By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
NGERULMUD, Palau — The Senate confirmed four members to the board of directors of the Palau Visitors Authority (PVA) on Tuesday, a move that could influence long-term tourism strategies amid increasing visitor arrivals.
The appointees — Leah A. Gillham, Norman Ngiratecheboet, Cindy J. Fitzpatrick, and Ashley Omelau — were confirmed during the Senate’s sixth day of its second special session. They will serve two-year terms on the board.
According to PVA, the board also includes Chairman Jackson Doktok and Vice Chairwoman Jennifer Olegeriil. One seat remains vacant following the recent passing of board member Charles Desengei Matsutaro. Minister of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development Ngiraibelas Tmetuchel serves as an ex-officio member.
Several senators expressed support for the reappointments. Senator Kerai Mariur noted that the two-year term may be too short to allow board members to implement lasting tourism policies. He suggested that Congress consider extending board terms to enable more effective long-term planning.
The reappointments come at a critical time for Palau’s tourism sector. PVA data shows monthly visitor arrivals in 2024 have ranged between 5,000 and 6,000. January saw the highest number with 6,902 visitors, while the most recent data — from April — reported 5,426 arrivals.
Visitor numbers are expected to increase significantly with Palau hosting the upcoming Pacific Mini Games. The Palau Entry Form has been updated to include the event as a reason for travel, allowing officials to distinguish between tourists visiting for the games and other travelers.
The newly reappointed board members will likely play a key role in guiding the country’s tourism policies as Palau prepares for this major international event and works to strengthen its visitor economy.