By: Olkeriil Eoghan Ngirudelsang
(Koror, Palau) President Surangel Whipps Jr.’s state visit program is nearing its conclusion with only five states remaining on the itinerary. The initiative began on June 10th in Ngarchelong and most recently visited Koror on Thursday.
The president, accompanied by over 50 government officials including ministers and semi-government staff, has used these visits to update the public on various government undertakings. Key topics addressed by President Whipps include newly secured financial aid through the Compact of Free Association, increased state block grants, government employee salary raises, and tax breaks for low-income citizens.
Public participation is a key element of the program. Residents attending the events have the opportunity to raise concerns and ask questions. Among the recurring issues voiced are frequent power outages by the Palau Public Utilities Corporation (PPUC), rising costs of goods and services, inquiries regarding the Palau Goods and Services Tax (PGST), and deficiencies in equipment or services at the national hospital. Additionally, residents expressed concerns about illegal drug activity and law enforcement.
“These visits are valuable because each state has unique needs, and the public deserves to be informed about what’s being done to address them,” commented a state employee at the most recent event. An elderly woman who attended a previous visit in Babeldaob echoed this sentiment, stating, “While many of us are already familiar with the president’s reports from the media, these visits provide an invaluable opportunity to directly ask questions and share our concerns with the government.”
The remaining visits to Melekeok, Ngchesar, Peleliu, Angaur, and Hatohobei are scheduled for completion within the month.