
MOJ and KSG Rangers sign cooperation agreement
Ministry of Justice and Koror State Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the national and state law enforcement agencies to…
Youth are the generation that will help save our ocean and our future, says UN chief
Climate and Environment The world must do more to stop the dramatic decline in ocean health, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Sunday, urging young people gathered in…
Ngarchelong speaker leads governor primary election
Ngarchelong General Assembly Speaker Dwight Ngiraibai leads the 5th Gubernatorial Primary Election of Ngarchelong State that was held last Friday, June 24. Ngarchelong State constitution mandates a primary…
Task Force Moana deployed to Palau, CNMI for security training
CALIFORNIA (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — Task Force Koa Moana 22 is deployed to the Indo-Pacific to conduct security cooperation activities in Palau and the Northern Mariana Islands from…
Orrukem nominated as Ambassador to Taiwan, 2 nominated to PVA Board
After a brief hiatus, President Whipps Jr. is nominating new people to fill vacancies or replace current personnel. Former Speaker of Airai State David Orrukem has been nominated…
UN Ocean Conference opens with call for urgent action to tackle ocean emergency
Spotlight on innovative and science-driven solutions for reversing ocean’s decline Lisbon, Portugal, 27 June – With climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution exacting a devastating toll on the…
Calls grow louder for U.S aid rethink in Indo-Pacific
WASHINGTON, 24 JUNE 2022 (DEVEX)—Two U.S lawmakers introduced legislation on Wednesday that aims to shift more U.S foreign aid funding to the Indo-Pacific region in response to what…
Palau establishes national emergency medical team (EMT)
24 June 2022, Suva | Training ended today for 18 members of Palau’s new national Emergency Medical Team (EMT), under a partnership with the Government of the Republic of Palau,…
Pacific Ocean Commissioner to champion Blue Pacific Ocean priorities at 2nd UN Oceans Conference
LISBON (PIF) — With the ocean at the heart of Pacific cultures, security and economies,…
Tuvalu Foreign Minister cancels trip to UN Oceans conference due to protest from China
SYDNEY (AAP) — Tuvalu’s foreign minister will land in Brisbane today after withdrawing from an…
Youth are the generation that will help save our ocean and our future, says UN chief
LISBON (UN NEWS CENTRE) — The world must do more to stop the dramatic decline…
Lemanu invites U.S President to look to American Samoa to increase U.S presence in the Pacific
PAGO PAGO (SAMOA NEWS) — As Pacific nations are seeking or signing bilateral agreements with…
Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade; states can ban abortion
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Friday stripped away women’s constitutional protections for abortion, a fundamental and deeply personal change for Americans’ lives…
Tokyo warned of power crunch as Japan endures heat wave
TOKYO (AP) — The Japanese government warned of possible power shortages Monday in the Tokyo region, asking people to conserve energy as the…
PMG 2022 ends successfully, Palau to host 2025 Games
Pacific Mini Games 2022 ended with resounding accolades by all the participating countries of the host, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas, for…
Nothing but praise for the host island
SAIPAN, 27 JUNE 2022 (MARIANAS VARIETY) — Pacific Games Council President Vidhya Lakhan on Saturday praised the NMI for successfully hosting the 2022…
Melee mayhem: Big brawl, 8 ejected, Angels top Mariners 2-1
ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — When the Angels made a late decision Sunday to go with little-used reliever Andrew Wantz as their opener on…
Sydney McLaughlin does it again, breaks own world record
EUGENE, Ore. (AP) — Olympic champion Sydney McLaughlin broke her own world record in the 400-meter hurdles at the U.S. outdoor track and…
WIOA paid over $15 million to claimants
Over 15 million dollars has been paid to claimants that applied for the Pandemic Unemployment…
Don’t forget, school resumes this July
A reminder to all parents of public school students that the regular school year resumes…
“Ng chelbengeled el rokui” says VP of self-harm
“Ng chelbengeled el rokui – it’s our responsibility,” expressed Vice President and Minister of Justice…
Koror State takes inventory of submerged water leases
Koror State Government under the direction of Governor Eyos Rudimch is taking on the full…
Palau to lift testing requirement on July 9,
Announced approval of COVID-19 vaccine for 6 months and above…
Former Ambassador Salvador passes away
Palau’s former Ambassador to Japan, Masao Salvador, passed away at…
Angaur legislature acknowledged Chris Larsen’s $1m donation
Angaur State Legislator (Olbiil Era Ngeaur), expressed their gratitude to…
Palau International Ship Registry ascends PMoU Flag State ranks at a remarkable rate
PIRAEUS GREECE – The Palau International Ship Registry’s (PISR), the world’s…
Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue launches International Advisory Council, Expanding Global Reach
06.17.2022 NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoană, Republic of Palau…
Japan hands over a new school building to PEC Gospel Kindergarten
On June 23, 2022, His Excellency KARASAWA Akira, Ambassador of…
WTO Fishing treaty to leave Pacific Island nations poorer
Opinion by Adam Wolfenden, Campaigner Pacific Network on Globalisation SUVA/GENEVA…
Big hike in number of covid cases in Nauru
YAREN (RNZ PACIFIC) —The number of active Covid-19 cases in…
U.S. lawmakers push for Asia-Pacific engagement with flurry of bills
WASHINGTON (AFR)— U.S lawmakers connected some sides of the aisle…
FSM gears up for 01 August reopening of nation’s borders
POHNPEI (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) —The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)…
Gas prices sting US workers who depend on their cars
DETROIT (AP) — High gas prices have Wallace Reid looking…
Survivors dig by hand after Afghanistan quake killing 1,000
GAYAN, Afghanistan (AP) — Survivors dug by hand Thursday through…
Bligh’s delight: Madris’ first MLB HR caps win
PITTSBURGH — The only person in the third-base dugout more excited than Bligh Madris was…
Swimming’s new transgender policy could impact other sports
Bans on transgender women in international swimming and rugby this week opened the door for…
Palau outplays Fiji, 13-3, bags 3rd baseball win
SAIPAN (MARIANAS VARIETY) —Palau notched its third consecutive baseball win in the 2022 Pacific Mini…
Judge homers twice, Yankees come back to beat Rays 5-4
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Aaron Judge hit his major…
Four Seasons extends its Hospitality Apprenticeship Program to Palau
The Four Seasons Resort at the Maldives has extended its…
Pittsburgh Pirates picks Madris, first Palauan to join US major leagues
A young Palauan Bligh Madris made history this week, becoming the first person from Palau…
Proposal to divert ⅓ NCD funds to hemodialysis treatment
High cost of hemodialysis treatment for the growing number of patients is the cited reason…
PARTIES TO THE NAURU AGREEMENT
17th Annual PNA Ministerial Meeting 17 June 2022 Communique
Ministers from Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau, and Solomon Islands met…
Ambassador Jessica Lee attended ground breaking ceremony of the Taiwan Technical Mission’s Poultry and LIvestock Project in Aimeliik
Ambassador Jessica Lee of the Embassy of the Republic of China…
PICRC Supports First Ever Rubekul Belau Forum
The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) was proud to support Palau’s traditional leadership last week during the first ever Rubekul Belau Forum. The Forum, titled “Resilient Palau”, explored how the Rubekul Belau…
Corporate Partner for conservation donates to PCS
The company is built upon a foundation of sustainable stewardship of safe and…
Globus, Inc., renews commitment to PCS
On June 16th, 2022, Globus, Inc. renewed their commitment to Palau Conservation Society…
CLYDESDALE HORSE (Harnessed Strength)
If you’re the smartest person in the room, then you’re in the wrong…
Pew pleased with WTO for agreeing to curb harmful fisheries subsidies
GENEVA (PEW)—The Pew Charitable Trusts said it was pleased that World Trade Organisation…
U.S, Marshalls aim for Compact wrap-up by year end
MAJURO (MARIANAS VARIETY) —United States and Marshall Islands leaders said after completing the first round of…
Exercise Valiant Shield wraps up
The largest military exercise ever held in Palau after WWII…
Investigation of the missing Chinese woman focuses on KB Bridge
Palau law enforcement’s investigation into the missing Chinese woman Yumei…
Pohnpei acting governor, other state officials charged and arrested for bungling quarantine rules
POHNPEI, 20 JUNE 2022 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — Five Pohnpei officials, including the…
Global Trade Agreement on Fisheries subsidies protects big fishing fleets
GENEVA, 20 JUNE 2022 (PANG) — The meeting of Trade Ministers at the…
How much for gas? Around the world, pain is felt at the pump
COLOGNE, Germany (AP) — At a gas station near the Cologne, Germany, airport,…
Philippine government attorney fatally shot in Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Philippine officials on Monday were mourning a government attorney fatally…
Bitcoin inches up above psychological threshold of $20,000
OAKLAND, California (AP) — The price of a bitcoin inched above $20,000 on…
Palau Team 22 First Week Wins Based on FOCUS!
With exciting days of the 22 Mini Pacific Games in Saipan, and an…
Palau routs NMI in baseball
By: James Sablan Jr. (Marianas Variety) PALAU leads the 2022 Pacific Mini Games…
World swimming bans transgender athletes from women’s events
BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) — World swimming’s governing body has effectively banned transgender women…
Papua New Guinea women win gold in tennis
SAIPAN, 20 JUNE 2022 (MARIANAS VARIETY)—The Papua New Guinea women’s team won the 2022 Pacific Mini Games gold medal in tennis by beating Fiji on Saturday at …
Eielson F-35As Bring ‘Lightning’ to Palau during Valiant Shield 22
By Senior Airman Jose Miguel Tamondong 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs KOROR, Palau (U.S. Indo-Pacific Command)– Three F-35A Lightning IIs assigned to the 354th Air Expeditionary Wing (AEW)…
‘If your titles die out, so will our Palauan culture’: Toribiong
Johnson Toribiong, former President and former chief Ngiraked of Airai, called upon the traditional chiefs of Palau to strengthen their positions and titles as traditional leaders, otherwise,…
“It was for a good cause” in defense of Benedicta Kebekol
“It was for a good cause and with good intentions,” said Yuki Gibbons, speaking for her mother, Benedicta Kebekol, who was sued by Tikei Kebekol, administrator of…
Wilhelm R. Rengiil Memorial Scholarship Launched at PCC
On June 01, 2022 PCC President Dr. Patrick U. Tellei received a $10,000 donation from Ms. Kiyoko K. Rengiil and her daughter Attorney General Ernestine Rengiil, the family of late Mellachelbeluu Wilhelm R. Rengiil, to officially launch a PCC Based Memorial Scholarship in his honor. Mr. Rengiil not only believes in education but also a…
US Dept. of Education approves another 5-Year Grant for PCC Upward Bound
The Palau Community College earlier this week received notice from the US Department of Education that its recently submitted Upward Bound Program grant proposal request has been approved for funding. According to Upward Bound Program Director Larry Wakakoro, the current funding cycle for the program ends in august this year, and this funding news from…
Deployment of a new wave buoy in Palau to improve monitoring of ocean conditions
14 June 2022 (Koror, Palau) – A new Waverider buoy was recently deployed in Palau through an international collaboration. The data collected from the buoy…
Honoring Fathers
It is a wise father who truly knows his child. -Anonymous The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise…
Pacific Islands Forum should consider China security ties, Samoa PM says
WELLINGTON (REUTERS/AAP) — China’s bid to set up a security pact with Pacific Island Countries…
Pacific engaged on security rethink: NZ
WELLINGTON (AAP) — New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta has welcomed the prospect of a…
End of Covid testing for arrivals Guam tourism’s outlook
HAGÅTÑA (THE GUAM DAILY POST) — Travellers from Japan, Korea, Taiwan, the Philippines and other foreign countries are…
‘We must protect the sanctity of our solidarity’ – as Blue Pacific Continent: Forum SG
SUVA (PACNEWS) — Forum Secretary General Henry Puna says the Pacific ‘must protect the sanctity of our solidarity’…
FDA advisers endorse 1st COVID-19 shots for kids under 5
The first COVID-19 shots for U.S. infants, toddlers and preschoolers moved a step closer Wednesday. The Food…
US, Germany sending weapons to Ukraine as Russia advances
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — The Russian military said it used long-range missiles Wednesday to destroy a depot…
Warriors lean on history with a chance to close out Celtics
BOSTON (AP) — Stephen Curry and the Warriors have been within a…
WNBA star Sue Bird says 2022 will be her final season
Seattle Storm star and five-time Olympic gold medalist Sue Bird announced Thursday the 2022…
Palau good prototyping ground for finance innovation: Binance CEO Zhao
Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao says Palau is a good “prototyping ground” for…
George Kebekol’s Estate sues Koror State for $40 million
The Estate of George Kebekol, through its administrator Tikei Kebekol sued Koror State Government, the former Governor…
First Rubekul Belau’s Traditional Leaders’ Forum Today
Koror – JUNE 14, 2022- The Rubekul Belau’s (Palau Council of Chiefs) First Traditional Leaders’ Forum, themed…
Court ruling on 14th Peleliu legislature case to be challenged
The trial court on June 6th issued a ruling in favor Peleliu Legislator Billy Rekemel and his…
Victims of Crime Hotline Opens 24/7
Victims of Crime Advocate (VOCA) services is now ready to help the members of the public that…
I MEF commands and controls first-ever HI-RAIN on Angaur
PALAU Story by Gunnery Sgt. Charles McKelvey I Marine Expeditionary Force …
President Whipps meets with Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister Ahmed A. Al Khateeb
His Excellency Ahmed Aqueel Al Khateeb, Minister of Toursim of…
Two recent high school graduates receive “Japan Ambassador’s Award”
On Tuesday, June 7, 2022 Mr. Caley Sumios Adolf of…
Keep readingAnghel Salii Ceremony Held (Blengur) as Chief Dib
According to report by Adelbai Ra Tmiu, Jackson Henry, on June 11, 2022, the Palau traditional ceremony of Blengur was held at…
Yearning Heart
As nature takes its course, I stand poised and watched the sun sinking beyond the horizon, in the twilight hour…
HEADLINE: See Your House Before You Leave It
DEK: A High School Student Contemplates the First Steps Toward Environmental Responsibility By: Takami Mekaeb Akitaya One thing I never…
Pacific’s ability to manage own fish stocks at risk under current WTO text
GENEVA/SUVA, 13 JUNE 2022 (PANG)—-The ability of Pacific Island Countries to manage their fish stocks are at risk if the…
China accuses U.S of trying to ‘hijack’ Pacific region
SINGAPORE, 13 JUNE 2022 (SKY NEWS) —China’s Defence Minister has lashed out at the United States saying it is trying…
Maritime students send special SOS to upcoming UN Ocean Conference
ALEXANDRIA, 13 JUNE 2022 (UN NEWS CENTRE) — At first, they look like bright…
Big boost to plan to tackle child malnutrion in the Marshall Islands
MAJURO, 13 JUNE 2022 (RNZ PACIFIC)—Ongoing efforts to address a child malnutrition crisis in…
The battle of Donbas could prove decisive in Ukraine war
Day after day, Russia is pounding the Donbas region of Ukraine with relentless artillery…
Japan toughens defamation penalties after wrestler’s suicide
TOKYO (AP) — Japan’s parliament approved tougher penalties for criminal…
Palau Team 22 in Saipan and Ready for the Games!
On early Saturday morning June 11th, Palau Team 22 all…
Inside the Finals: Celtics fit to be tied, Steph raining 3s
The NBA Finals are tied at 2-2. If that sounds…
Pacific Mini Games athletes from 6 countries arrive on Saipan
SAIAPAN, 13 JUNE 2022 (MARIANAS VARIETY)—The athletes of six of…
Binance CEO Zhao “CZ” to meet OEK members today
The founder and CEO of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, Binance, Changpeng Zhao, known as “CZ’ is…
Vice President Senior joins the Virtual Inaugural Pacific Islands Forum Women Leaders Meeting
Vice President J. Uduch Sengebau Senior attended the virtual inaugural Pacific Islands Forum Women Leaders Meeting on…
“Ngdi teketekel ma terrudel” says Rubekul Belau of PNMS proposed amendment
“Ngdi teketekel ma terrudel”, said Rubekul Belau (Palau Council of Chiefs) citing a Palauan adage that means…
Cost of fuel and power reaches an all-time high
The cost of fuel and power in Palau is reaching an all-time high. The cheapest gasoline on the island…
There’s enough data now for marine spatial planning – Senator Sengebau
“There is enough available data now to do a marine spatial planning,” stated Senator Umiich Sengebau, also a former…
Celtics beat Warriors 116-100, take 2-1 lead in NBA Finals
BOSTON (AP) — Throughout the postseason, the Boston Celtics had played their best basketball away from home. Not anymore.…
Simone Biles, other women seek $1B-plus from FBI over Nassar
DETROIT (AP) — Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles and dozens of other women who say…
Palau looks at improving border management
(Koror, Palau) 01 June 2022 – The Government of Palau has taken active steps to…
PCRIC secures €10M donation from Germany to assist with premium financing
Cook Islands, 9 June 2022: The Pacific Catastrophe Risk Insurance Company (PCRIC) CEO, Mr. Aholotu…
Peleliu State, MAFE, and GEF6 Partners celebrate improved, informative trail at the MVP Forest of Hope
Happy and excited community and friends of Peleliu State gathered on Friday, June 3rd to…
World Oceans Day
– UN Message from Secretary General, Antonio Guterres NEW YORK (UNRCO) — Last month, the World Meteorological Organisation revealed that four key climate indicators broke new records in…
Biden envoy to visit Marshall Islands as U.S concerns grow about China’s Pacific push
WASHINGTON (REUTERS) — U.S President Joe Biden’s special envoy for talks with three tiny but strategically important Pacific island nations will lead a delegation to the Marshall Islands…
Guam faces fierce abortion debate as election looms
HAGATNA (ABC) — Since 2018 Guam has been without a doctor willing to do surgical abortions. Guam is predominantly Catholic, a church that is pro-life, and in the…
Micronesian members will stay in Pacific Islands Forum
By Samantha Magick SUVA (ISLANDS BUSINESS) — “I think that big dark, dark cloud that has been hanging over the…
Thailand makes marijuana legal, but smoking discouraged
BANGKOK (AP) — Thailand made it legal to cultivate and possess marijuana as of Thursday, like a dream come true…
The Supreme Court may take territories off the map of the U.S
More than 3 million Americans occupy a weird space in the world’s political geography. That could soon change. By Scot…
Blue Prosperity Plan bill passed in supplemental budget
House of Delegates passed the Blue Prosperity Plan bill in the FY 2022 Supplemental Budget, amending the Palau National Marine Sanctuary Act with 10 yes and 4 no votes. The bill passed its 3rd and final reading…
President Whipps joins Pacific Island Forum’s Leaders meeting
President Surangel Whipps Jr. left on Sunday to attend the Pacific Island Forum’s Leaders’ first in-person meeting in Suva, Fiji this week, Minister Charles Iyar of MPII – Ministry of Public Infrastructure and Industry said yesterday. Among…
Second submarine fiber optic cable laid
Belau Submarine Cable Corporation (BSCC) celebrated the next segment of the second submarine cable project laying from Ngardmau State port yesterday. The vessel Strider, a specialized cable-laying vessel, started the pre-shore laying early Monday morning. The submarine…
Ambassador Kyota: ‘U.S military presence in Palau is a good sign’
WASHINGTON/HAGÅTÑA (THE GUAM DAILY POST) — The U.S military will hold its first Patriot live-fire exercise in the Republic of Palau on 15 June. Air Defence Artillery…
National Security Office issues National Security Strategy
A National Security Strategy was submitted to the leadership of Congress (Olbiil era Kelulau) by President Surangel Whipps Jr. on June 3 saying it implements this year’s…
Bul ra Kemais Restoration Project
On Saturday, May 28, 2022, the Bdelul La’Arkemais (BLA) Organization continued with Day 3 of the Bul ra Kemais Restoration Project that began two weeks ago on…
Ngebuked helps with Choll’s restoration of the marina
Ngaraard State consist of five main villages and is famous axiom, “ng belual techang a Kerradel?”, which is roughly translated to “whose home, in this case village,…
Bank of Guam® Names 2022 IFIT Scholarships
Bank of Guam announced the selection of 5 Ifit Scholars. Each recipient will be awarded $2,000 to be used towards any 4-year accredited college or university. Hagåtña,…
PAWS and KSG Animal Shelter: Working together to bring Mobile Spay/Neuter services to Ngermid
Palau Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) and Koror State Animal Shelter working with Ngermid legislator Tito Ringang and hamlet volunteers, organized a successful mobile spay/neuter clinic in Ngermid on May 31 and June 1. Many residents took advantage of this opportunity to bring their dogs and cats to Taoch ra Mechang for surgery. This service is…
FOUR HUNDRED and NINETY
Forgiveness is greater than vengeance. Compassion more powerful than anger. -THOMAS MANN (Joseph, Son of…
The Silent Majority
by Alonzo Kahalic alkahalic6801@gmail.com Dear Editor, today’s article is about Political Spin. Political spin, in…
Recent foreign ministry visits to the Pacific: Transparency International calls for strengthening Teieniwa anti-corruption vision
As Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visits Pacific Islands, governments in the region must focus…
US$15 Million in extra support for Solomon Islands to continue Financial Management and Anti-Corruption reforms
WASHINGTON/HONIARA (WORLD BANK) — The World Bank will bolster efforts to strengthen financial management, address…
Each FSM State to receive a Japanese patrol boat to promote near-shore security
POHNPEI (PACNEWS) — Federated States of Micronesia’s Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Kandhi Elieisar and the…
Australian court makes Google pay $515,000 for defamation
CANBERRA, Australia (AP) — An Australian court on Monday ordered Google to pay a former…
1st Initial Meeting for 2025 Pacific Mini Games, Palau and Chairmanship vested to Dr. Patrick Tellei from the membership
On Friday, June 3rd, 2022, the Organizing Committee for the 2025 Pacific Mini Games held their…
Tatum gets no help, Celtics routed in Game 2 of NBA Finals
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Jayson Tatum found his scoring touch after a rare poor shooting night…
Japan and Brazil linked by soccer, baseball and immigration
OIZUMI, Japan (AP) — Brazil’s national soccer team is a draw wherever it plays, often a…
Bennett, Young join Tonga coaching staff
Wayne Bennett is set to join the Mate Ma’a Tonga coaching staff for the upcoming Test…
US military to hold first live-fire Patriot missile exercise in Palau
The US military will conduct its first live-fire drill firing Patriot missiles during its first air defense exercise in Palau this June. This will be the first time that the exercise is done in Palau and the second one fired west of the International Dateline An estimated 500 to 800 US soldiers from the 1st…
Ngchesar State endorses deep-water petroleum refinery and refueling plant
Ngchesar State Government recently endorsed a proposal to build a deep-water petroleum refinery plant and port in Ngchesar State. The presentation by Belau LLC to the House of Delegates in…
Removal of Day 4 COVID testing eases tourism recovery efforts
Palau removed the Day 4 COVID-19 testing requirement for incoming travelers in the latest directive issued by the Ministry of Health & Human Services. The easing of the COVID restrictions…
China wanted a swift diplomatic victory in the Pacific. But the region’s leaders won’t be rushed
By Stephen Dziedzic SUVA (ABC) — Henry Puna has had a torrid time of it recently. Last year, the former Cook Islands Prime Minister won a tightly contested and acrimonious…
HOPE
Hope is the thing with feathers – That perches in the soul – And sings the tune without the words – And never stops – at all – ~EMILY…
Australia to pave way for permanent residency for 3,000 Pacific workers each year
SYDNEY (ABC)—Labor mobility experts say a plan by the new Australian government to offer a visa that will pave the way for permanent residency for thousands of Pacific Islanders will…
U.S expresses commitment to Pacific islands that rejected China pact
WASHINGTON/SUVA (NEWSWIRE/FBC NEWS) —The U.S said on Tuesday that it was committed to supporting nations in the Pacific Ocean region. The words have come just a day after ten Pacific nations rejected a pact with China. The U.S said Beijing’s own actions showed how opaque its offer was. The rejection of the pact is being…
G7 countries to stop funding fossil fuel development overseas
BERLIN (THE GUARDIAN) — The world’s biggest economies are to stop funding any overseas fossil fuel development from the end of this year, in a move likely to choke off some of the investment…
Ngarameseksikt and Seabees collaborate to clear mesei waterways
The Seabees of U.S. Civic Action Team Palau 133-30 took to the mesei in Ngarkebesang from May 23 through 26 to help the community address problems with flooding that affected homes and mesei. With…
TEAM 22 and Sports National Teams compilation met with Palau leadership
On Monday May 30th Team 22 and various sports national teams had an opportunity to meet the Palau leadership to hear strong advice and messages of courage, Team work, preserverance, and hardwork, and congratulations were…
Empty spaces, broken hearts in a Texas town gutted by loss
UVALDE, Texas (AP) — Josie Albrecht drove frantically from house to house, retracing the school bus route she drives twice a day, delivering Uvalde’s children safely to and from school. When she’d picked them up,…
Australia supports athletes travelling to Mackay
31 May 2022 — Three Palau Track and Field athletes and their coach have been invited to attend the Oceania Area Athletics Championship in Mackay, Queensland, Australia from…
Global fish subsidy talks lets those responsible for overfishing off the hook
Over 80 civil society groups from around the world have called on World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministers to ensure that global trade talks on prohibiting fisheries subsidies must…
22
PICRC Research staff Adrian Ililau receives full scholarship to attend US Coast Guard Academy
Adrian Ililau, a Research Assistant with Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC), was recently admitted to the US Coast Guard Academy on a full scholarship! Over the next four years Ililau will receive academic, military and seamanship training at the prestigious school. His program begins on June 21st at the Academy’s swearing in ceremony in…
Council of Chiefs to hold 1st Traditional Leaders Forum
Palau Council of Chiefs (Rubekul Belau) is convening the 1st Traditional Leaders Forum, gathering traditional leaders from all of the 16 states of the Republic of Palau on the 14th and 15th days of June 2022. “So much has happened since the evolution of the COVID 19 pandemic and it is important to take some…
Palau honors past presidents
Tomorrow, the 1st of June, 2022, Palau will be honoring its past and living Presidents during this national holiday, Presidents Day. President Day falls on June 1st which is the birthday of Palau’s first President Haruo I. Remeliik who was born on June 1st and died on June 30th. On June 1st, there will be…
COVID-19 boosters now available for 5 to 11-year-olds
COVID-19 vaccine boosters are now available for children 5 to 11 years old. The Ministry of Health and Human Services (MHHS) has issued a schedule for June COVID and flu vaccines. “Booster for 5…
Palauan fallen soldiers remembered and honored
On Memorial Day (US Holiday), May 30th, US Embassy in Palau recognized and honored the Palauan fallen soldiers in memorial ceremony. “On Memorial Day we honor the soldiers, sailors, airmen, airwomen, and marines, who…
Japan Coast Guard conducts training to improve Palau’s maritime security and safety capacities
The staff of Division of Maritime Security and Fish and Wildlife Protection(DMSFWP), Bureau of Public Safety(BPS) including the crew members of patrol vessel PSS KEDAM underwent intensive training to improve their maritime safety capacities…
Police Academy 28th Cadets Volunteered with the Restoration Project
Along with about 15 young men of the village showing up at the Illebei Marina for the scheduled work on the morning of May 28th, 15 young men and women from the 28th Police Academy volunteered in helping with…
Four file for Ngarchelong governorship
It is confirmed that four candidates will run for the Office of Governor of Ngarchelong State. At the close of business day yesterday, May 30, 2022, the last day to file a petition for the Office of Governor of…
PICRC study finds minimal impact of Typhoon Surigae on Palau’s reef
A new technical report from Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) has found that Palau’s western outer reefs were mostly unscathed by Typhoon Surigae. One of the strongest typhoons in recent memory, Typhoon Surigae caused almost $5 million in…
PCOC receives $36,000 funding from UNODC to continue business integrity and anti-corruption activities
KOROR, MAY 30, 2022 – The Palau Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with…
The Embassy of the Republic of China
(Taiwan) Donates to the upcoming
Palau Pledge Dive Camp
Koror, Palau – On May 26th, 2022, the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan)…
Ministry of State
On May 20, 2022, Minister of State Gustav Aitaro and Mr. Anthony Wyles-Norwegian People’s Aid…
PAWS and Koror State mobile Spay/Neuter Clinic going to Ngermid
Palau Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) in collaboration with Koror State Animal Shelter and Ngermid Legislator…
Five things you should know about the UN Ocean Conference, a chance to save the planet’s largest ecosystem
NEW YORK (UN NEWS CENTRE) —The Ocean is the planet’s…
China’s foreign minister to meet with Pacific nations amid push for sweeping regional deal
SUVA (THE GUARDIAN) —China’s foreign minister will meet with his…
Samoa signs China bilateral agreement during Pacific push by Beijing
APIA (THE GUARDIAN) —Samoa signed a bilateral agreement with China on Saturday, promising “greater collaboration”, as Beijing’s foreign minister continues a tour of the…
New women’s fund moves into high gear in Marshall Islands
MAJURO (MARIANAS VARIETY) —A recently launched Taiwan-funded small loan program for Marshall Islands women entrepreneurs has issued over US$200,000 in its first four months…
FSM not ready to reopen borders
PONPHE (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) —Federated States of Micronesia President David W. Panuelo has asked the parliament to extend the public health emergency declaration through…
As China seeks big Pacific deal, many in Fiji see benefits
SUVA, Fiji (AP) — For Georgina Matilda, working for Chinese infrastructure company China Railway means that she can put food on the table for…
Celtics reach NBA Finals, hold off Heat 100-96 in Game 7
MIAMI (AP) — Not this time. After being thwarted on the doorstep of the NBA Finals three other times in the previous five seasons, the Boston Celtics have broken through. The beasts of the…
Gurriel’s 5 RBIs best Ohtani’s 2 HRs in Jays’ win over Halos
ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Shohei Ohtani crushed two early homers, but they didn’t stand up. Not against the all-day relentlessness of the Toronto Blue Jays’ lineup, and not against the ineptitude of the Los…
Senate rejects resolution giving gov’t support to IPP
Senate in a vote of six (6) no to five (5) yes rejected the resolution giving the government’s approval to the Independent Power Purchase Agreement between Palau Public Utilities Corporation and the Independent Power…
Koror State conducts the first DCLE inspection under the new government
Koror State Government’s Department of Conservation and Law Enforcement (DCLE) held its first quarterly inspection under the new 12th Koror State Government yesterday, an event witnessed by…
75 people to attend Pacific Mini-Games in Saipan
Seventy-five people, athletes, and coaches will be attending the upcoming Pacific Mini-Games 2022 to be held in Saipan from June 17-25. According to the Palau National Olympic…
“Cigarette filters/butts are toxic to our ocean; One more reason to quit” World No Tobacco Day
“Estimated 495 tons of tobacco waste including cigarette butts and packaging waste is discarded in the Pacific islands annually and must of this toxic plastic ends up…
Entire policy shift tacked unto supplemental budget bill
A proposed FY 2022 supplemental budget bill may be able…
PVA continues marketing efforts in USA
Palau closes off the Travel & Adventure Show series at…
CoralAssist lab visits PICRC for Coral Reef Heat Tolerance and Reproduction Experiments
CoralAssist Lab, a leading coral reef research group from Newcastle…
Palau Aquarium receives donation of Giant Clam seedlings from Bureau of Fisheries
The Bureau of Fisheries has donated over four thousand giant…
FANTASTIC ABSTRACTIONS
It’s the pain and fears in our lives that make us stay in our small stories. ~ John Eldredge I’ve been studying shame for over 30 years. John Bradshaw’s book, “HEALING THE SHAME THAT BINDS YOU” and Lewis Swedes’s “SHAME and GRACE” are my favorites. They have helped me to undetand myself. We have had…
US Ambassador Niland supports Palauan athletes
Team 22 visited Ambassador Hennessey-Niland for a meet and greet with Ambassador and his wife. The Ambassador welcomed the athletes and coached to his home and expressed a message of…
Australia Day 2022- Inaugural Cricket match
May 25, 2022- The Australian Embassy hosted its Australia Day celebration on 24 May 2022 with the inaugural cricket match between the Ambassador’s Team and the President’s Team. Cricket players…
Celtics run past Heat 93-80, move a win from NBA Finals
MIAMI (AP) — The Boston Celtics know the formula. They believe their defense, as has been the case time and again in…
‘Precious individuals’ taken in Texas school shooting
UVALDE, Texas (AP) — One student was an avid runner, so fast she swept the races at field day. Another was learning…
What’s at stake for China on South Pacific visit?
BEIJING (AP) — China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi is visiting the South Pacific with a 20-person delegation this week in a display of Beijing’s growing military and diplomatic presence in the region. The U.S. has traditionally been the area’s major power, but China has been pursuing inroads, particularly with the Solomon Islands, a nation less than 2,000 kilometers…
Ministry of Health warns of contaminated peanut butter product
Ministry of Health & Human Services issued a food safety warning yesterday to the public advising them not to eat Jif Peanut Butter with Lot code numbers…
Bill to require state master plans mulled
A bill to require state master plans passed second reading in the House of Delegates on May 18th. The bill mandates that states adopt master plans and…
Peleliu opposing faction’s elected officers sworn-in
The 14th Peleliu State Legislature opposing faction’s elected officers were sworn-in to office yesterday by Justice Honora Rudimch at the…
Gov’t fundraises for its Blue Prosperity Plan
The Palau government is seeking funding from its bilateral partners to fully implement its Blue Prosperity Plan, reported President Surangel…
Sun’s Flower Shop continue to support PCS
On April 29, 2022, Palau Conservation Society (PCS) received a generous donation of $5,000 from Sun’s Flower Shop. Pictured is owner and founder, Mrs. Sandra Pierantozzi and Ms. Melissa Ueda of SPACO Finance with PCS Executive Director Michelle Ngirutang. In 1994, Mrs. Pierantozzi was one of ten visionaries who sought to create an organization that…
MHRCTD – Regional Cooperation and
Marketing between our islands
Minister Ngiraibelas Tmetuchl along with Director Kiblas Soaladaob and McMichael Mutok Jr. of the Bureau of Cul-tural and Historical Preservation Office met with Guam Historic Preservation Officer Mr. Patrick Lujan and Russ Kanai of the Guam Historic Preservation Office and our Palauan Consulate General in Guam, Ms. Adelina K. Jose.Discussions included implementing new ways of…
BSCC PC2 Project Pre-lay Shore End (PLSE) June 6th 2022
PC2 Project BSCC’s PC2 project is financed by equity sourced from Compact of Free Association funding from US Department of the Interior; debt from Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) and Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP); and grant support from USAID, the Australian Embassy, Koror and AIFFP.…
UNSEEN, UNSOUGHT, and UNCERTAIN
In her book, CAPTIVATING, Staci Eldredge writes “I know I am not alone in this nagging sense of failing to measure up, a feeling of not being good enough as a woman. Every woman I’ve ever met feels it—something deeper than just the sense of failing at what she does. An underlying, gut feeling of…
China seeks more island security pacts to boost clout in Pacific
BEIJING (THE FINANCIAL TIMES) — China is intensifying its drive for influence in the…
Nuclear expert reaffirms harm of dumping nuclear-contaminated water into ocean, calls on Japan to stop pressuring opposition voices
TOKYO (THE GLOBAL TIMES) —Experts have reaffirmed the inevitable radioactive pollution to be caused…
Labor leader Anthony Albanese to be sworn in as Australia’s new prime minister
CANBERRA (ABC)—Anthony Albanese will today be sworn in as Australia’s 31st prime minister, as…
46,000 visitors in Fiji a month
NADI, 23 MAY 2022 (FIJI TIMES)—Fiji welcomed a total of 46,000 visitors in the…
78,000 pounds of infant formula arrives in US
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — A military plane carrying enough specialty infant formula for more than…
Report: Top Southern Baptists stonewalled sex abuse victims
Leaders of the Southern Baptist Convention, America’s largest Protestant denomination, stonewalled and denigrated survivors…
Taiwan not included in launch of new Biden Indo-Pacific pact
TOKYO (AP) — President Joe Biden on Monday is expected to come…
Team 22 Rising up to the Challenge and have Raised so far $15k Plus a Vehicle to Raffle Draw on June 10th
With the Mini Games in Saipan approaching to less than a month…
Anderson’s HR hushes Yankees, lifts Chisox to twinbill sweep
NEW YORK (AP) — Tim Anderson said everything he had to say…
Simpson to swim rather than sing at the Commonwealth Games
ADELAIDE, Australia (AP) — Cody Simpson was part of the entertainment lineup…
Fiji and New Zealand the winners after a brilliant HSBC France Sevens
Fiji’s men and New Zealand’s women turned on the style to win…
PHS Class of 2022 inspired to dream
Palau High School class of 2022 received an earful of sage advice from their special guest speaker, former President Tommy E. Remengesau Jr., as they marked the end of their high school years on a high note. “Let imagination be the driving force towards our limitless future,” reads the 2022 Graduating Class AIM. “The future…
Koror State seeks $15 million loan from nat’l gov’t
Koror State Government is seeking a 15 million dollar loan…
Keep readingGov’t seeks more value from tuna fishing
Palau is looking at opportunities to get more value from…
Keep readingPatent bill passes congress
Palau national congress (Olbiil Era Kelulau) has passed a bill…
Keep readingMore study needed on rabbitfish bill- Council of Chiefs
The Council of Chiefs is urging lawmakers to conduct further study and use more science in the deliberation of the proposed bill that seeks…
Pacific Legal Network expands with new affiliate law firm in Republic of Palau
Pacific Legal Network (PLN) is pleased to announce it has expanded its coverage in Micronesia with the addition to the network of an affiliate…
PNSB sponsors interships for Palau’s future professionals
PNSB SPONSORS INTERNSHIPS FOR PALAU’S FUTURE PROFESSIONALSPalau continues to work towards providing opportunities…
MHS hires Marbou as next principal
Principal Julita T Dohorong . completes three-year term Koror, Palau, May 12, 2022.…
CNMI Governor Ralph Torres acquitted by Senate
SAIPAN (MARIANAS VARIETY) — The Republican-led Senate on Wednesday voted four to three…
Top Stories
Pacific Marines move to formalise role as the stand-in force
WASHINGTON (DEFENCE NEWS) — As China expanded the reach of its weapons throughout the South China Sea over the last decade, U.S weapons development focused on increasing the standoff range, so American forces could stay safe as an outside force shooting in. But U.S Marines in the Pacific have continued to operate inside that striking…
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 oath of office this week. “I am working with my colleagues to first see what bills they have already placed on the calendar and see if we…
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 through the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). These scholarships that are now open for applications are Research (Postgraduate), Undergraduate and Specialized…
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, the Palau Visitors Authority (PVA) team attended its first in-person tradeshow in over two years. Palau was showcased at the Scuba Show in Long Beach, California from May 14-15th, 2022. The show presents an affluent and enthusiastic number of diving clientele. Scuba Show has been…
8
UH Undergrad Maikani Andres Secures Internship with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute at PICRC
Maikani Andres, a marine science major at the University of Hawaii-Hilo and former Palau…
ADAM’S PROJECT
Maturity doesn’t always come with age or how long you’ve been going to church.…
Solomon Islands, China and geographic metaphors
By Robert Underwood HAGATNA, 13 MAY 2022 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — A recently signed…
Cook Islands worker ‘exodus’ causes problems
RAROTONGA (COOK ISLANDS NEWS) — A Rarotongan businessman is claiming that New Zealand recruitment…
Tuvalu, sinking in the Pacific, fears becoming a superpower ‘pawn’
FUNAFUTI (REUTERS) — Tuvalu fears that climate change, an existential threat to the Pacific…
Solomon Islands opposition MP raises concern over blue economy MOU with China
HONIARA (SOLOMON TIMES ONLINE) — Solomon Islands Opposition member and MP for West Makira…
Russian war effort runs into diplomatic, military hurdles
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — With its military bogged down in a grinding conflict in…
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…
Doncic leads Mavs over Suns 123-90 in Game 7 blowout
PHOENIX (AP) — It was no surprise when Luka Doncic looked ready for Game…
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,…
More than 1000 athletes to compete in Pacific Mini Games
SAIPAN, 16 MAY 2022 (RNZ PACIFIC)—A total of 1034 athletes…
Up to 800 military personnel to participate in Valiant Shield exercise next month
Between 500 to 800 US military personnel will participate in…
Public bus transport system to launch May 25th
A public bus transport system is being launched, with the…
Laws give SSA conflicting mandates
Current laws are giving the Palau Social Security Administration (SSA)…
Japan assures Pacific Islands Forum no discharge of treated wastewater if unsafe
SUVA (PIFS) — A range of common Japan-Blue Pacific priorities,…
Tuna for food security
Ministries of Agriculture Fisheries and Environment ( MAFE) Steven Victor…
World
Whipps says PIF leaders discuss Solomon Islands security pact with China
Pacific island nations’ leaders sought clarity from the Solomon Islands regarding its security deal with China, President Surangel Whipps Jr. told reporters on Wednesday. He however said after Pacific Islands Forum leaders met with the Solomon Island leader they believe that “Solomon Islands was being very transparent with what their intentions were.” The president did not share details about the discussion regarding the security pact ,…
Whipps confident tourism will rebound by year-end
“For sure by the end of the year, tourism should be back to normal,” said President Surangel Whipps Jr. of the tourism outlook for Palau in the coming year. Looking at the COVID-19 trends in Asia, President Whipps expressed optimism that the Palau key tourist markets will be re-opening soon. Palau gets most of its visitors from Asian countries, particularly Japan, Taiwan, and Korea. …
May focused on mental and emotional health through proclamations
The first two weeks of May focused attention on health awareness through three (3) Presidential Proclamations, the Palau National Nurses Week (May 6 to 12), National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day (May 8), and National Prevention Week (May 8 to 14). Presidential Proclamation 22-320, proclaims May 6 to 12 as Palau’s National Nurses Week coinciding with the American Nurses Association theme of “Nurses Make…
Taiwan’s COVID-19 containment strategy utilizing innovative technology and universal health coverage
Dr. Shih-Chung ChenMinister of Health and WelfareRepublic of China (Taiwan) Two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 510 million confirmed cases and more than 6.25 million deaths have been reported around the world. As nations continue to battle the pandemic, Taiwan’s achievements have been widely recognized. As of May 10, 2022, about 390,000 confirmed cases and 931 deaths had been reported in 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 Anniversary Organizing Committee (NNR AOC) and Melekeok State, along with citizens and leadership of Melekeok, gathered to celebrate its oldest and wisest residents. The morning began with a tree planting at Ungilmood market in Ngerulmud, in honor of the senior citizens. Afterwards, the elderly listened to remarks by Reklai Bao Ngirmang, Governor Henaro Polloi,…
Peleliu Elementary School students visit Ngerikiil Water Source
As part of PCC’s Educational Talent Search Program, 8th graders from Peleliu Elementary School visited Ngerikiil water source on April 29, 2022. The Ngerikiil river along with Ngerimel dam are the two main water sources for Koror and Airai. Water from these two sources is treated at the Koror-Airai Water Treatment Plant in Ngeruluobel before being distributed to almost 5,000 residences in Koror and…
Mental Health Disorders & Community
Watching the Palau Presidential Conference dated 04 May 2022, a topic was discussed, which hit close to home and that is Mental Health Disorders. Mental health disorders vary in types and levels. This article is about sharing information to enlighten the community about mental health issues. Some common mental health disorders are: Anxiety Disorder.Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)Bipolar Disorder.Depression.Eating DisorderPsychosis.Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders.Post-Traumatic Stress…
Crypto comes to Washington. Will the millions buy influence?
WASHINGTON (AP) — Erin Houchin braced for the worst when a mysterious, well-financed group started buying television ads last month in her highly competitive southern Indiana congressional race. Houchin assumed she would face a negative blitz, like the one that crushed her in 2016 when she ran for the same seat. But, in fact, the opposite happened. American Dream Federal Action, a super PAC…
North Korea confirms 1st COVID outbreak, Kim orders lockdown
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea imposed a nationwide lockdown Thursday to control its first acknowledged COVID-19 outbreak after holding for more than two years to a widely doubted claim of a perfect record keeping out the virus that has spread to nearly every place in the world. The size of the outbreak wasn’t immediately known, but it could have serious consequences because…
John Kerry warns a long Ukraine war would threaten climate efforts
WASHINGTON, 11 MAY 2022 (THE GUARDIAN) — The longer the war in Ukraine carries on, the worse the consequences will be for the climate, the U.S presidential envoy John Kerry has warned. Many countries are struggling with an energy crisis while also urgently needing to cut greenhouse gas emissions to limit global heating to 1.5C, he said. “If it’s a long period of time,…
Billboard
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 acknowledge Palau Red Cross Society’s (PRCS) continued efforts providing support services to community members and those most in need. In May 2020, the Australian Government partnered with the PRCS by providing AUD17,500 to support COVID-19 public communication efforts including volunteer training and printing and…
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 on Japan’s Foreign Minister, Yoshimasa Hayashi, who is visiting Fiji and Palau this week, to reconsider Japan’s plans to dump over one million tonnes of radioactive waste into the Pacific Ocean as early as next year. According to the Japanese Government, Minister Hayasi will…
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 Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) certification. This credential is the gold standard in Anti-Money Laundering (AML) certifications and recognized internationally by financial…
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 to begin an ocean acidification fellowship at the University of Hawaii. The two-and-a-half-month fellowship will provide Otto and Mesengei with the expertise they need to operate a new state-of-the-art ocean acidification (OA) monitoring lab at PICRC. …
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 the control of a native species called cheuais in Lake Ngardok. The plant cheuais (hanguana malayana) is a tall grass which has grown in the lake for years,…
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 Committee, tree planting started that morning with Ngaramecherocher, the men’s club of Melekeok, planting 125 tree seedlings at Bertakl, a section of Ngardok Nature Reserve that is made…
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, longtime supporters of PCS and its mission to protect Palau’s unique, natural environment. Dr. Samir Patel and his wife first came to Palau in 1991 where they spent…
Military Relations Senior Missionaries Senior missionaries called to support military members
Near the north point on the island of Guam is Andersen Air Force Base (AAFB). Along the south-west coast is Navy Base Guam. These military bases are home for many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These active-duty military members often spend many weeks or months deployed and away from home. Church meetings…
Pacific Hackathon final winners
Suva, Fiji (22 July 2022) – The Pacific Islands Chapter of the Internet Society (PICISOC) in association with Pacific Island Association of NGOs (PIANGO), the European Union Funded UNDP Public Finance Management Project and other supporting partners kicked off the Pacific’s first-ever Hackathon to find an ICT based solution to “Amplify Pacific Voices”. PIANGO, the…
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 Belau, Vice President Sengebau, Senate President Baules ma re Senators el rokui, Speaker Anastasio ma re Delegates el rokui, Minsters, Governors, Legislators ma rechad er Belau el rokui. Mem bo kulturek e bok du cheldecheduch…
Opinion
UNESCO Global Geoparks for the Pacific
NOUMEA (SPC) — What do UNESCO Global Geoparks, the Pacific regions recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and a Pacific Community (SPC) Geologist have in common? Usually not a lot but when the 2020 Funding with Intent round was opened for applications, these three disparate things came together in a project called, Pacific Geoparks. Initiated by…
(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…
The Silent Majority
by Alonzo ‘Al’ Kahalic Dear Editor, today’s article is about PERCEPTION. PERCEPTION is, “A BELIEF OR OPINION,OFTEN HELD BY MANY PEOPLE AND BASED ON HOW THINGS SEEM” -from https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/perception It has been an interesting seven months since I last submitted the first article about what this column, wants to do for the Silent Majority in Palau. So, we will focus on our Leaders and…
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 international community. From tourists who frequent our beautiful islands to experience world-class diving, to bilateral and multi-lateral partners that help us to address emerging and existing threats to our stability, to civil society organizations that support our efforts to…
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 lands without their consent, causing irreparable harm to their livelihoods, cultures, languages and lives, speakers told the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues on Monday, as it opened its 2022 session amid calls to respect their free,…
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 crime landscape. More needs to be done to address these emerging issues multilaterally. The Boe Declaration, signed by the leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum in 2018, is…
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 an emergency plan to give them the best chance of survival, with the support of the Global Fund for Coral…
The Business Case for Building a Blue Economy in Small Island Nations
Heidi Schroderus-Fox, Acting High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing States and Small Island Developing States. As the saying goes, we know more about the surface of the moon than the seafloor of our own ocean. But perhaps not for too much longer. In recent decades, we have witnessed a dramatic rise in…
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,…
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 to sustainably rebuild their economies in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, we would do well to remember that the ocean also holds as many opportunities for resilient low-carbon growth as can be found on land. Call it the blue economy.…
Pacific leaders may be sceptical of U.S engagement
HONOLULU/WASHINGTON (EAST ASIA FORUM) —U. S Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s 12 February 2022 visit to Fiji for a virtual summit with Pacific leaders occurred shortly after the White House released its new Indo-Pacific Strategy. Blinken made no mention of China in his public comments, and, to its credit, the strategy minimises China-bashing to focus…
Strengthening the voice of Pacific fishers’
APIA (SPC) — The International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture (IYAFA 2022) was launched in the Pacific Islands, during an event today to mark the occasion by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), Pacific fishers, the Pacific Community (SPC) and INFOFISH.The IYAFA 2022 year-long regional campaign will highlight the Pacific…