming…

Tuvalu, sinking in the Pacific, fears becoming a superpower ‘pawn’
FUNAFUTI (REUTERS) — Tuvalu fears that climate change, an existential…

Solomon Islands opposition MP raises concern over blue economy MOU with China
HONIARA (SOLOMON TIMES ONLINE) — Solomon Islands Opposition member and…

Russian war effort runs into diplomatic, military hurdles
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — With its military bogged down in a grinding conflict in eastern Ukraine, Russia also lost diplomatic ground over the…

Buffalo shooter targeted Black neighborhood, officials say
BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) — The white 18-year-old who fatally shot 10 people at a Buffalo supermarket researched the local demographics and arrived a day in…

Doncic leads Mavs over Suns 123-90 in Game 7 blowout
PHOENIX (AP) — It was no surprise when Luka Doncic looked ready for Game 7, calmly draining his first three shots to give…

No hits, no prob: Bucs win with 0 hits, top Greene, Reds 1-0
PITTSBURGH (AP) — In what’s quickly become a lost season for the Cincinnati Reds, this really was the ultimate misery. Prized rookie Hunter…

Super Rugby Pacific: Fijian Drua take their chances to outclass Moana Pasifika
SYDNEY, 16 MAY 2022 (NZ HERALD) —Moana Pasifika will likely be consigned to the wooden spoon in their maiden Super Rugby season after…

More than 1000 athletes to compete in Pacific Mini Games
SAIPAN, 16 MAY 2022 (RNZ PACIFIC)—A total of 1034 athletes from 20 Pacific nations and territories are due to compete in the Pacific…

Up to 800 military personnel to participate in Valiant Shield exercise next month
Between 500 to 800 US military personnel will participate in the Valiant Shield military exercise…

Public bus transport system to launch May 25th
A public bus transport system is being launched, with the first trial run on May…

Laws give SSA conflicting mandates
Current laws are giving the Palau Social Security Administration (SSA) conflicting mandates, according to SSA…

Japan assures Pacific Islands Forum no discharge of treated wastewater if unsafe
SUVA (PIFS) — A range of common Japan-Blue Pacific priorities, including updates relating to the…

Tuna for food security
Ministries of Agriculture Fisheries and Environment ( MAFE) Steven Victor…
Whipps says PIF leaders discuss Solomon Islands security pact with China
Pacific island nations’ leaders sought clarity from the Solomon Islands…

Whipps confident tourism will rebound by year-end
“For sure by the end of the year, tourism should…

May focused on mental and emotional health through proclamations
The first two weeks of May focused attention on health…

Taiwan’s COVID-19 containment strategy utilizing innovative technology and universal health coverage
Dr. Shih-Chung ChenMinister of Health and WelfareRepublic of China (Taiwan)…

Melekeok senior citizens plant trees and share Lake Ngardok memories with Ngardok Anniversary Committee
This past Senior Citizens’ Day, the Ngardok Nature Reserve 25th…

Peleliu Elementary School students visit Ngerikiil Water Source
As part of PCC’s Educational Talent Search Program, 8th graders…

Mental Health Disorders & Community
Watching the Palau Presidential Conference dated 04 May 2022, a…

Crypto comes to Washington. Will the millions buy influence?
WASHINGTON (AP) — Erin Houchin braced for the worst when…

North Korea confirms 1st COVID outbreak, Kim orders lockdown
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea imposed a nationwide…

John Kerry warns a long Ukraine war would threaten climate efforts
WASHINGTON, 11 MAY 2022 (THE GUARDIAN) — The longer the…

China’s co-operation with Pacific ‘no threat’ to Australia: envoy
CANBERRA (AFR) — Beijing’s growing co-operation with the South Pacific…

Marshall Islands opens up access to national fishing data to cut down on illegal fishing
MAJURO (ABC) — Marshall Islands has become the first Pacific…

Palau Team-22 held fundraising event
Palau National Olympic Committee (PNOC) and Palau Team-22 will be participating in the Pacific Mini…

Nikola Jokic captures 2nd straight NBA MVP title
DENVER (AP) — Nikola Jokic plays for Denver. And for Serbia. Both places can once…

Japan’s FM graces airport grand opening ceremony
Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi attended the grand opening ceremony of the Palau International Airport…

COFA Trust Fund drops $34.7 million in 1st Qtr. 2022
Palau’s COFA Trust Fund lost $34.7 million in the 1st…

The first large scale satellite tagging program study on PNMS released
A study recently published in the prestigious ICES (International Council…

Economic security will strengthen Palau-Japan partnership- Whipps
As one of the Indo-Pacific partners of Japan, President Surangel…

Lack of transparency and due process in treatment of Filipino retirees cruel
The lack of transparency and due process in the treatment…

Palau reaffirms commitment to generating 100% renewable energy by 2032 as President Whipps Signs the Moana Pledge transpacific agreement
During the recently held 7th Our Ocean Conference hosted by the Republic of Palau in partnership with the United States, President Surangel…

Schools year-end promotions and graduations starting this week
After an eventful year, schools around the country will be having their year-end promotions and graduations starting this week with Palau Community…
Australian Embassy acknowledges
Palau Red Cross society on World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day
On World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, we’d like to…
Pacific NGOs call on visiting Japanese Foreign Minister to reconsider plans to dump radioactive nuclear waste in the Pacific Ocean
Suva- The Pacific Collective on Nuclear Issues (the Collective) is calling…

Bank of Guam Employee earns Anti-Financial crime designation
Kazzandra Ruaro completes anti-money laundering certification May 6, 2022, Hagåtña, GU -Bank of Guam is proud to announce that Kazzandra Ruaro, Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and Anti-Money Laundering Support Manager, has earned the…


UNESCO Global Geoparks for the Pacific
NOUMEA (SPC) — What do UNESCO Global Geoparks, the Pacific regions recovery from…

‘The Pacific can’t survive if richest corporations and governments continue to put profits over people and planet’
SUVA (GREENPEACE) — Vanuatu Prime Minister Bob Loughman has warned that the survival…

FBI, U.S Marshals in Fiji as authorities seize control of Russian superyacht the Amadea
SUVA/WASHINGTON (ABC) — The 106-metre luxury superyacht the Amanda — believed to belong…

Solomon Islands Government remains committed to U.S
HONIARA (SOLOMON STAR/ISLAND SUN) —The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade…

Celebrating the trailblazers, the senior citizens
Yesterday, senior citizens (people aged 55 and above) celebrated their…

Palau’s still in NCD health crisis after 10 years
For 10 years, Palau has remained under a Non-Communicable Disease…

With Marcos Jr. tipped to win, Philippines at tenuous moment
Presidential race was clear within hours of count starting; adds new photos. Recasts headline, minor edits and trims throughout.; With…

After leak, religious rift over legal abortion on display
America’s faithful are bracing — some with cautionary joy and others with looming dread — for the Supreme Court to…

Doncic, Mavs beat foul-plagued Paul, Suns to even series 2-2
DALLAS (AP) — Luka Doncic tumbled toward the baseline after getting bumped by Chris Paul just before the halftime buzzer,…

Miller homers vs King, Rangers top Yanks 4-2 to split DH
NEW YORK (AP) — Brad Miller snapped Michael King’s impressive scoreless streak with a pinch-hit, two-run homer in the seventh…

Bach says Brisbane 2032 will be Olympics “for the whole Pacific region”
BRISBANE, 09 MAY 2022 (INSIDE THE GAMES)—International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach claimed the Brisbane 2032 Olympics and Paralympics…

Missing Chinese lady assumed to be a victim of homicide
The missing 44 years old female from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Yumei Wang is believed to be deceased…
Palau loses another son to self-harm
Another shocking and tragic news hits families, friends, and colleagues of a promising young man, who was found dead…
Approval of resident and dependent visas arbitrary and subjective
Filipino workers who have worked and lived in Palau for decades and are now receiving their Social Security benefits…
One Island Nation’s Controversial plan to take Climate Justice into own hands
By Amy Gunia KOROR (TIMES) — Palau’s waters contain some of the world’s richest marine biodiversity. Critically endangered hawksbill…
PICRC researchers headed to Hawaii for IAEA Ocean Acidification Fellowship
Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) Researcher Ikelau Otto and Research Assistant McQuinnley Mesengei traveled to Hawaii last Friday…
28th Police Academy joins Melekeok community to clear Lake Ngardok
On Saturday, April 30, cadets from the 28th Police Academy joined forces with the Melekeok Conservation Network, Ngaramecherocher, Ngaraotellouch, Melekeok leadership and community members to participate in…
Corvias Foundation Awards College Scholarships to six military-connected students
More than $15 million in scholarships awarded in 17 years helps military dependents achieve educational goals EAST GREENWICH, R.I.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Corvias Foundation, a private foundation founded by Corvias…
Ngaramecherocher and Evangelical Youth Conference plant trees for Earth Day
This past April 23, Saturday, citizens young and old from Melekeok were able to celebrate the occasion by planting trees. In collaboration with the Ngardok 25th Anniversary…
Dr. Samir Patel & Nita Patel visit to PCS
On April 27, 2022, Palau Conservation Society (PCS) was delighted to meet and receive a generous gift of $500 from Dr. Samir Patel and wife, Nita Patel,…

(Ambassador Opinion) STEADFAST PARTNER AND FRIEND TO PALAU 04 MAY 2022- Australia is proud to have opened the doors to our new Embassy in Koror in 2019. Our increased presence builds on decades of cooperation on issues that matter to us both. It means we can work together on our common values as democratic countries…

Happy Mother’s Day
Someone very important to my healing journey wrote: — “Did you know the first Mother’s Day ever celebrated was in 1908 when Anna Jarvis campaigned to make Mother’s Day a recognized holiday in the United States? “She wanted to show her gratitude to her mother and set aside a day to honor all mothers. She…
In 35 years reporting from Solomon Islands, I have never seen such secrecy as the last few months
By Dorothy Wickham HONIARA, 03 MAY 2022 (THE GUARDIAN) — At the end of April, a reporter and a cameraman stood outside the national…
Solomon Islands’ not the first Pacific country to ink security deal with China says researcher
CANBERRA (ABC) — Solomon Islands has been in the spotlight over its security pact with China but it’s not the first country to have…
Hawaii homeowners must tell prospective buyers if sea level rise threatens their property
HONOLULU (CIVIL BEATS) — Years ago Maui real estate agent Keone Ball represented a homeowner in the sale of a property that showed up on the county tax map as the second…
Fiji’s women journalists suffer verbal, physical and online harassment
SUVA (ISLANDS BUSINESS) — Up to two-thirds of Fijian female journalists have experienced some kind of sexual harassment, a survey released this week has revealed. The study, which was conducted by the…
Rising interest rates in US will hinder foreign economies
WASHINGTON (AP) — When the Federal Reserve raises interest rates — as it did Wednesday — the impact doesn’t stop with U.S. homebuyers paying more for mortgages or Main Street business…
Survivor found almost 6 days after China building collapse
BEIJING (AP) — Rescuers in central China have pulled a woman alive from the rubble of a building that partially collapsed almost six days earlier, state media…

Rota ready to host three triathlon races in June
SAIPAN (SAIPAN TRIBUNE) — No less than the technical delegate for the triathlon event of the Northern…

May 7th: Leg 1 of the 2022 Open Water Swim Grand Prix
May 7th: Leg 1 of the 2022 Open Water Swim Grand Prix Palau Swimming Association announces the…
Paul has another stellar 4th, Suns blow past Mavs 129-109
PHOENIX (AP) — The top-seeded Phoenix Suns were braced for another fourth-quarter…
Blue Jays beat Yanks 2-1, end New York’s 11-game win streak
TORONTO (AP) — Jordan Romano stranded the bases loaded in the ninth…
Small newsrooms welcome World Press Freedom Day
Small newsrooms in Palau welcome the World Press Freedom Day, which calls…

Road to tourism recovery with innovative solutions
Efforts to recover from tourism devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic are pushing for innovative solutions and…

Fire destroys a store and buildings worth over 100k
A fire destroyed 3 connected buildings early Sunday morning, May 1, 2022, located in Ngarchelong State. The…

Visas granted based on financial means say Tarkong
Resident visas and dependent visas are granted based on the applicants’ abilities and financial means to support…

3,700 signatures to keep the 80% of PNMS closed, submitted to HOD
3,700 signatures asking to stop the bill proposing to amend the Palau National Marine Sanctuary (PNMS) act…

Palau Media Council’s World Press Freedom Day Statement
On May 3, the Palau Media Council celebrates journalists’ critical…

Military Relations Senior Missionaries Senior missionaries called to support military members
Near the north point on the island of Guam is Andersen…


Pacific well poised for the return of tourism
SUVA (RNZ PACIFIC) — The South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO)…
Keep reading
Climate crisis – not China – is biggest threat to Pacific, say former leaders
MELBOURNE (THE GUARDIAN) — Growing military tensions in the Pacific between China, the U.S and Australia do not address the most significant…

IAEA releases first report on safety of planned water discharge from Fukushima Daiichi site
TOKYO (IAEA) — The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Task Force, which is reviewing Japan’s policy to discharge treated water…

New Zealand welcomes back tourists as pandemic rules eased
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — New Zealand welcomed tourists from the U.S., Canada, Britain, Japan and more than 50 other…

Philippine vote: Volunteers back reformer vs dictator’s son
MANILA, Philippines (AP) — One supporter wrote a stirring campaign song that has been played nearly 4 million times on…

Giannis triple-double helps Bucks beat Celtics 101-89
BOSTON (AP) — Giannis Antetokounmpo had already picked up his dribble and spent half of a Eurostep when he realized…

She’s up! Whitmore 1st woman to start Atlantic League game
GASTONIA, N.C. (AP) — Kelsie Whitmore played left field and batted ninth for the Staten Island FerryHawks on…

Angels’ Ohtani expects to play Monday, day after early exit
CHICAGO (AP) — Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani said he expects to play Monday, a…
Correcting the Record on Recent Media Articles about Proposed PNMS Bill (HB No. 11-30-2S, HD1)
By: Speaker Sabino AnastacioPalau, like many of its Pacific Island peers, is deeply reliant on the…

Blue Planet Alliance keen to help Palau and its 100 % renewable energy goals
The Blue Planet Alliance is keen to help the country…

Council of Chiefs notifies national leadership of the new Ibedul
The Council of Chiefs, in letters to President Surangel Whipps…

Prices of goods still rising
Prices of goods have been going up, especially noticeable is…
Pacific youth voices raised for the ocean’s future
Across the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, from the…
Two women tortured over sorcery claims in PNG’s capital
PORT MORESBBY (POST COURIER) — Shocking. The young Papua New Guinea cop was lost for words. On his first…
Extractive projects cause irreparable harm to indigenous cultures, languages, lives, speakers tell Permanent Forum
NEW YORK (UN) — The explosive growth of extractive operations around the world often plays out on indigenous people’s…

Bucks rout Bulls 116-100 in Game 5, advance to face Celtics
MILWAUKEE (AP) — The defending NBA champion Milwaukee Bucks continue to produce in the postseason…

Russia releases US Marine vet in surprise prisoner exchange
WASHINGTON (AP) — Russia and the United States have carried out an unexpected prisoner exchange…

Bogaerts has 4 hits, Cora returns as Red Sox beat Jays 7-1
TORONTO (AP) — With manager Alex Cora back on the bench, the Boston Red Sox…

Dem lawmaker: Biden suggests he’ll ease student loan burden
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has signaled he might forgive some student loan debt…
Palau targets wealthy individuals with its new private banking law
Palau is targeting high net worth individuals to support potential investment on the island through the new Private Banking law.President Surangel Whipps Jr. said the new law would…
Search for missing Chinese lady still ongoing
The search for the missing Chinese woman, Yumei Wang, is in progress with BPS Director Aquon saying they are still investigating while not revealing any updates of the…
Ngirameketii cases moved due to fear of COVID
The case filed against former governor of Ngiwal State Ellender Ngirameketii scheduled to start yesterday, have rescheduled its second day trial to next week Tuesday due to fear…
Year-round school initiative underway
The Ministry of Education’s plan to shift to year-round school is underway, according to President Surangel Whipps Jr.In his State of…
Taiwan flights to resume in late May
China Airlines flight schedules this April until late May have been canceled due to low bookings according to information from…
7th Our Ocean Conference Closing Ceremony Closing Remarks by Ambassador Ilana Seid Representative of Palau to the United Nations
Ungil kebesengei. Tokubets el sus el mora President Whipps, Ibedul, Reklai ma rubekul belau, Bilung, Ebil Reklai ma re mechesil…

49 Young Climate Leaders joined the 7th Our Ocean Conference
Amongst the many notable leaders and ocean experts at the 7th Our Ocean Conference (OOC) held in the Republic of Palau from April 13th-14th were 49 young climate leaders. Recognizing that the connection to our ocean must…

Install AM Broadcasting System to enhance Palau disaster communications
15 April 2022 (Koror, Palau) – The installation of the first section of the Amplitude Modulation (AM) Broadcasting System antenna totaling US$755,920.45 was initiated on Friday 15 April 2022 by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) under the “Enhancing…

Non-medical equipment to strengthen health systems in Palau
11 April 2022 (Koror, Palau) – A cargo van to transfer required medical and non-medical goods and equipment was officially handed over to the Ministry of Health in the Republic of Palau on Monday 11 April, supplied under…
Palauan student awarded scholarship to study in Japan
At the Embassy of Japan on April 20, 2022, Ambassador Akira Karasawa congratulated Ms. Meangeldil Ayla Azuma Malsol who got accepted to pursue her Master’s course study…
PAWS TAKES SPAY/NEUTER MOBILE CLINIC TO PELELIU!!
The Palau Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) and their full time Veterinarian Dr. Pamela Hernandez partnered with visiting Veterinarian Dr. Terry Paik and Palau Pets Plus to take…
STRONGHOLD
People don’t decide their future. They decide their habits and their habits decide their future. I used to check all the electrical appliances to make sure they…
A drop in the ocean? Organised crime dynamics in Pacific Island countries
By Tess Cain BRISBANE (GLOBAL INITIATIVE) — Although Pacific Island countries do not experience high levels of criminality, shifts in transnational dynamics are changing the region’s organised…
Private paradise: The French Polynesian island locking locals out of beaches
PAPE’ETE (THE GUARDIAN) — Last November more than 2,000 people arrived on Temae beach, the heart of Mo’orea island in French Polynesia. The gathering was a traditional…

Skyrocketing prices hit Marshall Islands
MAJURO (MARIANAS VARIETY) —Fuel prices hit the US$7.00 per gallon milestone in Majuro this past week, adding an exclamation point to the prices for imported goods that have skyrocketed since last year. Food, vehicle fuel, transportation costs for imported goods, and taxi prices are up dramatically compared to a year ago. A less appreciated price…

FSM and U.S chief negotiators meet to discuss continued U.S assistance under amended Compact of Free Associaton
WASHINGTON (FSM GOVT) — Representatives from the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and the United…

Time is up, U.S you are too late: Solomon Islands MP Kenilorea
HONIARA (ISLAND SUN) — Outspoken Member of Solomon Islands Parliament Peter Kenilorea has described the…

Ukraine marks Orthodox Easter with prayers for those trapped
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — The sun came out as Ukrainians marked Orthodox Easter in the…

France’s youngest president wins again, troubles and all
PARIS (AP) — In just five years as France’s president, Emmanuel Macron has gone from…

Japan to send envoy to Solomons amid worry over China pact
TOKYO (AP) — Japan is sending a vice foreign minister to the Solomon Islands on…

Jokic, Nuggets avoid sweep with Game 4 victory over Warriors
DENVER (AP) — The Denver Nuggets aren’t fazed. They realize no team has ever won…
Fijiana Drua claim Super W title in epic Grand Final
MELBOURNE, 25 APRIL 2022 (RUGBY.COM.AU) —The Fijiana Drua have claimed the Super W title in a…
2nd SORA reports successes in face of the COVID challenge
The 2nd State of the Republic Address, issued yesterday, reported progress made by ministries despite the…
Palau gets pole-and-line vessel from Japan
Japan on Tuesday handed over a 5-ton pole-and-line vessel to the Bureau of Fisheries of the…
Mia Kami to Pacific youth- “we don’t have the luxury of time”.
Climate change is not just about the rising temperatures and tides affecting the health of our…

Whipps scolds media for its one-sided coverage of his Blue Prosperity Plan.
President Surangel Whipps Jr. on Tuesday scolded members of the media, insisting that they could do a better job of reporting his government’s Blue Prosperity Plan and the Our Ocean Conference. Instead of highlighting the goal of the “plan,” the president said the media focused its reporting on the #SavemySanctuary campaign. “I would like to take this opportunity and…

SURALA Japan Math awarded certificate
Maris Stella School holds its final ceremony of SURALA Japan math program for grades 1-4! Congratulations students and thank you Surala Net.Co. Ltd., Padeco Company & Osaka Kyoiku University, Japan.…

Our Ocean Conference closing reception highlights Palauan Culture
Leaders of governments, non-government organization, foundations, private companies and Palau’s traditional leaders gathered at the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) last Thursday evening for the 7th Our Ocean Conference…

PICRC gives virtual PNMS Tour for students with Pacific Exchange Network
PICRC Communications and Outreach Officer Masasinge Hideos and Science Officer / Researcher Dr Louw Claassens recently presented an online lesson on the Palau National Marine Sanctuary for students in Guam,…

PICRC staff take the Stage at 7th Our Ocean Conference
Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) staff took the stage at the 7th Our Ocean Conference last week, participating as speakers, panelists, youth delegates and attendees. Communications and Outreach Officer…

San Nicolas, Matanane officially announce bid to run for governor of Guam
HAGATN A (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — Congressman Michael San Nicolas formally declared his intention to run for governor of Guam by filing his certificate of candidacy at the Guam Election…

Yap’s newly named health director quits after being forced to fire hospital staff
YAP 2 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — Aileen Tareg has resigned as acting director of the Yap State Department of Health Services after being forced to fire clinical staff at Yap State Hospital who were involved in a recent walkout. “I thought we had a breakthrough when our staff who stopped coming to work came back…

CNMI Senate could decide Friday if articles of impeachment can proceed
SAIPAN (THE GUAM DAILY POST) — Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Governor Ralph Torres’ request to dismiss the articles of impeachment against him will be up for a CNMI Senate decision Friday. A…

FSM President Panuelo announces proposed Compact of Free Association package
WASHINGTON (PACNEWS) — Federated States of Micronesia President, David Panuelo, has concluded in depth discussions with U.S Special Presidential envoy for Compact negotiations, Joseph Yun and Jake Sullivan, the U.S National Security advisor. During…
Ocean: UNESCO launches emergency plan to boost World Heritage-listed reefs’ resilience
PARIS (UNESCO) — All World Heritage-listed reefs are at risk of disappearing by the end of this century. On the occasion of the Our Ocean Conference in Palau last week, Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO Director-General, announced…
Social Anxiety
Never talking about your feelings because the fear of anyone thinking of you as “dramatic” or an “attention seeker” haunts you. — Unknown My favorite part of counseling school was practicum session. We all watched…

‘Days or hours left’: Russia tightens the noose in Mariupol
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russian forces tightened the noose around the defenders holed up Wednesday in a mammoth steel plant that represented the last known Ukrainian stronghold in…

Australian opposition leader gets COVID while campaigning
CANBERRA, Australia (AP) — Australia’s opposition leader said he tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday in the second week of a campaign ahead of the May 21 election. Anthony…
22
2022 BIIAA Boys’ Beach Volleyball Championship
After a long discussion with the board of Belau Island Inter-Scholastic Athlete Association (BIIAA) to host a beach volleyball competition in the high school level, all five (5) high schools in Palau, namely, Palau High School, Mindszenty High School, Palau Mission Academy,Emmaus-Bethania High School, and Modekngei High School agreed to participate in the competition.Each school…
DeRozan scores 41 as Bulls beat Bucks 114-110 to tie series
MILWAUKEE (AP) — DeMar DeRozan made sure the Chicago Bulls altered their painful recent history against the Milwaukee Bucks and gave this first-round series a fresh new start. Now it’s the defending champion Bucks who are suddenly hurting as the teams head to Chicago all tied up. DeRozan scored a career playoff-high 41 points and…
CNMI federation head: Va’a training progressing well
SAIPAN (MARIANAS VARIETY)—With less than two months away before the start of the Pacific Mini Games 2022, the CNMI national va’a team’s training is progressing well, according to Northern Marianas National Paddle Sports Federation President Justin Andrew. He said the team’s 14 men and women have been working hard, and are out on the water …

Palau to bring 100% managed ocean concept as solution to UN Ocean Conference
“I think the 100% Ocean management is the critical agenda that needs to be pushed forward. When you say 100% management, it could mean a lot of things but it should be tied to…

New talk show focused on doing business to launch
A new talk show is set to launch on Monday, April 22, focused on doing business in Palau. The show called “Dotaut – Tekoi ra Ureor, Doing Business in Palau”, hosted by Irene Olkeriil…

“Blengur” held for Chief NGIRCHAU of Ulimang Village
The traditional council of chiefs of Ulimang Village held a ceremonial “blengur” at Ulimang Bai accepting and therefore finalizing the installment of its new member, Harry R. Fritz as Chief NGIRCHAU, on Saturday, April…
NZ announces $6 million Our Ocean commitment
The New Zealand government announced a commitment of a total of $6 million at the Our Ocean Conference in Palau last week. Minister for Pacific Peoples and Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs, Aupito William Sio, and FFA Director-General, Dr Manumatavai Tupou-Roosen, announced that…
Commitments announced during 7th Our Ocean Conference
Actions from Denmark, the United States, and the Marshall Islands doubled the number of signatories to the Declaration on Zero Emission Shipping by 2050. Actions in the form of new plans to develop zero-emission shipping routes in Europe, Latin…
Six months from COP27, we must be strategic and united, says High Level climate champion
The momentum of celebrating a Pacific first with the 7th One Ocean conference has not been lost on Marine Resources Minister Steven Victor. Asked about next steps and key issues to progress the Ocean-Climate nexus at COP27 in Egypt,…

Fukushima wastewater not ready for 2023 release, scientists say
A year since Japan announced plans to dump treated Fukushima wastewater into the Pacific Ocean…

Enhancing the Palau PAN enforcement through a conservation academy curriculum
The Palau Protected Areas Network (PAN) has been working to enhance enforcement coordination by developing…

Visit by Belau Modekngei School Seniors
On the first day of the Sixth Regular Session on Tuesday, April 12, the Honorable…

Visit by H.E. Ambassador Ilana Seid
On the first day of the Sixth Regular Session on Tuesday, April 12, the Honorable…
Seacology awards grant for marina improvement in Choll
A grant from Seacology was recently awarded to Choll Village…
The Business Case for Building a Blue Economy in Small Island Nations
Heidi Schroderus-Fox, Acting High Representative for the Least Developed Countries,…
High-level regional political group on deep sea mining launched
The Pacific Parliamentarians’ Alliance on Deep Sea Mining (PPADSM) also release ‘Our Ocean Call’ Thursday, 14th April 2022: The Pacific Parliamentarians’ Alliance on Deep Sea…
Marshall Islands gets largest number of Covid border cases
MAJURO, 18 APRIL 2022 (MARIANAS VARIETY)—Covid testing Friday of Marshall Islanders in managed quarantine saw the largest number test positive for Covid since managed…
Australia drops mandatory negative pre-departure Covid test
CANBERRA, 18 APRIL 2022(SAMOA OBSERVER)—Travellers will not be required to provide evidence of a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test when boarding an international flight to…
Australian leader warns of a resurgence in asylum seekers
CANBERRA, Australia (AP) — Australia’s prime minister on Monday warned that thousands of asylum seekers will attempt to reach the country by boat if the opposition party wins elections on May 21. The annual…
Darvish rebounds, Padres beat Braves 2-1 despite just 3 hits
SAN DIEGO (AP) — Yu Darvish rebounded from the shortest outing of his career by dominating into the seventh inning and the San Diego Padres beat the Atlanta Braves 2-1 Sunday night despite having…
Argentina beats Fiji for 1st World Sevens title in 14 years
VANCOUVER. British Columbia (AP) — Argentina claimed its first title in the World Rugby Seven Series in 14 years Sunday when it beat Olympic champion Fiji 29-10 in the final of the Vancouver Sevens.…

Group threatens protests during Solomon Islands 2023 Pacific Games over unreturned land
HONIARA, 18 APRIL 2022 (INSIDE THE GAMES)—The Guadalcanal Landowner Defendant Force (GLODF) has threatened to protest during the 2023 Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands if the…
Growing back better with Ol’au Palau
“Tourism is coming back. It is bouncing back. And I strongly believe it will come back stronger and better, in those areas that other countries envy, and…

7th Ocean Conference ends on high note
The 7th Ocean Conference concluded on a high note, with commitments “to tackle some of the greatest threats to our Ocean” as US Special Envoy John Kerry…
Chiefs weigh in favor of keeping the PNMS as is
“We are a small island nation but we are proud…
Proposal to reduce fuel tax by 2.5 cents in the Senate
Rising cost of fuel prompted a proposal in the Senate…
NZ Pacific People Minister urges powerful nation to do more for ocean
New Zealand Minister for Pacific People Aupito William Sio urged…
CJ McCollum leads Pelicans past Spurs in play-in game
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — CJ McCollum got New Orleans going…
Allyson Felix says she’s retiring after 2022 track season
Eds: UPDATES: With AP Photos. Allyson Felix, who closed the…

Toward a More Prosperous and Sustainable Pacific Ocean
SUVA (WORLD BANK) — The “Blue Pacific” is far more than just a fashionable term in the Pacific region. It is a reminder that what some people consider the world’s smallest countries are, in fact, among the largest. Measured in land area, most Pacific islands look like specks on a map, yet Kiribati, Marshall Islands,…

ADB launches first blue bond Incubator to boost Ocean investment
KOROR(ADB) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) today launched the world’s first Blue Bond Incubator to support ocean-related projects in Asia and the Pacific, an investment vital for combating the…

IT IS FINISHED
Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time. ~Thomas Merton Yesterday (Monday) I racked my brain looking for something to write. I found myself…
Police search for motive in Brooklyn subway suspect’s videos
NEW YORK (AP) — Frank James posted dozens of videos ranting about race, violence and his struggles with mental illness. One stands…
Ukraine says it damaged Russian flagship, crew evacuates
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukrainian forces said they struck and seriously damaged the flagship of Russia’s Black Sea fleet, dealing a potentially…

Back to Nature: Jellyfish Lake provides program materials to local schools
The Back to Nature: Jellyfish Lake program run by Coral Reef Research Foundation (CRRF) has concluded for the academic school year 2021–2022. This year’s program was made possible with generous funding from the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives. The Back to Nature: Jellyfish Lake program (https://youtu.be/4fcSBz0zhWM) is an educational program that teaches students about Jellyfish…

Video Message by Japan’s Prime Minister KISHIDA at the 7th Our Ocean Conference
On 14 April, Mr. KISHIDA Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan delivered a video message at the 7th Our Ocean Conference, which was held from 13 to 14…
Growing back better with Ol’au Palau
“Tourism is coming back. It is bouncing back. And I strongly believe it will come back stronger and better, in those areas that other countries envy, and…

Planned protests seek support of leaders to save Palau Marine Sanctuary
Planned youth protest against the proposed changes to the Palau National Marine Sanctuary during the 7th Ocean Conference seeks help…

Palau takes fear factor out of pandemic
– Our Ocean conference is first regional face to face gathering since March 2020 Regional organizations, leaders, and heads of…
Palau’s patrol boat supports Pacific priorities
SYDNEY/KOROR (ADF)—The Australia Defense Force is working closely with the Pacific nation of Palau to enable it to patrol its vast territorial waters and protect vital fisheries from poaching. Australia has a 25-year strong security partnership with Palau, dating back to the handover of the Pacific-class patrol boat PSS President HI Remeliik in 1996. Since…

Aimeliik legislature won’t seat newly elected member
The newly elected legislator of Aimeliik State, Lucio Oisebokel Obakerbau, failed to take his seat in the 12th Aimeliik Legislature yesterday after half of its members failed to show up for the session to approve his credentials before he takes his oath of office. Per legislative procedure, the legislature must adopt a resolution approving a…

Ownership and science at the heart of ‘blue prosperity’ tout Whipps
Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr has touted the nation’s ‘Blue Prosperity’ plan to Pacific leaders and delegates at the Blue Economy roundtable ahead of the Our Oceans conference, starting this Wednesday. In his welcoming address at the roundtable, held at the Ngaramayong Cultural Center, the President spoke of the potential for regional dialogue and stronger…
Governance Strengthening Programs with Local Governments
The Local Governance Strengthening Project (LGSP)—During the recently held LGSP 8th Senior Beneficiary Working Group, the LGSP Pilot State Governors, Speakers, national and external partners together with the Minister of State validated the effectiveness and the need for maintaining the Governance Strengthening Program for the benefit of our State Governments and communities, in especially during…
Taiwan handed over 4 motorcycles to the Bureau of Public Safety
On April 7, the government of the Republic of Palau hosted a handover ceremony…
Peleliu State Government holds Ceremony
to Commemorate the 7th Anniversary of Their Majesties’ Visit to Peleliu On April 9,…
To Solve Climate Change, Dive Into the Power of the Ocean
By Surangel Whipps, Jr and John Kerry WASHINGTON/KOROR (REUTERS)—As governments around the world work…
Criminal charges filed against CNMI governor
SAIPAN (MARIANAS VARIETY)—-CNMI Governor Ralph DLG Torres was summoned to appear before the Superior…
Solomon Islands PM ‘clear’ no Chinese military base in talks with Australian intelligence
CANBERRA, (SBS)—Australian Defence Minister Peter Dutton says he does not expect the Solomon Islands…
Passenger service for Majuro to resume after three-month hiatus
MAJURO (MARIANAS VARIETY) —— United Airlines is soon to resume passenger service to Majuro…

Guangzhou closes to most arrivals as China’s outbreak grows
BEIJING (AP) — The manufacturing hub of Guangzhou closed itself to most…

Thompson scores 41, Warriors top Pelicans to clinch 3rd seed
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Klay Thompson punctuated his regular season with a…

Signatures adding up to #SavemySanctuary petition
The online petition against the controversial plans of reopening the Palau National…

Ngardok 25th Anniversary Derby with PSFA draws Big Fish and Big Fun
This year’s Palau Sports Fishing Association (PFSA) Fishing Derby celebrated the Ngardok…

361 employees paid below minimum wage
361 persons employed in the Republic of Palau are paid below the…

OEK’s support for solar power purchase agreement sought
One of the five conditions required to effectuate the power purchase agreement by Palau Public Utilities Corporation (PPUC) is before Olbiil Era Kelulau (OEK) for its approval. President Surangel Whipps Jr. requested OEK to authorize the Minister of Finance through a joint resolution to “enter into the Government Support Agreement”—a condition required to execute the…


Pacific Elders hopes Our Ocean Conference in Palau will bring solutions to ocean challenges
The Pacific Elders’ Voice said that it’s hopeful that the…
Keep reading
Palau COVID travel rules still remain for Our Ocean Conference
In a few days, an estimated 1000 members of NGO…
Keep readingTaiwan handed over 6 medical containers to Palau
Ambassador Jessica C. Lee, on behalf of the government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), donated 6 negative pressure medical containers to Palau at…
WHO, Government of Japan, and Governments of the Marshall Islands, FSM and Palau partner to enhance COVID-19 preparedness and response
4 April 2022 – The World Health Organization (WHO), the Government of Japan and the Governments of the Republic of Marshall Islands, the Federated…
“Worry about your atoll,” Solomon Islands Police Minister response to FSM President
HONIARA (SOLOMON TIMES ONLINE)—Solomon Islands Opposition leader Matthew Wale has described sarcastic climate…
Work underway to bring back Micronesia: Samoa PM
APIA (SAMOA OBSERVER) —-Work has already begun to reunite the Pacific Islands Forum…
No U.S bombing range for Northern Marianas after community pressure
SAIPAN (ABC)—The Commonwealth of Northern Marianas will no longer be the site of…
Top Stories

Booker scores 32, Suns eliminate Lakers from playoff race
PHOENIX (AP) — The shots kept falling for Devin Booker, who appeared he was trying to prove a point. The Phoenix Suns are the best team in the NBA this season and, according to the standings, it isn’t particularly close. Booker scored 32 points to lead the Suns to their franchise-record 63rd victory Tuesday night,…
‘We are not interested in dirty money’, Palau President Whipps says
KOROR (ISLAND TIMES)—The response to Palau’s much-ballyhooed digital residency programme has been much slower than expected. So far, 800 people have signed up since the programme went online in January. Although well below the target, that number is passable for now, according to Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. “We had zero and now we have…
Scientists urge end to fossil fuel use as landmark IPCC report readied
GENEVA, 04 APRIL 2022 (THE GUARDIAN)—The world must abandon fossil fuels as a matter of urgency, rather than entrusting the future climate to untried “techno-fixes” such as sucking carbon out of the air, scientists and campaigners have urged, as governments wrangled over last-minute changes to a landmark scientific report. Talks on the final draft of…

Bureau of Domestic Affairs, MOS
“ Ngaraard State Governance Clinic: Legislative Strengthening Program” On Wednesday, 30th of March 2022, the Governance Clinic, Legislative Strengthening Program with the House of Delegates and Ngaraard State Government was held at the NgaraChamayong Cultural Center. The Governance Clinic Legislative Strengthening Program is a joint partnership between the Ministry of State and the House of…
8

Joint PPUC-PCREEE-ISA-INES Training on Renewable Energy Mini-Grids
Palau, 29th November, 2021 – The SPC’s PCREEE in collaboration with the Palau Public…

PICRC partners with Palau Conservation Society, Koror State Government and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation’s Resilient Reefs Initiative to support fisheries management in Koror State.
On March 23, 2022, the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) signed a contract…

National Guard’s Joint Task Force 671 (COVID-19)
Demobilizing Soldiers and Airmen of the Guam National Guard’s Joint Task Force 671 (COVID-19)…

UAB and MILAD Story of Palau
It’s impossible to learn that which one thinks they already know. – Epictetus (AD…

Strengthening the voice of Pacific fishers’
APIA (SPC) — The International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture (IYAFA 2022) was…

Yap doctors, nurses resign en masse; governor declares emergency
YAP (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) —Yap State Gov. Jesse Salalu declared a state of emergency…

Hotel Nikko Guam gets ready for tourism reboot, announces rebranding
HAGATNA (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) —As Guam’s tourism industry prepares for a reboot in the…

Nauru records first COVID cases
YAREN (ISLANDS BUSINESS) —Nauru’s President Lionel Aingimea has announced the first two COVID-19 cases…

Pacific leaders concerned of China’s growing influence
SUVA (FBC NEWS) —Pacific development partners are determined that the region has become a…

Ukraine accuses Russia of massacre, city strewn with bodies
BUCHA, Ukraine (AP) — As foreign outrage mounts over evidence of possible executions and…
On the prowl? Tiger arrives at Masters, unsure of playing
AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — A comeback unlike any other for…
Padres acquire LHP Sean Manaea in trade with Athletics
PEORIA, Ariz. (AP) — The San Diego Padres bolstered their…
Forum and FIFA sign partnership on climate change
FIFA and the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) over the weekend…
Japan funds EPFM Radio upgrades
On March 16, 2021 the signing ceremony for the Grassroots…
Logical fallacies of House Bill 11-30-2S (amending PNMS)
House of Delegates’ standing committee’s report on its bill 11-30-2S,…
Outdoor mask mandate dropped
The requirement for wearing masks outdoors has been dropped under…
World

Ambassador Ilana Seid nominated for cross accreditation to Israel
Ambassador Ilana Seid, Palau’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations has been nominated by President Surangel Whipps Jr. for the post of Palau’s Ambassador to the State of Israel. Ambassador Seid, if approved by the Senate, will serve both as Palau’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations as well as Palau’s Ambassador to the State of Israel. In his nomination letter to the Senate,…

Koror State proposes a 9.2 million dollar budget for FY 2022
Koror State Governor Eyos Rudimch submitted Koror State’s proposed annual budget of $9.2 million for the Fiscal Year 2022. $9.2 million of the budget is authorized but only 75% (or $6.98 million) is appropriated for expenditure. The sources of funds for the budget include $1.001 million from national government block grants, $3.092 million from state local revenue, and $5.155 million from Koror State Savings…

Taiwan Embassy donates $1K to Ngaraiebong Foundation
Taiwan Embassy donates $1,000 to Ngaraiebong Foundation. March 31, 2022 Ambassador Jessica C. Lee handed over $1,000 cash donation to Ngaraiebong Foundation members in support of foundation’s projects and community awareness of traditional knowledge for Iebukel Hamlet, Ngarchelong. Ngaraiebong Foundation is composed of Ngaraiebong Council of Chiefs. In a simple ceremony at Iebukel Bai ObakraIebukel Lorenzo Ngiramolau foundation President, Vice President Eol Galileo Saiske,…

United resumes weekly flights to Philippines
United Airlines will resume its weekly flights to the Philippines starting this April 1st, according to flight schedules provided by the Ministry of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development (HRCTD) Minister Ngirai Tmetuchl. The scheduled flights resumed after the Philippines eased up its COVID-19 restrictions, removing mandatory quarantine and accepting vaccination cards from Palau. Traveling to the Philippines still has additional requirements than it…

MOE to use more technology in the classroom
“We are becoming much more digitally oriented, and what COVID has pointed out to us is that they are a very important part of education,” stated Minister of Education Dr. Dale Jenkins of the Ministry’s decision to incorporate more use of technology in the classrooms. Ministry of Education starts the 2022-23 school year on a new school calendar system, the year-round school starting July…

Marshall Islands breaks away from Micronesian bloc to back Puna for top Forum job
MAJURO/KOROR (ABC) — The Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Henry Puna, has been given a lifeline after the Marshall Islands broke ranks from the Micronesian bloc of countries to support the Cook Islanders’ tenure in office. It’s the first public sign of disagreement between Nauru, the Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, Palau, and Marshall Islands since they began withdrawing from the Forum…

PAL COVID-19 poor and vulnerable
KOROR, PALAU (25 March 2022) — The Government of Palau Ministry of Finance signed a contract with the Belau Wellness Center Inc. (BWC) to a deliver services for home-bound senior citizens and persons with disabilities.Other nongovernment organizations were also contracted by the Palau Ministry of Finance to support vulnerable groups in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic. These include a contract with SEMESEMEL A KLENGELAKEL…

Ngardok 25th Anniversary opens with Walk and Pick
Ngardok Nature Reserve (NNR), Palau’s only freshwater lake and surrounding jungle located in the state of Melekeok, celebrates 25 years since establishment by Melekeok State Public Law in December 1997. Lake Ngardok, in addition to Ngermedellim Marine Sanctuary, make up the Melekeok Conservation Network (MCN). Activities in recognition of this silver anniversary will be ongoing throughout this year, and the first event opened this…

IOM strengthens community disaster preparedness through rehabilitation of emergency shelters
Palau – As part of its continued efforts to strengthen community preparedness to natural disasters, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) together with the National Emergency Management Office and other partners completed the installation of typhoon shutters to three emergency evacuation shelters in Palau. The shutters were installed on doors and windows to ensure the safety of occupants during storms and high winds. The…

No Fukushima Nuclear Discharge: Pacific Elders Voice statement
MELBOURNE (PEV) — We note, with deep concern, Japan’s decision to release treated radioactive water from the destroyed Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean. According to reports, the release of more than a million tonnes of water, which has been filtered to reduce radioactivity, could start in 2023. We reiterate the observation by Secretary General Henry Puna: “Ourultimate goal is to safeguard the…
Billboard

PPUC conducts Ngerikiil Townhall meeting
The PPUC team comprised of CEO Frank Kyota and key management and staff conducted a townhall meeting for Ngerikiil residents on Tuesday evening 29th March 2022. Main discussion points included the improvement of water quality after successful installation of a booster pump as well as new rates to be implemented.This particular area in Ngerikiil starting…

Kick-Off Meeting of the Project for Strengthening Capacity in Non-Revenue Water (NRW) Reduction in Palau
The Project for Strengthening Capacity in Non-Revenue Water Reduction in Palau officially began with a kick-off meeting between PPUC representatives and JICA expert team members on Monday 28th March 2022.A few years ago, JICA supported PPUC with a Grant Aid Project for Improvement of the Water Supply System that included installation of new water distribution…

Former Japanese Government Scholarship recipient graduates from the University of the Ryukyus in Japan
Mr. Esilong Ngiraiwet, a former Japanese Government Scholarship recipient between 2014 and 2017, graduated in March 2022 with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Ryukyus, Global and Regional Studies Faculty in Okinawa, Japan. As a Japanese Government Scholarship recipient, Mr. Ngiraiwet initially studied Japanese language at Bunka Institute of Language in…

PNSB meets with UK Delegation
for Chevening Scholarship
Chairperson Kevin Polloi and the members of the Palau National Scholarship Board met with Political Counsellor Dr. Rebecca Shah during their UK delegation visit to the Republic of Palau on March 8, 2022. They discussed the British Chevening Scholarship and how the British Embassy would like to see an increase in the numbers of applicants…

Mackenzie Scott Award to MCT
The Micronesia Conservation Trust (MCT), along with hundreds of other organizations around the world, has received a significant, unrestricted grant award from philanthropist Ms. MacKenzie Scott. The announcement was made on her blogpost, Medium, on March 23, 2022. The MCT Board of Trustees has authorized the establishment of a Reserves Fund with the generous US$6,000,000…

PAWS Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinic is going to Peleliu
Palau Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) is holding its 4 th Spay/Neuter Mobile Clinic at Peleliu this month from April 08-14, 2022; starting 9am at the Peleliu Youth Center. The clinic was possible due to the Australian Embassy, Direct Aid Program. Through their funding, PAWS is able to do Spay/ Neuter Clinics throughout Palau at the…

PAWS HOLDS THIRD Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinicfor 2022
Palau Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) held its third mobile spay and neuter clinic for 2022 in the Serene and gorgeous state of Melekeok this March 22nd – 25th. The clinic was a great success offering spay and neuter services and general animal health services to many dogs and cats. The clinic was possible as a…

President Whipps joins last Royal Australian Air Force
C-27J Spartan flight before the C-27 J returns to Australia 23 March 2022- His Excellency Surangel Whipps Jr and several senior government members boarded the Royal Australian Air Force C-27J Spartan last Friday. They experienced first-hand the aerial maritime surveillance work the Australian Defence Force has been conducting in the region. Over the past two…

Alexi Meltel, former Intern, returns to PICRC for PhD Research Project
Alexi Meltel, a former PICRC intern, recently returned to the Center for three weeks to conduct field research for her Ph.D. in Marine Biology at the University of Hawaii, Manoa. Her project explores how Porites lobata, or lobe corals, have adapted to different levels of ocean temperature and acidity in Ngermid Bay. Meltel first joined…

New Australian Embassy staff
23 March 2022- The Australian Embassy would like to extend a warm welcome to its new Deputy Head of Mission, Mr. Richard Quinn. Mr. Quinn joins the Embassy from his most recent post at the Australian Office in Taiwan as the Director for Consular and Administrative Service. “I look forward to engaging with Palauans in…
Opinion

The promise of debt for climate swaps in the Pacific
SUVA (ESCAP) — The Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) are among the most vulnerable countries in the world to the impacts of climate change. The World Risk Index 2021 ranks several Pacific Island countries among the most at-risk countries, with Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Tonga ranking first, second and third, respectively, and Papua New…
Finding the Pacific in the ‘Indo-Pacific’
Many external powers have attempted to subsume the Pacific into their strategic narratives, but have in the process largely ignored the interests of the islands themselves, Henryk Szadziewski writes. SYDNEY, 24 MARCH 2022 (POLICY FORUM) — Oceania has become the subject of a proliferation of new policies of external powers. The economic presence of the…

A treaty to tame our ‘Wild West’ oceans
By Sam Sachdeva WELLINGTON (THE NEWSROOM) — As negotiators meet to hash out the final parts of a treaty to protect ocean biodiversity, Pacific leaders say delays in taking action cannot extend any further Talk about the high seas, and many will think of a vast area of lawlessness. But it’s pollution, not pirates, that…
How China is winning the information war in the Pacific
SYDNEY— As China seeks greater influence in the South Pacific, its manipulation of local news outlets is having a serious impact on media independence. Most Pacific media organisations are struggling financially, many journalists have lost their jobs and China is offering a way for them to survive—at the cost of media freedom. It’s not just…

The UN High Seas Treaty could be the Oceans’ last hope
By Rosie Julin NEW YORK, 14 MARCH 2022 (FOREIGN POLICY) — United Nations member states have tried for years to reach a global agreement that would protect marine life on the high seas—those parts of the world’s oceans that fall beyond the jurisdiction of any individual country. The endeavor is seen as hugely important for…

Our Strength is our Unity:
Putin Chose War. We Remain United with Ukraine. By U.S. Ambassador John Hennessey-Niland This is a dangerous moment for Europe and for freedom-loving people around the world. By launching his brutal assault on the people of Ukraine, Vladimir Putin has also committed an assault on the principles that uphold global peace and democracy. But the…

Report: Women hold the key to unlocking the potential of sustainable energy in the Pacific
SUVA (SPC)—The countries and territories of the Pacific share some common energy challenges, but their success in meeting them has been uneven, particularly in rural areas. Addressing the shortfalls will require a renewed focus on women at every stage, as key and informed users, decision-makers, and also engineers of the region’s sustainable energy solutions. Improving…

New IPCC report: we are not prepared for what is coming – Greenpeace International
GENEVA (GREENPEACE)— In the most comprehensive assessment of climate impacts yet, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Working Group II report delivered their latest scientific assessment to world governments today. Focusing on impacts, adaptation and vulnerability, the report lays out, in sobering detail, how severe the impacts of climate change already are, causing widespread…

Leadership and the Pacific Way
Will the leadership tussle within the PIF be resolved using the Pacific Way? Dr Henry Ivarature looks back to a previous era to see if it offers lessons on the current impasse. MELBOURNE, 28 FEBRUARY 2022 (PACIFIC SECURITY COLLEGE) — Reports indicating Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Secretary General Henry Puna will step down to prevent…
The old order of the Pacific has changed: China has a growing list of friends and ever greater influence
By Lucy Craymer WELLINGTON (STUFF NZ) — Samoa and China have been building ties for a long time, but whether the relationship is beneficial depends on who you ask. China’s surge into the Pacific region is winning it friends and influence. That has consequences for traditional alliances. National Correspondent Lucy Craymer examines the diplomatic tug-of-war…

A few remarkable wins for Pacific women in local politics
But what is far too often the exception should become the norm. By Jessica Collins SYDNEY (THE INTERPRETER) — “A country without a woman MP is not a democratic country”, declared Dame Carol Kidu, Papua New Guinea’s former – and only female – opposition leader, this month. Dame Carol’s comment refers to the current state…

Will Micronesia stay in the Pacific Islands Forum after all?
After a year of deadlock, Micronesian leaders signaled they will hold off on making their departure official. By Gil Rickey SYDNEY (THE DIPLOMAT) — This time last year, the Pacific regional political project faced the greatest crisis of its 50-year history when the five Micronesian members of the blue continent’s foremost intergovernmental organisation, the Pacific…

More than 100 nations take action to save oceans from human harm
BREST (THE GUARDIAN) — Representatives from more than 100 countries have committed to measures aimed at preserving the ocean from human harm, including stepping up the fight against illegal fishing, cutting plastic pollution and better protecting international waters. The French president, Emmanuel Macron, hosting the high-level session of the One Ocean summit on Friday, said…
Pacific News

PNG Court warns against harassment of media
PORT MORESBY (THE NATIONAL) — Media personnel should not be stopped from covering court cases, and allowed to do their jobs without…

Marshall Islands considers ‘expelling’ Russian ships on registry, as complex yacht ownership schemes face scrutiny
TAIPEI/MAJURO(ABC) — The Marshall Islands may expel Russian yachts and boats on sanctions lists from its ship registry as a response to…

FSM President appeals to Solomon Islands PM to consider long-term consequences of the security deal with China
POHNPEI, (PACNEWS) — One Pacific leader has spoken out against the proposed security deal between Solomon Islands and the People’s Republic of…

NZ man facing child trafficking charges in Federated States of Micronesia
PONPHE (TVNZ) — A New Zealand economist who has done widespread work around the Pacific has been arrested in the Federated States…

Roads across Federated States of Micronesia set for Climate-resilient upgrade
WASHINGTON (WORLD BANK) — The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved US$35.25 million for a new project to improve the…

CNMI sheds masks, lifts testing requirement for incoming travellers
SAIPAN (MARIANAS VARIETY) — CNMI residents may now shed their masks, Governor Ralph Torres announced as the commonwealth’s Covid-19 risk level transitions…