Overview:
The new correctional facility in Ngchesar is nearing completion, with the Ministry of Justice targeting substantial progress by December. The Senate Committee on Judiciary and Governmental Affairs held an oversight hearing last week to review the project’s timeline and address growing concerns over overcrowding and recent incidents at the Koror Jail.
The upcoming facility aims to provide not only safer accommodations but also counseling and education programs to support inmate rehabilitation.
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
Koror, Palau (October 28, 2025) — “We are fully committed to completing the new correctional facility by December,” said Capital Improvements Project (CIP) Manager Lee Otobed, as he briefed senators on the project’s progress during an oversight hearing last week. The hearing came amid growing public concern over overcrowding and the recent inmate stabbing death at the Koror Jail, which currently holds more than 100 inmates in limited space.
The Senate Committee on Judiciary and Governmental Affairs met with the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) and CIP Manager Otobed on October 20 to review the status of the new correctional facility in Ngchesar State and discuss ongoing challenges within the ministry.
Final Phase of Construction Underway
Otobed reported that the project is now in its third and final phase, valued at $942,029, fully funded by Taiwan Stimulus Grants. The final work has been awarded to two major contractors: Surangel & Sons Construction and NECO Construction.
Surangel & Sons was awarded four packages on October 14, covering:
- Package A: Outdoor facilities, including a chapel, basketball court, and other amenities.
- Package B: Interior modifications for female and juvenile inmate sections.
- Package C: Renovations to male inmate areas and kitchen storage facilities.
- Package D: Electrical and electromechanical systems installation.
NECO Construction was awarded Package E, which involves the water supply system for the facility.
Otobed told senators that both companies were instructed to accelerate construction, potentially by adding two or three work shifts, to meet the December completion deadline. “It is our commitment that by the end of December this year, we have reached substantial completion,” he said.
Senators Question Feasibility of December Deadline
However, lawmakers voiced skepticism about the ambitious timeline. Senator Melairei questioned whether “it is realistic to finish nearly one million dollars’ worth of work in two months.” He cited comments from workers suggesting the project might not be fully completed until March or even May next year.
Senate President Hokkons Baules also expressed concern, asking whether critical interior components such as furnishings, plumbing fixtures, and cabinets were ready for installation. “Let’s not give false hope to the Congress and the MOJ minister,” Baules said, urging for a practical timeline and full assessment of remaining needs.
Koror Jail Faces Overcrowding and Safety Concerns
During the same hearing, Minister of Justice Jennifer Olegeriil provided updates on current jail conditions. The Koror Jail currently holds 100 inmates — 92 serving sentences and 8 in long-term custody awaiting trial.
Of those incarcerated, 73 are Palauan men, along with 8 Chinese men, 1 Filipino man, 7 Palauan women, 2 Chinese women, and 1 Filipino woman. Among those awaiting trial are five Palauan men, two Chinese men, and one Palauan woman.
Olegeriil acknowledged that the new facility would significantly ease these pressures, noting that it will consist of two connected wings — one for male inmates and another for female and juvenile inmates.
Facility Aims to Promote Rehabilitation
Unlike the current jail, the Ngchesar facility is designed to promote rehabilitation and reintegration. In addition to improved living conditions, it will include a chapel, a basketball court, and educational and counseling programs.
Olegeriil said the ministry is working with the Ministry of Health and Human Services to hire a full-time in-house counselor and to introduce GED education programs for interested inmates. “This facility will not just hold inmates,” she said. “It will help them rebuild their lives so they can return as productive members of society.”
If completed by the target date, the Ngchesar Correctional Facility will mark a major step forward in addressing overcrowding and rehabilitation challenges in Palau’s criminal justice system.