A rare and distinguished award of Congressional Outstanding Citizen Award was conferred through a Joint Resolution No 11-11-3 to Noriwo K. Ubedei for his outstanding contributions to Palau through diverse roles he had played in nation’s growth over the years.
The award recognizes and commends Mr. Ubedei’s lifetime contributions and service to the Republic of Palau and the “example for all generations to emulate as a model for hard work, perseverance and great professional and personal achievements.”
The award is very rarely awarded and to a living individual.
Some of the notable achievements attributed to Mr. Ubedei include being the first appointed Liaison Office of the Republic of Palau to Washington, D.C, of the United States of America, opening the first “foreign office” of Palau in D.C. Some of his tasks included appearing before various U.S. Congressional committees and subcommittees, cultivating Palau’s rapport with U.S. Congress, the Administration and Washington community.
He also served as Special Consultant on the Compact of Free Association advising Palau’s congress on matters relating to the U.S. Congress mood and disposition.
Mr. Ubedei served as Social Security Administrator from 1990 to 2000, and credited for the growth of SS investment from $5 million to over $30 million in that period.
In 2001, he became the General Manager and CEO of Palau Public Utilities Corporation until 2004. Under his leadership, they established and implemented regulations and procedures ensuring compliance with PPUC Act and its mandate.
In addition to his diverse careers, he also served in many key organizations such as Board member of National Development Bank of Palau from 2000 until now, board member of Palau Conservation Society, Palau Civil Service Board, President of Ngarchelong State Constitutional Convention and member of Trust Territory Vocational Advisory Council among others.
“House of Delegates of the Eleventh Olbiil Era Kelulau with Senate concurring, that the Olbiil Era Kelulau hereby commend and honor Mr. Noriwo Ubedei for his lifetime and valuable contributions, commitment and services to the Republic of Palau and bestow a congressional award of recognition to him as an Outstanding Citizen of the Republic of Palau and example for all generations to emulate.”
Leadership of both houses, Senate President Hokkons Baules, House Speaker Sabino Anastacio, Senator Jonathan Isechal, Delegate Timothy Sinsak and Delegate Warren Umetaro visited Mr. Ubedei to hand him the Outstanding Citizen Award.