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. […]
Tag: Palau Congress
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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 […]
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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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Driving Under the Influence of Illegal Drugs Now a Felony in Palau
New law targets drug abuse, strengthens accountability and funds rehabilitation efforts By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau – (May 7, 2026) President Surangel Whipps Jr. has signed into law a sweeping anti-drug measure that strengthens penalties for illegal drug offenses and creates tougher accountability standards for law enforcement officers involved with drugs. The legislation, RPPL 12-5, […]
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House Advances Bill Mandating Palauan Language Instruction in Early Grades
Measure requires K–3 teaching in Palauan, allows Sonsorolese and Hatohobeian options By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang NGERULMUD, Palau — Delegate Sebastian Marino of Hatohobei has introduced a three-page bill in the House of Delegates proposing a significant reform to Palau’s education system by requiring Palauan traditional languages as the primary language of instruction in early grades. […]