Overview:
Every state in Palau is represented at this year's Belau Games, with roughly 1,200 athletes competing after Monday's opening ceremony at the National Oval in Koror. PNOC Secretary General Baklai Temengil Chilton confirmed the full 16-state turnout as competition continues through next Wednesday's closing ceremony.
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
KOROR, Palau (July 13, 2026) — All 16 states of Palau are competing in this year’s Belau Games, with about 1,200 athletes taking part in the multi-day competition that officially opened Monday evening at the National Oval–Palau Track & Field.
PNOC Secretary General Baklai Temengil Chilton announced the participation numbers during the pre-sunset opening ceremony, calling it a full turnout representing every state in the republic. Chilton said several sports began competition a few days before the ceremony so those events could complete their full match schedules ahead of the closing ceremony, set for next Wednesday.
Teams representing all 16 states processed in alphabetical order from Aimeliik to Sonsorol, each led by a flag bearer. Many of the flag bearers are decorated competitors with medals from past Belau Games and Micronesian events, and some have represented Palau at regional competitions including the Pacific Mini Games.
Wilfred Williams delivered the opening prayer, and members of the men’s and women’s national volleyball teams performed the national anthem. Frank Kyota, president of the Palau National Olympic Committee, gave welcoming remarks, and President Surangel Whipps Jr. delivered the keynote address.
Hana Ruluked, a national swimmer and Olympic scholarship recipient, led the athletes’ oath on behalf of the roughly 1,200 competitors, while triathlon tournament director Blossom Narvaez led the officials’ oath. Gov. Norman Ngiratecheboet delivered the Governor’s message and Games declaration on behalf of the Governors Association.
Events continue across multiple venues in Palau in the coming days, culminating in next Wednesday’s closing ceremony.