MHHS moves to automate healthcare system, launches Project Olangch
Ministry of Health and Human Services moves to automate the entire healthcare system, aiming for cost-effectiveness and efficiency throughout the system…
Palau’s DMLE assists troubled vessels outside Palau’s EEZ
Palau Department of Marine Law Enforcement (DMLE) under the Ministry of Justice assisted vessels with crew troubles outside Palau’s EEZ this week. According to a report from Jeremiah…
China’s spacecraft tracking vessel encroaches Palau waters again,
Two more hanging outside the EEZ Another Chinese spy vessel entered Palau’s Exclusive Economic Zone on July 30th after it was tracked heading toward Palau’s EEZ on July…
Palau’s tourism 2022 shows recovery but still remains below pre-COVID
Palau’s tourism numbers in 2022 are seeing a recovery compared to the January to July 2021 arrivals but it still remains below the pre- COVID-19 tourists coming into…
Pacific Islands Development Program to convene 12th Pacific Islands Conference of Leaders
Pacific Islands Development Program (PIDP) at the East-West Center will convene “Puʻuhonua: The Pacific Way Forward,” the 12th Pacific Islands Conference of Leaders (PICL) September 12-14, 2022 in…
Japanese State Minister of Defense and the highest-ranking 4-star
General visited Palau to enhance security cooperation State Minister of Defense of Japan Hon. ONIKI Makoto, Chief of Staff, Joint Staff of Japan Self-Defense Forces Mr. YAMAZAKI Koji…
PATA Destination Marketing Forum Songkhla
in Thailand reaffirms position on Palau Tourism: Community and Sustainability Since 2017, Palau Visitors Authority (PVA) has been working collaboratively with respective state governments and communities through the…
Norway’s Ambassador for Sustainable Ocean set to Arrive in Palau
Palau – Statsraad Lemkuhl, one of the world’s largest and oldest square-riggers still sailing, is set to arrive in Palau on 25 August 2022. The vessel is currently on One…
US Based Non-Profit, Save the Bees, Inc., donates $2,000 to help the beekeepers of Palau
On August 09, 2022, Beekeepers Tobias Marbou and Conti Marbou were presented a check for…
The Silent Majority
by Alonzo Kahalic alkahalic6801@gmail.com Dear Editor, Continuing from last month’s article about questions, here are…
UN trade body calls for halting cryptocurrency rise in developing countries
NEW YORK (UN NEWS CENTRE) — The UN trade and development body, UNCTAD, has called…
COMBAT STRESS and GUARD YOUR HEART.
Expectation is resentment in the make. To evade resentment you need to lower your expectations.…
Pacific can be a leader in carbon capture
PORT VILA (PACNEWS) — With the high rise in fuel prices across the region due…
Forum Economic Officials Meeting discuss supporting economic recovery and stability for the region
By Pita Ligaiula in Port Vila PORT VILA (PACNEWS) — “The socio-economic fallout of the pandemic, a complex geopolitical environment and the enduring…
RMI reports first coronavirus death; Marshallese worried over Covid spike
MAJURO (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — After two years of being a coronavirus-free country, the Marshall Islands has moved into the “red” category and…
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare’s government wants to delay election due to Pacific Games
HONIARA (ABC NEWS/REUTERS) — A leading Solomon Islands opposition MP has called on Australia to offer funding to try and ensure the country…
Afghan man charged in killing of 2 Muslims in Albuquerque
Police announced a breakthrough Tuesday in the killings of four Muslim men in Albuquerque, New Mexico, charging a man from Afghanistan — himself…
Taiwan warns China military drills show ambitions to control western Pacific
TAIPEI (AP) — Taiwan warned Tuesday that Chinese military drills aren’t just a rehearsal for an invasion of the self-governing island but also…
Serena Williams says ‘countdown has begun’ to retirement
Saying “the countdown has begun,” 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams announced Tuesday she is ready to step away from tennis so she can turn her focus…
Tagovailoa on Miami tampering with Brady: “I’m still here”
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Tua Tagovailoa would rather chat with Tom Brady than answer questions…
Japan’s State Minister of Defense visits Palau
Japan’s State Minister of Defense Oniki Makoto is visiting Palau and is meeting with Vice…
Whipps receives an honorary doctorate degree
President Surangel Whipps Jr. received an honorary doctorate from his alma mater, Andrews University, a…
Police lieutenant charged with a felony
The Office of Attorney General has charged police lieutenant Jonie Ngeluk with a felony charge…
Russian invasion of Ukraine impacts Pacific commodity prices
The Russian invasion of Ukraine have “relatively little direct impact” on the…
Assault charges waived under a deferred prosecution
The assault charge filed against Director of Corrections Ricky Ngiraked…
Former state treasurer refutes approving funds expended by former gov Ngirutang
Former governor and treasurer of Angaur State Ken Uehara said…
Portsmouth-based HMS Tamar is first Royal Navy warship in almost 100 years to visit the Republic of Palau – after HMS Bluebell’s 1925 arrival
A Portsmouth-based ship has become the first British warship to…
Evolution: Torres Strait Mask Exhibition in Palau
An exhibition of striking masks celebrating the rich and continuing…
Ministry of Education partners up with Palau Pledge: Dive Camp
Koror, Palau – FRIENDS of the Palau National Marine Sanctuary…
Marine Biologist Greta Sartori joins PICRC from Italy as New Researcher
The Palau International Coral Reef Center is happy to welcome…
KeledANgercheled and Tax Reform Workshop at Thursday’s Farmer’s Market at Ernguul Park
Palau’s farmers, fishers, and food producers will be selling their…
‘Blatant exploitation’: Pacific workers packed in freezing, damp rooms for $150 a week in New Zealand
BLENHEIM, (STUFF NZ) — Migrant horticulture workers in New Zealand…
U.S President Joe Biden to host White House Pacific island summit
NUKU’ALOFA (AFP) — U.S President Joe Biden will host Pacific…
Japanese sailor stabbed during remembrance ceremony in Honiara
HONIARA (RNZ PACIFIC) — A Japanese sailor has been stabbed…
FSM tells U.S and China to calm down
POHNPEI, 08 AUGUST 2022 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — Seeking to…
Marshall Islands eyes Micronesia as border opening looms
MAJURO (MARIANAS VARIETY) — With the border opening looming in the Marshall Islands, there is…
China extends threatening military exercises around Taiwan
BEIJING (AP) — China said Monday it was extending threatening military exercises surrounding Taiwan that…
Japan tech giant SoftBank posts $23 billion quarterly loss
TOKYO (AP) — Japanese technology company SoftBank Group posted a $23.4 billion loss in the…
China’s Hainan beach resort expands COVID-19 lockdowns
BEIJING (AP) — The capital of China’s Hainan province has…
Dodgers beat Padres 4-0, make statement with 3-game sweep
LOS ANGELES (AP) — A few days after the Padres…
Orioles run winning streak to 5 with 6-3 win over Pirates
BALTIMORE (AP) — On a day the Orioles welcomed Eddie…
Russian tennis players collect 3 titles at US Open tuneups
WASHINGTON (AP) — It was quite a week for Russia’s professional…
Ambassador Lee ROP-Taiwan statement calling China to exercise self-restrain
Ambassador Jessica Lee of the Republic of China-Taiwan to the Republic of Palau issued a…
OEK leaders seek funding support for SS and Pension
Senate President Hokkons Baules and House Speaker Sabino Anastacio have tasked the Ways and Means…
Chief Ngirblekuu of the DMSFWP collaborates with Philippines maritime
Chief Temdik Ngirblekuu of the Division of Maritime Security and Fish…
Palauan son overcomes injustice with faith
Exuding positive energy, optimism, and a sense of peaceful existence, one…
New bill puts teeth to human smuggling and trafficking law
A Senate bill is seeking an update of the Anti-People Smuggling and Trafficking Act law to bring it in line with international law and give it more teeth to fight against human smuggling and trafficking …
Former Angaur Governor apologizes to people of Angaur
Former Angaur Governor Marvin Ngirutang met with the people of Angaur last Tuesday…
Establishment of the National Security Coordinator Office eyed
A bill has been introduced calling for the establishment of an Office of…
Police officers to obtain AS in Criminal Justice degrees at PCC
Eleven (11) in-service police officers will enroll at Palau Community College this fall…
Carmen G. Cantor Sworn in as Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs
WASHINGTON — Carmen G. Cantor was sworn in today as Department of the Interior…
Familiar Faces: U.S. Marines with Task Force Koa Moana 22 return to Palau to continue efforts
KOROR, Republic of Palau – U.S. Marines and Sailors with Task Force Koa Moana 22 have…
Homeowner expects savings from solar home energy system
The first homeowner to switch on a solar home energy…
Despite economy contracting, Palau is still a high-income nation
Palau still remains within the World Bank’s grouping of high-income…
CFC Migrants Program conducts moral values program
CFC Migrants Program answers the call of the gospel in giving courage and…
Japan Embassy’s Twitter followed by 50,000, ranked No.1 worldwide
The Embassy of Japan in the Republic of Palau is celebrating another milestone…
PAWS & Koror State Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinic going to Ngerkesoal
Palau Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) in collaboration with Koror State Animal Shelter and…
Pacific Elders’ Voice statement in support of Vanuatu-led initiative seeking ICJ Advisory opinion on Climate Change
MELBOURNE (PEV) — The Pacific Elders’ Voice (PEV) congratulates the Pacific Island Forum…
Pacific nations are extraordinarily rich in critical minerals. But mining them may take a terrible toll
By Nick Bainton, Emilka Skrzypek SYDNEY (THE CONVERSATION) — Plundering the Pacific for…
CARPOOL, CHARM SCHOOL & ENDURANCE
In some ways suffering ceases to be suffering at the moment it finds…
UN chief slams ‘immoral’ profiteering amid global energy crisis
NEW YORK (UN NEWS CENTRE) — As the war in Ukraine continues to…
Pacific Island countries face catastrophic debt
SUVA (FBC NEWS) — The effects of climate change is causing Pacific Islands,…
Solomon Islands pre-cautionary approach to deep sea mining
HONIARA (SOLOMON STAR) —-The Solomon Islands Government through the Ministry of Mines and Energy will be taking pre-cautionary approach when it comes to opening up the country…
Construction begins at Fukushima plant for water release
TOKYO (AP) — The construction of facilities needed for a planned release of treated radioactive wastewater into the sea next year from the damaged Fukushima nuclear power…
US-China ties on a precipice after Pelosi visit to Taiwan
Pelosi received a rapturous welcome in Taipei and was applauded with strong bipartisan support in Washington, despite the Biden administration’s misgivings. But her trip has enraged Beijing and Chinese…
Nauru confirmed as host of 2026 Micronesian Games
The Micronesian Games Council (MGC) confirmed Nauru will host the 2026 Micronesian Games during a virtual meeting held Saturday, 23 July. The MGC voted unanimously on the…
Marlins’ Sandy Alcantara throws MLB-most 3rd complete game
MIAMI (AP) — Sandy Alcantara threw his major league-leading third complete game and the Miami Marlins beat the Cincinnati Reds 3-0 Wednesday night. The All-Star right-hander allowed six hits, walked one and struck out three on 105 pitches for his third career shutout. Alcantara (10-4) is the first Marlins pitcher to reach double-digit victories in…
Mickelson, others sue PGA Tour over LIV Golf suspensions
Phil Mickelson, Bryson DeChambeau and nine other players who defected to the Saudi-funded LIV Golf filed an antitrust lawsuit Wednesday against the PGA Tour, the first step in a legal fight that could define the boundaries of where players can compete. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in San Francisco, claims the PGA Tour…
Beach volleyball athletes shine spotlight on island peril
BIRMINGHAM, England (AP) — On a beautiful day in Birmingham, Tuvalu’s beach volleyball team of Saaga Malosa and Ampex Isaac had fans and officials…
Palau Tennis junior players makes qualification at the North Pacific Regional Championships
in Guam to Pacific Oceania Junior Tournament in September The Palau Tennis Federation junior tennis team went to Guam from July 25 to 29…
One CAT team bids farewell, another team welcomed per the COFA
A turnover ceremony was held yesterday at the Ngara-Amayong Cultural Center, marking the end of…
PVA staff and state reps attend PATA Forum in Thailand
Two Palau Visitors Authority staff and three state representatives are attending a Pacific Asia Travel…
Sunscreen products could kill corals
Chemicals in common sunscreen could kill corals, according to a recent study. Friend of the Sea, the international…
Koror Governor Rudimch designates directors upon his absence
Koror State Governor Eyos Rudimch delegated authority to each department head of the Koror State Government upon his…
Doktok, a new PVA Chairman
Palau Visitors Authority Board of Directors have appointed one of its newest member, Jackson Doktok as their…
Office of Insular Affairs announces $1.5 million in Grant Funding to the Republic of the Marshall Islands for FY2022
Supports grant management capacity, improves quality of life in the outer atolls, and supports the local Red…
PICRC and JICA Finalize Project Design for Coastal Ecosystem Management Project
The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) and the Japan International Cooperation…
Top U.S military chief visits NZ for first time, addresses China’s rising influence and climate change
WELLINGTON, 01 AUGUST 2022 (NZ HERALD)—The top United States military chief for…
Guam commits supplies, treatments to aid FSM with first Covid-19 wave
HAGATNA, 01 AUGUST 2022 (THE GUAM DAILY POST)—- Guam will help a…
BOB DYLAN To Make You feel My LOVE
We have all been rejected… some of us have loved and lost. We all need to love…
Octopus lures from the Mariana Islands found to be oldest in the world
MAJURO (SCIENCE DAILY) —An archaeological study has determined that cowrie-shell artifacts found throughout the Mariana Islands were…
Australia urged to intervene as China tries to buy a strategic Solomon Islands port
HONIARA (ABC)—A Chinese state-owned company is negotiating to buy a deep-water port and World War II airstrip…
U.S Senate bill urges three new embassies in Pacific island nations
WASHINGTON (POLITICO)—-A bipartisan group of senators will introduce legislation to establish three new embassies in the Pacific…
Pelosi lands in Singapore to kick off Asia tour
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi…
1st ship carrying Ukrainian grain leaves the port of Odesa
ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — The first ship carrying Ukrainian grain…
Hall of Fame welcomes inspirational “Field Mouse,” Sam Mills
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Perhaps the late Sam Mills would…
Keep reading
Can Castillo help Mariners shake long postseason drought?
The Seattle Mariners’ postseason drought has stretched on for two…
Keep reading
Latest Economic report says Palau tourism recovery remains uncertain
Recovery of Palau tourism remains uncertain despite easing of COVID restriction, a high vaccination rate, according to the 2022 Palau economic brief…
High Chief Reklai facilitates support for MOJ
The beleaguered Ministry of Justice, facing accusations of police misconduct, cover-ups and internal turmoil, gets the support of High Chief…
Korean religious sect with reports of abuse builds business empire with Fiji gov’t help
(Island Times) A Korean religious sect, Grace Road Church, with repeated reports of abuses, beatings, and forced labor of its…
PPUC asks gov’t to pay KASP loan payments
Palau Public Utilities Corporation (PPUC) had asked the national government to pay the next two scheduled payments of the Koror-Airai…
New US Tuna Treaty economic assistance to increase to $3M
The economic assistance from the US Tuna Treaty with the PIF countries will go to a little over $3 million…
Election Commission certifies 20th Ngiwal Legislature election results,
Calls for Aimeliik Special election Palau Election Commission has certified the 20th Ngiwal Legislature…
New tax law to affect little over 100 businesses
Little over 100 businesses will be affected by the new tax law – Palau…
United States and Palau announce establishment of the Palau Advisory Group on Economic Reform
Fulfilling an Important Aspect of the Compact Relationship WASHINGTON – The United States and…
Office of Insular Affairs announces $528,574 in grant support to the Republic of Palau for FY2022
To conduct a HIES survey and develop physical education in…
COVID-19 response for affected poor and vulnerable groups project awarded
July 21, 2022- President Surangel Whipps Jr., Japan Ambassador Karasawa…
Palau attends Sydney Energy Forum
27 July 2022- The world’s most influential business, technology and…
New Research on Ancient DNA reveals fascinating finds about Micronesian Ancestry
by Jolie Liston A new DNA study spearheaded by archaeologists Rosalind Hunter-Anderson and Joanne Eakin and just…
Ms. Georgia Smith, An Australian volunteer supporting the Office of the Vice President
28 July 2022- Ms Georgia Smith arrived in Palau under the Australian International Volunteers Program in December…
Global economy: Outlook worsens as global recession looms – IMF
NEW YORK (UN NEWS CENTRE) —Still reeling from the COVID pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the…
FSM reports first Covid death
POHNPEI (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) —With infections rapidly surging within a week, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has reported…
Explorers hopeful they’ve found remains of rare WW2 plane
HONIARA (ABC)—Explorers may have uncovered a unique Second World War aircraft, lost in the Pacific some 80 odd years…
Negotiations in Jamaica to develop ‘risky’ deep sea mining
KINGSTON (IANS)—Negotiations have begun to develop a mining code that, if adopted, could see the largest extractive operation in…
Greenpeace urges alliance against ‘rush to open deep-sea mining
KINGSTON (STUFF NZ) —Greenpeace is urging the International Seabed Authority (ISA) to halt plans the…
Pelosi to Taiwan would be career capstone, despite warnings
WASHINGTON (AP) — House Speaker Nancy Pelosi launched her political career being tough on China — a…
Hawaii couple charged with stealing IDs of dead Texas kids
HONOLULU (AP) — A U.S. defense contractor and his wife who lived for decades under…
Tom Brady is back, but he’s hardly the only story for Bucs
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Tom Brady is back for a 23rd season, his third with…
Hall of Famers in push for baseball in cricket-mad region
BRISBANE, Australia (AP) — Two Hall of Fame baseball players are leading a push to bring the sport that made them famous to India, Pakistan and the Middle…
Nauru confirmed as host of 2026 Micronesian Games
YAREN (NAURU GOVT) —The Micronesian Games Council (MGC) confirmed Nauru will host the 2026 Micronesian Games during a virtual meeting held Saturday, 23 July. The MGC voted unanimously…
USNS Mercy hospital ship
Tour of USNS Mercy hospital ship last week with a group from newly formed disaster response group KLEMAT and seeing the oil-tanker turned into a military hospital ship…
President departs for a family vacation
President Surangel Whipps Jr. departed yesterday for a three-week vacation with his family in the United States, as announced at…
New local destination wedding planner on a roll
A new couple flew hundreds of miles to tie a marriage knot, the most memorable and life-changing experience in Palau,…
Peleliu legislature sued over Renguul title
The 14th State Legislature of Peleliu, represented by its Speaker Billy Rekemel, has been sued for accepting Eric Saburo as…
Govt to provide targeted assistance to those who need it the most
The government will provide targeted assistance and support to members of the community and sector affected by the increasing fuel prices and those yet to recover from the impacts of COVID- 19. In the press conference last…
India and Palau hold consultations post COVID
Ambassador Shri Shambhu S. Kumaran, India’s ambassador accredited to Palau, was in Palau last week, meeting with Palau’s Minister of State Gustav Aitaro, President Surangel Whipps Jr., and other officials to discuss issues of mutual interest in…
Palau and Yap Trench Expedition Team honored with reception hosted by Micronesian Voyaging Society and PICRC
Former President Tommy Remengesau, Jr., master navigator Sesario Sewralur, Victor Vescovo and the crew of the DSSV Pressure Drop gathered for a reception last Wednesday to celebrate their historic submersible dives into the Palau and Yap trenches. …
Seven students complete MOE Adult Education Program
On June 30, 2022, the Ministry of Education Adult Education Program held a graduation ceremony to recognize and award high school diplomas to seven young adults who…
PAWS & Koror State Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinic going to Iyebukel & Ngerchemai
Palau Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) in collaboration with Koror State Animal Shelter and Legislators Devon Andreas (Iyebukel) and Job R. Kikuo (Ngerchemai) will hold a Spay and…
Rotary Club of Palau hands over another obstacle playground
As part of an ongoing project to encourage active play among children and tackle obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), Rotary Club of Palau handed over to Koror…
EQPB partners with US EPA to address Chemicals in Palau
In an ongoing project to promote sound chemical management in Palau, EQPB has partnered with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) chemical experts. The team, which included U.S.…
BUOYANCY
Ships in harbor are safe but that’s not what it was built for. Sail out to sea and do new things. ~GRACE HOPPER (Grace Brewster Murray Hoppe…
“Intolerable tide” of people displaced by climate change: UN Expert
Tackling the devastating effects of extreme weather changes and disasters on communities in vulnerable situations across the world will be a top priority, the new UN expert on human rights and climate change told the Human Rights Council. “The huge human cost of the climate crisis is being ignored. We hear of disaster relief, but…
Sherman and Kennedy to visit Solomons, where fathers fought and U.S. now vies with China
WASHINGTON (REUTERS)— U.S Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman and U.S ambassador to Australia Caroline…
Kiribati will return to the Pacific Islands Forum family, says Ardern
WELLINGTON (STUFF NZ) — Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is optimistic Kiribati will return to the…
Fiji is fully booked until October
SUVA (ISLANDS BUSINESS) — Fiji’s 13,000 hotel room- inventory is fully booked until October, signalling…
Marshall Islands celebrates coronation of paramount chief
EBEYE (MARIANAS VARIETY) — Thousands of Marshall Islanders converged on Ebeye Island last week for…
Solomon Airlines announces code-share service with Air Niugini
HONIARA (SOLOMON STAR) —Solomon Airlines has announced its code-share flight services with Air Niugini between…
Pope lands in Canada, set for apologies to Indigenous groups
EDMONTON, Alberta (AP) — Pope Francis began a historic visit to Canada on Sunday to…
Jonas Vingegaard, king of the mountains, wins Tour de France
King of the mountains. Champion on the Champs-Elysees. Jonas Vingegaard blossomed from a talented rookie to…
Big Papi a big hit at his Baseball Hall of Fame induction
COOPERSTOWN, N.Y. (AP) — David Ortiz promised to speak from the heart. As usual, Big Papi…
Judge homers again as Cortes, Yankees roll past Orioles 6-0
BALTIMORE (AP) — Aaron Judge hit his major league-leading 37th home run, fellow All-Star Nestor Cortes…
High Chief Reklai bestows
Madradilochel on Vescovo
High Chief Reklai Bao Ngirmang of Melekeok bestowed a chiefly title, Mad-ra-dilochel, on Victor Vescovo, an…
Microplastics found throughout Palau’s Reefs and Beaches: PICRC
A new study from the Palau International Coral Reef Center and the Centre Scientifique de Monaco (Scientific Center of Monaco) has uncovered a sobering result: plastic pollution is everywhere on Palau’s islands, reefs and beaches. The study was coauthored by the Center’s Researcher Ikelau Otto and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Yimnang Golbuu with Drs. Eric…
Vilma Yoshiwo convictions reversed, case remanded for new trial
Vilma Yoshiwo, former Airai State Government Procurement Officer, convicted for Violations of Code of Ethics, Theft of Government Property in the First Degree, and Misconduct in Office, had her convictions…
Community Transmission of COVID-19 Detected in States of Kosrae & Pohnpei
PALIKIR, Pohnpei—On July 19th, 2022, the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) reported multiple cases of COVID-19 in the communities of the State of Kosrae and the State…
Palau, Australia, support Pacific unity
President Surangel Whipps Jr. thanked the Australian government for supporting Pacific solidarity, ensuring a face-to-face meeting of the Pacific leaders. “There’s nothing better than a face-to-face meeting, eating together and…
Bureau of Fisheries and TNC conduct FAD Fishing Training
In line with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and the Environment’s efforts to develop a domestic small-scale fishery in Palau, the Bureau of Fisheries (BoF) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC)…
Public servants urged to do their jobs
President Surangel Whipps Jr. said Wednesday, public servants should double their efforts in learning the new tax system and if not should quit if they fail to do their jobs.“…
Palau eyes tourism in Hainan Province
Palau’s tourism ministry is exploring the possibility of attracting tourists from Hainan Island, China. In the press conference Wednesday, Tourism Minister Nigari Tmetuchl said Palau is keen to open its doors to visitors from Hainan Island. Hainan, which is located in China’s southernmost province has been touted as an upcoming international destination. According to reports…
Mr. Ming Ong, An Australian volunteer supporting project Olangch at MHHS
(Press release) Mr Ming Ong arrived in Palau under the Australian International Volunteers Program in October 2021 to support the Ministry of Health and Human Services (MHHS) project to digitize health information systems. As…
U.S. Marines with Task Force Koa Moana 22 Continue Improvements on the Joint Range Complex
NGCHESAR, Republic of Palau – U.S. Marines and Sailors with Task Force Koa Moana (TFKM) 22, I Marine Expeditionary Force, continued improvements on the Joint Range Complex in Ngchesar, Republic of Palau from June…
Former President Maderngebuked descends 26,377 feet to the bottom of the Palau Trench
On July 18th, 2022, history was made. Former President Maderngebuked and Explorer Victor Vescovo as pilot, descended 8,040 meters (26,377.95 feet) in the Palau Trench, becoming the first humans to ever descend to the bottom.…
Stanton, Buxton lead AL over NL in 9th straight All-Star win
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Giancarlo Stanton homered into an especially sweet spot in his Dodger Stadium homecoming at the All-Star Game, putting his name alongside some of the sluggers he loved watching from the left…
For Ukrainian high jumper, world silver feels like gold
EUGENE, Ore. (AP) — The second-place finish at world championships was beside the point for Ukraine’s best high jumper, Yaroslava Mahuchikh. “For me, it’s gold,” she said Tuesday…
Shohei Ohtani is ‘Made In Japan’ with American adaptations
TOKYO (AP) — Shohei Ohtani is doing things no other player has ever done, a point of pride for Japanese like Fumihiro Fujisawa. Fujisawa is the president of…
22
First joint coordination committee meeting
for the Project for Strengthening Capacity in Non-Revenue Water Reduction in Palau On July 5, 2022, the Palau Public Utilities Corporation (PPUC) held its first Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) meeting for the Project for Strengthening Capacity in Non-Revenue Water Reduction in Palau. Stakeholders including PPUC, Koror State Government and Environmental Quality Protection Board (EQPB) attended…
A NGERCHOKL a NGARA RENG
“Wrinkles will only go where the smiles have been.” – Jimmy Buffet My cousin stopped by the other day to visit. In the course of our visit, he interrupted himself and said, “I need to buy some make-up for you. You gotta wear make-up so you’d look more presentable.” I laughed (thinking to myself,…
Bureau of Fisheries and TNC conduct FAD Fishing Training
In line with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and the Environment’s efforts to develop a domestic small-scale fishery in Palau, the Bureau of Fisheries (BoF) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) conducted a three-day anchored Fishing Aggregating Device (aFAD) fishing training for Ngardmau fishers. The training which was led by Erbai Yukio and Roman Mongami from…
Was China Behind Kiribati’s withdrawal from the Pacific Islands Forum?
By Martin Kwan The withdrawal makes no strategic sense for China, but Kiribati had its own reasons to exit the PIF. SYDNEY (THE DIPLOMAT)—Some speculate that Kiribati’s exit from the Pacific Islands Forum was…
WASC Accreditation of PHS and four public elementary schools
Koror, Palau—On June 2, 2022, Palau High School was officially notified by the Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC) that its current six years accreditation status is affirmed…
Towering waves in Hawaii crash into homes, barrel through wedding venue
HONOLULU (THE GUARDIAN) —Towering waves on Hawaii’s south shores crashed into houses and businesses, spilled across highways and upended weddings over the weekend. The large waves, some more than 20ft (6m) high, came from…
Falan: Yap is increasingly finding itself at the mercy of China
YAP (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) —China’s growing tentacles are crawling into Yap, former Governor Henry Falan said, alleging that the communist nation’s cash-splashing spree has influenced the state’s political affairs. In an open letter to U.S President Joe Biden, Falan…
Micronesia finally loses covid-free status
POHNPEI (MARSHALL ISLAND JOURNAL/RNZ PACIFIC) —Two of the four states in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) have reported their first community spread of covid since the pandemic began in early 2020, ending the country’s status as one of…
EU draws up energy plan in case of Russian gas cutoff
BRUSSELS (AP) — The European Union’s head office on Wednesday proposed that member states cut their gas use by 15% over the coming months to ensure that any full Russian cutoff of natural gas supplies to the bloc will…
China threatens ‘strong measures’ if Pelosi visits Taiwan
BEIJING (AP) — China will take “resolute and strong measures” should the Speaker of the…
Japan-Palau Pacific Partnership 2022
President Whipps, Vice President Uduch Senior, and ministers toured Japan Self-Defense Force Destroyer Kirisame yesterday.…
Palau Congress paves way for Blue Prosperity funding but keeps PNMS intact for now
Members of the Olbiil Era Keluau yesterday adopted amendments to the supplemental budget to pave…
Remengesau first to reach bottom of Palau Trench
Former President Tommy Remengesau Jr. returned successfully from his eight-hour trip to the bottom of…
Koror chiefs warn 30 violators of traditional titles
Koror State House of Traditional Leaders (HOTL) made up of…
FY 2023 budget proposal submitted, increases gov;’t salary
The Fiscal Year 2023 proposed annual budget was submitted to…
Palau and Tuvalu establish diplomatic relations
Palau and the country of Tuvalu signed letters to establish…
New HF radios to Boost Communication Capabilities in the Southwest Islands
Residents of the Southwest Islands in Palau were treated with a series of new High Frequency (HF) radio installations in Sonsorol, Tobi, Pulo Anna…
Australia Awards Scholarship – Open for Applications
The Australian Embassy is glad to announce the 2023 intake for the Australia Awards Scholarship. The Australia Awards Scholarships are prestigious international awards offered…
Various Exchanges between the People of Palau and the crew of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s destroyer KIRISAME
From Monday, July 11 to Tuesday, July 19, the crew of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer KIRISAME, anchored in Malakal, Koror, conducted a memorial…
THE POWER OF WORDS
A tongue is like a two edge d sword. It can produce good and bad consequences. It can bless and it can kill. Many…
The Silent Majority
by Alonzo Kahalic alkahalic6801@gmail.com Dear Editor, Today is the article to ask questions. Just to make sure we in Palau are still a ‘representative democracy’? We just say we are a democracy and but do we really understand what that means? Democracy is not just about YOUR individual freedoms it’s also about OUR public responsibility.…
Superpowers cast big shadow on Pacific forum
SUVA (RNZ PACIFIC) — There’s climate change, gender equity and Covid-19 to contend with on the Pacific stage this year, but the region’s most significant diplomatic meeting hasn’t been smooth sailing. Unity and family are key words at the Pacific Islands Forum in Suva this week, but no shows by some island states and the…
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Withdrawal from the Pacific Islands Forum is least of Kiribati’s problems
SUVA (STUFF NZ) — Safe drinking water in the Pacific nation of Kiribati is in short supply, the United Nations has warned. And supplies could reach critical levels within the next month under the…
Marshall Islands gears for joining Covid world
MAJURO (MARIANAS VARIETY) — A hastily called Covid Summit last week in Majuro publicly announced the Marshall Islands government’s intention to eliminate after 01 October the managed quarantine system that has been required for…
Unexpected sea surges slam into Cook Islands and Tahiti
RAROTONGA/TAHITI (RNZ PACIFIC) — An unexpected weather event has damaged properties and flooded roads in the Cook Islands while French Polynesia is dealing with the aftermath of huge swells. Swells of up to 4.5…
Economics of war: Pain for Europe now, later for Russia
Across Europe, signs of distress are multiplying as Russia’s war in Ukraine drags on. Food banks in Italy are feeding more people. German officials are turning down the air…
Chief: 3 dead in Indiana mall shooting; witness kills gunman
GREENWOOD, Ind. (AP) — Three people were fatally shot and two were injured Sunday evening at an Indiana mall after a man with a rifle opened fire…
A home run: US turns in record-setting medal day at worlds
EUGENE, Ore. (AP) — Except for a single, barely perceptible flinch, this would’ve been a Perfect 10 for the U.S. track and field team. As it ended…
Pitch clocks, shift limits, larger bases in MLB’s future
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Justin Verlander, Gerrit Cole and the…
Rugby Australia condemns verbal abuse of England coach Jones
SYDNEY (AP) — Rugby Australia has denounced the behavior of…
Stars absent, but opportunities abound at East Asian event
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — The absence of Premier League…
PIF ratifies Suva Agreement
Seventeen Pacific Island Forum member countries all signed the Suva…
British Royal Navy to participate in joint
exercise in Palau for first time
British Royal Navy represented by HMS Tamar, an off-shore patrol…
Whipps halts deportation of foreign dependents
President Surangel Whipps Jr. issued a stay of deportation under Presidential Directive 22-51 preventing deportation of dependents of foreign nationals who do not meet the minimum income requirement for dependents.“Really? Is it really true?,” a young Filipina worker asked tearfully, hardly believing that it was true. She and her spouse with their two young children…
Flu outbreak announced, people urged
to practice health safety measures
Long lines at the Belau National Hospital emergency room over the weekend and at the private clinics testify to the outbreak of flu in the country.Over 10 cases per day…
51st PIF, strategic context, regional unit and solidarity
Reflecting on 50 years on regionalism, Leaders highlighted that the Pacific Islands Forum stands at a critical juncture in its history. Leaders acknowledged that many economies and communities across the…
Ngatpang Ngaimis seeks removal
of Surangel Sr. as Rekemesik
from Council of Chiefs
Letter from the Ngaimis, the traditional council of chiefs of Ngatpang, to Ibedul Alexander Merep and Reklai Raphael Bao Ngirmang of the…
Twitter sues to force Musk to
complete his $44B acquisition
Twitter sued Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Tuesday to force him to complete the $44 billion acquisition of the social media company.Musk…
Pacific island leaders welcome U.S. pledge to triple funding for region
SUVA (REUTERS)—-Pacific Island leaders welcomed a pledge by the United States to triple aid to the region to combat illegal fishing, enhance maritime security and tackle climate change, after decades of stagnant U.S funding.U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, in a video address to the Pacific Islands Forum in Suva on Wednesday, said U.S funding for…
Pacific looks to international court for help on climate
SUVA (AFP)—- Climate-threatened Pacific islands are pushing for the International Court of Justice to throw its weight behind efforts to arrest climate change, with the initiative gaining…
Palau EQPB laboratory re-certified
(Koror, 13 July 2022) – The US Freely Associated States Laboratory Certification Program, has re-certified the Palau Environmental Quality Protection Board Laboratory for analysis of drinking water…
Fijian Police remove two Chinese defence
attaches from Pacific Islands Forum meeting
SUVA (THE GUARDIAN)—-Two Chinese defence attaches have been kicked out by Fijian police from a Pacific Islands Forum meeting at…
U.S announces new embassies in major Pacific push as it jostles
with China for influence in region
SUVA (THE GUARDIAN) —The U.S has announced a major step-up in its engagement with the Pacific region, including the establishment…
China influenced Kiribati exit from Pacific Islands Forum, MP claims
TARAWA/SUVA (THE GUARDIAN) —Kiribati’s decision to withdraw from the Pacific Islands Forum on the eve of the event was an extreme move driven by pressure from China, the Micronesian nation’s opposition leader says.Tessie Lambourne, a former top diplomat who was elected to Kiribati’s parliament in 2020, said she was “shocked and extremely disappointed” by the…
PIF must remain united: Wong
SUVA (FBC NEWS) —The region is stronger together says Australian Foreign Affairs Minister, Senator Penny Wong.Wong made the comments following Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Dialogue with associate members and forum observers today.She said a lot of discussions have taken place about the Pacific Island Forum unity.The Foreign Minister says the position the Australian government has…
Church donates 124 wheelchairs to Palau Hospital
Hospital receives wheelchairs to aid bedbound A Wheelchair Donation Ceremony was held at the Belau National Hospital in the Republic of Palau, on Tuesday, July 12th, 2022, set up by Darnelle Worswick, the hospital administrator.Omengkar D. Wally, Global Health Coordinator, conducted the ceremony and introduced key people that gave remarks.The Church’s Koror Branch President, EJ…
You are PRECIOUS!
In the article titled, DISCIPLINE is NOT PUNISHMENT, July 7, 2022, the second to the last paragraph, third sentence should read “I have to feel safe doing what I was born to do – EXHORTATION.” (Not exportation). To feel safe is where you’re not shamed, belittled, or unappreciated. You’ve heard the old proverb: “Familiarity breeds…
Pacific Islands Forum meeting: the black cloud returns
By Jessica Collins A continued dispute over the Secretary General position has challenged unity…
LeBron critical on his show of US efforts to get Griner home
LeBron James is publicly criticizing the United States’ handling of WNBA All-Star Brittney Griner’s…
UK Olympic great Mo Farah says he was trafficked as a child
LONDON (AP) — Olympic great Mo Farah — the winner of four gold medals…
Kiribati ‘cooking something with China
’ – former Kiribati president
TARAWA(RNZ PACIFIC) —Former Kiribati president Anote Tong suspects a major agreement is “cooking” between…
Alik Ulechong, PICRC maintenance technician, completes data Science Summer Institute
Palau International Coral Reef Center Maintenance Technician Alik Ulechong recently completed Chaminade University’s Supporting…
Pacific partnership kicks off in Palau
KOROR, PALAU, July 12, 2022 – Pacific Partnership 2022 kicked off in Koror, Palau,…
𝐏𝐂𝐒 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 $𝟏,𝟓𝟎𝟎 𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐚 (𝐓𝐚𝐢𝐰𝐚𝐧)
Palau Conservation Society (PCS) is grateful for support from the Embassy of…
Kiribati leaves Pacific Islands Forum, said not consulted on Suva Agreement
(Suva, Fiji) Kiribati, one of the five Micronesian nations, withdrew its membership…
Germany’s Foreign Affairs Minister Baerbock visits Palau
Palau received for the first time a High-Level delegation from Germany, with…
Sudden passing of former prime minister Abe of Japan shocking
News of the shooting of death of the former Prime Minister of…
President Whipps and former President Remengesau express condolences over former Japanese Prime Minister Abe’s passing
The Embassy of Japan in the Republic of Palau is deeply saddened…
President attends 51st Pacific Island Forum Leaders meeting in Fiji
President Surangel Whipps Jr. is in Fiji this week attending the 51st Pacific Islands Forum Leaders meeting. Among the expected topics to be discussed is the Suva Agreement which the leaders agreed to in order to fix the rift within the Pacific Island Forum. Other critical items also expected at this meeting include regional security,…
Man complains of off-duty officers threats and bullying
“All police officers should be Christians. It is not safe…
Keep reading
Whipps expresses confidence in Palau’’s fintech plans
“Fintech industry will always be here because people will always…
Keep reading
Australian Tax Office twinning project with Palau’s Bureau of Revenue & Taxation
On June 24, 2022, Director Elway Ikeda of the Bureau…
Keep reading
BOH 125th Trees Planted in Peleliu with PCS, Ngardok Nature Reserve and Peleliu Volunteers
On their 125th anniversary, Bank of Hawaii reached out to Palau Conservation Society with interest to plant trees to mark the Bank’s significant milestone. …
Biography of LTC Owen L. Roberts II
LTC Owen L. Roberts II is the Product Lead for Vaccines, Therapeutics and Enablers for the Joint Program Executive Officer (JPEO) for Chemical, Biological,…
Emotional Safety
You are not required to set yourself on fire to keep everyone warm. ~UNKNOWN Along the edge of our vegetable garden were sugarcane and pineapple bushes. They were fence-like boundaries that separated the vegetables from the banana trees growing on the hillside going down to the mangroves. Why? I was told that they were to…
A changing climate is changing the Micronesian way of life
By Lauren Hodgson, Nina Lansbury and Gabriela Fernando, University of Queensland in Brisbane BRISBANE, 08 JULY 2022 (CREATIVE COMMONS/360 INFO)—As Pacific Islanders struggle to survive in the face of climate change, they will need to adapt their traditional ways of fishing to the new reality. For Micronesian people, seafarers down the ages, the Pacific Ocean…
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Anthony Albanese shuts down ‘Airbus Albo’ criticism, says will fly to Pacific Islands Forum
CANBERRA, 08 JULY 2022 (DAILY MAIL)—Anthony Albanese insists he will travel overseas again…
Pacific Climate leaders caution media against ‘drowning Islands’ narrative
HONOLULU, 08 JULY 2022 (EWC)— At the East-West Center International Media Conference last…
Pacific strength lies in solidarity: Koya
SUVA, 08 JULY 2022 (FBC NEWS)—Like all families, we sometimes go through a…
Top Stories
US tells China its support for Russia complicates relations
NUSA DUA, Indonesia (AP) — China’s support for Russia’s war in Ukraine is complicating U.S.-Chinese relations at a time when they are already beset by rifts and enmity over numerous other issues, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told his Chinese counterpart on Saturday. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi blamed the U.S. for the downturn…
US Ambassador Niland announces retirement
United States Ambassador John Hennessy-Niland accredited to the Republic of Palau announced his retirement from the foreign service at the US July 4th Independence Day celebration at the Palau Pacific Resort. this week. “I recently informed President Biden and President Whipps of our decision to retire,” Ambassador Niland said of the bittersweet moment, celebrating their…
Former President of FSM Nena passes away
The fourth President of FSM Jacob Nena passed away this week in Sacramento, California, according to a press release from the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia. The late FSM President Jacob Nene became the fourth President of FSM on May 8, 1997. Before that, he had served as Senator in the 5th and…
Guam AG: Dobbs ruling paves way for legislature to decide on ‘moral question’ of abortion
HAGATNA (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — Abortion remains legal in Guam, Attorney General Leevin Camacho said, clarifying that the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent reversal of Roe v. Wade has no impact on a long-voided local law that sought to criminalize the procedure for terminating a pregnancy. Camacho shed light on the status of P.L. 20-134 against…
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New Zealand PM Ardern says Pacific Islands Forum is critical
WELLINGTON (REUTERS) — New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Thursday regional architecture…
PNG prime minister denies connection to suitcase full of cash found as voting starts
PORT MORESBY (THE GUARDIAN) — Papua New Guinea’s prime minister James Marape has denied…
New Zealand will not join the US coalition against China anytime soon
New Zealand’s deeply ingrained tradition of foreign policy independence and robust economic ties to…
Inflation pushed 71M people into poverty since Ukraine war
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — A staggering 71 million more people around the…
Discipline is not Punishment
You cannot love and control at the same time. Fear controls. Love frees you…
Australia floods worsen as thousands more flee Sydney homes
SYDNEY (REUTERS) — Torrential rains kept battering Australia’s east coast on Tuesday, intensifying the…
Palau Constitution Day -Keledangercheled campaign
Pre-celebration of Palau’s Constitution Day highlighting food security. The sales of local food products,…
Chief Director of NPO Glass Craft Association and officials from Sanda City in Japan
visited Palau for JICA PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM “Belau Eco Glass Studio (Glass studio recycles used…
Nurturing resilient communities by understanding issues faced by families today
The Rubekul Belau’s First Traditional Leaders Forum held last month touched on four key…
US Embassy celebrates United States’ 246th Independence Day
The United States Embassy in Palau celebrated the United States…
Criminal charges brought against former Koror State Governor and his Chief of Staff
Koror, Palau – Charges were brought against Franco Bares Gibbons,…
Grant information comes after budget bill passes House of Delegates
Information supporting the 2.6 million dollar grant source of the…
All Criminal convictions upheld in Ngirameketii appeal, ordered for resentencing
Koror, Palau – Former Ngiwal Governor Ellender Ngirameketii appealed his…
Ngiraibai leads after Ngarchelong absentee votes
Unofficial results from the Palau Election Commission show Ngarchelong gubernatorial…
UNDP launches Ocean Promise
Commits to support recovery of nearly $1 trillion in annual…
World
Leveraging global public-private investment to build resilient coral reef ecosystems
Coral reefs are the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. They provide an estimated US $2.7 trillion in ecosystem services and support more than 1 billion people annually. Yet coral reefs are moving faster toward extinction than any other ecosystem on Earth. The Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR), the first and only blended finance initiative dedicated to coral reefs globally, has mobilized more than US$170…
U.S. Marines with Task Force Koa Moana 22 help with O.N.E. LEEP Summer Program
NGEREMLENGUI, Republic of Palau – U.S. Marines and Sailors with Task Force Koa Moana 22 volunteered to work with the Palau National Police Force in the Omesuub Ngosisechakl Emesmechokl Law Enforcement Explorers Program from 19 to 24 June, 2022.The mission of the O.N.E. LEEP program is “To direct oneself towards a life free of crime through teachings and living by standards that create a…
𝐌𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐦 𝐞𝐥 𝐊𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐮 WCTC & PCS
Koror, Palau – On June 29, 2022 Palau Conservation Society (PCS) received a generous donation of $1,500 from the West Caroline Trading Company (WCTC). Pictured on the left is WCTC Human Resource Manager, Russell Masayos presenting the check to PCS Development Officer John Techitong. WCTC is one of PCS’ major donors and a longtime Corporate Partner for Conservation (CPC). Established over 70 years…
FINDING FREEDOM to be YOU
“As I walked out the door toward that gate that would lead me to my freedom, I knew if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in that prison.” NELSON MANDELA Arthur Golden writes, “We lead our lives like water flowing down a hill, going more or less in one direction until we splash intol something that forces us to…
Dire state of ocean’s health met with tide of pledges at UN Ocean Conference, as Lisbon Declaration launches new chapter for ocean action
LISBON (UNOC) — The five-day UN Ocean Conference ended Saturday with more than 150 countries collectively agreeing to scale up science-based and innovative actions to address the ocean emergency. This agreement, together with bold commitments from all sectors of society — youth, civil society, businesses and the scientific community — clearly demonstrates the centrality of a safe, healthy and productive ocean to food security,…
Continuing compact negotiations between the United States and the Federated States of Micronesia in San Francisco
SAN FRANCISCO, 04 JULY 2022 (FSM GOVT) — A United States Government team led by Special Presidential Envoy for Compact Negotiations (SPECN) Ambassador Joseph Yun met in San Francisco this week with a team from the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) led by Chief Negotiator Leo A. Falcam, Jr., to continue negotiations on economic assistance, federal programs, and other matters related to the Compact…
Kiribati Chief Justice suspended
TARAWA, 01 JULY 2022 (RADIO KIRIBATI) — On Thursday the 30 June, the appointment warrant for Kiribati Chief Justice William K Hasting was suspended pending an investigation by the Tribunal as to his ability and behaviour while in office. This means that the Kiribati High Court does not have a Chief Justice until further notice. The Kiribati Law Society Council said it respects the…
Covid-19: Nauru records first death; Niue records 10 community cases
ALOFI, 04 JULY 2022 (RNZ PACIFIC) — Nauru has recorded its first death of Covid-19 as the country experiences its first community outbreak, while there are now 10 community cases in Niue. Nauru President Lionel Aingimea has expressed his condolences and sympathies for the family via a video statement. More than 4000 cases have been recorded in the community since the outbreak was announced…
Niue leader isolating after covid cases revealed
ALOFI, 01 JULY 2022 (RNZ PACIFIC) — The Niue government has confirmed Premier Dalton Tagelagi is a close contact of a Covid-19 case and is in isolation. It follows the arrival of the first quarantine-free flight with tourists from New Zealand on Monday local time. Five people have tested positive so far. Mandatory day three testing of the remaining passengers and all close contacts…
Russian diplomats depart Bulgaria amid soaring tensions
SOFIA, Bulgaria (AP) — Two Russian airplanes departed Bulgaria on Sunday with scores of Russian diplomatic staff and their families amid a mass expulsion that has sent tensions soaring between the historically close nations, a Russian diplomat said. Filip Voskresenski, a high-ranking Russian diplomat, told journalists at the airport in Bulgaria’s capital Sofia before the flights left that he was among the 70 Russian diplomatic staff…
Billboard
Okinawa Anglers instruct offshore fishing
Currently, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has two fishery projects that are ongoing. These projects recently received fishermen from Okinawa to provide training to each respective projects. Project for Forming Good Practices of Islands-Type Blue Economy, a project between the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and the Environment and JICA commenced with 2 experts from Irabu…
Australia supports organic farming
29 June 2022- On 28 June, the organic agriculture community in Palau came together at the Palau Organic Policy Review and Consultations Workshop to learn, discuss, share perspectives and shape the way forward for organic agriculture in Palau. Funded by the Australian Government through the “Building Prosperity for Women Producers, Processors and Women Owned Businesses…
The PRR donates to PCS
Koror, Palau – On June 22th, 2022, PCS received a generous donation of $1,800 from Palau Royal Resort (PRR). PRR is one of several businesses in Palau that is a Corporate Partner for Conservation (CPC). As a CPC, PRR has been contributing to the success of vital conservation projects that have had meaningful impact in…
1st Traditional forum addressed
“Resilient Palau”
On 14-15 June 2022, Palau’s First Traditional Leaders’ Forum, themed “Resilient Palau” was held at the Palau National Gymnasium, convening traditional leaders from all 16 states of the Republic to discuss Palauan culture and the responsibilities and duties of traditional leaders.Over 200 chiefs gathered for 2 days of discussions on the resiliency of communities, of…
DSSV Pressure Drop invites Micronesian Voyaging Society to join first-ever
expeditions to Palau and Yap trenches
DSSV Pressure Drop, a state-of-the-art deep ocean research vessel, has invited the Micronesian Voyaging Society to join them on the first-ever expeditions into the Palau and Yap ocean trenches.Palau’s former President Tommy E. Remengesau Jr. and Grand Master Navigator Sesario Sewralur will accompany Pressure Drop’s owner, Victor L. Vescovo, as passengers on deep-sea dives into…
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 one described as “China’s bid for hegemony” in the region. The Indo-Pacific Engagement Act is co-sponsored by Rep Ami Bera, a Democrat from California, and Rep Steve…
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, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to enhance preparedness for disasters, disease outbreaks and other crises. The…
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 President Surangel Whipps Jr. Join Council as Inaugural Members WASHINGTON – The Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue announced that two international members, representing both the Atlantic and Pacific regions, have joined its Advisory Council, broadening the Institute’s reach as the premier global authority on…
Japan hands over a new school building to PEC Gospel Kindergarten
On June 23, 2022, His Excellency KARASAWA Akira, Ambassador of Japan handed over a new school building to PEC Gospel Kindergarten. The handover ceremony for “The Project for Reconstructing PEC Gospel Kindergarten Facility” was held at PEC Gospel Kindergarten and attended by Palau Evangelical Church officials, PEC School managements, students and many guests. PEC Gospel…
Jackie Marati retires from BOG ®
Nearly 23 years of service to the community Hagåtńa, GU – With the Bank since 1999, Jackie Marati first joined the Bank’s Corporate Banking Group. Since then, she has held positions of Special Assistant to the President for the late Tony Leon Guerrero before heading the Bank’s Marketing, Human Resources, and then Communications and Public…
Opinion
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, the Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum and Pacific Ocean Commissioner, Mr Henry Puna, is amongst the Pacific travellers to Lisbon this weekend. The Secretary-General will join the Forum Chair, PM of Fiji Hon. Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama, who is also…
WTO Fishing treaty to leave Pacific Island nations poorer
Opinion by Adam Wolfenden, Campaigner Pacific Network on Globalisation SUVA/GENEVA (PANG)—As Ministers celebrated the conclusion the 12th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organisation and an agreement on fisheries subsidies trade rules, 17,000 kilometers away in the Pacific Ocean, eight women were also being celebrated as the first all-women deck crew on a tuna longline…
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 members reached a binding agreement to curb some harmful fisheries subsidies, an achievement that will help curtail overfishing and begin to improve the global ocean’s health. Governments spend US$22 billion a year on subsidies paid to primarily industrial fishing fleets to artificially…
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 do is litter. No matter how small or big the rubbish I have, I’ve never thrown it on the ground. I chew gum practically everywhere I go and the little tin-foil packaging for the gum…
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 World Trade Organisation (WTO) 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12) started Sunday in Geneva, passes an agreement to address declining fish stocks, which could unfairly impact our fishing industries. Pacific Network on Globalisation (PANG) Campaigner Adam Wolfenden…
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 2021: sea level rise; ocean heat; ocean acidification; and greenhouse gas concentrations. It is clear that the triple crises of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution are…
The Silent Majority
by Alonzo Kahalic alkahalic6801@gmail.com Dear Editor, today’s article is about Political Spin. Political spin, in politics, is the attempt to control or influence communication in order to deliver one’s preferred message. -from https://www.britannica.com/topic/political-spin So here are the four topics we should address and see what kind of spin was delivered 1. Reorganizing Ministries to…
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 ballot to take on the leadership of the Pacific’s top regional body, the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), and promptly found himself in the middle of…
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 largest ecosystem, regulating the climate, and providing livelihoods for billions. But its health is in danger. The second UN Ocean Conference, due to take place in June, will be an important opportunity to redress the damage that mankind continues to inflict on marine life and…
Opinion
Dear Fellow Citizens: We would like to share our deep concerns about the statement released by Ngchesar State Delegate, Honorable Sabino Anastacio, the current Speaker of the House of Delegates of the Olbiil Era Kelulau (OEK). The statement titled “Press Release: Correcting the Record on Recent Media Articles about Proposed PNMS Bill (HB No. 11-30-2S,…
China seeks more island security pacts to boost clout in Pacific
BEIJING (THE FINANCIAL TIMES) — China is intensifying its drive for influence in the Pacific by negotiating security deals with two additional island nations following a pact with the Solomon Islands, according to officials in the U.S and allied countries. Beijing’s talks with Kiribati, a Pacific island nation 3,000km from Hawaii where U.S Indo-Pacific Command…
UN marks first ever international day spotlighting women working in the maritime industry
GENEVA (UN NEWS CENTRE) — The first ever International Day for Women in Maritime kicked off its inaugural celebration on Wednesday with a seminar to “take stock and identify areas where improvement is needed”, the top UN official representing seafarers said. “Women account for just 20 per cent of the workforce in the maritime authorities…
Solomon Islands, China and geographic metaphors
By Robert Underwood HAGATNA, 13 MAY 2022 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — A recently signed Security Cooperation Framework Agreement between the Solomon Islands and China has generated more attention to the Solomon Islands since the Battle of Guadalcanal during World War II. The agreement announced by Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare allows the Solomons to request police…
Pacific News
Alliance launched against deep sea mining
LISBON (PACNEWS)—The Pacific nations of Palau and Fiji announced Monday their strong opposition to deep-sea mining and the launch of a ‘new…
Fiji prepares to welcome Forum Leaders to Suva for the 51st Pacific Islands Forum
SUVA (PACNEWS)—Leaders from across the Pacific region will be gathering next month for the 51st Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) and related meetings…