By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
KOROR, Palau — A newly established group, the Retirees Association of Palau, has been officially registered and chartered this year with the goal of advocating for improvements to the country’s civil service pension program.
During its public launch on Feb. 17 via a televised talk show, association leaders stated that membership is currently limited to retirees receiving pension benefits. However, the organization aims to eventually include those receiving social security benefits.
On Feb. 20, the association held its first town hall meeting in Ngarchelong to raise awareness and encourage retirees across Palau to join. More outreach meetings are planned throughout the country.
Chairman Joel Toribiong said the association was formed after a group of retirees convened and met with board members of the Palau Civil Service Pension Plan to discuss the initiative. Other officers include Vice Chairman Julita Tellei, Secretary/Treasurer Faustina Marugg, and members Isaac Soaladaob and Krispin Termeteet.
Among its future initiatives, the association plans to encourage pension recipients to voluntarily contribute $1 per month toward retiree programs. The group seeks to strengthen pension security and advocate for retirees’ financial well-being.