KPress Vol22 Iss 13 - 06 July 22

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Vol. 22 Issue No. 13

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4th FSM Con-Con concludes its Convention with 8 proposed amendments adopted Palikir, POHNPEI. June 28, 2022 – The 4th Constitutional Convention of the Federated States of Micronesia adjourned sine die at 1:57 p.m. on June 28, 2022 having adopted eight proposed constitutional amendments on dual citizenship, revenue sharing on fishing fees, presidential veto override, revenue sharing of seabed resources, eligibility to run for Congress, jurisdiction of cases where an interest in land is at issue, establishment of a new FSM Office for Independent Prosecutor, and setting a new threshold for amending the FSM Constitution. The adopted proposed amendments are: Threshold Proposal: Proposal 4-04 would amend Article

XIV, Section 1 of the Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia to lower the percentage of votes cast required in each State to adopt amendments to the Constitution from the current three- fourths of the votes required in three-fourths of the States to two-thirds of the votes in three –fourths of the States.

Dual Citizenship Proposal: Proposal 4-05 would amend Article III of the Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia which sets out the requirements for citizenship.

The Proposal does the following: (1) Allows an FSM Citizen who satisfies Section 2 of the FSM Constitution to hold dual citizenship. According to Section 2, a person born of parents one or both of whom are citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia is a citizen and national of the Federated States of Micronesia by birth. (2) Restores FSM citizenship to those who lost Click here for continuation

Not pictured: 1. Vice President- Iso Nanken of Nett Salvador Iriarte 2. Delegate Cindy Siren Mori 3. “ Myron I. Hashiguchi 4. “ James A. Naich 5. “Johnson A. Asher 6.” Asterio R. Takesy 7. “ Akillino H. Susaia 8. “ Roger Arnold 9. “ Yoslyn G. Sigrah left before photo session but the rest participated virtually

Husband and wife charged in murder of one and assault of two others in Kitti

By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press

July 4, 2022 Kitti, Pohnpei—Pohnpei State prosecutors have charged Cincerly Mihkel and Nahliam Gilmete with 10 criminal charges, including murder related to an altercation in Rohi, Kitti that led to the death of Kosmas Andon, and the injury of Renson Andon and Joeson Andon. The altercation took place on June 27.

Though State Prosecutors requested that the court not allow people, having allegedly also stabbed Renson Andon. bail for the two, the court freed them pending trial on terms The prosecutor’s charges against the two either separately or including $2500 bail each. together include Criminal Conspiracy, two counts of Assault Law enforcement officials say that on June 27, Mihkel and and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon, Felonious Assault and Gilmete, who are married, arrived at a basketball court in Battery, Assault and Battery, Disorderly Conduct, Appearance Rohi, Kitti where the Andons, their relatives, had invited them in Public Under the Influence of Alcohol, Prohibitions and to join them for sakau. An apparently alcohol-fueled fight Disturbance of the Peace, Murder, and Manslaughter. erupted, during which all participants, including the accused were injured, one of them fatally. On June 28, Kosmas Andon The charge of Criminal Conspiracy applies to both defendants succumbed to his stabbing wounds, allegedly at the hands of in the criminal case0.

Cincerly Mihkel. Mihkel is charged with having stabbed two Click here for continuation

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FSM Swimmers set two new national records and post good times at FINA World Aquatic Championships

Photos by Akifumi Takahashi

By Susan Kihleng

June 15, 2022 Budapest, Hungary—On June 15, 2022, three FSM swimmers arrived in Budapest, Hungary for the FINA World Aquatics Championships. FSM Olympian and multi-FSM national record holder Tasi Limtiaco was the first of the team to race in the competition. Limtiaco competed in both the 100 Meter Breaststroke and the 50 Meter Breaststroke. He finished the 100 Meter Breaststroke race with a time of 1:04.63, just .03 of a second slower than his personal best time and FSM National Record time in the event. On day 3 of the competition, Limtiaco finished the 50 Meter Breaststroke with an astounding time of 29.23, a brand-new FSM National Record!

Day 4 saw 17-year-old Kyler Kihleng make his World Championships debut. Kihleng completed the 100 Meter Freestyle race with a personal best time of 1:00.72. He finished out the competition on Day 6 with the 50 Meter Freestyle, finishing with a well-earned time of 27.56.

Kestra Kihleng began her racing on day 6 with the 50 Meter Butterfly, finishing with a new FSM National Record time of 31.76. Ms. Kihleng concluded this competition with a personal best time in the 50 Meter Breaststroke of 38.97. This competition was Ms. Kihleng’s second World Championships.

All three of these swimmers are Olympic Training Scholarship holders. Limtiaco has been training in Phuket, Thailand at a FINA training center, and the Kihleng siblings have been training at the recently reopened Pohnpei pool. The team was accompanied by Coach (Ataka) Akifumi Takahashi and FSM Swimming General Secretary Susan Kihleng. In addition to the championship competition taking place in Budapest, FSM Swimming had been invited to participate in a FINA mentorship program. Workshops for the program were held throughout the week of competition and were attended by Susan Kihleng as the FSM delegate, along with 9 other nations participating. The workshops and mentorship program include an in-depth six-month long program full of guidance and support from FINA with the intention of expanding swim programs within the countries participating. FSM athletes will benefit greatly from this program in the coming months.

The competition theme was “Make History”, and these three young athletes did just that: 6 total swims, 5 personal best times, and 2 new national records.

Videos of each race can be viewed on the FSM Swimming Facebook page.

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Government of Japan in conjunction with UNICEF presents over $9 million worth of trucks and boats for FSM vaccination outreach

By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press July 1, 2022 Pohnpei—The Government of Japan in coordination with UNICEF donated $9,090,909 to the FSM Government for the purchase of five trucks and four boats. The vehicles will be used in order to deliver vaccines to people in the FSM who are geographically difficult to reach.

The donation is part of the cold chain project of UNICEF which assures proper storage and delivery of the vaccines.

Two of the trucks and one of the boats were on display at a handover ceremony at the National Government warehouse in Dekehtik at 10:00 on July 1. All of the vessels are top of the line and are being delivered to each FSM State.

“Last year, Japan handed over 70 cold boxes for transporting vaccines and 35 freezers to the FSM through the cold chain project of UNICEF,” Japan’s Ambassador Michigami said in his speech at the ceremony.

“In connection with the previous grant, I am honored to offer the items of this program which are five vehicles and four boats that we foresee to be very useful in delivering vaccines to communities and outer islands in the four states.”

“The fight against covid-19 will continue, and global cooperation is essential for that. Japan will continue to work with our partners to support the health of the people of Federated States of Micronesia,” he said.

FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs Marcus Samo also addressed the small assembled crowd at the event, thanking the people and government of Japan for their continuing assistance of the people of the FSM. UNICEF North Pacific Officer in Charge, Jeffrey Ing also thanked the government of Japan for the

donation, saying that it will go a long way toward ensuring the health of the FSM’s young people.

At the conclusion of the speeches, Carter Apaisam of DHS conducted a tour of the warehouse facility and particularly the cold storage aspect showing the ongoing sustainability of the vaccination program.

Tony Sarapio, who is handling the FSM’s promotion of the vaccination program served as the Master of Ceremonies during the event.

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Statement - ...Con Con Guardian Class Continued from front page Patrol Boats their citizenship because they failed

of Micronesia beyond the 12 miles from island baselines would be shared between the respective States where the mining or exploitation took place. The amendment would establish that when two or more State governments have a claim to the revenues, each State shall be entitled to an equal percentage. Currently, the Constitution does not provide a mechanism for sharing the net revenues when more than one State has a claim.

or were unable to renounce their citizenship of a foreign country.

(3) Provides a pathway for FSM citizens who knowingly renounced their FSM citizenship to restore their FSM citizenship by meeting such requirements as Congress may provide by law; and (4) removes the sections of Article III for which there Congress Eligibility Proposal: 1 July 2022 are no longer any persons eligible to Committee Proposal 4-11, CCD2, Australia—Defence has recently claim FSM citizenship. would amend Article IX, Section 9, advised the Government of an issue affecting the Guardian class patrol Revenue Sharing on Fishing Fees of the Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia to create boats Australia has delivered to Proposal: consistency between the eligibility Pacific Island nations through the Pacific Maritime Security Program Proposal 4-13, CCD1, would amend requirements to run for Congress (PMSP). The issue involves a Article IX, Section 2(m) of the and to be elected President and to potential fault in the exhaust system. Constitution of the Federated States require residency within the FSM of Micronesia to provide that revenue to be eligible to run for Congress.

Under the PMSP, the Guardian derived from fishing fees are shared To run for Congress a person would Class Patrol Boats are the sovereign with the States. Under the proposed need to be at least 30 years of age property of individual Pacific Island amendment, States would be entitled on election day, a citizen of FSM nations, and each nation will make to not less than 50% of the total by birth, a domiciliary of the State its own decision on whether they fishing fees collected per year. 70% they are representing, and must be choose to continue to operate their of the amount would divided among residing in the FSM for at least five vessels, or pause operations. the States based on population and years immediately prior to running 30% would be divided equally among for office.

As with any new capability, it is the States. Currently 100% is for the vital that defects detected during National Government and 0% for the Land Case Jurisdiction Proposal: service operation are addressed States.

Committee Proposal 4-07, CCD2, promptly. That is why the PMSP includes through life sustainment Presidential Veto Override amends Article XI, Section 6(b) of the Constitution of the Federated and maintenance. Other issues have Proposal: States of Micronesia to provide emerged over the past 16 months and have remediation plans in place. This Proposal 4-03 would amend Article that the State Courts have exclusive includes cracking in the coupling IX, Section 2(q) of the Constitution to jurisdiction of cases where an interest between the engine and the gearbox, increase the number of votes needed of land is at issue. The intent of the and ventilation in the sick bays. for Congress to override a presidential amendment is to create an exception veto. The purpose of the amendment to the jurisdiction of the FSM Austal and Defence representatives is to ensure the proper checks and Supreme Court for cases where an soon will travel to Pacific Island balances between the President and interest in land is at issue. State law nations to assess all vessels and the Congress. Under the proposal, the would establish which state court work with Pacific island countries affirmative votes by 2/3 of election- would have jurisdiction. on temporary rectification measures district-representatives and ¾ of ahead of a longer-term solution. at-large-members would be needed Independent Prosecutor Proposal:

Australian Government - Defence

Defence remains committed to our partners in the Pacific and the Pacific Maritime Security Program.

The PMSP is a $2.1 billion program to supply 22 state of the art Guardian Class Patrol Boats to our Pacific partners, inclusive of sustainment and maritime surveillance support.

Our Pacific partners are large ocean states. The PMSP is vital to assisting our partners in exercising their sovereign rights in their maritime domains.

to override a Presidential veto.

Currently, Congress can override a Committee Proposal 04-09 would Presidential veto by the affirmative amend Article XII of the FSM Constitution of the Federated States vote of 3 of 4 State Delegations. of Micronesia to add a new Section Revenue Sharing-Seabed Resources 4 creating an Office of Independent Prosecutor. The Office of the Proposal: Independent Prosecutor will be an Committee Proposal 4-06, CCD2, independent agency of the national would amend Article IX, Section 6 government tasked with investigating prosecuting individuals, of the Constitution of the Federated and governments, and entities that States of Micronesia to establish how receive and misuse public funds the States’ share of the net revenue from the exploitation of minerals from the national government, and and non-living resources within the to investigate and prosecute certain jurisdiction of the Federated States national government officials for

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national offenses involving public corruption.

The citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia will have the opportunity to vote on these proposed amendments in a referendum.

“The Convention is now completed and all the adopted proposed amendments were formally transmitted to the President as required by law,” said the Secretary of the 4th FSM Constitutional Convention Mr. Kapilly Capelle in a statement. It is expected that President Panuelo will constitute the Executive Task Force for the public education as soon as practical.

Specific information on reports, proposals, journals, etc. can be easily accessed at the 4th FSM Constitutional Convention website at: constitution.gov.fm

...Murder Continued from front page The two counts of Assault and Battery are against Mihkel. One is for wielding a machete against Kosmas and Renson Andon, wounding both. The second of those counts was for utilizing a bat type piece of wood against the same two victims.

The charge of Felonious Assault and Battery is against both of the defendants for fighting against Kosmas, Renson, and Joeson “causing them to bleed”.

The charges of Assault and Battery, and Disorderly Conduct were also filed against the two defendants for the same reasons.

Prosecutors charged Nahliam Gilmete with Appearance in Public Under the Influence of Alcohol, which prosecutors said may have contributed to his fight with the Andons. He was additionally charged with Prohibitions and Disturbance of the Peace.

Only Cincerly Mihkel was charged with murder and manslaughter in the death of Kosmas Andon.

Defendants are presumed to be innocent unless otherwise proven in a court of law. Both have been freed from jail on the basis of a $2500 bond. Hearings on the facts of the case have not yet been scheduled.

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College of Micronesia-FSM

www.comfsm.fm

Yap | Chuuk | Pohnpei | Kosrae

Follow us online:

Teacher Corps Program Holds Community Service On June 23, 2022, the Teacher Corps program students did their community service out at Dekehtik and it sure was a success. Thank you all for coming out yesterday and thank you COMFSM administrators and Nett municipality staff for supporting our event.

These are COM-FSM students promoting the Teacher Corps program and keeping our island clean too. This program is for students who wish to

become teachers one day.

If you wish to be part of this program, you must be enrolled at the College of Micronesia FSM majoring in Education. Applications are available at the Education division if you are interested.

Please pick up applications at COMFSM Education division Rm F106.

Deadline for these applications will be on July 08, 2022 at 5:00pm.

Please email pearlh@comfsm.fm for more infromation.

NOW OFFERING Bachelors of Science in Business Administration with an Emphasis in Accounting

Employee of the Month

Program starts Fall 2022

Call us for more Details!

National Campus P.O. Box 159 Kolonia Pohnpei, FM 96941 Phone: (691)320-2480 Fax: (691)320-2479 E-Mail: national@comfsm.fm

Chuuk Campus P.O. Box 879 Chuuk, FM 96942 Phone: (691)330-2689 Fax: (691)330-2740 E-Mail: chuuk@comfsm.fm

FSM-FMI P.O. Box 1056 Colonia Yap, FM 96943 Phone: (691)350-5244 Fax: (691)350-5245 E-Mail: fmi@comfsm.fm

Kosrae Campus P.O. Box 37 Tofol Kosrae, FM 96944 Phone: (691)370-3191 Fax: (691)370-3193 E-Mail: kosrae@comfsm.fm

Mr. Renton Isaac System Specialist Kosrae Campus

Pohnpei Campus P.O. Box 614 Kolonia Pohnpei, FM 96941 Phone: (691)320-3795 Fax: (691)320-3799 E-Mail: pohnpei@comfsm.fm

Yap Campus P.O. Box 286 Colonia Yap, FM 96943 Phone: (691)350-2296/5149 Fax: (691)350-5150 E-Mail: yap@comfsm.fm

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DIGITAL FSM PROJECT

Connecting FSM to reliable ultra high speed internet

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Kaselehlie Press

Local and regional organizations arm Mwokillese fishers in Pohnpei for “Safety at Sea” Urmwaka Incorporated June 11, 2022 Pohnpei—On June 11th, Mwokillese fishers residing in Pohnpei gathered at Dekehtik to obtain and register EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicator Radio Beacons) provided by several donors to Urmwaka Incorporated, a community-based nonprofit organization formed by concerned citizens of the Pohnpei outer island of Mwoakilloa, to help and assist with projects to improve livelihood of Mwoakilloa community on the atoll and here in Pohnpei. Urmwaka stands for Uhrek, Mwandohn, Kahlap, which are the three main islets of Mwoakilloa.

EPIRBs are critical instruments highly recommended for fishermen to alert search and rescue services in the event of an emergency especially when out at sea. Once activated, an EPIRB transmits a coded distress message through satellite to the nearest rescue center, in our case, US Coast Guard based in Guam. Once the message is received, rescue centers will activate a search and rescue mission instantly and relay distress message to FSM Maritime Surveillance. This will greatly increase a fisherman’s chances to be rescued.

In partnership with the Secretariat of Pacific Community (SPC), Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture (OFA), Conservation Society of Pohnpei, and Micronesia Conservation Trust, additional sea safety supplies were provided as well. SPC and OFA provided buckets perfect for dry storage and can also be used as floating devices. Awareness materials on sustainable fisheries were also provided and distributed to all fisherman.

In 2021, Urmwaka initiated a Safety at Sea campaign targeting Mwokillese fisherman.

The campaign was developed to minimize the on-going issue of fisherman getting lost at sea by equipping all fisherman with EPIRBs and other safety supplies such as life jackets, dry bags and other essential tools to promote and enhance safety practices, especially when fishing in the open ocean. A total of 36 EPIRBs were issued to all active Mwokillese fisherman residing on the island of Mwoakilloa as well as the main island of Pohnpei. In addition to safety equipment and supplies, boats were also painted orange and named to improve identification heighten visibility.

What differences does the Digital FSM Project bring to the people of FSM? As the digital FSM fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) is rolled out, for the first time people will benefit from competition in the FSM telecommunications market. The new FTTH promotes an “open-access” network that allows existing and newly licensed telecom service providers to deliver telecommunication services to the people of FSM. This will bring you: • Access to world class connectivity • Competitive pricing • More communication service options to choose from • More responsive technical support With the people of FSM in mind, and with the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) to oversee and regulate the telco providers, the FSM Cable Company aims to install fiber optic cable to every home, business and school on the main islands of all four states. This will transform the world of digital connectivity in the FSM.

Supported by:

Funded by:

UMK Inc. wants to extend its sincerest gratitude to Global Greengrants Fund (GGF), MCT, Best Buy, Congressman Ferny S. Perman and all the people who have helped during this project.

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42 boats vie for prizes in 18th Annual Vital Fishing Tournament

By Pohnpei Fishing Club

June 18, 2022 Pohnpei—42 boat owners registered to compete in the 18th Annual Vital Fishing Tournament. In addition to the opportunity to compete for thousands of dollars of prizes, each boat owner received t-shirts and a $75 gas voucher.

The winning fish was a 134-pound marlin caught by McKey Harris, which won him the first prize of $700. Harris also won the $600 second place prize for a 66.4-pound yellow fin tuna.

Not a bad day of fishing for McKey Harris aboard the Morning Star!

sponsored three EPIRBS which were awarded to Aaron Manuel of the Loapon Nos, Ringlen Hadley of the Kioskete, and Benito Cantero of the Stinger. There are four more anglers equipped for safety in Pohnpei’s waters because of the tournament.

Thanks go not only to Vital but all of the people who helped out.

Thanks to Mangrove Bay for the venue, and thanks to everyone who helped, including Virgie, her daughter, Cel, Dan, all the people on the dock and on the crane. We also want to thank all the Vital people who helped out.

Hot dogs were sold to support the Pohnpei Public Library, and Andolin Joseph caught a 37.2-pound mahi mahi for third thank you Nathan and Cheryl. place of $500. Junior Ioanis won $400 for fourth prize with a 25.2-pound wahoo. The fifth spot and $300 prize went to Once again, another big tourney has been completed. Thanks, Vital, and we hope to Johnny Bracket for a 19.2-pound yellow fin. do it up again next year.

Five different species were caught for the biggest species category of the tournament. First place prizes for each were $100. Second place prizes were $50.

Dave Spencer had the biggest yellow fin in the category at 14.2 pounds. His was followed by an 11.2-pound fish. Mary Ann Eperiam pulled in the largest skipjack tuna at 16 pounds. Hers was closely followed by Salger Nickolas’ fish at 15.8-pounds.

Uncharacteristically, Konrad Englberger did not win a prize for a barracuda but for the largest wahoo at 18 pounds. The inimitable Marvey Spencer, Jr. had an 11.2-pound wahoo.

Only two mahi mahis were landed for the tournament, the first winning a prize for biggest fish. The second was landed by Leeson Nicholas and was 15.4 pounds. There was no second prize for that species. Melner Isaac accepted his prize with a smile for a barracuda of 17.8 pounds. Gary Bloom landed a barracuda that was 13.4 pounds.

Ypeye Esperanza won $125 as the top lady angler for her 15.8-pound wahoo.

The US Embassy again awarded an EPIRB for one lucky angler. Jackson Paul took that one home for his boat, the Mahi Mahi. Vital

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US Embassy to the FSM celebrates the 264th anniversary of United States independence

By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press

July 1, 2022 Pohnpei—Hot dogs, hamburgers and all the fixin’s have somehow become synonymous with U.S. celebrations of Independence Day. This year was no exception on the afternoon of July 1 at the United States Embassy in Nett, Pohnpei. United States Charge’ d’ affaires Benjamin Dille hosted the celebration of the 264th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence which gave birth to the new United States in 1776.

BU3 Ken Go, and CECA Gabriel Vinson, of the US Navy Construction Civic Action Detail raised the flag as the U.S. National Anthem played. They were joined by their fellow soldiers in Pohnpei as part of a detail of “Seabees” assigned to the FSM. Commander Price, U.S. Military Liaison served as the Master of Ceremonies for the formal ceremony of the commemoration.

Charge’ d’ Affaires Benjamin Dille of the United States Embassy spoke on the challenges of independence and nation building, and the growth that the United States has experienced since independence was declared. He was quick to point out that the United States experienced pain and made many mistakes along the way, but that the nation has grown socially and democratically and continues to do so.

Secretary Kandhi Elieisar spoke on behalf of the FSM government, congratulating the United States on their

264th anniversary of independence. He thanked the United States government for its close ties to the FSM. Pastor Norbert Kalau of Pacific Mission Fellowship gave the opening and closing prayers for the formal portion of the ceremony

The inevitable hot dogs, hamburgers, baked beans and potato salad were served and the celebration continued for several hours.

This year’s celebration was moved from July 4 to July 1 as Mr. Dille had been reassigned and was due to depart Pohnpei on July 3.

Members of the permanent diplomatic missions to the FSM were also in attendance at the event.

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TRADE MARK CAUTIONARY NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Mastercard International Incorporated of 2000 Purchase Street, Purchase, NY 10577, USA, is the sole owner and proprietor in the Federated States of Micronesia and elsewhere of the trade mark below:

which is used in connection with the following goods: Class 9: Scientific, nautical, surveying, photographic, cinematographic, optical, weighing, measuring, signalling, checking (supervision), life-saving and teaching apparatus and instruments; apparatus and instruments for conducting, switching, transforming, accumulating, regulating or controlling electricity; apparatus for recording, transmission or reproduction of sound or images; magnetic data carriers, recording discs; compact discs, DVDs and other digital recording media; mechanisms for coin-operated apparatus; cash registers, calculating machines, data processing equipment, computers; computer software; fire-extinguishing apparatus.

Class 16: Paper and cardboard; printed matter; bookbinding material; photographs; stationery; adhesives for stationery or household purposes; artists’ materials; paintbrushes; typewriters and office requisites (except furniture); instructional and teaching material (except apparatus); plastic materials for packaging; printers’ type; printing blocks.

Class 35: Advertising; business management; business administration; office functions.

Class 36: Insurance; financial affairs; monetary affairs; real estate affairs.

Class 38: Telecommunications.

Class 39: Transport; packaging and storage of goods; travel arrangement.

Class 42: Scientific and technological services and research and design relating thereto; industrial analysis and research services; design and development of computer hardware and software.

Mastercard International Incorporated claims all rights in respect to the above trade mark and will take all necessary legal steps against any person, firm or corporation counterfeiting, imitating, violating or otherwise infringing its rights in the Federated States of Micronesia.

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Continuing compact negotiations between the United States and the FSM in San Francisco Joint Committee on Compact Review & Planning FSM Information Services Joint Press Release June 30, 2022 SAN FRANCISCO – A United States Government team led by Special Presidential Envoy for Compact Negotiations (SPECN) Ambassador Joseph Yun met in San Francisco this week with a team from the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) led by Chief Negotiator Leo A. Falcam, Jr., to continue negotiations on economic assistance, federal programs, and other matters related to the Compact of Free Association, as amended, and subsidiary agreements between the United States and the FSM. “The candid and quality discussions that we have shared with the Federated States of Micronesia team assures me that the special and unique ties between our two nations are indeed enduring,” said Special Presidential Envoy for Compact Negotiations, Ambassador Joseph Yun. “The United States’ priority remains to complete our negotiations that are mutually beneficial and satisfactory, and in as timely a manner as possible.”

“Our FSM team remains grateful for our continuing collaborative work with our US partners, and I am encouraged by the open and frank nature of our discussions. Although a significant amount of work remains in our deliberations, I am confident that our common interests and goals will enable us to complete an agreement that is mutually beneficial

and reflective of our unique and special relationship,” said FSM Chief Negotiator Leo A. Falcam, Jr. “Our bilateral discussions, both at the official and technical levels, continue to progress and advance and we remain optimistic and hopeful that we can complete significant portions of the negotiations by this Fall,” said Department of the Interior Deputy Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs Keone Nakoa.

This has been the third bilateral U.S.FSM meeting under the Biden-Harris administration to discuss the Compact of Free Association, as amended, and related subsidiary agreements between the United States and the FSM. The Compact of Free Association, as amended, is key to the important and ongoing relationship between the United States and the Federated States of Micronesia.

The FSM Team, led by Chief Negotiator Leo A. Falcam, Jr., included Asterio R. Takesy, Chairman of the Joint Committee on Compact Review and Planning (JCRP) and JCRP Members Vice-Speaker of the FSM Congress Esmond B. Moses, FSM Senator Aren B. Palik, FSM Ambassador to the United States Akillino H. Susaia, and Mr. Gerson Jackson. FSM Secretary of Finance and Administration Eugene Amor and JCRP advisers and staff were also in attendance.

The United States Team, led by Special Presidential Envoy Ambassador Joseph Yun, included U.S. Ambassador to the See continuation on next page

MUNRO LEYS Lawyers & Notaries Public, Pacific House, Butt Street, PO Box 149, Suva, Fiji Email: trademarks@munroleyslaw.com.fj www.munroleyslaw.com

MUNRO LEYS

U.S. Ambassador Karen B. Stewart, DAS Keone Nakoa, U.S. Ambassador Carmen G. Cantor, Special Presidential Envoy Ambassador Joseph Yun, FSM Senator Aren B. Palik, FSM Chief Negotiator Leo A. Falcam, Jr., JRCP Chairman Asterio Takesy, FSM ViceSpeaker Esmond B. Moses, FSM Ambassador Akillino H. Susaia, JRCP Member Gerson Jackson, and FSM Secretary of Finance Eugene Amor

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www.vitalenergy.fm

...Compact Continued from previous page FSM Carmen G. Cantor, Ambassador Karen B. Stewart, State Department staff, Department of Defense staff, and a team from the Department of the Interior led by Deputy Assistant Secretary Keone Nakoa, exercising the Delegated Authority of the Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs.

Both sides plan to continue technical work and discussions in advance of the next formal round of negotiations scheduled to begin no later than August 2022, at a location to be determined.

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Pohnpei-based position Join the principal development organisation in the region

Description

The Human Rights and Social Development Division - For over 20 years SPC has operated as the region’s pioneer in human rights and gender capacity building to Pacific states, institutions and civil society.

Through a team of regional advisors and Country Focal Officers (CFOs) based in member states, it provides a comprehensive suite of policy and legislative advice, technical assistance and capacity building to support Pacific states to respond effectively to priority regional human rights priorities, such as gender equality, ending violence against women and children, disability rights, climate change and equitable, sustainable development.

The role – the Country Focal Officer (Pacific Women Lead) – FSM Ending Violence Against Women will support the host country government and relevant ministries to meet its national, regional and international gender equality commitments through the provision of advisory services, technical assistance, networking, coordination, and capacity-building, with a focus on implementing Pacific Women Lead.

The key responsibilities of the role include the following: 1. Country Planning and Implementation 2. Technical Assistance and Advice 3. Training and Capacity-Building 4. Networking and Partnership 5. Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning For a more detailed account of the key responsibilities, please refer to the online job description.

Qualifications • Tertiary qualification in public policy, law, human rights, gender, youth, culture, social science, community development, international relations, development studies or similar field.

Technical expertise •

At least five years’ experience in Pacific Island

Kaselehlie Press INVITATION TO BID

The Pacific Community (SPC) invites applications for the position of Country Focal Officer (Pacific Women Lead) – FSM Ending Violence Against Women. This position will be located at the Division of Social Affairs, FSM State. Pohnpei, Micronesia.

The Pacific Community (SPC) is the principal scientific and technical organisation in the Pacific region, supporting development since 1947. We are an international development organisation owned and governed by our 27 country and territory members. In pursuit of sustainable development to benefit Pacific people, our unique organisation works across more than 25 sectors. We are known for our knowledge and innovation in such areas as fisheries science, public health surveillance, geoscience, and conservation of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.

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country/territory working to in human rights, gender equality and social inclusion, youth for development or culture for development (in government and/or civil society).

Strategic planning experience and in-depth understanding of country cultures, context, challenges and opportunities.

Knowledge of legislative reform process and policy development.

Experience in community development, non-formal adult education and/or community outreach.

Experience in financial management, budgeting and acquittals.

Computer literacy in Microsoft Office suite.

Driver’s license.

Remuneration – the Country Focal Officer (Pacific Women Lead) – FSM Ending Violence Against Women is a Band 4 position in SPC’s 2022 salary scale, with a starting taxable salary range of USD 1,764–2,205 per month, plus local staff benefits.

Benefits – SPC provides medical and life insurance for eligible employees and their eligible dependents.

Employees are entitled to 25 days of annual leave.

Provident Fund and/or Social Security will be according to FSM’s local legislation.

Closing date: 17 July 2022 – 11:00 pm Pohnpei time Job Reference: SH000146 Applicants must apply online at http://careers.spc.int/ For your application to be considered, you must provide us with: • an updated resume with contact details for three professional referees • a cover letter detailing your skills, experience and interest in this position • responses to all screening questions Please answer all of the screening questions, if you do not answer these questions your application will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed at shortlisting stage.

Screening questions: 1. What attracted you to this position and why do you think you are the best candidate for the position?

2. What are three priority needs for improving gender equality standards in Pohnpei, FSM? 3. What does Ending Violence Against Women mean to you and for women in FSM?

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR WORKS Project Title: Micronesia Regional Office Remodelling and Relocation Location: Remodelling of SPC Office Date of issue: 27/06/2022 Closing Date: 25/07/2022 The Pacific Community (SPC) invites interested bidders to submit a proposal for the procurement of SPC Micronesia Regional Office (MRO) remodeling and relocation works. The MRO will be relocating from Suite 301 to Suites 303 and 304, located directly across from the current space in One World Plaza. The new MRO space will have a total floor space of 3,669 square feet.

The Request for Proposal (RFP) and other related documents can be downloaded from the SPC website at http://www.spc. int/Procurement.

For any additional information or clarification on the RFP process, please send your request by e-mail to procurement@spc.int.

All proposals must be submitted in two separate emails (one Technical Proposal and one Financial Proposal) no later than 25/07/2022 by 4:00pm Pohnpei time.

Please note, this is only open to FSM residents.

The SPC Procurement Team

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ONPA conducted its first outreach activity in 2022

Theme: “Improving Government Transparency & Accountability Together!”

Office of the National Public Auditor On June 19, 2022, the Outreach Program Committee carried out its first outreach activity for the year at the Dien Community Church in Kitti.

The Outreach Program is an activity in our Operational Plan and is aligned to the Office of the National Public Auditor (ONPA) Strategic Plan, Goal #2 “To increase stakeholders’ confidence in ONPA through effective engagement with stakeholder and demonstrating internal accountability”, as well as aligned to ONPA Stakeholders Engagement Strategy which sets out the objective for ONPA key stakeholders.

The Outreach Program is needed in order to deliver key messages more effectively considering the diversity of our stakeholders and various levels of communication.

The recent outreach activity was consisted of a slideshow presentation elaborating on the duties, responsibilities and outputs of the ONPA, as well as distribution of promotional materials like t-shirts, lanyards, and stickers that were labeled with the theme above. The intention of the Outreach Program is to strengthen the relation between ONPA and the stakeholders. It strives to raise

stakeholder awareness of the ONPA’s roles and increase public knowledge of the ONPA Vision and Mission.

Moreover, we believe that reaching out to the communities and presenting to them in the local dialect was effective in ensuring the communities role in helping maintain transparency, good governance and accountability within our governments and as a nation.

Before the presentation began, the committee members had the opportunity to attend the service and joined the community members in prayers and hymns. When the service was through, the team was able to set up quickly to begin their slideshow presentation.

Everything went smoothly as planned.

Feedback forms were distributed to approximately 70 participants to fill out.

The outreach committee, on behalf of ONPA, expressed their sincere appreciation to the Dien Church Committee for welcoming the team and for including the team in their Father’s Day Celebration right after the presentation.

The next location to be visited will be Wone Catholic Community Church in Kitti Municipality on July 3, 2022.

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST CONSULTANT’S QUALIFICATIONS BASED SELECTION (CQS) Country: Federated States of Micronesia Name of Project: Federated States of Micronesia: Pacific Islands Regional Oceanscape Program - Second Phase for Economic Resilience (P178237) Grant No.: IDA-V381-FM Assignment Title: Design Preparation Consultant Reference No. : FM-DOFA-282358-CS-CQS The Federated States of Micronesia has applied for financing from the World Bank toward the cost of the Pacific Islands Regional Oceanscape Program – Economic Resilience (PROPER), and intends to apply part of the proceeds for the following consulting services.

The consulting services (“the Services”) include undertaking stakeholder consultations drawing upon the PROP 1 results and that reflects the consensus of key stakeholders, including each of the state governments, and FSM National Government. As much as possible and practical, Municipal Government and outer-island stakeholders’ views will also feed into the design; Conduct detailed analyses of proposed activities; Develop a project proposal document complete with indicative objectives, project components, detailed activities and costs, project results framework, procurement plan and other required elements per usual World Bank projects; Meaningful consultation and adoption of a participatory approach (and documentation thereof) in undertaking the consultancy work will be critical.

The assignment will take place over a twelve (12) month period, reporting to the Central Implementation Unit of the FSM Department of Finance & Administration. The expected allocation of time for the respective experts involved would be as determined and assigned by the consulting firm.

The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can be found at these websites: dofa.gov.fm or norma.fm.

Ankie Mendiola presenting on the Admin./IT Division

Audience filling out the evaluation forms

Jimmy P. and Trifonovitch S. presenting on the Audit Division & Single Audit

T-Shirts, lanyards, Sticker’s distribution

The Department of Finance & Administration (DF&A) now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services.

The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to paragraph 3.14, 3.16 and 3.17 of the World Bank’s Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers, 4th Edition, November 2020 (“the Regulations”), setting forth the World

Bank’s policy on conflict of interest.

Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance qualifications and should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy.

In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected.

The best qualified firm to carry out the services will be selected in accordance with the Consultant’s Qualifications Based Selection (CQS) method set out in the Regulations, and based on the following criteria: a.

b. c.

d.

Availability of key relevant professionals within firm or its partner’s network. The Consultant firm shall provide a team of suitably qualified and experienced ‘key personnel’ to undertake the assignment.

Financial resources of the consultant (turnover of last five years) Experience of the firm in similar tasks/assignments over the last five years (examples of past experiencesimilar nature, location and/or complexity including cost and duration of the assignment).

Support services of the firm (office space, support staff, equipment).

Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours 0800 to 1700 Pohnpei Time (Local Time).

Expressions of interest must be delivered in written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by e-mail) preferably by Thursday, July 21st, 2022.

Secretary, Department of Finance and Administration Attn. Kwame Shiroya CIU Program Manager Central Implementation Unit Department of Finance & Administration Palikir, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Email: Kwame.shiroya@dofa.gov.fm and cc to: Central Implementation Unit: ciu.dofa@gov.fm

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‘For the Strength of Youth’ conference held in Guam The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints The beautiful island of Guam, with its tropical foliage and moderate weather, attracts a diversity of people. What better place to hold Guam’s first ever ‘For the Strength of Youth’ conference, 2022, June 20 – 25th, hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Young adult counselors and one-hundred youth ages fourteen to eighteen came from Guam, Saipan, Palau, Yap, and Okinawa to gather at the Pacific Islands Club (PIC) where the conference was held under the direction of Barrigada Guam Stake President Fredivic Nicerio and his wife Stephanie. Asia North Area President Elder Takashi Wada with his wife Naomi, along with his second counselor John A. McCune with his wife Debra, flew in from Tokyo Japan to speak at the conference. Elder William H.K. Davis, chairman on the FSY English Speaking Coordinating Council living in Guam with his wife Wanda, also spoke at the conference.

“Trust in the Lord” as stated in Proverbs 3:5-6 was the theme of the conference.

The youth, along with their counselors and leaders, participated in five days of devotionals, food buffets, classes,

daily scripture reading, and wholesome recreational activities in an engaging, fun, and positive environment.

A Water Olympics and team building activity was put on by PIC with poolside burgers. The youth shared their musical and variety-show talents and took a walk to Ypao Beach for a photo session.

Transported by bus to the new Yigo Guam Temple, the group performed proxy baptisms, some for their own family members who had passed on.

Speaking of the event, Pres. Nicerio stated, “The friendships gained, and spiritual experiences were evident amongst the youth. I think they have learned more of themselves and their spiritual connections with their Heavenly Father as they learned to trust in the Lord.”

Ching Batimana was the DJ for the Friday night dance, which brought the conference to a conclusion. Saturday, the youth checked out and were driven home by parents or shuttled by leaders to the airport to catch their respective flights home.

The youth, their counselors, and leaders, developed new and lasting friendships, returning home enriched and more committed to trust in Jesus Christ.

Secretary Elieisar & Ambassador Huang sign transfer documents for the Hapilmohol-2; China generously donates passenger-cargo ship to serve Yap State FSM Information Services PALIKIR, Pohnpei—On June 28th, 2022, the Honorable Kandhi A. Elieisar—Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)—received His Excellency Huang Zheng, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China (China) for a signing ceremony regarding the formal hand-over of the Hapilmohol-2 (H-2), a 600-tonne

cargo and passenger ship which will predominantly serve the State of Yap, and partake in Nation-wide services as necessary.

Citizens may recall that the contract for the H-2 was signed on October 15th, 2020, where it was described that the ship has a designed cruising range of no less than 2,500 nautical miles, and an endurance of no less than fifteen (15) days.

Included within the contract is an agreement that, starting from the second year after the ship’s delivery, upon the conclusion of its one-year warranty period, China will be responsible for dispatching four (4) technicians to the FSM Click here for continuation

Secretary Elieisar presents his remarks

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Guam mission welcomes new president The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Change comes with the warm Guam breezes as President Masaru and Megumi Okuda arrive in Guam the end of June, assuming the duties and responsibilities as the new President and wife of the Micronesia Guam mission of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints where they will serve for the next three years.

...China donation Continued from previous page

each year to carry out a fourteen (14) day technical inspection on the ship’s maintenance for four (4) consecutive years.

In his remarks, Secretary Elieisar said “I am pleased to partake in this formal exercise to finally turnover this beautiful ship…in this connection, let me thank the Chinese crew who took the pains during these challenging times to bring the vessel to the shores of Yap State, and waited on the ship in compliance of our quarantine requirements.”

“Ambassador,” Secretary Elieisar continued, “I thank your Government, through you, for agreeing to realize this official handover ceremony today between our two Governments.

I also want to thank Yap State and its leadership through the support of [the Honorable Carlson D. Apis, Secretary of the Department of Transportation, Communication, & Infrastructure] and his staff for also agreeing to proceed with this signing ceremony, so that the State of Yap can endeavor to use the ship pending a required and final turnover from the National Government to the State Government.”

The H-2 is the third ship donated

by China to the FSM, with the previous two ships being the MV Hapilmohol-1 (H-1) and the MV Chief Mailo, which have historically focused their service in the States of Yap and Chuuk respectively.

Prior to coming to Guam, President and Megumi Okuda, parents of three children, lived in the Moran View Ward, Rexburg Idaho North Stake. President Okuda previously a temple ordinance worker, was a professor in the Computer Information Technology department at BYU-Idaho. As a young man, President Okuda served a mission in the Micronesia Guam Mission.

Former church callings include stake president, stake presidency

“We can all agree that the three graciously donated vessels from China,” Secretary Elieisar continued, “are important marine transport assets that literally bring our islands and peoples together as a nation and as a people. They help glorify who are, and render honor to our oceanic lifestyle as well as to the Great Friendship we have with China.”

In his remarks, Ambassador Huang said “[The H-2] is another testament of the sincerest and most selfless assistance from China to the FSM.” “What we are witnessing today is just another example of bringing ships to the FSM which will greatly enhance the well-being of the FSM’s people.

We know that the donation of the H-2 has been highly appreciated by the FSM Government and the FSM’s people.”

“The bilateral trade volume between China and the FSM increased by more than 30% last year, bringing tangible benefits to the people, fully demonstrating the potential for cooperation between China and the FSM. Despite changes in the international landscape, China will always hold fast to ‘four-pronged adherence’ to developing relations with Pacific Island Countries, including the FSM, and be a good friend and good partner pursuing common development with the FSM on the basis of mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit.”

The FSM and China have had a Great Friendship since forming diplomatic relations on September 11th, 1989.

counselor, high councilor, bishop, seminary teacher, and elder’s quorum president. He was born in Musashino, Tokyo, Japan, to Yoshiharu Okuda and Atsumi Okuda.

Sister Okuda, previously a service missionary in the temple office and a temple ordinance worker, served a mission in the Japan, Nagoya Mission as a young woman. Former church callings include stake Relief Society presidency counselor, ward Relief Society presidency counselor, ward Sunday School teacher, and seminary teacher. She was born in Nerima, Tokyo, Japan, to Masakatsu Fukuda and Tsuneko Fukuda.

Wishing to serve many missions as senior couple missionaries after their retirement in a decade or so, they told of their surprise when they were called to be mission president.

Though feeling humbled with this call, Sister Okuda says she is very excited to be serving as a missionary again much sooner than anticipated.

Dedicating their spare time to religion, morning walks and service, President and Sister Okuda focus on spirituality. “I love the spiritual things and that gives me the greatest joy and motivation” says President Okuda. “What we both enjoy the most is just being in the service of God and feeling Heavenly Fathers love. When you have served and feel that great love of the Savior, you naturally want to share it.”

Having previously served in the Micronesia Guam mission, President Okuda has an idea of the challenges he will face as mission president. Along with the need for frequent travel, he says he will need to overcome the barrier of physical distance with the missionaries and the leaders in the districts by fully utilizing all resources God has provided at this time of pandemic.

He wishes a day will come soon that he and the missionaries will be able to visit and minister to members living on those islands that have been closed since the beginning of the pandemic.

The mantle of mission president has settled on him as he assumes his new duties, and he feels peace and excitement about this new calling.

They can’t wait to meet all the missionaries and members in person to know each of them personally.

He states how they want to “bring the love of the Savior, conveying the love we have for all these people we will meet.”

President and Sister Okuda met with all the Micronesia Guam Missionaries though a very down to earth and candid zoom meeting the morning of June 30th, assuring his love for them, that as their leader he is there for them, and touched on mission guidelines. He lovingly expressed the importance of communication and trust within the mission.

“We read about Jesus Christ in the Book of Mormon and Bible, but how would you feel if you actually meet him? That’s the kind of meeting I would like to have with the missionaries and the members,” said President Okuda. He states that “we have faith that the growth of the Church and the depth of the conversion of the members will accelerate in a way that we’ve never seen before. We are looking forward to seeing the miracle come to the people in the Micronesia Guam mission. The Lord works in a miraculous way, in a way that we never could imagine. I have faith that things are going to work out and that the Lord will direct us.”

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DSSV Pressure Drop invites Micronesian Voyaging Society to join first-ever expeditions to Palau and Yap trenches Micronesian Voyaging Society

DSSV Pressure Drop, a state-of-the-art deep ocean research vessel, has invited the Micronesian Voyaging Society to join them on the first-ever expeditions into the Palau and Yap ocean trenches.

Palau’s former President Tommy E. Remengesau Jr. and Grand Master Navigator Sesario Sewralur will accompany Pressure Drop’s owner, Victor L. Vescovo, as passengers on deep-sea dives into the trenches aboard the vessel’s submersible Limiting Factor.

The trenches, located off the Eastern coasts of Yap and Palau, are two of the deepest in the world, each measuring more than 26,000 feet (8,000 meters) deep. Until now, no human has visited their deepest points.

Sewralur is scheduled to descend to the bottom of the Yap trench aboard Limiting Factor on July 15th. President Remengesau Jr.’s dive into the Palau trench will follow three days later on July 18th. Vescovo will pilot the submersible during both dives with Rob McCallum serving as Expedition Leader.

Each dive will last roughly eight hours, with three hours to descend and ascend and two

hours exploring the bottom of the trench.

Throughout the dives the team will record new footage of these never-before-seen environments and collect data for marine researchers, potentially including live specimens of deep-sea marine life.

“Micronesian Voyaging Society’s goal is to preserve our culture’s strong connection to the ocean around us. Relying on traditional star navigation to sail around the ocean, our fore-fathers could not have dreamed that it would be possible today to explore the depth of the oceans as Palau’s former President Tommy Remengesau Jr. and Yap’s Master Navigator Sesario are about to do using the latest modern technology” said Micronesian Voyaging Society President Shallum Etpison.

President Remengesau Jr.’s dive into the Palau Trench will reach the deepest point in the Palau National Marine Sanctuary, a massive marine protected area that the people of Palau rallied their Congress and the Remengesau Jr. administration to sign into law in 2015. The Sanctuary protects 80% of Palau’s national waters and includes huge areas of unexplored deep sea habitats.

“Not much is known about the deepest parts of the ocean – but we know there’s interconnectivity and relationships of

MVS Vice President Alan Seid, Grand Master Navigator Sesario Sewralur, former President Tommy E. Remengesau, Jr., High Chief Reklai Raphael B. Ngirmang, MVS President Mr. Shallum Etpison, MVS Secretary/ Treasurer Faustina Rehuher-Marugg, and Dr. Patrick Tellei.

the ocean surface to the very bottom and the diversity of marine life in between” remarked President Remengesau Jr. DSSV Pressure Drop has been systematically exploring the ocean’s deepest points since 2017 and visited every 10,000+ meter deep ocean trench on the planet in 2020 and 2021. The group previously mapped the Palau and Yap trenches in 2019 using the vessel’s advanced sonar.

“We seek to explore the trenches, the first

time these areas will be seen by human eyes.

We hope to be able to collect specimens and samples to enhance humankind's knowledge of these incredible places” said McCallum.

Palau International Coral Reef Center and the Micronesian Voyaging Society will host a reception for the expedition team when they return to Koror on July 20th. The Micronesian Voyaging Society is grateful to partner with DSSV Pressure Drop on this historic undertaking.

United Airlines Reopens Early Check-in Service in Guam

Early Check-in service reopens after two years United welcomes Guam travelers to check in and drop luggage the evening before early morning departures United Airlines GUAM, June 30, 2022 – United Airlines (UAL) announced today the reopening of its Early Check-in service in Guam, a popular service for outbound Guam customers traveling during early morning flights. The Early Check-in service is now offered daily from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. at the United counter at the A. B. Won Pat International Airport, Guam.

Passengers departing on any of the following United early morning flights are welcome to utilize the service: Honolulu (HNL) - UA200 Island Hopper flights (TKK/PNI/KSA/ KWA/MAJ/HNL) - UA155/UA133 Saipan (SPN) - UA174 Tokyo/Narita, Japan (NRT) - UA828 Osaka, Kansai Japan (KIX) - UA151, beginning July 1 Nagoya, Japan (NGO) - UA137, beginning Aug. 1

Fukuoka, Japan (FUK) - UA165, beginning Aug. 4 Justin Marion, United’s General Manager of Airport Operations in Guam said, “We are pleased to announce that United’s Early Check-in service has reopened after two years. Many of our flights depart early in the morning, and customers who opt to check in early will be able to have more time in the morning, skip the lines, and head straight to the security checkpoint. In addition to checking in at the airport, customers can check in online through the United app and then check their bags the evening before departure.”

The Early Check-in service was activated to provide additional customer service as demand for travel increases this summer. United also announced a capacity increase beginning in July and August, operating 17 weekly flights in

July and 28 weekly flights in August to Japan. United recently announced the reintroduction of its Osaka/Kansai (KIX), Japan to Guam service beginning July 1 and an increase in weekly flights to 21 flights per week or three daily flights between Guam and Tokyo/Narita, Japan beginning Aug. 1. United continues to offer daily flights to Honolulu, Manila, and Saipan and offers scheduled flights to Palau and throughout Micronesia.

“We have seen a significant increase in travelers departing from Guam this summer, and this service allows us to improve our customer experience during a busy summer travel season.

Early Check-in will allow our customers to better prepare for their flights and reduce any lastminute stresses before they travel. We encourage our customers

in Guam to take advantage of the Early Check-in service from 7:30-9:30 p.m., which is usually a very quiet time at the Guam airport,” Marion added.

About United United's shared purpose is "Connecting People. Uniting the World." In 2019, United and United Express® carriers operated more than 1.7 million flights carrying more than 162 million customers. United has the most comprehensive route network among North American carriers, including U.S. mainland hubs in Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/ Newark, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. For more about how to join the United team, please visit united.com/ careers and more information about the company is at united.com. United Airlines Holdings, Inc. is traded on the Nasdaq under the symbol "UAL".

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Biosecurity risks addressed In Memoriam: Dr. Rufino through improving sea container Mauricio hygiene training Among these many accomplishments, FSM Information Services PALIKIR, Pohnpei—On June 28th, 2022, the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) announced, with profound sadness, that Dr. Rufino Mauricio, has passed away. His Excellency David W. Panuelo, President of the FSM, has issued a proclamation in honor of the late former Director of the FSM Office of National Archives, Culture & Historic Preservation.

Pacific Community (SPC) 28 June 2022 Suva, Fiji – In a step to minimise biosecurity risks in the Pacific, the Pacific Community (SPC) organised a virtual regional training last week on strengthening the implementation of the Sea Container Hygiene System (SCHS). The SCHS is a long-term strategy developed in collaboration with New Zealand, Australia and the shipping industry to manage biosecurity risks from sea containers at high-risk loading ports.

Though sea containers have transformed the shipping industry through opening more trade channels, they are a potential biosecurity risk that could seriously threaten agriculture, the environment and national and regional economies.

The virtual training took place as part of the ‘Safe Agriculture trade Facilitation through Economic integration in the Pacific’ (SAFE Pacific) project funded by the European Union. The training was facilitated by SPC's Land Resources Division biosecurity specialists Dr Visoni Timote, Riten Gosai and Ilaisa Dakaica.

Dr Timote said invasive species such as Giant African Snails are a growing concern for the Pacific, and it is critical to manage these for major risk sources such as dirty sea containers.

“Implementing the SCHS also helps ease biosecurity processes because sea containers at the port of export go through standard cleaning procedures. With continued compliance, biosecurity interventions are reduced,” said Dr Timote.

At the same time, eased biosecurity processes reduce costs and improve time efficiency, increasing economic benefits for Pacific countries.

The three day training was carried out across the three Pacific sub-regions – Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia – from 21 to 23 June and was attended by 120 representatives from relevant ministries and biosecurity departments from 12 countries.

Mr Gosai said that despite the training taking place virtually, there was great response and enthusiasm from participating countries as they wanted to expose their officers to the SCHS and how the system operates.

“The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic impacted the way we delivered this training, but it is also providing an example of why strengthening biosecurity is critical.

The participants were able to share their experiences, such as adapting to situations as unprecedented as COVID-19 and the strain they bring to biosecurity processes,” he said.

The training programme included an introduction to SCHS, technical details on SCHS operation, promotion of a holistic approach to clean sea containers and the sharing of country experiences. The training was well received and as feedback countries have requested that it be held face-to-face and extended to industry participants.

Current SCHS participants include most ports in New Zealand and Australia, ports in Papua New Guinea (Port Moresby and Lae), the Solomon Islands (Honiara), Samoa (Apia), Tonga (Nuku'alofa) and Fiji (Suva).

The event marked the first SCHS training under the SAFE Pacific project. Further knowledge and capacity building will be provided to participating countries and communities during the SAFE Pacific implementation over the next three years.

Dr. Mauricio obtained his doctorate in Anthropology from the University of Oregon, USA, in 1982. Dr. Mauricio served as the Executive Director for the Micronesian Endowment for Historic Preservation from 1994 to 2003; the FSM National Historic Preservation Officer for the Archives, Culture & Historic Preservation Unit from 1995 to 2003; the Assistant Secretary for the Division of Social Affairs from 2003 to 2008; the Secretary of the FSM Department of Education from 2011 to 2015; and the Director of the Office of National Archives, Culture & Historic Preservation from 2015 to 2022.

Dr. Mauricio’s lifetime of public service and exemplary and contributory achievements to the development of the Nation are voluminous and substantial.

Dr. Mauricio played an elemental role throughout his life in protecting and promoting Nan Madol, which is legally protected by the FSM National Government and administered by the Office of National Archives, Culture & Historic Preservation, and which was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016.

The FSM has been remarkably fortunate to have been blessed with Dr. Rufino Mauricio’s service to the Nation and its citizens, for he represented the virtues the Nation stands for and believes in.

Dr. Mauricio spent every day of his life in service to others, spreading peace, friendship, cooperation, and love in our common humanity to everyone he encountered. Dr. Mauricio dedicated his expertise, with outstanding leadership and integrity, to the service of the FSM and its People. Dr. Mauricio will be remembered not only for his great accomplishments as a public servant, but also for his kindness to fellow citizens.

The Presidential Proclamation for halfmast display of the FSM flag in honor of Dr. Mauricio may be found here: https://gov.fm/files/Announcements/ PRESIDENTIAL_PROCLAMATION_ for_Dr__Rufino_Mauricio.pdf

Pacific NCD Youth Ambassadors: Getting youth involved in non-communicable diseases prevention and control Pacific Community (SPC) 22 June 2022 Noumea, New Caledonia – The Pacific Community (SPC) calls for application for the 2022 Pacific NCD Youth Ambassadors initiative. The initiative provides opportunities for the Pacific youth to share creative ideas, using their own language and creative thinking that could help improve the health and wellbeing in their communities and contribute to addressing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).

As the leading cause of preventable death accounting for 60 to 75% in the region, NCDs, principally diabetes, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases as well as cancers, constitute a crisis of epidemic proportion with major implications for the future development

of Pacific Islands Countries and Territories. Tobacco, harmful use of alcohol, poor diets (e.g., diets rich in sugar, salt, fats, and processed foods and low in fruits and vegetables) combined with lack of physical activity, are the leading risk factors for NCDs. Click here for continuation

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Secretary Samo’s address to the FSM citizenry appealing for citizens to get vaccinated prior to the opening of borders on August 1st, 2022 FSM Information Services PALIKIR, Pohnpei—The Honorable Marcus Samo, Secretary of the Department of Health & Social Affairs, has provided a statement to the citizens to the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), encouraging all persons to become vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to the opening of the Nation’s borders on August 1st, 2022. The Secretary’s statement is below in full, and can also be viewed at: https://www.facebook.com/piofsm/ videos/544365340735913/ Kaselehlie, Ran annim, Mogethin and Lenwo!

About two years ago, the world experienced an unprecedented time with the COVID-19 that took many lives, overstretched the capacity of the world’s healthcare system, caused all types of inconveniences, and restricted movement.

For us in the FSM, we closed our borders and focused our attention on doing what we need to do at home to prevent the virus from coming to our shore.

We’ve done a great job in keeping the virus away, with huge sacrifices. Because of all these sacrifices, we have been able to prevent the COVID-19 from freely entering and spreading in our communities. When we repatriated our stranded citizens, residents or essential workers, we occasionally saw some COVID-19 cases. These were border cases that one would expect, especially during this time that the pandemic has gone through its 2 and ½ years. The good news is we’re able to bring in our stranded people and contain these cases.

Today, the COVID-19 pandemic is no longer what it was two years ago. Yes, we’re still not “out of the woods yet”, we should not be complacent. We will see cases, but we are more prepared now and have more tools to fight this virus. We have very effective and safe vaccines, more than enough for everyone in this nation. We have the latest antiviral drugs that is also effective to prevent you from developing serious illness and hospitalization from COVID-19. We have put in place ventilators and other medical support systems. Many of our healthcare workers have been trained.

As for vaccination coverage, we have vaccinated essentially all vulnerable people in our communities (100% for 45-years old and up). For the 5-years old and up, we have vaccinated 72% of the entire eligible population. This is a huge achievement, and we could not achieve this without the hard work of our healthcare workers in this nation, the support from the traditional and church leaders, the funding support from our partners. We will continue to provide the vaccines as needed.

Similarly, we have received some very effective medicines to treat the COVID-19. Anti-viral tablets (Paxlovid) have been shown to reduce the likelihood of serious disease or hospitalization due to COVID-19. In recent days, with the few cases in quarantine, our health workers have used these anti-virals and they are effective. Every case of COVID-19 in our quarantine site has recovered. If people seek care early at Test-to-Treat Centers, this gives us assurance that we can move from being COVID-free to [being] COVID-safe.

We cannot forever close our borders. We must open our borders for our young and developing nation to prosper. We are ready to deal with COVID-19 when it enters our shores. We have high vaccine coverage, especially for our most-at-risk population.

We have a stockpile of COVID medication and other treatment that we never had before the Pandemic. We have shown in previous outbreaks we can rapidly mount large and effective public health responses such as mass vaccination campaigns and, in the coming days, setting up test-to-treat centers. For the remaining time left before we open up our borders on August 1, 2022, I appeal to those who have not been vaccinated – please get vaccinated.

Those who have been vaccinated, thank you!--and please get boosted. NOW is the time. The vaccine and treatment we have are our way out of this COVID-19 pandemic. As a nation, we must learn to live with this virus because it’s going to be with us for a while as shown from previous outbreaks of this size. We are more prepared now than before, and we need not fear it entering FSM. Together, we can make COVID-19 a thing of the past here at home!

June 6 - 19, 2022

Kaselehlie Press

United Airlines Relaunches NagoyaGuam and Fukuoka-Guam Services Beginning August 1, United to offer two flights weekly for each city to Guam United returns to pre-pandemic flight network by offering direct service between Guam and four cities in Japan United Airlines June 22, 2022 GUAM – United Airlines (UAL) announced today that the Nagoya-Guam and Fukuoka-Guam nonstop services will relaunch in August, further expanding the airline’s non-stop service and capacity between Japan and Guam.

United will reopen its Nagoya-Guam service on Aug. 1 and offer two morning departures each week on Mondays and Fridays. Beginning Aug. 4, the two Fukuoka-Guam flights are scheduled to depart on Thursday and Sunday mornings. Also beginning Aug. 1, United will increase flights between Guam and Tokyo/Narita, Japan to 21 flights per week. All flights will utilize the B737800 aircraft offering 16 business class and 150 economy class seats.

Sam Shinohara, managing director of airport operations for Asia Pacific at United said, “We are thrilled to announce the reintroduction of service to Nagoya and Fukuoka. It has been our goal to return to pre-pandemic levels, and we will continue to add capacity between Guam and Japan as demand recovers.”

The new flight schedules between Nagoya- and Fukuoka-Guam are scheduled as follows:

17 weekly flights in July and 28 weekly flights in August from Japan.

The flights come at the heels of recent capacity increase announcements. United recently announced the reintroduction of its Osaka/Kansai (KIX), Japan to Guam service beginning July 1 and an increase in weekly flights to 21 flights per week between Guam and Tokyo/Narita, Japan beginning Aug. 1, making United the only airline that provides direct service from Guam to Japan. With the addition of the Nagoya and Fukuoka services, United will offer 28 weekly flights between the countries.

“Now that restrictions have eased, Guam residents are ready to travel to Japan again.

Opening travel to two more cities in Japan will provide customers in Guam with added opportunities to experience this beautiful country or connect to additional destinations in Asia and the U.S.,” Shinohara added.

Flights can be booked at united.com, the United app, or through local travel agencies.

Customers in Guam can receive assistance at the United City Ticket Office in Tiyan or by calling 1-800-864-8331.

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...Youth Ambassadors Continued from page 17 In 2011, due to the significant and growing burden of NCDs, Pacific Island leaders declared that NCDs had become “a human, social and economic crisis” in the region, that required an urgent and comprehensive response.

Convinced that youth are the future of our islands and play a critical role in adopting healthy lifestyle, SPC invites youth aged between 18 and 30 years to become the Pacific NCD Youth Ambassadors to contribute to Pacific people wellbeing. “Through this initiative, those selected will receive technical guidance and professional

support to implement Youth’s innovative activities designed to prevent and control NCDs in their communities”, said Solène Bertand-Protat, NCD adviser.

Application to the 2022 Pacific NCD Youth Ambassadors: Who can apply and join the programme?

Youth aged 18–30 from one of the SPC’s member Pacific Island Countries and Territories can apply. Youth will need to form teams of 3 to 5 people.

How to apply?

To apply, please complete the attached entry form and email it to the following address: Health-Enquiries@spc.int.

It will take only a few minutes to complete. Only successful candidates will be notified of the outcome of the applications.

Deadline: Entries close 31 July 2022.

MRCS supported by UNICEF partners with DHS for communities to develop own Covid19 action plans Micronesia Red Cross Society-Chuuk Chapter As the FSM prepares to open its borders by early August, the Micronesian Red Cross Society (MRCS) supported by UNICEF has been working actively with Chuuk State Department of Health Services (DHS) towards ensuring strong community engagement and COVID-19 response planning by communities and other important stakeholder and social groups. Opening the borders obviously means increased risk of community transmission of Covid19.

On June 29, MRCS Chuuk Chapter organized a 1-day workshop for over 40 participants including Mayors, MRCS volunteers and personnel from DHS on effective community engagement, interpersonal communication skills and development of COVID-19 outbreak community preparedness plans Opening the workshop, the Governor of Chuuk State, Hon. Hon. Alexander R. Narruhn highlighted the current Covid19 vaccination coverage data of the state and urged the Mayors to support the efforts of DHS and partners like MRCS and UNICEF in helping increase demand for COVID-19 vaccines while

Religious leaders in Chuuk State engaged on development of own SOPs on COVID-19 Micronesia Red Cross Society-Chuuk Chapter Weno, Chuuk---On July 30, The Micronesia Red Cross Society (MRCS) Chuuk Chapter in collaboration with the Department of Health Services and UNICEF organized a oneday advocacy workshop for Religious leaders aimed at actively involving them in the development of guidelines to making churches safer now during a likely community transmission of COVID-19.

Worship places are potentially highrisk settings for Covid transmission as such spaces can be enclosed, crowded and have people in close proximity to one another for long periods of time.

Some religious practices and behaviors can also increase the risk of COVID-19 infection.

Also,

also preparing for a possible community transmission of the virus should the borders open. He said, “it is important to get our population vaccinated as it is one of the most effective ways of ensuring that we protect our people against the severity of COVID-19 disease. I believe involving communities in coming up with their own outbreak preparedness plans will ensure ownership and accountability.”

Through the technical guidance of UNICEF, workshop participants went through the rudiments and processes of engaging communities in developing their own Covid outbreak preparedness plans for implementation. Having received the essential tips, the trainees are expected to move into communities, starting with the priority ones, and begin rollout of the action planning process.

often,

adherence

to

Covid

guidelines and preventative behaviors is potentially high religious leaders themselves participate in their development and to a large extent communication to their congregation.

Some of the religious leaders that attended the workshop even acknowledged that when stakeholders such as church leaders are involved in developing guidelines that affect them, it increases acceptance of the SOPs and their commitment to the outcomes.

A participant, Pastor Abbe Mike, the head pastor of Grace International Baptist Church, said, “I think it is good that churches are being involved in the development of guidelines intended to make worship places safer in the event of Covid transmission in our communities.

Our participation will also ensure the state does not impose anything negative that is against the Bible on us.”

The engagement of churches is expected to continue as MRCS considers them as important allies in the fight against COVID-19 including advocacy for vaccination and helping address negative rumors, myths and misconceptions about Covid19 vaccines.

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Chuuk State welcomes support from UNICEF in its COVID-19 preparedness efforts

Lt. Governor Chuuk State Mr. Mekioshy William and (R) Mrs Kim, Chief of Staff with the two UNICEF personnel

Chuuk state Government On Friday June 24, 2022, two UNICEF personnel from Pohnpei – Pius Attandoh and Marson Rosario from Social and Behavior Change section paid a courtesy call on the Lt Governor of the Chuuk State and the leadership of State Department of Health Services (DHS) as part of a 2-week working visit to support the state’s COVID-19 preparedness efforts.

The team was welcomed by Lt. Governor Mr. Mekioshy William on behalf of the Governor, Hon. Alexander Narruhn who was on duty travel to Pollap Island.

In his welcome remarks, the Lt. Governor commended the great work UNICEF has done so far for the people of Chuuk and the FSM. The Hon. Mekioshy William thanked the team and assured them of Chuuk government’s continued support.

“You are welcome and do have my

blessings to do whatever is necessary to successfully implement interventions that will make Chuuk state well positioned to respond to COVID-19,” said Hon. Lt. Governor.

The chief of staff Mrs. Kim also expressed her appreciation to the UNICEF team for coming and pledged her office’s support on coordination.

She noted that UNICEF’s presence is noticed and felt in Chuuk state because of previous and ongoing initiatives.

On his part, Mr. Attandoh, UNICEF SBC specialist, expressed his sincere appreciation to the Chuuk state Government and its people for the warm welcome they have received but most especially to the Governor’s office for making time to meet with the team. He indicated that it is just a matter of time that COVID-19 will reach Chuuk hence there is the need

for the state to adequately prepare. Mr. Attandoh shared key priority areas for UNICEF – strengthening Chuuk State’s Risk Communication & Community Engagement towards sustained Covid19 vaccine demand, helping social data generation to address vaccination barriers and prepping communities on “Test and Treat” strategy soon to be rollout.

He emphasized that “Through the support of UNICEF, the Chuuk chapter MRCS is currently helping with rapid surveys to guide RCCE interventions and also engagement of communities.” UNICEF also continues to support Chuuk’s RCCE pillar including capacity building of its Focal Point, Ms. Moria Shomour. Finally, he announced recent support by UNICEF like billboards, banners, SMS blasts and internet packages intended to strengthen RCCE and reinforce behavior change.

Also present at the meeting was UNICEF’s WASH in Health Care Facility Coordinator Mr. Mahoney Mori-m Mori.

In a separate meeting with the Director of State Health Services Dr. Bosco Bulliche, joined by Deputy Director Mr. Anthony Mori and Hospital Administrator Mr. Friday Shomour, the UNICEF team, joined by its WASH in Health Care Facility Coordinator Mr. Mahoney Mori-m Mori recognized and discussed Chuuk State’s Covid19 response and preparatory efforts including ongoing vaccination of its population ahead of plans by the FSM Government to reopen the country’s borders. The Director of DHS, while acknowledging the support of UNICEF over the years, emphasized need to sensitize communities about the soon-to-be commissioned “Test and Treat” sites.

FSM repatriation flights scheduled for July; government solicits citizens’ comments regarding proposed regulation implementing Healthy Border Protection Act FSM Information Services

PALIKIR, Pohnpei—The COVID-19 Task Force of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has announced the intended dates for regularly scheduled repatriation flights for the month of July, 2022. Additionally, the Secretary of the Department of Health & Social Affairs has completed a proposed Permanent Regulation Implementing Public Law 22-134 (i.e. the Healthy Border Protection Act).

For the State of Yap, it is the intention of the FSM and Yap State Task Forces to implement a repatriation flight from the U.S. Territory of

Guam to Yap on July 6th.

For the State of Chuuk, it is the intention of the FSM and Chuuk State Task Forces to implement repatriation a flight from Guam to Chuuk on July 11th.

For the State of Pohnpei, it is the intention of the FSM and Pohnpei State Task Forces to implement a repatriation flight from Guam to Pohnpei on July 16th.

For the State of Kosrae, it is the intention of the FSM and Kosrae State Task Forces to implement a repatriation flight from Guam to Kosrae on July 18th. The most recent

repatriation flight to Kosrae arrived on July 4th.

For the month of July, the pre-quarantine period in Guam will be reduced to three (3) days. Repatriating persons aged five (5) years old and above must possess documentary evidence that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Repatriating persons must receive a negative PCR test result during their prequarantine period.

It remains the intention of the FSM National Government to open the Nation’s borders on August 1st, 2022, which is implemented

through Public Law 22-134 i.e. the Healthy Border Protection Act. A copy of the law may be found here: https://gov.fm/files/PL_ No__22-134_Healthy_Border_Protection_ Act_2022.pdf In order to implement the Healthy Border Protection Act, the Department of Health & Social Affairs has completed a proposed regulation, which is summarized below and can be found here: https://gov.fm/files/Public_ Notice-_Proposed_Health_Regulation_to_ Implement_Public_Law_22-134.pdf

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Katilingbang Bisaya sa Pohnpei (KBP) stages Bing Fundraising Alvie B. Cabañez Kaselehlie Press Volunteer Contributor The Katilingbang Bisaya in Pohnpei (KBP) Officers organized a Bingo Fundraising event at PICS High School cafeteria. It was held on July 03, 2022, Sunday afternoon.

The event started with an invocation led by Ms. Emily Villegas, followed by the opening remarks of Ms. Rhodora Bacalando, President, KBP. She welcomed the guests and participants, and expressed her gratitude to the generous donors and sponsors.

Hundreds of bingo enthusiast flocked the venue on a bright Sunday afternoon.

Many came tagging along their families

...Repatriation Continued from previous page

and friends with the hope of hitting the blackout. A total of 6 games and 2 special games were played. Each game was played on a specific pattern in order to win. The numbers were randomly drawn using a downloaded bingo application and was projected on the screen.

The organizers also prepared song and dance number to entertain the crowd in between games. Jade Togonon rendered a Visayan song while Joy Santos sang the all-time classic, Shala la la la. The officers pumped up the crowd with a Zumba dance number.

Here is the list of winners & prizes: Game 1- Eduardo Labajo- 1 sack of 20lbs rice and $20 cash; Game 2- Vensly Wenio- 1 sack of 20lbs rice, 1 box of ramen, and $30 cash;

person’s exposure to persons with COVID-19, one’s contraction or infection of COVID-19, any medical treatment for COVID-19 received and/or related quarantine, and COVID-19 testing results.

A person entering the FSM from August 1st and onwards is required to be fully vaccinated and boosted (if eligible) with a COVID-19 vaccine approved, or granted emergency use authorization, by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration or the World Health Organization.

Upon arrival into the FSM, a person would be subject to stay at home and wear a mask for five (5) days. If a person has no symptoms, then restriction of movement is lifted after the five-day waiting period. If symptoms are developed, a person would be mandated to visit their nearest Test-to-Treat Center.

To be fully vaccinated, fourteen days (14) must have lapsed since a person’s last dose of the COVID-19 primary vaccination series.

Domestic travel will be permitted from August 1st and onwards on any aircraft and sea vessel, regardless of whether they are a domestic carrier or an international commercial carrier.

A booster dose is required for adults, if eligible, aged eighteen (18) and older. To be eligible for a booster dose, five (5) months or more should have lapsed since a person’s last dose of the COVID-19 primary vaccination series.

Any person traveling to the FSM would be required to be tested negative by a PCR-based test within 72 hours prior to entry into the FSM. Facemasks for all persons aged three (3) years old and above are required during travel.

Any person traveling to the FSM would be required to complete an FSM COVID-19 Health Clearance Declaration Form, which would include information inclusive of a

The text above summarizes some of the most relevant content of the proposed regulation which, crucially, remains open for public review and comment. The FSM National Government encourages citizens, residents, and other stakeholders to provide their comments. Persons wishing to formally comment on the regulation are advised to relay their feedback to health@ fsmhealth.fm or in written submission to Marcus H. Samo, Secretary, Department of Health & Social Affairs, PO Box PS-70, Palikir, Pohnpei, FM 96941.

Special Game 1- Mary Grace Martin-$78 and gift certificate; Game 3- Erleen Labajo & Janet Manongsong- 1 sack of 20lbs rice, $10 gift certificate, and $50 cash; Game 4- Marshda Charley, Roderic Ogayre, & Rowena Almendares- 1 sack of 20lbs rice, $25 gift certificate, and $100 cash; Game 5- Mary Ann Veloso- 1 sack of 20lbs rice, gift certificates from Ace Office and Drops of Life, and $200 cash; Special Game 2- Jerry Pongtan- $100 and gift certificate; and Game 6 (Black-out)- Emerald Cardenas & Elizabeth Pekiner- 1 sack of 20lbs rice, grocery package, and $500 cash.

9 raffle winners include Genevieve Dakano, Contesa Factura, Jim Paulino, Alex Ezekias, Joshper Cubacub, Jelyn Ventura, Gerry Figueras, among others.

They each won gift certificates and bag of rice.

Playing bingo has and always been a favorite past time of Filipinos. It dates back to 16th century and were often played in perias held during fiestas held in the barrios.

In modern-day Philippines, bingo is usually used for charity purposes and as a fundraising tool by religious organizations and other groups.

The event was made possible through the assistance of the following generous donors and sponsors: Ace Office Supplies, Drops of Life, Genesis Hospital & Pharmacy, MJ Tailor, Western Union, Kaselehlie Diner, Pohnpei Arts & Crafts, Mr. & Mrs. Ed Demalata, Mr. Joven Rempis, and Mr. Steve Seiola, Principal, PICS. The event ended at 05:25pm. It was hosted by Mr. Julius Cecilio, Treasurer, KBP.

Governor Hon. Alexander R. Narruhn acknowledges UNICEF contributions to COVID-19 response in ChuukwhenState the borders do open.

Chuuk State Government

On Tuesday July 4, Governor of Chuuk State Hon. Alexander R. Narruhn during the exit debriefing by the UNICEF staff on mission to Chuuk state acknowledged the immense support of the organization in the state’s Covid preparedness efforts.

Governor Narruhn also expressed concern about the fact that there is still a significant percentage of eligible people in Chuuk still yet to be vaccinated, according to recent data. He however believes strongly that through the efforts of partners, Chuuk state can reach that optimal coverage level, which will give him the assurance that his people will be protected should there be community transmission of Covid19

As of July 01, 2022, about 72% and 92% of persons aged 18 and 45+ respectively have completed two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine while about 68% of persons 5 years and older have taken two doses.

Hon. Alexander R. Narruhn (R), Governor of Chuuk state in a chat with UNICEF SBC Specialist, Pius Attandoh and SBC Officer Marson Rosario (seated)