Six new faces join the 11th Senate OEK
The 11th Olbilil Era Kelulau ( OEK) will have six new senators in 2021. Four out of the six new faces in January are first time lawmakers. For these four they were successful in their first attempt to run for the Senate.While the new members might lack experience as lawmakers, their entry in the OEK […]
F-22 Raptors conduct hot-pit refueling from C-130J Super Hercules
11/19/20 – JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii – Two F-22 Raptors will conduct a hot-pit refuel Nov. 23 at Koror Palau International Airport using an Aerial Bulk Fuel Delivery System carried onboard a C-130J Super Hercules. The aircraft will arrive in the morning and depart that afternoon. Hot-pit refueling is conducted when the aircraft’s pilot […]
U.S. plans to deport six Palauan nationals amid COVID-19 surge
Six Palauans in the United States are facing deportation amid the surge of the COVID-19 cases and discussions with the Palauan government to send those deportees back home is ongoing. Although details have not been provided about the repatriation, State Minister Faustina Rechucher in a text message confirmed the discussion about the planned deportation of […]
15 programmers cited for gambling move to dismiss “unlawful” evidence
Fifteen Chinese nationals who have been issued criminal citations for online gambling have filed a motion in the Palau Supreme Court to dismiss the evidence against them, on the basis that it was obtained in an “unconstitutional” search and seizure. The fifteen defendants were detained and released on September 18, following a raid conducted at […]
Retired American expat discovered dead in Ngerias apartment
A retired American expat was found dead in his apartment by law enforcement officers in Ngerias, Ngerkesoaol, late last Wednesday. Mr. Dwayne Flowers, who had lived and worked in Palau for over a decade, was living alone in his apartment when he passed away last week. According to a statement made by Public Information Officer […]
Successful healthy society needs good waste management system
“Behind every successful and healthy society, you must have a good solid waste management system expressed President Tommy E. Remengesau Jr. during the opening of Palau’s state of the art national solid waste management plant in Aimeliik State, on Babeldaob island. Seen as the third largest grant aid from Japan after Palau International Airport Improvement […]
Third Philippines charter flight to repatriate over 100 nationals
The third AirAsia charter flight to the Philippines since Palau’s borders closed is set to repatriate 105 Philippine nationals tomorrow morning. Flight AirAsia Z2-8062 is scheduled to take off from Palau International Airport tomorrow at 11am and land in Manila around 12:35pm. The flight will only be carrying passengers out, with nobody disembarking in Palau. […]
Babeldaob communities with PCS bat to keep kebeas from invading protected areas
Early this year, rapid surveys covering 1,894 hectares of protected areas and immediate vicinity were carried out by PCS, PALARIS, and state protected areas offices to understand the extent of threat from the kebeas (Merremia peltata) vine. The survey covered protected areas in Ngaraard, Ngardmau, Ngiwal, Melekeok, Ngaremlengui, and Aimeliik. The survey results showed only […]
PHS Job Shadow Activity at PPUC
As part of his job shadow activity. Patrik Pedro, a 10th grade student at Palau High School (PHS) with interest in electrical engineering, spent a day with PPUC’s electrical engineer Chester Neil Rosete on Tuesday November 17, 2020. Patrik was able to observe a typical work day for an electrical engineer. He was given a […]
Updates on Testing and Quarantine in Palau
The Ministry of Health (MOH) would like to provide the public with the following updates on testing and quarantine of individuals in Palau:• The three (3) military personnel in mandatory quarantine were tested on November 16, 2020 (day 7) and all results were negative. They remain in mandatory quarantine and will be tested again on […]
Emotional Epidemic (Insecurity)
Our success depends upon our self-awareness. You can’t solve what you can’t see. You can’t heal what you don’t feel. .It takes courage and humility for the “great” ones among us who exemplify how leadership is a choice, not a position. (Covey). Courage is like crossing the Red Sea with trepidation of being swallowed and […]
Georgia to release report on presidential race hand tally
ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia election officials expect to release a report Thursday on a hand tally of the presidential race, and they have repeatedly said they expect it to affirm Democrat Joe Biden’s narrow lead over Republican President Donald Trump.The hand tally of about 5 million votes stemmed from an audit required by a new […]
Japan’s daily virus cases surge past previous record high
TOKYO (AP) — Japan’s number of reported coronavirus infections hit a record high Thursday, and the prime minister urged maximum caution but stopped short of calling for restrictions on travel or business.The Health Ministry reported 2,179 new cases, the first time Japan has seen more than 2,000 new daily cases since the pandemic began. The […]
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Samoa leader appeals for calm after COVID case
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — The leader of the small Pacific nation of Samoa appealed for calm Thursday after the country reported it’s first positive test for the coronavirus, although a second test on the same patient returned a negative result.Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi addressed the nation live on television and radio, urging people […]
Mavs take Arizona guard, juggle backcourt in deal with 76ers
DALLAS (AP) — The Dallas Mavericks juggled the mix of sidekicks for star point guard Luka Doncic on draft night — with their first-round pick and through a trade.The Mavericks took Arizona’s Josh Green at No. 18 overall Wednesday night, adding a backcourt mate for Doncic as they continue to build around the 21-year-old sensation […]
Cam Newton helps Patriots beat Ravens in rain and wind
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — The Patriots have had trouble finishing off games at times this season. They got an assist from Mother Nature to help close out their biggest victory. Cam Newton threw a touchdown pass and ran for another score and the Patriots fought through rain and wind to hold off the Baltimore Ravens […]
Peru now has no president as crisis takes chaotic turn
LIMA, Peru (AP) — Who is the president of Peru? That answer to that question early Monday was no one. The Latin American nation’s political turmoil took a chaotic turn Sunday when interim leader Manuel Merino quit and Congress couldn’t decide on his replacement. That left Peru rudderless and in crisis less than a week […]
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Biden likely to break barriers, pick woman to lead Pentagon
WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Joe Biden is expected to take a historic step and select a woman to head the Pentagon for the first time, shattering one of the few remaining barriers to women in the department and the presidential Cabinet. Michele Flournoy, a politically moderate Pentagon veteran, is regarded by U.S. officials and political […]
Pandemic pushes steep drop in foreign college students
TOLEDO, Ohio (AP) — Just two semesters short of earning a cybersecurity master’s degree in the U.S., Sai Naini is stuck in India, unsure what his future holds. He rushed home this summer after learning that his father was in failing health after being diagnosed with COVID-19, making it to his hospital bedside only four […]
President-Elect Surangel Whipps, Jr. Organizes a Transition Team
Koror, Palau—President-elect Surangel Whipps, Jr. announced the organization of his Transition Team yesterday, November 12, 2020.According to the press release issued by his transition team, President-elect Whipps Jr. appointed Mr. Kione Isechal and Minister Charles Obichang from the current Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Industries, & Commerce as Co-Chairs to lead the transition.The report says that […]
Remeliik escorts President to Southwest Islands
President Remengesau, along with First Lady Remengesau and members of his Cabinet, sailed for the Southwest Islands yesterday aboard the tour ship Ocean Hunter, escorted by the new patrol boat Remeliik II.The President will be visiting schools in Pulo Anna, Sonsorol, and Hatohobei to deliver school supplies and sports equipment, as well as deliver foods […]
KEC Bible Group gives to Prisoners food supplies
Koror Evangelical Church Bible Study Group donated food items to the Division of Correction, Ministry of Justice. These foods include: Rice (5 each 50#), Chicken (5 cases), Onions (50#), Soy sauce (3 large), Salt (6 each) and Azinomoto (2 each). The Division of Correction extends great appreciation for these donations that will be part of […]
Nine Young Divers Certified in Palau Pledge 2nd Dive Camp
Nine young Palauans have become certified divers in Palau Pledge’s second dive camp. Of the nine, six were certified PADI Junior Open Water divers, and three were certified PADI Open Water divers. Following a successful first dive camp earlier in the summer, the participants were enrolled in the diving course over the weekends, including Friday […]
The Pacific Islands Forum leadership: who and for what?
Written by Sadhana Sen SUVA, 12 NOVEMBER 2020 (DEVPOLICY.ORG) — Five nations from the region have nominated candidates for the position of Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Secretariat to replace the incumbent, Papua New Guinea’s Dame Meg Taylor, whose contract ends in January 2021.The holder of the position is essentially the Pacific […]
Guam Democratic Party not making endorsement in congressional runoff
HAGATN (THE GUAM DAILY POST)— With two Democrats facing off in a runoff election for the congressional seat, the Democratic Party of Guam is not making an official endorsement.It encourages the general public to “go out and vote for the congressional candidate who can best represent Guam in Congress.”Incumbent Delegate Michael San Nicolas and former […]
Guam reports 101 new cases
HAGATNA, (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — Guam has 101 new Covid-19 positive cases out 690 samples tested last Friday and the island’s Covid Area Risk (CAR) Score has jumped to 33.4 — which is far away from the government’s target or five and below.To date, there have been a total of 5,755 officially reported cases of […]
Military wary that shakeup could upend its apolitical nature
WASHINGTON (AP) — The words spoken by America’s top military officer carried a familiar ring, but in the midst of a chaotic week at the Pentagon, they were particularly poignant.“We are unique among militaries,” said Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. “We do not take an oath to a king […]
Stroman, Gausman take $18.9M; Springer, LeMahieu reject
NEW YORK (AP) — Mets pitcher Marcus Stroman and San Francisco starter Kevin Gausman accepted $18.9 million qualifying offers Wednesday, receiving one-year deals to stay with their teams rather than test what they could get in free agency.Four players declined qualifying offers at the 5 p.m. EST deadline: right-hander Trevor Bauer from Cincinnati, outfielder George […]
Steffen US No 1 keeper despite lack of Man City playing time
Zack Steffen figures to make a rare appearance in goal Thursday when the United States plays Wales in Swansea.The 25-year-old is the top American goalkeeper but has played two matches since December, missing the second half of last season with a knee injury while on loan to Fortuna Düsseldorf and then spending most of this […]
Agroforestry project aims to “improve the livelihood” in Ngaraard
The GEF6 Project, launched by the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment, and Tourism (MNRET) to protect biodiversity in Palau, is laying the groundwork for a three-acre agro-forest in Ngaraard. The forest, which is being planted in an area called Ngulitel, is planned to eventually include over one-thousand fruit trees which are meant to supply a […]
Transitioning work begins
With absentee ballots still to be counted today, the current government is already preparing itself for the transition to the incoming government. During the press conference last week, President Tommy Remengesau Jr. announced that the transition work will start after the election. This week, Minister Elbuchel Sadang of the Ministry of Finance was tasked to […]
FSM Trust Fund & Compact Trust Fund exceed $1B in FY 2020
PALIKIR, Pohnpei—The unaudited Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 reports for both the Federated States of Micronesia’s (FSM) sovereign Trust Fund (FSM Trust Fund), as well as the Trust Fund for the People of the FSM (Compact Trust Fund) show that both Trust Funds grew in FY 2020, despite the market volatility resulting from the crisis posed […]
Advancing the digital skills of Palau’s Tourism Operators
Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) Australia, the region’s lead trade and investment promotion agency concluded its advanced online workshop series for Pacific tourism operators this week with a highly engaging session on payment solutions. PTI Australia partnered with leading digital tourism experts to run an Advanced Digital Tourism Series as a follow up to the success […]
TOP STORIES
Strong retirement funds can be important providers of long-term pacific business finance- PSDI
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA —Retirement funds are an important feature of Pacific financial systems and often play a wider social protection role, but they must be well-run financial institutions to be effective, says a policy paper published today by the Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative (PSDI)—an Asian Development Bank technical assistance program undertaken in partnership with the governments […]
Palau mourns late President Nakamura
Today, Palau lays to rest a historical and visionary leader, the late President Kuniwo Nakamura, in his home State of Peleliu.Late President Kuniwo Nakamura was a trailblazer, a bold visionary, and a fearless leader as demonstrated by these accomplishments throughout his life.Born to a Palauan mother and a Japanese father in 1943, Nakamura has instilled […]
Senate tabulation produces “historical” amount of write-ins
With a total of 8,212 Palauans turning out at the polls this past Tuesday, the unofficial results have shown that 2,651 Senate votes were write-ins, a record which the Election Commission Office (EC) deemed “historical”.This is 32% of the total votes cast, a percentage higher than nine of the official candidates received.The general election saw […]
Gov’t reported $2.2m surplus despite pandemic
Palau government reported a $2.2 million surplus at fiscal year-end of September 30, 2020.“We were able the close the books at the end of the fiscal year September 30 with a surplus, revenue in excess of expenditures of $2.2 million dollars,” reported Finance Minister Elbuchel Sadang at the press conference on Wednesday this week.The total […]
Palauans weigh in on US elections
Palauans weigh in on the US presidential elections expressing their support for their preferred candidates. The debates over which candidate is better gets heated up both on social media and in local coffee shops.“I like Trump,” said one Did ra Ngmatel coffee shop mate, “because of him I was able to receive stipend from WIOA, […]
Taiwan rice donation being distributed during pandemic
Taiwan donated 100,000 pounds’ worth of rice to Palau to help with the response to COVID-19 on September 24th.Currently the rice is kept inside a container at Marine Law in Malakal. Five (5) ministries were each given 606 sacks of rice and were given authority to distribute them.The Ministry of Education has distributed the sacks […]
Japan hands over two school buses to Head Start Centers
On Wednesday, November 4, 2020, His Excellency, KARASAWA Akira, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan in Palau, formally handed over two brand new 15 seater micro buses to Melekeok and Ngaremlengui Head Start Centers respectively. The handing over ceremony for “The Project for Procurement of School Buses to Head Start Centers” was held at Melekeok […]
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Top Stories
PNG police chief raises fears officers may have been raping women inside station
PORT MORESBY, 04 NOVEMBER 2020 (THE GUARDIAN)—Two policemen have been charged with rape allegedly committed inside a police station in Alotau Town, in Papua New Guinea’s south-east, but the city’s most senior officer said he fears others sexual assaults may have been committed by police, with victims too afraid to report attacks.“I can honestly say […]
Association of Palauan students in Taiwan celebrates Palau’s Independence Day
Palauan students attending schools in the Republic of China-Taiwan, got together to celebrate Palau’s Independence Day on October 24, 2020. Samantha Iyar, student and Secretary for the Taiwan Palau Student Association said that despite the global pandemic, they were able to get together and celebrate their country’s Independence Day. “Taiwan’s efficiency and swiftness in handling […]
First Complete Streets-Walkability project breaks ground in Airai
The first Complete Streets-Walkability project groundbreaking took place on Friday, October 30th in Airai State. The Complete Streets-Walkability road improvement project was a collaborative effort that brought together property owners, businesses, as well as technical and civil organizations. The project seeks to achieve road improvements that encourage safer, enjoyable walking experience for pedestrians, that promotes […]
Veteran’s Day to celebrate “66 years of Palauans serving”
This coming Veteran’s Day, November 11, the US Embassy of Palau and the US Armed Forces Veterans Association of Palau will be hosting a day-long celebration, which will include a Veteran’s Day Parade in Koror and a US Air Force flyover. The celebration, beginning as a private memorial service at the gravesites of Palauan veterans […]
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World
AG to hire Asanuma as new AAG
The Office of the Attorney General is hiring a young local law school graduate, Ms. Hila D. Asanuma, as a new Assistant Attorney General (AAG).“I am super excited about another Palauan working in this office as I am hoping that after gaining some experience, these young Palauan lawyers will eventually be qualified to fill other […]
Proposing ownership of PNMS through local ownership of Fishing Days
To increase the benefits of the Palau National Marine Sanctuary Act beyond the existing benefits, President Tommy E. Remengesau Jr. proposed an “out of the box” idea of “giving” the fishing days to Palauans and letting them use the fishing days to fish and earn substantial benefit from the PNMS Act.Using the country of Norway […]
Johnson says he is not running as write-in but happy with people’s choice
Johnson Toribiong, former presidential candidate says he is not running as a write in for senate but wouldn’t mind if vote him in as a write in candidate. It would be the choice of the people, he said.Former presidential candidate dropped out after the primary election in September, after coming in third place with 1,145 […]
PIF virtual meeting set for December, SG position maybe addressed
Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Chair and Prime Minister of Tuvalu, Kausea Natano said the virtual meeting to discuss the selection process of the forum secretariat’s Secretary General has been set for December.In an interview Natano revealed meeting dates as Dec. 16, 17 and 18.“Those are the dates that they confirmed to get all the leaders […]
First COVID-19 cases in Marshall Islands are border cases
The first two COVID-19 positive cases identified in the Republic of the Marshall Islands are border cases, meaning they were caught upon entry and were quarantined away from the general population, according to the Republic of Marshall Islands National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) on Wednesday, October 28, 2020.The report from NDMO stated that the two […]
Sea Dragon to help watch Palau’s waters
To help Palau detect activities such as illegal fishing in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), the United States Department of Defense is basing an Air Force surveillance system in Palau International Airport.The Sea Dragon aerial surveillance program, which is capable of monitoring over 35,000 square kilometers an hour, is expected to be launched in January […]
Lots of activities planned for Halloween this year
The spirits are high during this Halloween season as there are many activities that have been set up for this upcoming weekend.A total of 5 hamlets in Koror have been set up to be a designated spot for eager trick or treaters on the day of Halloween.With each of the spots opening from 6 to […]
“Science is telling us what needs to be done”: Remengesau defends PNMS
President Tommy E. Remengesau, who signed into law the Palau National Marine Sanctuary (PNMS) in 2015, reaffirmed his hope that Palau continues to support the large conservation area after the end of his term at the Fifth Anniversary of the PNMS, held on Wednesday evening at the Palau National Gym.The PNMS has been a widely […]
2,587 COVID-19 tests, 0 cases in Palau so far
2,587 PCR tests administered in Palau to date with no identified case or suspected case of COVID-19 virus. Palau continues to monitor and screen all incoming passengers, employing the mandatory quarantine and testing protocols, according to update from the Ministry of Health.Since January 23 when COVID-19 virus was first reported, Palau had screened 188 flights, […]
Guam’s death toll hits 77; Governor says fight against Covid taking longer than expected
HAGATNA, 29 OCTOBER 2020 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES)—Guam’s fight against Covid-19 “has gone on far longer than any of us imagined,” Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero said Wednesday, announcing the deaths of two more patients at the Guam Memorial Hospital(GMH).Leon Guerrero signed a new executive order extending the public health emergency through 29 November. Under the new […]
Billboard
Japan’s GGP Grant to school hand-washing stations for COVID-19 response
On Thursday, October 22, 2020, Ambassador KARASAWA Akira of the Embassy of Japan, and Minister Sinton Soalablai, Ministry of Education (MOE) signed a grant contract for “The Project for Facilitating Hand-Wash Station to Schools in Koror and Airai States”, valued at $269,985 under Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP). The signing ceremony […]
Stanford Professor continues to donate to PICRC
On October 26, Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) received a donation of $1500, from Stanford University Professor, Rob Dunbar. Long-term partner and supporter of the Center, Professor Dunbar has been donating since 2019.Professor Dunbar’s research and teaching interests include Climate Change, Oceanography, Marine Ecology, Biogeochemistry, and Environmental Policy. As a strong advocate for science […]
Kayangel Landowners Secure Protection of Unique Atoll Forests and Endangered Species for Palau’s Children
October 27, 2020. “Ng ungil luldasu el kirel a telecheroll el merael mei el kirel a klengar er tir me a beluu”. This was one of the sentiments expressed by Kayangel landowner Obakerusong Teruo Chokai last October 21 at a meeting with the Palau Conservation Society (PCS) board and staff.As one of only two atoll […]
Support Taiwan’s inclusion in the post-COVID-19 global public health network
Dr. Chen Shih-chung Minister of Health and Welfare Republic of China (Taiwan) Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, there have more than 40 million cases and more than one million deaths around the world. The virus has had an enormous impact on global politics, employment, economics, trade and financial systems, and significantly impacted the global efforts […]
PICRC launches its school program during PNMS Anniversary week
Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) began its school program on October 26-30, 2020, as part of the celebrations for the 5th Anniversary of the Palau National Marine Sanctuary (PNMS). This inaugural school program focuses on high school students with the lesson titled, “A sustainable wild blue ocean”. The main objective of this lesson is […]
Old age kitchen undergone renovation
On October 26, 2020, Father Rusk Saburo, Vicar of the Catholic Mission, presided over the blessing ceremony of the Bureau of Aging, Disability, and Gender, under the Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs. The Old Age Center’s kitchen, which serves over 60 elderly clients on a daily basis, undergone a renovation construction for the past […]
Enhanced Collaboration
(Press release) The Honorable Francesca R. Otong, Governor of Ngatpang State and Mr. Elia Yobech, Chairman of the Environmental Quality Protection Board (EQPB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to mark the beginning of close collaborations between the two agencies on October 14.Both parties “agreed that improved and enhanced collaboration to protect the environment and […]
Ipang Seineng of Koror State donates to PICRC
The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) is happy to announce a generous donation of $300 from the women’s club Ipang Seineng of Koror.The women hosted a gathering on October 8, Friday evening, underneath the Tommy Remengesau, Jr. Building, on PICRC grounds. PICRC’s Outreach office was able to make a presentation about ongoing projects at […]
Senior citizens not forgotten
The Bureau of Aging, Disability, and Gender under the Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs, extended its appreciation for the generous donations and sponsorships from the following companies and individuals for the support they gave to the senior citizens this month of October 2020. Those that extended support were TJ Imrur Remengesau who sponsored lunch […]
Taiwan Embassy donates 1,000 USD to Maris Stella School
Ambassador Wallace Chow of the Republic of China (Taiwan) made a donation of 1,000 USD to Lorenza Olkeriil, the Principal of Maris Stella School on 22 October for the school’s Carnival Fundraiser and United Nations Day celebration programs on 24 October. In addition to the donation, the Embassy also provides brochure, national flag and custom […]
PICRC to open the Palau Aquarium on UN Day
The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) is getting ready to welcome the community back into the Palau Aquarium. After closing for several months as a preventive measure against COVID-19, the Aquarium will be opening its doors to the public on Friday, October 23, 2020. The Aquarium welcomes all local residents for a FREE visit […]
Belau National Museum Education Campaign on the Northern Peleliu Lkes
The Belau National Museum embarked on our 4th trip to the Northern Peleliu Lkes on October 10, 2020. This special day was World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD). The aim of WMBD is to raise awareness on the importance of ecological connectivity for migratory birds. WMBD calls for global conservation of migratory birds through international cooperation. […]
Happy Birthday TAIWAN
To celebrate the 109th birthday of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Ambassador Wallace Chow led a group of Taiwanese divers to have a celebration diving event in the water of Blue Corner and German Channel on October 10th, last Saturday.Both the national flags of ROC (Taiwan) and Palau were flown in the water and unexpectedly […]
Sam’s Tours celebrates 30th Anniversary
Koror, Palau, Oct 12, 2020– Even in challenging times a 30th Anniversary calls for a celebration. October 2020 marks thirty years in business for Sam’s Tours. To celebrate this milestone achievement Sam’s Tours treated 30 young Palauan divers to a dive with founder Sam Scott at his all-time favorite dive site Ulong Channel on Saturday […]
U.S. supports journalism through Free AP Content for Pacific News Outlets
SUVA – The United States Embassy Suva through the Department of State is supporting Pacific journalism and promoting access to information by providing free Associated Press (AP) Asia and AP Top News content to news outlets in 13 Pacific island nations or territories. This service, which started last year, has been renewed for the next two […]
Opinion
US Pacific Presence: The Dark Side of the Compacts of Free Association
In the upcoming COFA negotiations, the U.S. will paint its economic assistance to the North Pacific as purely altruistic. History tells a different story. By Erin Thomas AUCKLAND, 29 OCTOBER 2020 (THE DIPLOMAT)—In a recent International Center for Advocates Against Discrimination (ICAAD) report, a team of over 31 collaborating organisations worked to illuminate the inequalities […]
Pacific Islands resilient as COVID-19 topples tourism
Sustainable tourism researchers from Massey’s Development Studies programme by Dr Api Movono and Professor Regina Scheyvens WELLINGTON, 22 OCTOBER 2020 (MASSEY) — Improved wellbeing through turning to traditional practices of growing food and fishing during the pandemic have helped offset the massive economic blow to Pacific Islands tourism caused by the pandemic, according to a […]
Letter to the Editor
Yoichi K. Rengiil 186 Tumon Heights Road Tamuning, Guam 96913 Tel: (671)646-1160 Email: yrengiil@gmail.com October 16, 2020 Ms. Leilani Reklai Editor-in-Chief Island Times Newspaper P. O. Box 6021 Koror, Palau 96940 Dear Madam Editor: I would like to share a few thoughts regarding my appointment to the Board of Trustees of Palau Community College. His […]
PIF fragmentation may alter U.S-China competition in the Pacific
A looming north-south split in the Pacific Islands Forum poses both challenges and opportunities to the rival superpowers.CALIFORNIA, 15 OCTOBER 2020 (THE DIPLOMAT) —The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) – an inter-governmental organisation that has hosted annual leadership meetings for decades in Oceania – may be on the verge of fragmentation, and if it happens, the […]
Our need for Patience
(Self-Love Recovery) Love of self is not as easy as it sounds. To be patient and kind to yourself is not simple either. A young woman tells me that she is always anxious. My heart went out to her. I remember as a teenager how anxious I was. I was so afraid I’d fail and […]
COVID-19 and mental health: War on two fronts for the Pacific
SUVA, 12 OCTOBER 2020 — On 10 October, many people across the globe will mark World Mental Health Day with the objective of raising awareness of mental health issues. World Mental Health Day is a day set aside globally for mental health awareness and education and is commemorated annually through varying events and programmes. This year though […]
Annie’s Dream
LABASA, 08 OCTOBER 2020 (TAIPEI TRADE OFFICE) — Annie Ratuvuku, a young woman from Vanua Levu and an intern nurse at Labasa Hospital, is passionate about making a meaningful contribution to Fiji’s health sector.However, for the last ten years, she has had difficulty breathing and wakes up at odd hours of the night because of […]
Encouraging our young people to a career in journalism
ALOFI TV NIUE) — Trying to figure out what you want to do when you leave high school is a tough decision for many young people. I think it’s an even tougher role trying to convince eleven and twelve-year-old high school students that they should aim for a career in journalism or working in the […]
Who will be the next SG of PIFS? Who cares?!
SYDNEY, 01 OCTOBER 2020 (OCEANIA HYPOTHESIS) — This November, it is anticipated that Forum Leaders will elect a new Secretary General to replace the outgoing Meg Taylor. For anybody who is interested, Nic McLellan has provided a useful summary of each candidate’s resume. In response to the question his article poses, ‘Who will lead the […]
Leaders to UN: If virus doesn’t kill us, climate change will
NEW YORK (AP) — In a year of cataclysm, some world leaders at this week’s annual United Nations meeting are taking the long view, warning: If COVID-19 doesn’t kill us, climate change will. With Siberia seeing its warmest temperature on record this year and enormous chunks of ice caps in Greenland and Canada sliding into […]
Impact on workers of COVID-19 is ‘catastrophic’: ILO
GENEVA, 24 SEPTEMBER 2020 (UN NEWS CENTRE) — COVID-19 has had a “catastrophic” impact on workers, the head of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) said on Wednesday, with lost working hours higher than originally forecast, and equivalent to 495 million full-time jobs globally in the second quarter of the year.The bleak news from ILO Director-General […]
UN chief: COVID-19 vaccine must be affordable and available to all
NEW YORK, 17 SEPTEMBER 2020 (UN NEWS CENTRE) —-The continuing COVID-19 pandemic continues to top a long list of global concerns, the UN chief told journalists on Wednesday, noting that “the grimmest of milestones” is upon us.“The outbreak remains out of control”, Secretary-General AntónioGuterres declared in his press conference ahead of the UN General Assembly […]
U.S. Territories, Not States, Bear the Scars of WWII
By: Douglas W. Domenech, U.S. Assistant Secretary of the Interior, Insular and International Affairs September 11, 2020 -As we mark 75 years since the cessation of hostilities in the Pacific Theater of the Second World War, we should keep in mind that it was not the United States’s 48 states then whose land and people sustained […]
COVID magnifies health disparities for Micronesians
Inadequate access to insurance results in a higher prevalenceof diseases that could be prevented. HONOLULU (CIVIL BEAT) —Although it appears COVID-19 is indiscriminate in who it infects, we know that minority communities are disproportionately affected because of pre-established health disparities.Within Hawaii, Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, and Filipinos make up 59% of active cases. Under the […]
To Partnership, To Palau
From: LtCol Thomas Stona, Task Force Koa Moana 20 Commanding Officer Over the past two months, I have had the distinct pleasure of commanding this year’s rotation of Koa Moana Marines and Sailors in beautiful Palau. My Marines and Sailors benefitted from this deployment by refining their technical skills, gaining experience and learning about Palau’s […]
COVID-19 and violence against children
SYDNEY, 04 SEPTEMBER 2020 (DEVPOLICY) —Lockdowns across the world have pushed people into the privacy of their homes, unintentionally closing the shutters on violence against children. Children and young people are facing unprecedented threats to their childhoods and futures as a result of COVID-19. For many children, home is not a safe place – because […]
Pacific News
Guam’s latest Covid-19 death toll: 71
HAGATNA (THE GUAM DAILY POST/PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES)—A 55-year-old man was Guam’s 70th Covid-19-related fatality.He died at the Guam Memorial Hospital. The patient had underlying health conditions complicated by Covid-19. He was admitted to GMH on 10 October and was a known positive case.A 67-year-old man died at the Guam Regional Medical City. The patient– Guam’s […]
Micronesian states to >boycott Pacific Islands Forum if shunned again for PIF appointment, Panuelo warns
POHNPEI, 29 OCTOBER 2020 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES)—Federated States of Micronesia President David Panuelo warned that Micronesian countries may leave Pacific Islands Forum if passed over again for secretary-General appointment to Pacific Islands Forum.Speaking at the inaugural East West Centre Insights featuring Pacific Leaders event on 13 October, Panuelo, emphasised the “unified” approach of Micronesian countries […]
U.S deportations likely up in FY2020
MAJURO, 26 OCTOBER 2020 (MARIANAS VARIETY) — At least 33 Marshallese are in detention in the United States awaiting opening of Marshall Islands borders for deportation, making the just-ended fiscal year 2020 possibly a record-setting year for Marshallese deportations from the United States.Marshall Islands Attorney General Richard Hickson confirmed that this is the number of […]
Taiwan Travel bubble’ plan with Palau postponed: CECC
TAIPEI (TAIWAN NEWS)— A plan to create a travel bubble between Taiwan and Palau has been postponed because of the Pacific ally’s decision to not relax quarantine rules for Taiwanese travelers, Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Saturday. The postponement was made after Palau took into account its epidemic prevention capacity and the northern half […]
Guam’s latest Covid-19 death toll: 71
HAGATNA (THE GUAM DAILY POST/PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES)—A 55-year-old man was Guam’s 70th Covid-19-related fatality. He died at the Guam Memorial Hospital. The patient had underlying health conditions complicated by Covid-19. He was admitted to GMH on 10 October and was a known positive case. A 67-year-old man died at the Guam Regional Medical City. The […]
130 new COVID cases; 67th death in Guam
HAGATNA, 22 OCTOBER 2020 (THE GUAM DAILY POST) — Guam recorded one of its highest number of newly confirmed cases in a day – 130 – on Tuesday as the local public health department, private clinics, hospitals and a privately run laboratory ramped up testing.The new cases were from a total of 957 tests, according […]
Fiji government says China and Taiwan resolve incident
SUVA, 22 OCTOBER 2020 (ABC) — The Fiji government has been left in the middle of a geopolitical tussle between China and Taiwan, after reports surfaced of an alleged physical altercation between their diplomats and officials.Both Beijing and Taipei accused each other initiating the incident that Taiwan claims left one of their officials concussed and […]
Small Islands States lacks funding to recover from COVID-19
SUVA, 22 OCTOBER 2020 (FBC NEWS) — Small Pacific Island States do not have enough resources to fully recover from COVID-19 and are currently in survival mode.Fiji’s Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum made the comment while opening a virtual roundtable on finance and solutions for COVID-19 recovery.With the impacts of the pandemic continuing to take […]
WHO study says remdesivir did not cut hospital stay or mortality in COVID-19 patients
GENEVA (REUTERS) — Gilead Sciences Inc’s remdesivir had little or no effect on COVID-19 patients’ length of hospital stay or chances of survival, a clinical trial by the World Health Organisation (WHO) has found. The antiviral medication, among the first to be used as a treatment for COVID-19, was one of the drugs recently used […]
Guam’s 65th and 66th COVID-19-related fatalities reported
HAGATNA, 19 OCTOBER 2020 (RNZ PACIFIC) — Two more fatalities were reported on Sunday morning. Guam’s 65th fatality occurred at Guam Regional Medical City (GRMC) Saturday night, according to the Joint Information Centre. The patient was a 47-year-old woman. She was admitted to GRMC on 17 October and tested positive upon admission. The 66th COVID-19-related […]
World News
Typhoon, landslides leave 35 dead, dozens missing in Vietnam
By HAU DINH Associated PressHANOI, Vietnam (AP) — A typhoon that officials said was the most powerful to hit Vietnam in 20 years blew away from the country on Thursday after setting off landslides, sinking boats and knocking out power to at least 1.7 million people. At least 35 people were killed and more than […]
Pope Francis, in Shift for Church, Voices Support for Same-Sex Civil Unions
The comments, shown in a new documentary, are the strongest yet from a pontificate that has taken a more tolerant and inclusive tone. By Jason Horowitz ROME (The New York Times)— Pope Francis expressed support for same-sex civil unions in remarks revealed in a documentary film that premiered on Wednesday, a significant break from his predecessors […]
US officials link Iran to emails meant to intimidate voters
By ERIC TUCKER and FRANK BAJAK Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials have accused Iran of being behind a flurry of emails sent to Democratic voters in multiple battleground states that appeared to be aimed at intimidating them into voting for President Donald Trump. The officials did not lay out specific evidence for how […]
Japan, Vietnam agree to boost defense ties, resume flights
HANOI, Vietnam. (AP) — Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, in his first overseas summit since taking office last month, agreed with his Vietnamese counterpart to step up defense and security cooperation in the face of China’s expanding influence in the region. In talks in Hanoi on Monday, Suga and Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc […]
Taiwan official in hospital after alleged ‘violent attack’ by Chinese diplomats in Fiji
Alleged incident, which comes amid soaring tensions between Beijing and Taipei occurred at a reception in Suva to mark Taiwan’s national day FIJI (The Guardian) A fight between Chinese diplomats and a Taiwanese delegate in Fiji left the Taiwanese official in hospital with a head injury, and has again highlighted tensions between Beijing and Taipei in their […]
Does the flu vaccine affect my chances of getting COVID-19?
Does the flu vaccine affect my chances of getting COVID-19?The flu vaccine protects you from seasonal influenza, not the coronavirus — but avoiding the flu is especially important this year.Health officials and medical groups are urging people to get either the flu shot or nasal spray, so that doctors and hospitals don’t face the extra […]
Australian police clear 3rd reporter of charges after raids
CANBERRA, Australia (AP) — Police announced on Thursday that a third journalist will not be charged with obtaining classified information 16 months after high-profile police raids triggered national outrage over the state of press freedom in Australia.Australian Federal Police targeted Australian Broadcasting Corp. reporter Dan Oakes and his producer Sam Clark when they executed search […]
Postal Service agrees to reverse service changes
HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The U.S. Postal Service agreed Wednesday to reverse changes that slowed mail service nationwide, settling a lawsuit filed by Montana Gov. Steve Bullock during a pandemic that is expected to force many more people to vote by mail.The lawsuit filed against Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and the U.S. Postal Service on […]
Sports
MLB says Turner violated protocols when he returned to field
By RONALD BLUM AP Baseball WriterARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Justin Turner violated coronavirus protocols when he celebrated with his Los Angeles Dodgers teammates and he refused instructions from security to leave the field, behavior that Major League Baseball said risked the safety of others.The commissioner’s office said Wednesday it is starting a full investigation of […]
World 100m champion Coleman banned for two years for missed drugs tests
LOS ANGELES, 28 OCTOBER 2020 (INSIDE THE GAMES) —World champion sprinter Christian Coleman has been banned for two years for anti-doping offences, ruling him out of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.The American missed tests on January 16 and December 9 of last year, and was also charged with a filing error in connection with an attempted […]
The Steelers’ Style Isn’t Old-Fashioned. Call It Retro Chic
Pittsburgh didn’t panic when things went south in 2019. That patience has paid off with a team worthy of its predecessors. By Mike Tanier (The New York Times) With their deeply-talented roster, sack-happy style and early-season success, the 2020 Pittsburgh Steelers conjure grainy, romanticized images of the team’s 1970s glory days: quarterbacks fleeing their defense […]
Lowe homers twice, Rays hold off Dodgers 6-4 to even Series
By STEPHEN HAWKINS AP Baseball WriterARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Brandon Lowe kept finding his name near the top of Tampa Bay’s lineup even as his offensive struggles continued to mount this postseason.After Lowe finally busted out in Game 2 of the World Series, the Rays and Dodgers are tied deep in the heart of Texas.“Sometimes […]
After Doping Scandal, Russia Hacked the Olympics, U.S. and Britain Say
After suffering embarrassment over its doping scheme, Russia tried cyberattacks against the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea and was targeting the postponed Tokyo Olympics too, American and British officials said. By Tariq Panja LONDON (The New York Times) — After the unmasking of its state-orchestrated doping program turned it into a sporting pariah, Russia hardly […]
LEADING OFF: Rays, Dodgers all set to meet in World Series
A look at what’s happening around the majors today: SERIES SET In a most unpredictable season, the teams with the best records in each league are set to meet in the World Series. The Dodgers and Rays will open in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday night after each finished memorable League Championship Series matchups this weekend. […]
Jason Kokrak wins CJ Cup to get PGA Tour title in 233rd try
NORTH LAS VEGAS, Nev. (AP) — Jason Kokrak was playing for the 233rd time in his 10th season on the PGA Tour without ever having won, so he didn’t need any reminders Sunday in the CJ Cup at Shadow Creek that anything would come easily. He watched Xander Schauffele stuff a wedge to 5 feet […]
Jimmy Garoppolo throws 3 TD passes, 49ers beat Rams 24-16
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Jimmy Garoppolo and the San Francisco 49ers bounced back from a lopsided loss and showed the banged-up defending NFC champions aren’t ready to pack it in quite yet. Garoppolo threw three TD passes in the first half and Jason Verrett’s first interception in more than four years helped preserve the lead, giving […]
