KPress Vol23 Iss 20 - 30 Aug 23

KASELEHLIE PRESS

Bipartisan US Congress delegation reinforces FSM ties amid geopolitical shifts

By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press

August 27, 2023

Pohnpei, FSM—The members of the bi-partisan United States House of Representatives Committee on Natural Resources arrived last evening at the Pohnpei International Airport. Chaired by Bruce Westerman, a Republican representative of the State of Arkansas, the Committee members were in Pohnpei as part of their fact-finding and due diligence mission as they work on their report for the body of the whole on U.S. funding of the Compacts of Free Association with the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Palau, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

After meeting on Sunday morning with FSM President Wesley Simina and members of the FSM Congress, several

of the members of the visiting committee participated in an exclusive interview with The Kaselehlie Press to outline the purpose of their mission and their views regarding the importance of the Compacts of Free Association given the current geopolitical climate in the Pacific region.

The members of the committee that participated in the interview were Chairman Westerman; Indo-Pacific Task Force Chair Gregorio Kilili, a Democrat from the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas; Tom Tiffany, a Republican from the State of Wisconsin; Teresa Leger Fernandez, a Democrat from the State of New Mexico; Melanie Stansbury, also a Democrat from the State of New Mexico; Jim Moylan, a Republican from Guam; and, Harriet Hageman, a Republican from the State of Wyoming.

Members who did not participate in the interview but who

ONPA questions $13.3 million of payments under the Tourism Mitigation Fund and other matters

By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press

August 26, 2023

FSM—An audit released two days ago by the FSM Office of the National Public Auditor (ONPA) calls into question the expenditure of $13.3 million dollars of Tourism Sector Mitigation Funds (TMF). The fund, established by Congress in May 2020, was designed to relieve touristrelated businesses whose livelihoods were curtailed by the closure of the FSM border due to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic. It also was designed to aid employees who worked for those businesses who were laid off due to significantly decreased business during

that time.

The ONPA audit made no mention of having referred any of its findings to its Compliance Investigation Division (CID). CID is the division of ONPA that performs investigations and refers any potential lawbreaking uncovered by an audit to the FSM Department of Justice for possible criminal prosecution.

ONPA found “improper authorization of funds resulting in $13.3 million worth of questioned relief payments”. In this matter, the Auditor pointed out that the law setting up the fund and the regulations that promulgated it established a TMF committee to oversee. By regulation, the

members of the TMF committee were the FSM Secretaries for the Departments of Resources and Development, Finance and Administration, Justice, and Environment, Climate Change and Emergency Management. However, ONPA asserted that after only a short period of time, only one committee member, the Chair ended up making all the decisions regarding disbursements under the money in the fund.

“The governance structure of the Fund was not aligned with the requirements of the law in terms of the duties and responsibilities of the Committee…As a result, $13.3 million worth of relief payments paid out by the Program may

be deemed as questionable and vulnerable to waste, misuse, or abuse. They were processed and paid not in accordance to the law,” the audit said.

ONPA asked for a management response from the TMF Committee. Instead of the Committee response, they received an email from the Budget and Economic Advisor, who was not part of the committee. As a result, ONPA made no changes in its audit findings. The emailed response said that all payments were paid by the Department of Finance and Administration in full compliance with the approved TMF law and regulations.

US Congress Representatives Harriet Hageman, Tom Tiffany, Jim Moylan, Teresa Leger Fernandez, Chairman Bruce Westerman, Gregorio Kilili, and Melanie Stansbury answer questions for KPress Editor Bill Jaynes. US Embassy representative Andrew Posner also on Jaynes’ side of the table.

Kosrae Broadcasting violates procurement regs and buys a radio transmitter shaped boat anchor

By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press

August 26, 2023

FSM—An audit released this month revealed that due to violations of procurement regulations, the Kosrae Broadcast station essentially ended up with a nearly $35,000 boat anchor in the shape of a new AM radio transmitter. The Office of the National Public Auditor (ONPA) has referred several of its findings to its Compliance Investigation Division (CID), the arm of ONPA that conducts investigations that could be referred to the FSM Department of Justice for possible criminal prosecution.

In 2020, the AM radio transmitter broke down, resulting in no broadcasting services for some time. As a shortterm solution, the radio station began broadcasting in FM only. FM broadcasts can only reach an audience along a line of sight between the antenna and the listener. It was not able to reach all of the people of Kosrae.

Kosrae Broadcasting Authority’s (KBA) Board reached out to the FSM Congress (CFSM) for assistance with funding a replacement transmitter. The 21st Congress appropriated $40,000 for that purpose. Once the Project Control Document and the Advice of Allotment were processed, KBA began its search for a new transmitter, a process they undertook through an online search for a vendor to supply the transmitter. They selected a vendor without getting the required three quotations for procurement.

The Governor of Kosrae was the allottee for the first Advice of allotment, which was issued on October 2, 2020.

Afterward, KBA made an initial payment to the vendor by wire transfer through the FSM Department of Finance and Administration’s (DOFA) main office in Palikir. A second Advice of Allotment was then issued, which changed the allottee from the Governor to the Mayor of Lelu.

Despite sending the initial payment, the vendor did not send the equipment. They wanted full payment prior to sending the equipment. While discussions were still ongoing, a third party was solicited to assist with the shipping of the equipment. That third party made full payment to the vendor in order to have the equipment released to them. After arranging for shipment of the equipment, that third party requested reimbursement from KBA. Reimbursement was done prior to receiving the equipment. Once equipment reached Kosrae, it was released only with a receiving report and no required inspection report.

Upon installation of the equipment, it was discovered that it didn’t work at all. Attempts to communicate with the manufacturer and vendor were unsuccessful. Auditors said that the KBA broadcast reach remains limited and came to the conclusion that recovery of the loss for the project seems unlikely.

The first of the audit’s findings was that “value for money was not achieved in the procurement process,” as required in the FSM’s Financial Management Regulations. “The method used for procuring the equipment was merely browsing online…had they considered the concept of ‘value for money’ the outcome would have been more satisfactory,” the auditors wrote. Further, the DOFA also did not thoroughly

review the payment requests to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations prior to disbursements.

Finding two was that “payments were processed and paid without the project inspection official’s certification. ONPA is referring this matter to their CID. The designated Project Inspection Official never saw the equipment. Payment was authorized and made based only on the project manager’s receiving report merely stating that the equipment had arrived. Of course, by the time the receiving report was issued, all of the money for the project had already been authorized and was gone. ONPA opines that money is now unrecoverable.

Finding three was that “Full payment was issued prior to receiving the equipment”. According to ONPA, the allottee and his key officials attempted to make an agreement with the vendor that two payment installments would take place, one to mobilize the purchase and the other after satisfactory receipt of the equipment. However, ONPA could find no evidence that the vendor was committed to that agreement, but the allottee went ahead and made the first payment installment without the full assurance from the vendor that they would release the equipment. Apparently, the project owner (KBA), instead of the project manager and allottee, was handling the implementation of the project and had made arrangements to expedite receipt of the equipment. In doing so, full payment was made before any assurance that the purchased equipment would work. It did not, and according to ONPA,

still does not.

The final finding of the audit was that “payment was made without the Bank Verification Process”. Because no one involved in the project on any level went through the “prudent practice” of verifying banking information before any of the payment wires were transmitted, the “funds may been prone to waste or the potential for fraud”.

“Hot” anglers compete in Matson Amcres fishing tournament

By Pohnpei Fishing Club

August 19, 2023

Pohnpei—August 19, the day of the Matson and Amcres Fishing Tournament, was a hot day not usually associated with good fishing weather for the 19 boat owners and crews who registered. Still, anglers still managed to land some pretty spectacular fish. The top winning prize fish was a nice 104.4-pound marlin caught by Jaeger Frederick for the $750 prize in the big fish category.

For the first time in a while, mahi mahis featured among the top winners. The second prize fish, with an award of $525 won by Raylor Sehpin, was a Mahi Mahi of 34.2 pounds. Third place was a wahoo of 19.8 pounds caught by John Hagiltaw for a $350 cash prize. Another mahi, this one of 16.4 pounds, won the $250 award and was landed by Gloria Yamada. The ever-present Marvey Spencer Jr. landed the $200 prize-winning fifth-place fish, a skipjack of 14.4 pounds, a fish rarely seen among the big fish category winners.

All of the remaining fish caught were smaller in size than

Spencer’s skipjack, but the anglers who caught them won prizes for the biggest fish of species. First-prize winners were awarded $150, and second-prize winners won $100.

Of the largest remaining skipjacks caught on the day, Calvin Apis caught the largest at 12 pounds. Dave Spencer caught the second-prize fish of the species at 11.2 pounds.

Mike Collins caught the largest remaining wahoo at 11.4 pounds, followed by Ricky David’s 8.8-pound wahoo.

Mike Collins was also a winner with the first-place winning barracuda, which weighed 13.6 pounds. Gloria Yamada had the second-place cuda at 10.2 pounds.

Merleen Harris won the top lady angler prize of $175 for her 10.06-pound skipjack. The top junior angler was Dave Spencer, who won $50 for his 10.8-pound skipjack.

Many thanks go to our sponsors, Matson and Amcres; we can’t run a tournament without support like this.

We also want to thank everyone who helped on the dock and keeping the records. Thanks also go to Mangrove Bay for hosting the registration, weigh-in, and prize-giving ceremony.

The project of the Fishing Club is to get an EPIRB on every fishing boat. Winning the drawing, (they were the only boat without an EPIRB), was Pohn Kohla. They now have an EPIRB for their personal use.

The weigh-in and awards were well attended. Lots of fun was had, and everyone had to stay hydrated. Just a note, weigh-ins are always from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. so boats can get back home by dark.

The marlin jackpot is at $9,900.00, and the YF jackpot is at $1,100.00. If you beat the club record in a jackpot tourney, you win this money in addition to the other prizes.

The marlin record is 450.00 pounds. The YF record is 140.00 pounds.

The next tournament is the Blue Nile tournament, and the marlin jackpot will reach $10,000.

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also visited the FSM were Indo-Pacific Task Force Chair Amata Radewagen, a Republican from American Samoa; and Doug Lamborn, a Republican from the State of Colorado.

Among other topics, members of the committee spoke freely and candidly of their visit to the Pacific region, U.S. partisanism and bi-partisanism, the bond with the FSM, and the current geopolitical situation in the Indo-Pacific region.

The following is a transcription of the interview, which began with a brief discussion of the short power outage that occurred during their talks with the FSM leadership in the morning:

Fernandez:

(The power) went out at a very fortunate time where we were discussing the needs of the island; then it came back on when we were talking about the joint cooperation—very symbolic

Jaynes: You’re here on essentially a factfinding and due diligence mission. Can you speak more about that?

Westerman: Well, as you’re aware, the Compact Free Association, not just with FSM but also with Palau and RMI, are up for renewal. That falls under the jurisdiction of the Natural Resources Committee, and we created a special task force on the committee, a bipartisan task force on the Indo-Pacific region, and we’re putting an extra amount of emphasis and focus on these Compacts because of our friends here in the IndoPacific Region and also because of the climate of the world, and the things that are going on.

Jaynes: I understand that this is a bipartisan visit, which is great

Westerman: Leger Fernandez is the acting ranking minority member on the trip.

Fernandez: So, yeah, so we have quite a—it is a truly bipartisan effort. I am the acting ranking member. Our ranking member Raul Grijalva was not able to make the trip. But I sit as the ranking member on the subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs, as well as a member on the task force, and I think that this is

an area that has true bipartisanship. On both sides of the aisle, we recognize the importance of the region. We recognize the historical connection that we have, and I really appreciated today as we heard about the shared values that we have with the islands, from protecting the environment, protecting democracy, a sense of, and I believe that chairwoman Hagerman said it quite eloquently, but a shared sense of, I’m going to forget it now, but it was that shared sense of what is just and right; and that is something that we have uniformity of position even though we may have also Republican and Democrat views, but on this issue, in this island, in this region, we have great bipartisan support.

Jaynes: I am a US citizen. I’ve lived here for almost 23 years. I’ve watched the US change fairly dramatically during that period time, and I know that partisanship is an issue, but you don’t see that issue in terms of a fairly serious division between Republican and Democrat parties, derailing this process in any way?

Westerman: Well, I think part of the goal of us being here is to try to keep everything on the tracks, and not let it go off of the rails. That’s why it’s important for us to come and see with our own eyes, to experience how long it takes to get here, how far everything is spread apart, to experience the customs, to interact with the people, and to go back on both sides of the aisle and say, “look this is important for the region. It’s important for America’s national security, and really, I would say, the global security interest, that we complete these Compacts, and that we move forward with decades, and possibly centuries of ongoing relationships, building upon what we’ve had in the past.”

Stansbury: Mr. Chairman, may I add something? I’m Melanie Stansbury from New Mexico. There’s two of the three members of New Mexico’s delegation here, and I think that as the chairman said, you know, the bipartisan representation, and having nine members of Congress, which as we understand it, is one of the largest, if not the largest congressional delegation, to ever visit Micronesia and our allies in the region, is really a demonstration of our commitment to get these Compacts done, but your question was do we see the potential for partisanship to derail the process, and the answer is yes. There is the risk that due to partisanship in Washington that all legislation can get derailed right now including our ability to fund the US government, and so to the chairman’s

point, I think what you see is a strong and unified bipartisan message with the delegation that we have here that we’re committed to getting these Compacts done and associated appropriations that go with them, but we also all of us are realists and work in this political world and understand that when we go back to Washington we have a lot of work in front of us, and we’ll have to figure out how we get these Compacts done in the context of all the other legislation that is pending in Congress.

Jaynes: Certainly, and riders that can get added or subtracted, and all…

Stansbury: But I think that what you are hearing is a unified commitment to the Compacts and to the US commitments that have been made. The other aspect that I would add of what we heard this morning from both the President and from the Congress was that really if we do not reauthorize these compacts and the funding that goes with them, that it could have devastating impacts for FSM. We’re hearing from your leadership here in the communities that that means teachers won’t be paid, doctors and nurses wouldn’t be paid, and I think it was really important for us to hear that so that we can take that to our colleagues in Congress and make sure they understand the implications.

Jaynes: So, it was a productive visit with the FSM this morning?

Stansbury: Yes, it was. Absolutely.

Jaynes: That’s great to hear. I’m wondering if anyone has a statement to make regarding the actual geopolitical importance of this region.

Westerman: I’ll make a brief statement now, and then to Harriet, but that can’t be understated, the geopolitical significance of this region, I don’t think it’s ever been any more important. These second and third island chains give us an area to operate and to provide security, and it enables our security forces to be positioned [power goes out]…in areas that are second to none. So you can’t understate the significance of the geopolitical part of it. Harriet?

Hageman: I’ll just describe a little bit about the comments I made when we met with the senators today, was that the president of the Senate (FSM Congress Speaker) commented about the overfishing by China, the IUU fishing which, in preparation for coming over here I did quite a bit of reading to understand the relationships, the locations, the geography, the culture and all of those things. One of the things that continued to jump out at me is, the situation we’re dealing with in that regard is the tragedy of the Commons, because all of these countries, all of these islands, and China are dependent upon the fisheries. And you have China, even at the time that they’re attempting to create a closer and closer relationship with these islands and attempt to displace the United States of America, are still willing to go out and destroy the fisheries in large swaths of the world. You see it off the coast of South America. It’s an issue that everyone that we’ve talked to while here, whether it’s in Palau, or Guam, or here, they’ve talked about that specific issue. So what you have is a malign influence, a malign actor who’s willing to even destroy the fisheries. And the reality is, if you denude our oceans

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of the fish, that’s going to have a more devastating environmental effect than climate change ever could. Yeah, that’s one of the issues you’re dealing with, with China right now. And so it is the geographic location of it, but it’s also the behavior of the Chinese Communist Party in the way that they conduct business, and that’s just one of the examples of the things that they do, and these islands are the first line of defense to try to stop that.

Jaynes: That’s a strong statement and I can’t imagine that our friends from China will be happy about me publishing it.

Westerman: Bill, I think that gets to the point. Look at the motive of America’s presence here, and look at the motive behind the Chinese Communist Party’s presence here and I used the illustration in our field hearing in Guam of a baited fish hook. The Chinese Communist Party likes to dangle wealth and prosperity in front of people, but remember there’s always a hook in it. We come with the motives of freedom and democracy and self-determination. That’s what motivates us.

Tom, I think you had something to add.

Tiffany: Yeah, I want to just share the comment that we heard from Governor Guerrero in our hearing that we held in Guam, she referred to them as scary. And think about what President Panuelo, former President Panuelo said in the message he sent as he was exiting the presidency, where he warned about, and I’m sure you’ve read that document, he warned about the malign influence of the Communist Chinese government here. So, I mean the warnings are out there.

I just want to add two other comments if I may, Mr. Chairman. There’s something here, as I observe this, and as we are going to leave the islands here sometime in the next 24 to 48 hours, whenever it may be. There is something that America can do that’s not being talked about, and it has to do with energy. We see the lights go out today. We see gasoline over in Palau at $7 a gallon. I spoke with the President of Palau yesterday, and I asked him, “what has happened to the price of electricity on your island,” and he said it has tripled. It went from 15 cents, I

think it was 15 cents a kilowatt, up to 54 cents. So, it’s more than tripled, and that has happened over the last few years, and part of that is losing that energy independence. It has a global impact. If there’s something—the Compacts are very important, and that’s what we’re focused on here—but there is something America can do, and that is produce energy. Because when we produce energy in American borders, that energy independence spreads throughout the world, and we reduce the cost of energy, which affects every single thing that we do.

Second thing that I would say to you is, as I sat back and listened this morning, the things that tie America with the islands are incredibly powerful, and we saw two of them today. The President of the FSM today, he started out with a prayer just as we oftentimes do in America. So that faith is a very powerful tie that binds us. And the second thing is service to our country. So many service members have come from the islands here, in (the service of) the United States of America. I think those two things are so powerful that will help—we’re going to have disagreements at times—but I think those two things are just a powerful tie that binds us with these islands, and to me, that just gives me so much optimism of the future for the Pacific Islands and America.

Hageman: And I think that what you see from this administration, as well as a recognition of the threats that China poses, not just to the Commons, and you know, overfishing, but in so many other ways in which they are using both their economic power and their military threats in a way that the United States is addressing, and I think that the manner in which the United States is now interested in moving away and investing in our own country, or Chips and Science Act is an incredible example of how the United States is saying, “we will make in America but we need in America”. And thinking about, we also heard from several of the senators this morning about the concerns about climate the climate impacts that the islands will face, and that we need to acknowledge and work with the islands to create the kinds of renewable energy technologies that could play a very important role here on the islands and include them as we move in that direction. S o I think that you have with Vis-à-vis, China, you have a very united bipartisan effort. And then there are different ways in which we might have own interpretations

Pohnpei receive solar lanterns and flashlight from the Government of China

By Pohnpei Enginkehlap News

August 23, 2023

Pohnpei--Thank you to the Government of the People's Republic of China, for their generous donations that have reached the people of Pohnpei through the FSM Department of Foreign Affairs.

500 solar lanterns and flashlights were received by the Governor’s Office and distributed to Municipal Governments of Pingelap, Mwoakilloa, Nukuoro, Kapingamarangi, Sapwaufik, Madolenihmw, Nett, U, Kolonia and Sokehs.

The lanterns and solar flashlights were distributed to the local municipal governments for the benefit of residents living on the remote outer islands and in areas of Pohnpei without access to electricity. The distribution started with the outer islands and ended with the distribution last week at the Local Chief Executive meeting where the remaining lanterns and flashlights were distributed.

Again, thank you to the Chinese Government for their generous donation, and thank you to the FSM Department of Foreign Affairs for facilitating the donations.

of how is the best way to address individual domestic issues that they might have here as we might have in the United States. But protection of the environment is definitely a shared concern and a shared value, I think.

Moylan: Mr. Chairman, I’d like to add just a little bit. Coming from Guam, and going to all the islands, and we did come from Guam as well in Hawaii, and we can see in the Indo-PACOM region how important this is. I’m so thankful for the chairman and our colleagues to come on out here to experience and put our feet on the ground. But this area, we’ve experienced war before, and we know the hardship has it has caused, and the Communist Chinese party right now is, with their aggression, showing with their warships, showing with their planes, all of it in the same region once again. The patriotism that you see

from the audience is really strong, the modest soldiers, airmen, and sailors are wanting to join in, and for democracy as well. And then just last night, here at the bar we had the opportunity to meet some Navy guys and some Marines, and seeing the goodwill that the United States is doing by repairing schools and building roads, is so important. So, as the chairman said, we’re here for democracy. I’m also with House Armed Services. We did the NDAA (National Defense Authorization Act), but it’s for the defense, it’s for the defense of freedom. It’s not the aggressions that we see from the Communist Chinese Party.

The Congress Delegation then departed for Mangrove Bay Bar and Grill, where they joined the FSM leadership for a lunch and traditional ceremony.

FSM reaffirms its enduring partnership with the United States at a House Committee on Natural Resources field hearing in Guam

By FSM Information Services

August 24, 2023

Agana, Guam--The Honorable Ricky F. Cantero, Acting Secretary of the FSM Department of Foreign Affairs, was a key witness from the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) at a field hearing conducted by the United States Congressional House Committee on Natural Resources (HNR) held in Guam on August 24, 2023. The Honorable U.S. Congressman Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Chairman of the HNR Committee presided over the hearing. Seven other members of the Congressional Delegation (CODEL) accompanied Chairman Westerman on a visit to the region as a part of the CODEL visit.

The field hearing on “Peace Through Strength: The Strategic Importance of the Pacific Islands to the U.S.-led Global Security” included high-level key witnesses from the Territory of Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands (CNMI), the Republic of Palau, the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), and the Federated States of Micronesia on a first Panel. The second panel featured a Word War II survivor and the Vice Speaker of the Guam Legislature.

In his remarks to the Committee, Acting Secretary Cantero stated that the “FSM

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ONPA’s second finding was that “relief payments were paid out to ineligible businesses and individuals”. Auditors listed the types of businesses that were specifically listed in the TMF law as it developed to its final amended form. They said that relief payments were made to businesses despite the requirement of showing their tax returns which were to be provided for the purpose of adequate documentation in justifying payment and ensuring compliance to the requirement of the law and regulations concerning eligibility. There were also instances where even the key documents, such as the assessment forms, were found to be missing. “We, therefore, could not provide reasonable assurance in

is committed to playing a vital role in supporting the U.S. security presence in the Pacific region and the United States’ effort to combat foreign aggression in the region”. He went on to say that through the prescribed annual “Joint Committee Meeting, the FSM continues to work with the U.S. military in identifying ways of strengthening and enriching bilateral security engagements, under the Compact”. He went on to reaffirm that the “FSM conducts its own foreign relations in ways that are consistent with the terms of the Amended Compact” and that the FSM welcomes further strengthening joint activities with the U.S. Department of Defense, including construction projects and the return of the Civic Action Team (CAT). He also called on the return of the Peace Corps as an important part of the people-to-people relationship.

While the discussions at the hearing were very much about the geo-politics of the region, Acting Secretary Cantero reaffirmed to the Committee the FSM’s historical, long-standing and enduring partnership with the United States. In his submitted written statement to the Committee, he referenced the “ever-increasing enlistment of our citizens to serve in the US Armed Forces” as continued solid testimony to the strong and enduring relationship.

Acting Secretary Cantero was supported at the hearing by the FSM Ambassador

determining whether all business that were financially assisted under the Program were eligible to receive relief payments on the basis of inadequate documentation and the absence of other relevant supporting documents required by law.”

The audit also says that ONPA found relief payments in the amount of $93,633 to several businesses that were not eligible to receive relief assistance, such as laundromats and retail stores. They also found several relief payments to individuals for unemployment assistance who had not provided the required documentation of their unemployment status and the most recent paycheck stub.

Other expenditures were also made to stranded citizens who were returning home to the FSM during the travel

to the United States, Mr. Jackson Soram, along with Mr. Asterio Takesy, Chairman of the Joint Committee on Compact Review and Planning (JCRP), Mr. Leo A. Falcam Jr., Chief Negotiator for the Compact Negotiations, and Mr. Samuel Witten, FSM Consultant in D.C.

Should you have any questions regarding the hearing, please feel free to contact the FSM Department of Foreign Affairs at (691) 3203613 or the FSM Embassy in D.C. at (202)223-4383 or email at dcmmission@ fsmembassy.fm.

Footage from the hearing can be viewed at the below links:

https://www.c-span.org/video/?530029-1/ house-natural-resources-committee-fieldhearing-pacific-islands-us-national-security

https://www.c-span.org/ video/?530029-101/house-naturalresources-committee-field-hearing-pacificislands-us-national-security-part-2

ONPA’s third finding was “disbursement of $1.4 million bank loan interest payments deviated from the requirements of the law”. This seemed to be a matter of the evaluation of one word in the original law that was later changed. The word was “rebate”. The law allowed for reimbursement of affected business owners who had loans made during the period of border closure. ONPA pointed out that the committee’s decision to change the word “rebate” to “payment” was contrary to law and resulted in $1.4 million in payments directly to banks who held the loans rather than rebates to the business owners who made the payments themselves.

The final finding of the audit was “noncompliance found toward the process of relief payments”. ONPA found that many assessments for relief amounts were not based on the requirement of comparing taxable gross revenues of the same quarterly tax periods as required by law. They also found $65,863 of payments that were processed and issued after the Fund had expired. They said that the committee was in possession of the documents that could have been processed well before the expiration of the TMF fund, and the payments could have been made before that time.

The advisors responded that additional relief could be added per regulations and by the Committee. The Committee therefore agreed for the inclusion of communication expenses as an eligible item because of tourism businesses’ need to continue tourism promotion both by telephone and through their websites.

restrictions lockdown, which is outside the scope of the TMF Fund law.

The Advisers response said that the committee exercised its due diligence in identifying all matters of eligibility. It said that the list of eligible businesses was not “hard-wired” into the law. In the case of laundromats, the response said that the staff completed due diligence to determine that those types of businesses were in fact affected by the travel restriction because hotels that relied on their services no longer needed their services because their hotels were essentially empty during that time. It said that everyone went through the process of providing documentation and, essentially, that the fact that auditors could not find that documentation was simply a matter of some disorganization in the files.

The advisor also wrote that the Committee agreed to put certain caps on stimulus payments for certain small businesses to ensure that the stimulus payments plus the actual revenue for the relevant quarter did not add up and exceed the revenue level for the same period in the previous quarter. If they had not done so, some businesses would have had more earnings by receiving the TMF payments instead of receiving just their fair share. “This is not a flawed calculation as alluded to by auditors, but simply (to) ensure equitable compensation as called for by the law.”

On the payments made after the fund expired, the advisor wrote that all of the payments were made for businesses who were entitled to it from their fourth quarter tax filings, which the advisor erroneously said were not due until February.

From Israel to Micronesia: Brothers explore reasons behind FSM’s unwavering support

By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press

August 15, 2023

Pohnpei, FSM—The fact that two tourists arrived in Pohnpei for a visit is nothing that hasn’t happened a thousand times before, and in many ways, the visit of Shai and Amir Afsai would not rate one column inch of news space except for the reception they received throughout their visit. Shai and Amir are brothers. Shai lives and teaches middle school in Providence, Rhode Island. His brother, Amir teaches High School and at an Armenian Theological Seminary in Jerusalem, Israel, where he teaches the Hebrew language.

The Afsais didn’t choose to visit the Micronesian region at random. They specifically chose to visit Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia after meeting each other in Guam because of the two countries’ record of voting on Israeli issues at the United Nations. They wanted to know more about the reasons behind the motivations for the support both countries have shown to the nation of Israel.

“Well, my thoughts are a little bit a little a little different because I’m an Israeli tourist and, okay, you have to understand that when you live in Israel and you hear that, like France voted against you in the UN, it has a certain impact and it makes you feel, I’d say, vulnerable on a diplomatic level…and when you hear the countries like Palau and Micronesia, they’ve voted in support of Israel,” Shai said when asked his thoughts on his experience as a tourist in Pohnpei.

“So, for me coming here, besides a way to spend our summer vacations together is like was saying to explore why they’re supported. And we’ve heard different reasons. It’s not that it’s one reason.It’s a good one, gives kind of a different reason. And also, you know, if I have a good experience here, and I can bring that back with me there, and I can spread the word that there are these countries that you should go to,” he said.

The brothers said that when they landed in Pohnpei, they were surprised to have been met by Ryan and Jasmine of the Pohnpei Visitors Center. When the taxi they had organized failed to show up, the two staff members offered them a ride to their hotel. They said it was wonderful to show up at an airport in an unfamiliar country and be met by people who were there just for them to help them.

They said that as soon as they mentioned that they were from Israel, everyone told them that the Governor is the honorary consul and then put the men together. Governor Reed Oliver not only took time to meet them in his office but also to take them around Pohnpei to show them the sights and also invited them to his home on a Friday evening. “It was so unusual for us to have the Governor meeting with us,” Shai said.

At the dinner at Governor Oliver’s house, the Afsais said that they discovered that the Governor’s family is highly religious. They gave prayers for the event and, since it was the Jewish sabbath, also invited them to say the Kiddush, which Amir did in the Hebrew language. “I just thought, ‘what a wonderful merging of traditions, Christian, Jewish Israelis, and really just beautiful fellowship. In some ways, the core was a pagan tradition. But those, yeah, I got to a really nice fellowship,

and I thought that was it. Again, I’m emphasizing things that I think are very unique here. We’re very unique here.”

The brothers also went to the FSM capital in Palikir, where Lynn Narruhn gave them a tour of the capital facilities and explained a bit about FSM history, both in terms of the symbolism of the architecture, but also about the way that the FSM government works. Narruhn also contacted Lorrin Robert of the FSM Department of Foreign Affairs. Although Robert was leaving the next day for the Presidential State visit to Kosrae, he took the time that evening to come to their hotel and meet with them. He told the Afsais that when he learned about the purpose for their visit, he felt it was important for him to meet with them and emphasize the strong bond that exists between the FSM and Israel. “It really felt like sitting with a sage.”

They hired “Safe Ride” taxi company. The driver and a younger relative took them to all of the places they wanted to visit, including the College of Micronesia FSM national campus, and also to some sites that weren’t on their list of places they wanted to see. Apparently, they made a personal connection with the driver and his younger family, who also invited them to their home on another evening on a friendship basis rather than a monetary one.

Shai is not only a middle school teacher, he is a prolific poet and essayist. He also is an accomplished photographer, which has aided him as he captures the Jewish life around the world.

To get to the point on the purpose for their trip, Shai has several times received grants from his synagogue in Rhode Island to do projects connected with Jews around the world.

“So, in other words, I can’t lounge around on the shore and drink beer. I have to get out and meet people, talk and learn about it, learn about the place,” Shai said.

“There was a real curiosity (from the people at his synagogue) that maybe wasn’t there when I said, hey, I want to go to Ireland and Northern Ireland to learn about Jewish history there and Irish Jewish literature. ‘Okay’, they would say, but here there was real excitement when I said, ‘how about I go to Micronesia’, there was tremendous excitement and curiosity. ‘Oh, okay. Where is it? Yes. How many people live there and why are they so supportive of Israel’,” Shai said.

Trying to nail down the reasons that the FSM is so supportive is very difficult to do in a short time, but the Afsais said that absolutely everyone they talked to about it was friendly and helpful. They said that the reasons people on the streets gave for FSM’s support ranged from technological support from Israel in the islands, to religious reasons. Government officials said it had to do with Israel’s support as the FSM sought independence. Some others said that it is because the United States is a supporter of Israel and the FSM supports the U.S., but the Afsai’s said that in fact, the FSM has voted more often in support of Israel’s initiatives in the UN than even the U.S.

The Afsais will return to their homes with not only a report to give, but also high praise for the Micronesian region. They said they would recommend the FSM as a tourist destination for Jewish travelers. They still shake their heads in amazement at the universally friendly people they’d met in Pohnpei and of the unexpected and astounding support for their visit that they received.

Partnership in Action: Australian initiative brings light to Chuuk’s Etten and Piis Paneu Islands

By Australian Embassy to the FSM

August 17, 2023

Chuuk--Ambassador Jo Cowley and Second Secretary Rachelle Wood were honoured to visit #Chuuk to launch the Australian funded solar electrification projects on Etten and Piis Paneu islands on 17 August.

The delegation, including Chuuk

Governor, the Hon Alexander Narruhn; Lt Governor, the Hon Mekioshy William; #FSM Congress Senator the Hon Perpetua Konman, and SPC Regional Director Lara Studzinski were welcomed with songs and dancing by the community in Etten and had the pleasure of exploring the beautiful island of Piis Paneu. Seeing how communities lived without electricity demonstrated the value of project.

Ambassador Cowley in her remarks said “Access to electricity improves livelihoods…With your communities and much of the FSM on the front line every day in the battle against climate change, the use of solar energy to power your electricity is a deliberate, critical, sustainable choice….#Australia is proud to fund these life-changing projects in partnership with

you – the communities of Etten and Piis Paneu – the Office of the Governor, State of Chuuk, the CPUC and SPC, our implementation partner.”

Australia is proud to be a trusted partner and friend to the FSM. This project is a clear demonstration of the strong partnership between our countries, and with committed partners such as SPC.

In line with Australia’s new development policy, this solar project is a great example of the kinds of projects Australia will aim to do more of under our new policy. These are projects that invest in locally-led solutions, that support economic development and projects that have an even greater focus on climate action and gender equality.

The Australian Embassy thanks the government of Chuuk, members of the Chuuk State Legislature, Reverend Dickenson Dois, and Mayors, Elders and the communities from Etten and Piis Paneu.

We also want to send a heartfelt thank you to the dedicated team at SPC Director Lara and SPC team Frank, Koin and Om as well as CPUC team at Lei Shirai and Albert Francis and the team from Governor’s office.

Australia looks forward to the lighting up of Piis Paneu and Etten communities in Chuuk in 2024.

TRADE MARK CAUTIONARY NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that Luckin Coffee Group Co., Ltd. of 28th Floor, Building T3, Haixi Jingu Plaza, 1-3 Taibei Road, Siming District, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, China, 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 and services:

Class 30: coffee; coffee-based beverages; coffee beverages with milk; instant coffee; roasted coffee beans; cocoa; tea; iced tea; tea-based beverages; sugar; confectionery; bread; cereal-based snack food; biscuits; popcorn; pasta; essences for foodstuffs, except etheric essences and essential oils; fruit vinegar; seasonings; coffee flavourings.

Class 43: canteen services; bar services; coffee and catering services; café services; teahouse services; snack-bar services; takeaway restaurant services; cafeteria services; accommodation bureau services [hotels, boarding houses]; providing of food and drink via a mobile truck; food sculpting; rental of transportable buildings; rental of tableware; rental of chairs, tables, table linen, glassware; rental of cooking apparatus; rental of drinking water dispensers; rental of robots for preparing beverages

Luckin Coffee Group Co., Ltd. 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. MUNRO

Lawyers & Notaries Public, Pacific House, Butt Street, PO Box 149, Suva, Fiji

Email: trademarks@munroleyslaw. com.fj

www.munroleyslaw.com

Governor Oliver greets U.S. Congressional Delegates

By Pohnpei Enginkehlap News

August 27, 2023

Pohnpei--Governor Oliver and First Lady Estle G.Oliver joined FSM Deputy Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Ricky Cantero, FSM Ambassador to the U.S.A, H E. Jackson Soram, and U S. Embassy Kolonia Charge d'Affaires, Alissa Bibb to welcome a U.S. Congressional Delegation to Pohnpei. The delegation led by U.S. Representative Bruce Westerman, Chairman of the Committee on Natural Resources, will be in Pohnpei to meet with FSM leadership to discuss security issues at the national

and regional level and the Compact of Free Association.

Also present at the airport to welcome the Congressional delegation was Chairman of the Joint Committee on Compact Review and Planning, Asterio Takesy, FSM Congress Floor Leader, Hon. Quincy Lawrence and officials from the U.S. Embassy and FSM National government.

Welcome to Pohnpei Chairman Westerman and delegation.

US Forest Service provides $56K grant for conservation of Yela rainforest

US Embassy to the FSM

August 24, 2023

Kosrae—The U.S Forest Service has awarded a $56,000 grant to University of Washington to partner with Kosrae Island Resource Management Authority (KIRMA), Kosrae’s Department of Education, and Yela Environmental Land Authority’s (YELA) for a post-pandemic reboot of YELA’s ability to fulfill education goals for local students and ecotourists.

This grant will support the YELA education program on Forest Conservation Ecology, improve conditions for visitors, and provide additional staff support to the site. YELA is committed to sustain, protect, and conserve the last Ka (terminalia carolinensis) forest in the world.

KOASOANSAPAHL

Comprehensive State Vision

• Identify Community Needs & Priorities through Visioning/ Petehk Sapahl Kairoir en Wehi Me Pahn Peian Anahn en Tohn Wehi

• Create a Strategic Vision & Plan Consistent with State Priorities / Koasoansapahlih Plan en Doadoahk Lap Akan en Wehi

Effective Government

• Create a Government Structure Consistent with State Vision / Koasoanehdi Kopworment me

pahn Peian Kairoir Oh Anahn En Tohn Wehi

• Restructure all Boards, Authorities, Commissions to Align with the Vision / Petehksapahl Oh

KoasoanehdiBoard Oh Commission Kan

• Delineate and Align State and Local Responsibilities / Kasansalehla Pwukoahn State oh Local Government Kan.

Competent Government

• Improve the State Renumeration Package / Petehk Sapahl

Pwukoah oh Pweinen Tohndoadoahk

• Fill Key Government Positions with Competent & Qualified People / Audehkihda Pwukoa

Lap Akan Tohndoadoahk me

Kohiek oh Kak

KAINENE

Educational Advancement

• Kamwahuiala Epwelpen Sukuhl Kan

• Kamwahuiala oh Kadaiala Keirdahn Tohnsukuhl Koaros.

Comprehensive/Universal Health Care Plan

• Kamwahuiala Sahpis en Nimwen Wini

• Kakehlailiada Weipen Apwalih, Doare oh Katikala NCD oh Soangen Soumwahu Teikan me

Rek Pohnpei

• Kaunsekala Pohnpei Health Care Insurance Plan

Capital Improvement

• Koasoanehdi oh Kamwahuiala wiepen apwalih project lap koaros en State, National, Compact, oh Pali Teikan.

• Kamwahuiala Wiepen Apwalih Elen Wei Pokon.

Financial Viability/Accountability

• Nahkpene Oh Kasalehda Ahn Kaporiment Tehte Kan

• Ni Dehde Nahn Pahr En Doadoahk Koaros

• Rihpwot Ki Doadoahkalahn Tehte Kan Ni Pwung oh Mehlel.

• Rop oh Kaweidada Wiepe Konehng Kan Me Pahn Kalaudehla Tehte Oh Pai En Wehi

• Petehk Sapahl Wiepen Nehkpeseng Tehtehn Pai en Wehi (distribution formula)

Land System Improvement

• Kamwahuiala Wiepen Apwalih Sahpw Koaros, Public, Retention, oh Private Ohng Sosohng, Kisinlikou oh Kalaudalahn Pai en Wehi.

Clean and Healthy Pohnpei

• Kamwahuilala oh Katehlapala Wiepen Apwalih Kihd oh Mwakelekel nan Pohnpei.

• Kalaudehla Wasahn Recycle nan Pohnpei ohng Tehn Pwoht, Plastic, Doropwe, Mete, oh kihd teikan.

Responsible Law Enforcement

• Kakehlailiada Epwel Pen Kosoned Kan

KOADOAHKE

1. Strengthen Youth and Senior Citizen Enhancement Programs.

2. Stream Line and Strengthen Feasible and Viable Environment Initiatives Relevant To Pohnpei.

3. Upgrade The Hospital to a First Class Semi-Autonomous National Referral Health Care/Training Facility

4. Reform Pohnpei’s Education System to Include All Facets of Its Education Mandate with Increased Focus on Special Needs.

5. Responsible Land Reform

6. Expand and Improve Clean Water and Sewer Services.

7. Improve Waste Disposal Facilties To Better Manage Waste and Garbage

8. Develop Value Added Cottage Industries For The Food Market Primarily To Sustain Domestic Demands with Export Potential.

9. Develop a Tourist Industry Sensitive to Pohnpei’s Fragile Eco System and its Socio Economic Structure.

10. Clean Parks and Recreation Areas.

11. Improve Sea/Air Transportation.

12. Strengthen Local and External Partnerships With the Latter On a Selective Basis.

President Simina and Vice President Palik pay official State visit to Chuuk State

FSM Office of the President

August 24, 2023

Chuuk—As part of their priority activities early on in their administration, His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and The Honorable Aren B. Palik, Vice President of the FSM, have completed their first official state visit to the State of Chuuk from August 1st to August 11th 2023.

The main purpose of these rounds of State Visits is to personally extend the administration’s theme of “Unity is our Strength and Prosperity” by further strengthening relationships between the national government and the four state governments. The state visit to Chuuk followed after the first state visit with Pohnpei state in early June with plans to pay an official state visit to

Yap in September. The visit featured a main event of meeting with the State Leadership as well as visits to various sites. Members of the delegation included

T.H. Speaker Esmond Moses and spouse Mrs. Mrs. Almihda Moses, Floor Leader

T.H. Quincy Lawrence and spouse Mrs. Bridgeen Lawrence, T.H. Senator Peter Christian and cabinet and staff members.

Upon their arrival to their home state,

H.E. President Wesley W. Simina and First Lady Ancelly Simina and delegation members were received by T.H. Governor Alexander Narruh, State Leadership and Vice President Palik, where a traditional welcoming was performed, and President Simina addressed the crowd encouraging the people of Chuuk to take pride in their representation at the national level and to utilize it to support the pursuit of unity at all levels of government in the FSM.

The main event of the state visit was a meeting held with the Chuuk State Leadership at the Government Auditorium featuring an open discussion forum and an audience Q&A segment. The open-style of the forum allowed for participation from the audience members ranging from Mayors to state employees. In Governor Narruhn’s address, priority areas for Chuuk State that were highlighted included assistance needed toward the cleanup of oil remains from shipwrecks in Chuuk’s lagoon after the withdrawal of the JMAS (Japan Mine Action Service) group, challenges around the lack of interisland transportation, the implementation of on-going infrastructure projects, the current labor ban from the Government of the Philippines stressing labor needs in Chuuk, the rollout of the new compact among others. President Simina and members of the delegation responded to each of these questions and concerns one by one leading to increased mutual understanding.

T.H. Speaker Moses also highlighted the need to see more participation from the state’s legislative bodies at important national conferences and dialogues, such as the recently concluded Infrastructure Conference that was held in Kosrae, to ensure that all states legislative branches are contributing to the discussions that will ultimately be implemented in the states.

President Simina closed out the discussions with a call to action and solidarity, reiterating that the SiminaPalik administration holds building state-focused relationships in the highest regard, noting that the states’ priorities are the national government’s priorities.

The remainder of the state visit featured several activities, meetings and site visits, by the President and delegation, including a visit to the Chuuk State Hospital’s recently renovated medical ward where the President was able to speak directly

with hospital staff where the issue of staff shortages, particularly with doctors and nurses was raised. The following day the President led the delegation on a trip to the island municipality of Tonoas to visit the recently constructed Post Office and the Coconut Processing Facility and to meet with the municipal leadership, where Vice President Palik committed the amount of $20 million to help fix the roads of Tonoas. During the state visit, President Simina and delegation also met with the Chuuk Women’s Council (CWC) where First Lady Ancelly Simina committed $10,000 dollars to CWC to fund their participation at the upcoming Women’s Conference taking place in Kosrae in November. During the state visit, President Simina also accepted a courtesy call with IOM (International Organization for Migration) Regional Director Sarah Lou Ysmael and Resident Representative/Chief of Mission for IOM in the North Pacific, Mr. Salvadore Sortino, where they provided updates on IOM’s activities in the FSM including the completion of their Typhoon Wutip response and reconstruction efforts.

In keeping with the spirit of unity at all levels, the Chuuk State visit culminated with President Simina hosting a meeting for the Mayors of Chuuk State. In this engagement, President Simina emphasized the importance of a bottom-up approach, from the municipal level up to the national level, rather than a top-down approach, to effectively serve the people. In an open-forum format, the Mayors and the President discussed at length various issues of mutual interest including climate change adaptation, infrastructure, transportation and the results of the amended compact negotiations.

The Simina-Palik administration wishes to thank the good people of Chuuk for their warm and generous hospitality and look forward to many more state visits to come.

Task Force Koa Moana 23 teams up with Chuuk PUC to repair roadways

Task Force Koa Moana 2023

Aug 27, 2023

Chuuk, Federated States of Micronesia – U.S. Marines and Sailors with Task Force Koa Moana teamed up with the Chuuk Public Utility Corporation to improve road conditions in the capital city of Weno. Governor Alexander Narruhn identified specific areas around Weno most in need of improvements. The detachment of Marines and public utility workers invested four weeks into revamping the identified areas. “Ultimately, the completion of this project has streamlined vehicular movement and road access throughout Weno,” said 1stLt Joel Marshall, the officer in charge of the Marine detachment in Chuuk with Task Force Koa Moana. Among the main improvements, the Marines and utility workers dug natural irrigation systems to prevent future erosion. They also laid aggregate and graded the roadways. Aggregating is the process of adding gravel to fill in potholes littered across the streets. Road grading consists of using heavy machinery to flatten the driving surface of the roads. A heavy equipment operator removed washboards, potholes, and other irregularities by flattening the surface using special machinery (including a steamroller) to move back and forth across the road. Following several weeks of work, drivers in Chuuk will experience a smoother ride in certain areas around the island. “The Marines worked incredibly hard on this project,” said Marshall. “The end result is a testament to their work ethic and determination.”

US Congressional Delegation meet with President Simina

FSM Office of the President

August 27, 2023

Palikir, Pohnpei—On Sunday August 27th, 2023, members of the US House Natural Resources Committee met with H.E. Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) as part of their Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to the region. The delegation was led by Chairman Bruce Westerman and included committee members Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández, Rep. Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan, Rep. Doug Lamborn, Rep. Amata Coleman Radewagen, Rep. Tom Tiffany, Rep. Jim Moylan, Rep. Harriet Hageman and Rep. Melanie Stansbury.

President Simina welcomed the delegation to the FSM and thanked Chairman Westerman for leading the

largest CODEL to the FSM in recent history. Upon exchanging pleasantries and introductions, President Simina, along with members of cabinet and the CODEL discussed an array of issues of mutual interest, with particular focus on the amended compact package and the U.S Congressional timeline as it relates to it. President Simina, emphasized how critical it is to the FSM that the US Congress pass the compact legislation by September 30th – the end of the fiscal year, and that the impacts of a cutoff of U.S. support, would be extremely detrimental for key areas such as health and education, and would be immediately felt by citizens throughout the FSM who rely on programs and services that are supported through compact funds. The President and delegation also discussed potential measures that could be implemented should such a

time come to pass, such as any stopgap funding through a continuing resolution, should that be necessary.

Another point of discussion was Veterans Affairs, with President Simina noting that FSM citizens enlisting in the US armed forces are among the highest rates and growing, a reflection of the enduring bond between the FSM and the US, and further noted his efforts to fill the Office of Veterans Affairs in the FSM.

Chief Negotiator Falcam elaborated on the difficulties that FSM citizens who are veterans face, particularly relating to access to healthcare. Currently, under the Foreign Medical Program, most veterans from the FAS are unable to access their healthcare and thus emphasized the FSM’s support for the inclusion of the bipartisan Care for COFA Veterans Act which would provide Veterans Affairs with the authority to provide care for veterans in the FAS.

The CODEL visit to the FSM follows after the field hearing that was held in Guam last week, where Acting Secretary Cantero of the FSM Department of Foreign Affairs represented the FSM as a key witness, alongside other high-ranking officials from the Freely Associated States (FAS) and the US territories in the region, where they fielded questions from the committee relating to the strategic importance of the FAS for regional security.

Following meetings with President Simina and T.H. Speaker Moses, a luncheon was hosted at Mangrove Bay, where a sakau ceremony was held in honor of the visiting delegation, followed by remarks delivered by Speaker Moses and Chairman Westerman. Among those in attendance included members of FSM Congress, cabinet, staff of the US Embassy and members of the United States Veterans of Pohnpei Association (USVPA).

President Simina and Vice President Palik pay official state visit to Kosrae State

FSM Office of the President

August 25, 2023

Kosrae--Continuing their first round of State Visits, His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and The Honorable Aren B. Palik, Vice President of the FSM, have completed their first official state visit to the State of Kosrae, from August 18th - 22nd. Members of their delegation included T.H. Speaker Esmond Moses, Floor Leader Quincy Lawrence and Senator Peter Christian, and members of cabinet. The program featured a municipal tour to the four main municipalities of Tafunsak, Lelu, Malem and Utwe. At each site visit, President Simina and delegation were received by each respective local Mayor, including members of the municipal governments where they presented their priority issues to President Simina for consideration.

Following the site visits to the communities in the municipalities, President Simina and Vice President Palik held a meeting with the Kosrae State Leadership, namely T.H. Governor Tulensa Palik, T.H. Lt. Governor Arthy Nena, T.H. Speaker Semeon Phillip and members of the Kosrae State Legislature, along with staff, church leaders, Mayors, community leaders, representatives of the private sector, and civil society members.

During President Simina’s address he thanked the State of Kosrae, under Governor Palik’s able leadership, for hosting recent key events including the FSM Expo, Infrastructure Conference, MTEC (Micronesia Teacher’s Education Conference) and Joint Committee Meeting (JCM) under Title III of the Compact as well as the upcoming FSM Women’s Conference in November. Noting the fortuity of gathering on Gospel Day, a special holiday in Kosrae State, President Simina noted his and the Vice President’s appreciation to the Kosrae leadership for including their visit in the Gospel week program. The President mentioned in his remarks that he hopes that his state visit is seen as bringing hope to the people of Kosrae, elaborating that the Simina-Palik administration is committed to spearheading a strong and proactive domestic policy, as evident in these state visits early on in their administration.

During Governor Palik’s statement he recalled President Simina’s

inaugural address, where he then stated that “the role of the central government is to support the advancement of the states and to facilitate and coordinate services and activities” – a much welcome outlook for the State of Kosrae. Governor Palik continued to highlight infrastructure projects that are priority areas, including road improvements, shoreline protection and expansion of the water system.

During the discussions that followed, the Simina-Palik administration committed the amount of $20 million dollars to Kosrae State, to support Kosrae’s priorities, and encouraged the state to hold public consultations with stakeholders at all levels to ensure that the decisions around the funding support are inclusive. The First and Second Ladies, along with Mrs. Moses, also supported the pledge of $10,000 to the Kosrae women’s group to assist with their activities for the upcoming FSM Women’s Conference taking place in November.

The Simina-Palik administration wishes to thank the good people of Kosrae for their generous hospitality and productive discussions, and look forward to many more state visits to come.

IOM Asia-Pacific Regional Director Re-Affirms IOM’s Commitment to Support Countries in the North Pacific

International Organization for Migration

Kolonia – The International Organization for Migration’s (IOM’s) Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, Sarah Lou Ysmael Arriola, recently concluded her first official visit to the Micronesia sub-region where she met Heads of States, senior government officials, donor representatives and partners. In her packed itinerary, RD Arriola sought to strengthen bilateral ties and discuss areas of cooperation on climate change and mobility in the region.

Accompanied by IOM Micronesia Chief of Mission Salvatore Sortino, RD Arriola visited the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and Republic of Palau from 31 July to 15 August 2023.

RD Arriola began her trip to the North Pacific with a visit to Majuro, RMI where she paid a courtesy visit to the Council of Iroj, RMI’s committee of traditional leaders, and met with Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Wilbur Heine.

RD Arriola then met with David Kabua, the President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. President Kabua welcomed RD Arriola and expressed his appreciation for the lasting partnership between RMI and IOM. The President noted the upsurge in out-migration trends and highlighted how climate change remains a major concern for the RMI Government and communities.

RD Arriola reaffirmed that tackling climate change is a priority for IOM, referring to the resolutions recently passed by the Human Rights Council which recognize that vulnerable populations and people on the move require special protections in the face of climate crises, including loss and damage deriving from natural hazards. President Kabua and RD Arriola then attended an exhibition in Majuro where IOM showcased its work in 20 atolls and four islands of RMI including in climate security, capacity building for women entrepreneurs and community-based disaster risk reduction.

RD Arriola was also received by the newly elected President of the Federated States of Micronesia, Wesley W. Simina, on the sidelines of his visit to Chuuk State. President Simina thanked IOM for its dedicated effort to strengthen capacities of communities as well as emergency management agencies to withstand hazard events, particularly under its reconstruction assistance program in Chuuk State.

RD Arriola expressed IOM’s firm commitment to work together with the Government of FSM to address the needs of communities affected by disasters as well as slow onset climate impacts. During the meeting, Sortino also updated the President and his delegation on IOM’s ongoing operations in Chuuk State, mobilizing construction materials and, with the engagement of affected communities through Community Working Groups, reconstructing homes

and renovating public facilities severely damaged by disaster. The reconstruction assistance project is funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

RD Arriola also met Chuuk State Governor, Alexander R. Narruhn and discussed ongoing IOM projects in Chuuk State including a water, sanitation and hygiene project supported by the Government of Japan.

Prior to visiting Chuuk, RD Arriola stayed in Pohnpei, FSM’s capital State, where she met with Ricky Cantero, Foreign Affairs Deputy Secretary as well as Reed B. Oliver, Pohnpei State Governor, to better gauge needs specific to Pohnpei State, and FSM in general, and ways in which IOM can strengthen assistance and harness existing opportunities for people on the move.

RD Arriola concluded her trip to Micronesia with a visit to Koror, Palau where she met with Surangel S. Whipps, President of the Republic of Palau. Theydiscussed ways IOM’s expertise can be leveraged to help Palau improve its systems and institutions in the areas of migration management, border management and diaspora engagement. Whilst in Palau, RD Arriola also met with Uduch Sengebau Sr., Vice President of the Republic of Palau and Minister of Justice and Chair of the National Emergency Committee. They discussed ways of expanding programs geared towards the empowerment and protection of women

and girls and strengthening anti-human trafficking programs in Palau.

In addition to her meetings with the Heads of States of the three countries, the Regional Director held discussions with senior government officials, diplomatic missions and community leaders about shared priorities and areas for better collaboration. In her discussions, RD Arriola expressed IOM’s firm commitment to working with the Government and people of the FSM, RMI and Palau to build capacities to withstand climaterelated shocks and respond to human security needs of vulnerable groups and migrants.

To strengthen coordination among United Nations agencies present in the region and explore opportunities for joint programing, Ms. Arriola further met with Yaap van Hierden, UN Resident Coordinator, during his visit to Koror and met with the UN Country Team in Kolonia, Pohnpei.

Notably, in FSM and Palau, RD Arriola met and engaged with beneficiaries and visited program sites in the field including water catchment systems installed in Piedie, FSM, women entrepreneurs in Kitti, FSM, and reinforced emergency evacuation shelters in four communities in Palau.

For more information, please contact at IOM Micronesia: Haimanot Abebe, Email: haabebe@iom.int, +691 320 8735 SDG: 17

Pohnpei Governor welcomes Israeli brothers to Pohnpei

By Pohnpei Enginkehlap News

August 22, 2023

Pohnpei—Governor Oliver, who is also the Honorary Consul of the State of Israel in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), extended a warm welcome to two Israeli brothers visiting Pohnpei. Shai Afsai, who lives in Rhode Island, USA, met his brother, Amir Afsai, who lives in Jerusalem in Guam, and they both flew to Pohnpei last week.

Governor Oliver welcomed the Afsai brothers to his office at Peilapalap and also at the Honorary Consul of Israel’s office for a visit and hosted the brothers along with other visitors and state

officials at his residence for a dinner reception.

As a nation that has consistently supported and advocated for Israel’s interests at the United Nations, the Afsai brothers were happy to not only visit Pohnpei, FSM, but also to meet the Honorary Consul of the State of Israel in the FSM, Governor Reed B. Oliver. They spent their short time in Pohnpei, visiting tourist attractions like Nan Madol and Kepirohi waterfall, visiting the College of Micronesia and even the mass grave of the Sokehs Rebellion with Governor Oliver.

Thank you to Shai and Amir Afsai for visiting Pohnpei!

National educators share information on PACMED program with Governor Oliver

Pohnpei State Enginkehlap News

August 8, 2023

Pohnpei--Governor Oliver received Dr. Natalie Nimmer, Ms. Ivey Yeung and Mr. Pressler Martin from the National Department of Education. They paid a courtesy call on Governor Oliver at the Governor’s cabinet conference room to share the Pacific master's in education (PACMED) program, with him.

There are currently 31 teachers and education specialists undertaking the PACMED, master’s degree Program in Education under the auspices of the University of Hawaii, Manoa. Dr. Nimmer described the PACMED program as a place- based culturally sustaining

program that is currently funded through FSM scholarships and has a STEM focus. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. The program is also supported by the College of Micronesia - with classroom space. Classes are online and after school hours with some Instruction done by local Instructors. Dr. Nimmer also shared that, Mr. Pressler Martin, is the In-Country Coordinator for the program.

Governor Oliver extended a warm welcome to Dr. Nimmer, Ms. Yeung and Mr. Martin, calling the program “wonderful news”. He expressed hope that this program and others like it will help more of our residents to stay and work in Pohnpei. Governor Oliver also

asked if the program can be broadened to include degrees in other fields of study to help other employees in public service.

Pohnpei State is looking at 31 employees

graduating next year with master's degrees in education. We look forward to congratulating them and seeing more professional development programs delivered to our public service force.

Weaving new strands to strengthen the Pacific’s school leadership standards

SPC

24 August 2023

Suva, Fiji – Representatives from 15 Pacific Island countries revisited and restructured the Regional School Leadership Standards at the regional summit convened by the Pacific Community’s (SPC) Educational Quality and Assessment Programme (EQAP).

The five-day Regional Summit on Advancing Resilience and Inclusion through Sustainable Leadership was opened by the Permanent Secretary of Fiji’s Ministry of Education, Selina Kuruleca who emphasised the importance of school principals in influencing teaching and learning in schools. The summit took place between 14 to 18 August.

EQAP’s Director, Michelle Belisle, explained that the “Events over recent years have shown us how important leadership is in ensuring that schools are resilient and inclusive. Interestingly enough, we went into a lot of discussions about values that are interwoven and form the key part of leadership across the Pacific. Some of the values that came out were talking about unity, love and leading with the heart, thinking about the people at the core of what we do.”

The standards, which were endorsed in 2012 by the Heads of Pacific Education

Systems, helped schools and education authorities clarify the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of all principals/head teachers in their journey to influence the development of children and young people under their care. This regional document includes a set of professional standards for school principals and forms the basis for the region’s ministry and departments of education to develop their own national standards.

Raynold Mechol, Palau’s Senior Education Officer, highlighted the need for the updated Regional School Leadership Standards to reflect the region’s values and cultures, plus the expected aspirations and capabilities of school leaders.

“This summit provided a great opportunity for education and school leaders from across the Pacific region to review and reshape the school leadership standards to better reflect the core values that we have, and the challenges related to education across the Pacific, with the ultimate goal of bringing about ongoing school improvement and ultimately students success,” said Mechol.

The updates shared by the country

representatives filled the existing gaps in ensuring the regional standards provide a progressive lens for effective leadership practices, adding value to the overall educational experience for students, teachers, and the entire community.

Seu’ula Johanssen-Fua, Director of the Institute of Education of the University of the South Pacific (USP), explained that the summit allowed country representatives to recast the new regional school leadership capabilities and standards enabling countries to see value in the regional collective good and then adapting and contextualising it to their own national standards.

“Two key things that I would like to draw attention to from this summit is the recognition that the school leaders will also need to be paying attention to their

roles during natural disasters, especially around the area of disaster risk management. The other one is focussing on the role of an instructional leader in improving learning for our children in the classroom. That is a key role of being a school leader,” she added.

The Summit, which was funded by the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) and disbursed through the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under the Pacific Regional Education Framework (PacREF), convened not only school leaders, education managers and ministry officials but also representatives from regional and international school leadership training institutions and key speakers from across the region and abroad.

Following the conclusion of the Summit, processing and consolidating the recommendations and outcomes from the deliberations commenced. A first draft of the revised Regional School Leadership Standards will be developed and circulated amongst the 15 member countries before the end of 2023. The finalised document will be tabled for endorsement at the Pacific Heads of Education Systems (PHES) meeting in early 2024.

U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia Sector/Guam’s Fast Response Cutters bolster Pacific Partnership Strategy and strengthen Pacific Island Country relations

U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/ Sector Guam

August 18, 2023

SANTA RITA, Guam — In a robust display of maritime commitment, U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/ Sector Guam's Fast Response Cutters conducted four patrols over 44 days, enhancing safety and prosperity in the Pacific Islands region while combatting illicit maritime activity, including illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing and the illegal and unsafe transport of passengers.

The crews of USCGC Frederick Hatch (WPC 1143), USCGC Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139), and USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140):

• Conducted seven boardings and five observation reports.

• Completed over 20 training evolutions.

• Qualified 18 new shipboard members.

• Supported the investigation into the transport of 11 people aboard an overloaded vessel transiting to Guam from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands on an illegal charter following their rescue by DoD partners.

• Supported operations such as Operation Blue Pacific, Operation Rematau, Operation Nasse, and Operation Koa Moana.

"Our Fast Response Cutter crews exhibit both efficacy and presence as a consistent and trusted partner in the region. Our Pacific Island Country partners' warmth and regard for the Coast Guard is a testament to the strong connections we have nurtured over the years. It is our commitment to the people of the Pacific Island Countries to protect Oceania and its resources for them from undue strategic competition that would undermine those relationships and destabilize the region," said Cmdr. Greg Sickels, deputy sector commander of U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam.

Operational Achievements and Highlights

- USCGC Frederick Hatch (June 21 –July 2 and July 18 – Aug. 3): Enhanced international relations, streamlined boarding processes, qualified new personnel, and improved communication with FSM Maritime Police.

- USCGC Myrtle Hazard (July 3 - 16): Strengthened connection with CNMI, ensured maritime law enforcement presence in less patrolled areas, and enhanced collaboration with customs and public safety departments.

- USCGC Oliver Henry (July 18 - 23): Increased U.S. presence, enforced fishing regulations, and fostered crew readiness with weapons proficiency and collaboration.

These accomplishments underscore the U.S. Coast Guard's pivotal role in promoting maritime governance, ensuring good relations, and fostering strategic competition in the Pacific Islands region. The U.S. Coast Guard remains a consistent and reliable partner, working collaboratively with Pacific Island Countries to achieve shared objectives and bolster regional security.

Operation Rematau, an integral part of Operation Blue Pacific, is spearheaded by the U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam. This initiative fosters security, safety, sovereignty, and economic prosperity throughout Oceania. Rematau translates to "people of the deep sea" and embodies the Coast Guard's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the people of this region.

The U.S. Coast Guard actively exercises 12 bilateral maritime law enforcement agreements with Pacific Island Countries, reinforcing maritime law enforcement operations and domain awareness in the region. In October 2022, the Service, on behalf of the U.S., signed the first enhanced bilateral agreement with the Federated States of Micronesia. This landmark agreement builds on the existing shiprider arrangement, allowing the U.S. Coast Guard to conduct boardings in the FSM's exclusive economic zone with prior approval working with the FSM National Police, but without an FSM officer physically present. This expansion significantly

amplifies the FSM's capacity to protect its sovereignty and resources across an area spanning 1 million square miles and more than 600 islands. Boardings have already been conducted under this enhanced shiprider agreement, attracting interest in similar arrangements from other nations in the area.

In May 2023, the U.S. signed a new bilateral agreement with Papua New Guinea, richly endowed with natural resources like gold, copper, oil, and natural gas. While its formal sector focuses on exports of these commodities, most of its people rely on subsistence agriculture. As of 2020, agriculture, forestry, and fishing reportedly account for nearly 19 percent of PNG's GDP. The agreement aligns with the PNG government's efforts to safeguard their islands and 1.2 million square miles of EEZ, which are vital to their economic well-being. Recently ratified by their parliament, this partnership, at the request of the Papua New Guinea government, further extends the reach and impact of maritime law enforcement efforts. In line with this initiative, a U.S. Coast Guard cutter from Guam will be collaborating with Papua New Guinea to enact their new agreement shortly, continuing to foster security and collaboration across the Pacific.

U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/ Sector Guam comprises more than 300 members based in Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands spread across shoreside and afloat units committed to maritime safety, security, and stewardship in Oceania.

LEFT: Lt. j.g. Sims and Ensign Salang welcome the Marine Corps Detachment in Chuuk for Operation Koa Moana aboard the USCGC Frederick Hatch (WPC 1143) for a tour while visiting Chuuk, Federated States of Micronesia, on July 28, 2023. The crew conducted a patrol in FSM in support of Operation Rematau. (U.S. Coast Guard photo)

Upper LEFT: The crew of USCGC Frederick Hatch (WPC 1143) and the Marine Corps Detachment in Chuuk for Operation Koa Moana stand for a photo following a softball game in Chuuk, Federated States of Micronesia, on July 28, 2023, where the Frederick hatch crew own 10 to 6. The crew conducted a patrol in FSM in support of Operation Rematau. (U.S. Coast Guard photo)

Summer Break an Opportunity for STEM Development in Chuuk

Habele

Chuuk--A team of students and educators from Pohnpei broke from summer relaxation to share their enthusiasm for high school robotics with peers in Chuuk.

Three students and two educators from Our Lady of Mercy Catholic High School (OLMCHS) travelled to Chuuk to lead a four-day robotics workshop. Over the course of the training, students from public and private high schools across Chuuk partnered with the Pohnpei team to build, operate and compete their very own robots. For Weipat High School, located in Chuuk’s Northwest Islands, this represented the school’s first handson interaction with the new technology.

The building workshop was sponsored by Habele, a US non-profit that designed and implemented a robotics league extending across all four states of the FSM. OLMCHS was one of the first schools in Pohnpei to join in the Robo League in 2018, and has hosted annual Robo Day competitions, in which participating high schools gather to compete for the title of Pohnpei Robo Day Champions. Chuuk Department of Education generously made the Chuuk High School gymnasium available for the week, as well as providing food and encouragement for all the participants.

Teams of all experience levels at the training began with an unassembled robotics kit, and with the help of the team from Pohnpei, worked through each of the parts and their functions. Surrounded by piles of metal and electronic components, each school team tweaked and troubleshot their way to a functioning robot. While beginning students have clear instructions to follow, experimenting and exploring with the equipment is encouraged.

“Creative problem solving is key here,” said Matt Coleman, Habele’s Director of Operations. “Students learn to analyze a challenge, and use the parts they have on hand to resolve it. It is an important skill to develop for any vocation.”

After completing their first robotics build, teams worked on controlling the robots through

a variety of simple tasks. As the workshop progressed, challenges became more complex. The culmination of the training was a series of competitive events to test robotics dexterity and function for points. Prior to the final competition, students were encouraged by Dr. Margarita Cholymay, Director of Chuuk Department of Education, who praised them for learning new skills, and urged them to take advantage of the educational opportunities provided. The team from Saruman Chuuk Academy won first place in the competition, with Xavier High School coming in second, and Weipat High School taking third. All teams demonstrated tremendous growth over the course of the training. Students will return to their schools with a working robot, and enthusiasm to share what they learned with their peers.

“Peer to peer training encourages active participation and engagement among learners,” said Russell Figueras, Principal of OLMCHS, and one of the trainers for the workshop. “When students are involved in teaching their peers, they become more invested in the learning process and more likely to grasp and retain the information. This was an awesome learning experience for our students."

The training workshop is the last

Habele-sponsored robotics event in Chuuk. The US nonprofit is sunsetting its involvement in high school robotics across the FSM after over a decade, but hopes robotics education evolves further through support from FSM national and state governments.

Habele will continue to offer tuition scholarships to students attending private elementary and high schools in the FSM, donations to schools and libraries, direct monthly book deliveries to children under the age of five (“Young Island Readers”), and donations of tools to traditional carvers and weavers.

Emerging Pacific Island leaders celebrate completion of the ELDP 2023 Program in Saipan

Pacific & Virgin Islands Training Initiatives Graduate School USA

August 18, 2023

Saipan, CNMI- Today in Saipan, CNMI, 24 exceptional leaders from across the Pacific islands marked their graduation from the Graduate School USA's Executive Leadership Development Program (ELDP). The diverse group of program participants represented the US-affiliated insular areas of American Samoa (4), the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands (5), Guam (3), the Federated States of Micronesia National Government (3), Chuuk (1), Kosrae (1), Pohnpei (1), the Republic of the Marshall Islands (4), and the Republic of Palau (2).

The graduation featured program alumni, family, and friends joining in the celebration. KUAM News streamed the event live on Facebook, garnering viewership of over 5,000.

Hon. Carmen G. Cantor, Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs for the Department of the Interior's Office of Insular Affairs, praised the graduates: “Your achievements here today not only reflect your commitment to personal growth but your dedication to serving your governments and, more broadly, the Pacific region…I am proud that my office has been able to support this vital initiative.”

Speaking on behalf of their ELDP Class of 2023 peers, Mr. Andy Choor and Ms. Geralyn Delacruz expressed their gratitude. “This program has taught us that the heart of leadership is serving people,” said Mr. Choor. Ms. Delacruz reflected, “the ELDP has helped us become better versions of ourselves.”

The graduation ceremony also featured congratulatory remarks from the numerous panelists and guest speakers who contributed to the program.

ELDP 2023 comprised a nine-month program with on-site sessions in Guam; Pohnpei, FSM; and Saipan, CNMI; as well as two virtual training sequences. ELDP program themes focus on "Leading Self," "Leading Others," "Leading Change," and "Leading into the Future."

During the culminating week of training in Saipan, participants were treated to keynote presentations from Hon. Arnold Palacios, Governor of the CNMI; Hon.

Theresa Kim-Taitano, CNMI Family Court; Ms. Maisie Tenorio, Executive Director of the Northern Marianas Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence; and Rev. Francis X. Hezel, SJ, Historian and Former Director of the Micronesian Seminar.

ELDP participants also engaged in facilitated discussion, addressing ethical challenges in the insular areas, the pace of cultural change, and the core characteristics of island leadership. Participants reflected on their growth throughout the year, delivering individual keynote presentations and final team presentations before an audience of esteemed panelists.

The ELDP 2023 cohort serves their insular government communities in myriad capacities, representing key functions in audit (7), finance (4), executive (4), education (3), environment (3), health (2), legislature (2), judiciary (2), and others (4).

With the graduation of the 2023 cohort, the ELDP alumni network has grown to 207 individuals across the Pacific and Virgin islands. ELDP graduates represent an extraordinary group of islanders with diverse professional backgrounds, exceptional personal qualities, and an enduring commitment to public service.

Composition of 207 ELDP Alumni

Across the Pacific and Virgin Islands

The ELDP Class of 2023 program graduates follow below. Full biographies of each participant is

available online at https://eldp.pitiviti. org.

American Samoa

• Grace Felise, Department of Commerce

• Matilda Kruse, Medicaid State Agency

• Mika Aga, Department of Port Administration

• Patrick Reid, Office of the Lt. Governor Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI)

• Geralyn Delacruz, Commonwealth Zoning Board

• Jodina Attao, Northern Marianas Technical Institute

• Rich Salas, Division of Coastal Resources Management (DCRM)

• Tiffany Crisostomo, Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation

• William Torres, Northern Marianas College

Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) National Government

• Mary Lou Yatilman, Department of Justice

• Steincia Olter-Hawley, FSM Telecommunications Corporation

• Trifonovitch Sound, FSM National Public Auditor's Office

Chuuk State, FSM

• Rosalinda Mori, Office of the Chuuk State Public Auditor

Kosrae State, FSM

• Reed Floyd, Kosrae Public Auditors Office

Yap State, FSM

• Andy Choor, Yap Congressional Delegation Office

Guam

• Chirag Bhojwani, Guam

Legislature

• Lawrence Jay Alcairo, Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor

• Reuben Bugarin, Guam Ethics Commission

Republic of the Marshall Islands

• Benjamin Wakefield, National Energy Office

• Claret ChongGum, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

• Jasmine Myazoe, Ministry of Finance

• Yetta Aliven, Office of the Chief Secretary

Republic of Palau

• Reggie Mabel, Office of Public Auditor

• Sanya Olkeriil, Division of Juvenile Justice, Ministry of Justice

The Pacific and Virgin Islands Training Initiatives anticipates the application process for the ELDP Class of 2025 will begin during the summer of 2024, with an initial session tentatively scheduled for late 2024. For additional information about the program, visit https://pitiviti.org/about-the-eldp.

The US Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs (DOI-OIA) commissioned the Executive Leadership Development Program (ELDP) to assist the insular governments with developing and retaining the qualified and skilled staff needed to lead insular governments into the future. Since 2008, DOI-OIA has supported the participation of 207 program graduates. Additional information on the Pacific & Virgin Islands Training Initiatives can be found online at https://pitiviti. org.

Pohnpei Liberation Games Swimming Competition

Pohnpei Swimming Club

August 26, 2023

Pohnpei—The Pohnpei Liberation Games Swimming Competition held on Friday and Saturday, August 25 and 26, proved to be a thrilling showcase of athletic sportsmanship. This year’s event brought together swimmers from Kitti, U, and Kolonia.

The standout of the event was undoubtedly the Kitti Team, who claimed victory with an impressive total of 514 points. Their hard work in training over the past months was evident in their skill and determination, leaving a lasting mark on the competition. The U Team secured the second position, giving the Kitti Team a run for their money with 502 points. Kolonia Team, although finishing third with 9 points, demonstrated their dedication and tenacity throughout the competition.

The individual scores were equally impressive, with a few swimmers making waves in the pool. On the women’s side, Kaylinn Kihleng and Katrianne Kihleng of U, along with Annymert Moya of Kitti, showcased exceptional performances that earned them top honors. For the men, it was the U Team’s Kyler Kihleng and Carson Amor, along with Katerson Moya of the Kitti Team, who stole the spotlight. These athletes left nothing to chance as they delivered swims that left the audience cheering for more. Some additional notable swims were by Nihwahrdih Eperiam, Gonzales Eperiam, Keysha-Mae Saimon, and Mellony Moya of the Kitti Team, and Elden Ehram of U, contributing consistently and significantly to their team’s overall score.

The Pohnpei Liberation Games Swimming Competition was not just about competition; it was also a celebration of friendship and friendly rivalry. Athletes from different teams came together to push their limits, respect their opponents, and showcase the true essence of sportsmanship.

As the event concluded, it was evident that the Pohnpei Liberation Games Swimming Competition had provided the community with a memorable experience. The cheers of the crowd, the exhilaration of the races, and the bonds formed between athletes were a testament to the power of sports to bring people together.

A special thank you to the FSM NOC for providing lunch for our volunteers and to Pohnpei Sports for providing officials as well as shirts for the volunteers. The organizers, participants, and spectators all deserve commendation for making the event a resounding success.

REMARKS: Statement of PIF Chair Hon Mark Brown on the Fukushima ALPS treated water discharge

Statement by the Pacific Islands Forum Chair, the Honourable Mark Brown, Prime Minister of Cook Islands

23 August 2023

Given our Blue Pacific region’s ongoing nuclear testing legacy, and our collective commitment to the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone (SPNFZ) –also known as the Treaty of Rarotonga – the Forum will always exercise the highest levels of caution on all nuclear related issues.

As related to the complex case of the Japan Fukushima nuclear wastewater issue, PIF Leaders have continued to prioritise the importance of “international consultation, international law, and independent and verifiable scientific assessments”.

The decision by the Government of Japan to request Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) prepare for release the treated water currently stored at the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear

power plant into the ocean, with the first treated water set to be discharged on or after 24 August, comes after over 28 months of consultations, including at the highest political level, and at the scientific level between the Pacific Islands Forum and the Government of Japan and PIF and the IAEA.

We note the IAEA’s recommendations that the plans by Japan are consistent with international nuclear safeguards and that impacts on the environment and human health are negligible. At the same time, we appreciate the advice rendered by the independent PIF panel of scientific experts.

It is not lost on me that there remains diverging views and responses in the international community, and within our Blue Pacific region.

As Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, I am committed to maintaining ongoing dialogue with the Government of Japan and the IAEA on this matter.

As custodians of our Blue Pacific Continent, and in recognition of the transboundary and transgenerational nature of this issue, it is incumbent on all of us to ensure the highest level of due diligence and ongoing monitoring of the planned discharge.

In this respect, and while we note the recent decision announced by Japan on the release date, Forum Leaders will as a matter

of priority consider latest developments in our next meeting, as will Foreign Forum Ministers when they meet next month.

The Forum Secretariat will continue to facilitate ongoing dialogue with the Government of Japan and the IAEA to ensure that Forum Members are privy to the latest information and updates. And, as Forum Chair, I will continue to strive towards working and consulting closely with my colleague Leaders.

UOG Sea Grant receives $200K for ocean renewable energy research and community engagement

University of Guam

The University of Guam Sea Grant has secured a $200,000 grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Sea Grant College Program in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Water Power Technologies Office. The funding will generate insights and facilitate engagement in the development of ocean renewable energy for the island.

“This grant empowers our researchers at the University of Guam to play key roles in finding renewable energy sources for our island and reducing our need for fossil fuels in our power plants,” said UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez. “Any step that brings us closer to using more renewable energy sources is a positive move for our island and our planet.”

At the heart of the grant is “Understanding Community

Energy,” a community-wide online survey that is designed to gather responses from coastal communities regarding ocean renewable energy.

The project is anticipated to start in the fall of 2023.

“The outcomes of this survey will serve as a cornerstone in shaping Guam’s renewable energy strategy— an integral step towards a more resilient, cleaner energy future for the island,” said Austin Shelton, Director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, and principal investigator of the project.

An advisory board composed of energy leaders from Guam and stakeholders will play a pivotal role in survey design, question pre-screening, and suggestions for improvement. The results of this extensive community consultation on ocean energy will be compiled into a comprehensive report.

Francis Dalisay, associate professor

of communication and media and co-principal investigator, described the process as a significant formative research endeavor that will generate key insights regarding Guam residents’ attitudes and perceptions toward renewable ocean energy.

Dalisay added, “Other communities around the world have begun to harness energy from the sea, and since we live on an island surrounded by water, it would be useful to know where Guam residents stand when it

comes to ocean energy.”

“It is essential to empower these communities in identifying, planning, and developing local clean energy resources that align with their longterm needs,” said National Sea Grant Office Program Director Jonathan Pennock, in a release following the announcement of the project.

UOG alumna selected for Obama Foundation’s Leaders USA 2023

University of Guam

Just a few years after graduating from the University of Guam, alumna Maria Dolojan has earned her place in a program for some of the nation’s future leaders.

Dolojan, who graduated with a bachelor's in public administration and criminal justice from the School of Business and Public Administration in 2019, is one of 100 selected from across the nation to be a part of the inaugural cohort of the Obama Foundation’s Leaders USA 2023.

She’s grateful and proud to be representing Guam, the Filipino community, and the greater Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders community in the inaugural cohort of the Obama USA Leaders program, Dolojan said.

The U.S.-based “Obama Leaders” will learn skills and tools to accelerate positive and lasting change in their communities, according to the Foundation.

Dolojan is the founder of Famalao'an Rights, whose advocacy is to help ensure girls and women in Guam can access affordable and timely

reproductive health care options. In 2021, Teen Vogue published her opinion about the restrictive access to abortion in Guam, even for underage girls who were victims of rape.

She is based in New York City, working as a development associate for the University of Oxford North American office. In New York, she also developed a passion for empowering low-income and immigrant communities and fundraising for higher education.

Maria Dolojan was raised in a family that had a humble beginning.

Her mom was a housekeeper who died when she was 10, leaving her and two younger siblings in the sole care of her dad, who worked construction all his life to raise them.

At first, all she wanted was to get a college degree at UOG.

Eventually, she gravitated toward public administration and criminal justice.

“It was through my UOG education that I had the privilege of being mentored by the best and the brightest academics in the region, and in doing so, empowering me to

challenge the odds that were predetermined for me as someone from a low-income immigrant, single-parent household. The education I have received from UOG has helped me thrive in spaces I never thought I would be able to be in," Dolojan said.

She went on to earn her master’s degree from the highly competitive Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, at New York University in New York City.

Dolojan looks to her mentors at UOG and the guidance they gave as pivotal to her path to success.

“I had many mentors and a strong support system at the University of Guam, but there were those who truly pushed me and inspired me throughout my academic journey and even beyond that during my professional career. Dr. Ansito Walter, Dr. Ron McNinch, Professor Ron Aguon, Dr. Annette Taijeron Santos, and UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez have all shaped my experiences at the University in such an intentional and meaningful way,” she said.

“None of what I have achieved in my career thus far would be possible if not for the mentorship, guidance, and education I received at UOG.”

UOG Press mourns passing of author Chris Perez Howard

University of Guam

The University of Guam Press is saddened by the passing of celebrated CHamoru author Chris Perez Howard.

“Our darlin’ will be missed,” says Joey San Agustin, Perez Howard’s first cousin who remembers with fondness how the late author called those he loved “darlin’.”

Perez Howard passed away earlier this week in the Philippines. He was 82.

Alongside Perez Howard’s family and close friends, UOG Press honors the author’s legacy and contributions to both the literary and island community. Perez Howard published two books with the UOG Press — “Mariquita—Revisited” and his latest title, “Juanit.”

“Mr. Perez Howard and his writing inspired many of us to use our skills as writers and artists to tell our people’s story in a way that would provoke critical conversations and inspire greater visions

for a more just future,” shared UOG Press Director of Publishing Victoria-Lola Leon Guerrero, who worked closely with Perez Howard as an editor of both “Mariquita— Revisited” and “Juanit.”

“I will always cherish the time and friendship I shared with Mr. Perez Howard and the many deep dives we took into our island’s history and political issues. It was an honor to work with him and he will be sorely missed.”

Perez Howard was a founding member of the Organization of People for Indigenous Rights (OPI-R). The organization addressed issues of self-determination, war reparations, land rights, and historical preservation; and spoke out against nuclear warfare, an issue that persists to this day.

“Chris Perez Howard has left a legacy as an acclaimed CHamoru author and community advocate,” UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez said. “His works and

passion for our island and its history will be remembered for generations.”

UOG President Emeritus Robert Underwood, a close friend of Perez Howard, said, “Chris was a leader in the struggle for CHamoru self-determination, an insightful writer, and a relentless advocate for fairness in all aspects of our existence.”

Perez Howard’s advocacy is heavily present in his writing. Through his work, he showed how mediums such as storytelling and painting can be used to promote literacy, build connections, understand oneself, and preserve culture.

“I didn’t start out as a writer,” Perez Howard said in an interview that aired during the launch of “Juanit” in July. “I was a painter. When I came back to Guam, especially when I started getting this information about Guam history in the writing of Mariquita, I had a lot to say, and painting wasn’t the way I could reach the largest audience. So, I think out

of frustration, I turned to writing to say it.”

The celebrated author credits his advocacy to his mother, Mariquita Perez Howard, whom he honors in "Mariquita— Revisited." The novel, originally published in 1982, chronicles his mother’s enduring strength during the Japanese occupation of Guåhan and urges readers to remember the sacrifices of those who lived during the tragedies of the war and its lasting impacts.

It was Perez Howard’s fervent hope that his stories would inspire readers to honor the memory of those who came before them, and to love all the aspects of their own identities that make them who they are.

A memorial service celebrating Perez Howard and his impactful work will take place in September. Details for the service will be forthcoming from UOG Press on all media platforms, including Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook at @uogpress.