Overview:
Former Ngeremlengui State Governor and Sen. Ngiraklang John Skebong, one of Palau’s longest-serving state governors, has died at 79. Skebong, who led Ngeremlengui for 16 years and later served in the Senate, leaves behind decades of public service at both the state and national levels.
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
Koror, Palau – Ngeremlengui State and the nation are mourning the passing of former Ngeremlengui State Governor and Senator Ngiraklang John Skebong, who passed away on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at the age of 79. Skebong died following a period of hospitalization at Belau National Hospital, marking the end of a decades-long career in public service that spanned local and national leadership roles.
Skebong was first elected governor of Ngeremlengui State in 1992, becoming the state’s second governor since its modern government was established in the early 1984. He held the office continuously until 2008, serving 16 years and earning recognition as one of Palau’s longest-serving state governors.
After his governorship, Skebong returned to national politics, serving one term as a senator in the 10th Olbiil era Kelulau (OEK) from 2016 to 2020. During that term, he chaired the Senate Committee on Capital Improvements Projects (CIP), overseeing legislation and oversight related to public works and infrastructure funding.
At press time, no public announcement had been made regarding the date of Skebong’s funeral. As usual practice, the OEK is expected to pass a resolution in the coming days honoring his years of public service.
Skebong held the chief title of Ngiraklang, the second-highest traditional title in Ngeremlengui State. He is survived by his wife, Caroline Sumang Skebong, and their children.