(Updated 01/02/25) KOROR, Palau — Nine divers from China, three women and five men, were rescued a day after they went missing while diving at Peleliu Corner on Dec. 26. Previous report from authorities reported eight divers, including a dive guide, but according to dive operator, they were nine divers, including dive guide. They were […]
Author Archives: Leilani Reklai
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Palau’s Tourism reaches half of pre-pandemic arrivals in 2024
Tourism in Palau has reached a significant milestone, with visitor arrivals surpassing half of pre-pandemic levels as of November 2024. According to the Palau Visitors Authority, 50,541 visitors arrived in the country this year, compared to 93,723 in 2019. November 2024 marked a strong month for tourism, recording 4,651 visitors. This figure represents a 7% […]
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Surprise jail sweep in Koror nets drugs, weapons, and phones
Koror, Palau — A surprise shakedown at Koror Jail early Thursday morning uncovered a significant cache of contraband, including drugs, weapons, and other prohibited items. The operation, conducted at 7:30 a.m. on December 26, yielded 12 cellphones, 26 knives, methamphetamine straws, small ziplock bags, glass pipes, marijuana pipes, and various sharp objects. Confiscated drugs included […]
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OEK approves Koror State’s $5M ADB Loan with Reform Mandates
KOROR, Palau — The Olbiil Era Kelulau (OEK), Palau’s national congress, has approved a $5 million loan for the Koror State Government to stabilize its operations for fiscal years 2024-2025. The funding was authorized through Senate Joint Resolution 11-55 and is part of a larger $10 million allocation previously approved under House Joint Resolution 11-32-7S, […]
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Search continues for missing fisherman in Ngaraard
Update 12/24/24 7:30 am NGARAARD, Palau — Authorities are resuming the search for a missing fisherman swept out to sea on the east coast of Ngaraard State, according to the Bureau of Public Safety. Director Curtis Elobt confirmed in a phone interview with Island Times last night that two men from Ngaraard went fishing on […]
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Senator Rudimch warns against hasty public sector wage hike
KOROR, Palau — Senator Mark Rudimch has voiced strong objections to Senate Bill 11-117, citing significant fiscal, economic, and constitutional concerns. The bill, which proposes wage increases, adjustments to the Executive, Professional, and Special (EPS) salary scale, and allocations for national projects, is being considered as an amendment to House Bill 11-128-138, HD1, SD1 without […]