On the night of January 18th, 2018, at the PICRC 17th Anniversary Fundraising Dinner Gala, a new record in fundraising effort in Palau was achieved, when over $166,000 was raised by evening’s end. This record was made possible because government officials (both national and state level), private companies, as well as many individual supporters came together to make their contribution towards ensuring that marine research and conservation in Palau get as much support as possible. Dr. Yimnang Golbuu, Chief Executive Officer for PICRC expressed, “We are humbled by this overflowing support by so many people! We certainly appreciate the extra mile our supporters took to subsidize our marine work and we will continue to do our best to ensure that support to PICRC continues to be a good investment for Palau and Palauans.”
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This is one for the record books, where over 300 people came together in a stunning event unlike any other at the Ngarachamayong Cultural Center, to enjoy an exemplary dinner, prepared and served by Elilai Restaurant with entertainment provided by performers Mr. Kendall Titiml and Ms. Kelau Remeliik.
The highlight of the evening was to witness another first in Palau’s history – the awarding of the newly established Tommy E. Remengesau, Jr. Environmental Award to Dirrangerkiu Carol Emaurois, for her achievements and contribution to conservation. She is a ‘trailblazer’, among the first Palauans involved in many significant conservation milestones in science, education and research in Palau.
While advancing science and protecting biodiversity are also important, PICRC’s main reason behind conservation is to benefit the people of Palau. This year’s theme, “People First through Conservation” is to remind us that we protect our natural resources first and foremost for our own benefit. This theme was embraced with the presence of the whole Palau leadership, including President Tommy E. Remengesau and his ministers; Speaker of the House Sabino Anastacio and members of the House of Delegates; Senate President Hokkons Baules and other senators, and Vice Chair of the Governors’ Association, Peleliu State Governor Temmy Shmull, and other governors. The traditional leaders were also present, including Ibedul Yutaka Gibbons and other members of Rubekul Belau and Bilung Gloria Salii, Ngarachamayong and Maibrel.
This year, PICRC Anniversary fundraising dinner was graciously co-hosted by the House of Delegates of the Tenth Olbiil Era Kelulau and Ngarachamayong. The evening was a night to remember as people truly came together in support of the Center’s efforts to put people first through conservation. [/restrict]