KOROR, Palau — Koror State and Rull Municipality of Yap State in the Federated States of Micronesia strengthened their longstanding cultural ties this week with the granting of land use rights for a submerged lot in Koror.
At a signing ceremony Monday, Governor Eyos Rudimch said the agreement fulfills the wishes of the late Ibedul Yutaka Gibbons, who had sought to deepen the bond between the two communities.
“Koror and Rull have a close cultural tie, and through this exchange, we seek to strengthen and build on that ancient relationship,” said Alexander Merep, referred to as Ibedul at the ceremony.
The site is a submerged land area located behind Palau Community College near the historic “Taoch ra Ididrach,” according to Koror State Governor Eyos Rudimch.
Under the agreement, Rull Municipality will construct a community center on the site to serve the people of Rull Municipality and Yap State. The center will be used to promote and strengthen cultural, social, and other community-based exchange programs between Koror and Yap.
“Initially, Koror State will help us with the permitting processes, and we will seek funding for the project on our side,” said Rull Municipality Vice Chairman John Sangog Thing.
“Even though we are giving this to Rull Municipality, it is by extension also to Yap State,” Governor Rudimch added.
Chief Michael Gilngor Ranganbay of Rull, Rull Municipality Mayor Jeffrey Adalbai, Vice Chairman John Sangog Thing, and Treasurer Bryan Y. Dabugsiy attended the ceremony. Members of Koror’s House of Traditional Leaders and Maiberel were also present.
According to the agreement, the land shall be used solely for community, charitable, and educational purposes.