Overview:
Babeldaob’s Thunder Chiefs Motorcycle Club hit the road with gifts and smiles! Their seventh annual Toy Run brought holiday cheer to children across 11 states, reaching even the most remote corners of the island.
By: Summer Kennard
Babeldaob, Palau (December 22, 2025) The Thunder Chiefs Motorcycle Club successfully held its seventh annual Babeldaob Toy Run on December 21, 2025, continuing a tradition aimed at spreading Christmas cheer to children across the island.
The annual ride began at 9 a.m., traveling from Babeldaob’s west coast to the east coast, with riders making stops in 11 states along the route. The Toy Run focuses on reaching children in rural communities who may not have the opportunity to travel to Koror to participate in larger holiday candy and gift distributions.
According to Thunder Chiefs rider Maderngebuked, the event was created to ensure that children throughout Babeldaob are included in the holiday spirit.
“This is our seventh year, and we find that some of the kids in Babeldaob don’t have access to go to Koror and participate in the candy distribution systems there,” he said. “So we come into the east coast, west coast, and central areas to make it convenient, accessible, and to bring the Christmas spirit directly to the communities.”
Despite heavy rain early in the morning, the weather cleared as the ride progressed. Maderngebuked, who is from Aimeliik State, shared a lighthearted reflection on the day, crediting both preparation and prayer for the improved conditions.
“We really appreciate the support of the state governments and especially the parents who are patiently waiting with their children,” he added.
Parents expressed gratitude for the event, noting its impact on children in outer communities.
“As parents, we are very thankful that they come all the way out to our state,” said one parent who attended the Toy Run. “Not everyone can make it to Koror during the holidays, so this means a lot to our kids and brings happiness to the whole community.”
The Thunder Chiefs extended their appreciation to the many sponsors and supporters who contributed to the success of this year’s Toy Run. These included the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Honorable Ambassador Jessica C. Lee, Governor Duane Hideo, the Ngchesar State Government, Palau Shipping Company, Palau National Communications Corporation, Palau Public Utilities Corporation, Rubekul Belau, Palau Pacific Resort, Eurasia Pacific Lines-Palau, Prime Grub, and Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 4.
Additional support was provided by national and state leaders, including Vice Speaker Mario Gulibert, Speaker Gibson Kanai, several senators and delegates, as well as governors from Ngchesar, Kayangel, Ngarchelong, Angaur, and other states. The Thunder Chiefs also acknowledged the contributions of community leaders, families, and individual supporters who helped make the event possible.