Posted inOpinion

Taxing the People, Forgetting the Principles

Dear Editor, Economic development has become the obsession of governments worldwide. Leaders talk endlessly about GDP growth, foreign investment, and infrastructure projects. Yet the people who make up the foundation of the economy, ordinary families, are left struggling to make ends meet. This is not just an executive problem. It is a leadership problem, and […]

Posted inTop Stories

Prominent Palauan businessman, Rechesengel Ignacio Anastacio, dies in Philippines

By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (Aug. 31, 2026) – One of Palau’s most prominent businessmen, former legislator and traditional leader, Rechesengel Ignacio Anastacio, died Saturday morning in the Philippines, according to sources close to his family. He was in his mid-70s. Anastacio was the titlebearer of Rechesengel, the second-highest traditional chiefly title in Ngchesar State. […]

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NDBP CEO David Proctor’s Contract Not Renewed

By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (August 20, 2026) — The National Development Bank of Palau’s Board of Directors has decided not to renew the contract of President and CEO David Proctor, with Chief Financial Officer Karla West appointed as acting CEO. NDBP Board Chairman Rhinehart Silas confirmed the decision, saying Proctor’s contract, which expires Aug. […]

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Palau Extends Interim Ship Registry Contract Through Cybersecurity Act Rider

By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau — President Surangel Whipps Jr. signed legislation this month extending the operation of Palau’s temporary Open Ship Registry management contract, using a rider attached to the country’s new cybersecurity law rather than a standalone bill. Procurement Officer Nabeyama testifies before OEK regarding the status of Palau Open Ship Registry bid […]

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Taiwan Vice President Hsiao Visits Palau to Deepen Diplomatic Ties and Boost Tourism

Five-day trip highlights bilateral cooperation, development projects and people-to-people exchanges.  By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (June 8, 2026) — Republic of China (Taiwan) Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim arrived in Palau on June 6 for a five-day visit aimed at strengthening diplomatic relations, promoting sustainable tourism and highlighting the achievements of bilateral development projects between the […]

Posted inTop Stories

Senate Rejects Elite Visa Bill After House Adds More Than $8 Million in Budget Riders

Lawmakers call for supplemental budget review, say appropriations deserve separate scrutiny  By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau — “It is our duty as elected representatives to properly scrutinize and address any budget appropriation, rather than just rubber stamp a bill,” Sen. Seigfried Nakamura said as the Senate voted to reject a House-amended version of the Elite […]

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