May 2021

COVID19 Updates As of May 25, 2021, 15,708 people have received the first dose of the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccine.  7,507 people have completed the second dose of the Moderna vaccine.  Pohnpei’s vaccination coverage is at 36%. The vaccine coverage rate in the Municipalities is as follows: Kolonia – 54% U – 49% Sokehs – 43% Madolenihmw – 39% Kitti – 39% Nett – 38% Outer Islands – 3% From the Guam Daily Post: The Republic of Palau is prepared to welcome visitors who are fully vaccinated with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved COVID-19 vaccines, including those from Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. said the island nation has inoculated 95% of their adults or 70% of their entire community. New cases reported on May 25, 2021, by WHO in the Pacific Region: 8 cases in Fiji, 1 case in Guam. In Hawaii, The average number of new cases per day in the past 7 days is currently at 63, In May, 92% of cases have been community-associated.    2.  First batch of repatriated residents released from quarantine The first batch of repatriated residents was released from Quarantine on May 20, 2021, after testing NEGATIVE for COVID-19 and being in quarantine for seven days in Pohnpei, and seven days of pre-quarantine in Guam. In a brief ceremony at the airport, Speaker Lambert and Governor Oliver officially welcomed them home.  In their brief remarks, both Speaker and Governor acknowledged the long and often frustrating delay for their return home, expressing their happiness for their safe return.  Governor Oliver apologized to the repatriates and conveyed his sincere gratitude for their patience and understanding.   Englebert Perman spoke on behalf of the repatriates. Mr. Perman spoke of the disappointment and anxiety that many of the repatriates experienced being unable to return home for over one year.  He also acknowledged and commended the work done by the Pohnpei State Government, especially at the Medical Monitoring Area.  On behalf of the repatriates, he offered their collective experiences to help with Pohnpei’s COVID-19 response.  Special thanks to Mr. Sei Uemoto, from Sei Restaurant, who donated lunch for the repatriated residents.   3.  Handover ceremony with Japanese Embassy for a new recycling center Thank you to the Embassy and People of Japan for your generous support.  In a handover ceremony today, May 21, 2021, at Dekehtik, His Excellency Sobashima Hidenobu, Japanese Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), handed over the keys to a new recycling center building to Governor Oliver, who then handed the keys over to Executive Officer, Mr. Henry Susaia.   In his opening remarks, Chief of Staff Kapilly Capelle spoke of the increased capacity that Pohnpei State will realize through the Embassy of Japan’s support with the new recycling center and a forthcoming recycling machine.  Ambassador Sobashima explained that an additional four million cans will be recycled with the increased capacity, along with better parking and the habit of recycling instilled in future generations. Governor Oliver thanked Ambassador Sobashima on behalf of the people of Pohnpei for this project and the many projects from the Embassy of Japan that have helped the people of Pohnpei and looked forward to more projects in the future. In closing, he thanked the Embassy of Japan, Office of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) for the coordination and support, and Pacific Landscaping and Engineering Company (PLEC) for the construction of the building.   4. Second batch of repatriated residents released from quarantine Another batch of repatriated residents was released from Quarantine on May 21, 2021, after testing NEGATIVE for COVID-19 and being in quarantine for seven days in Pohnpei, and seven days of pre-quarantine in Guam. In a brief ceremony at the airport, Governor Oliver officially welcomed the 22 repatriated residents home.  In his brief remarks, Governor Oliver apologized to the repatriates for the delay, and conveyed his sincere gratitude for their patience and understanding.  He asked the repatriates to help the Pohnpei State Government and Task Force with the knowledge and experience they have gained over the past year dealing with COVID-19.   Faustino Yarofaisug spoke on behalf of the repatriates. Mr. Yarofaisug expressed his joy and gratitude for returning home to Pohnpei.  He spoke of the many hardships experienced and overcome and apologized for any misunderstandings that may have resulted during their hardships.  He called for the support of our State and National Leaders, as we continue to respond and adapt to conditions created by the COVID-19 pandemic.   Special thanks to Mr. Sei Uemoto, from Sei Restaurant, who donated lunch for the repatriated residents, for the second day in a row.  5. Dr. Thane Hancock from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Guam visits Governor Oliver On Monday, May 24, 2021, Governor Oliver welcomed Dr. Thane Hancock from CDC, Guam to the Governor’s Office at Peilapalap, Kolonia. Introducing Dr. Hancock to Governor Oliver was Dr. Rally Jim, Pohnpei State COVID-19 Emergency Task Force Chairman.   Governor Oliver thanked Dr. Hancock, his organization, and the US Government for providing Pohnpei State and the FSM National Government with his expertise in advisement and management of epidemic and pandemic situations. Dr. Hancock considered his visit an honor and is very excited to be part of this effort in the FSM. He referred to the COVID-19 pandemic as a historic event because this pandemic is the biggest pandemic/disease outbreak in scope and reach the world has ever experienced in human history. He said what Pohnpei, FSM, and other freely associated states have done to date to keep these islands COVID-free is remarkable and will be noted in history books. Dr. Hancock gave credit to difficult but insightful leadership decisions made with sacrifices as the reasons for keeping these islands protected and safe from the virus. With the availability of efficacious vaccines, the possibility of containing, and ultimately ending this pandemic is within our grasp.   It is now up to our own people to take the vaccines while they are

Thank you to the Embassy and the People of Japan for your generous support. In a handover ceremony on Friday, May 21, 2021, at Dekehtik, His Excellency Sobashima Hidenobu, Japanese Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), handed over the keys to a new recycling center building to Governor Oliver, who then handed the keys over to the Environmental Protection Agency’s Executive Officer, Mr. Henry Susaia.   In his opening remarks, Chief of Staff Kapilly Capelle spoke of the increased capacity that Pohnpei State will realize through the Embassy of Japan’s support with the new recycling center and a forthcoming recycling machine. Ambassador Sobashima explained that an additional four million cans will be recycled with the increased capacity, along with better parking and the habit of recycling instilled in future generations. Governor Oliver thanked Ambassador Sobashima on behalf of the people of Pohnpei for this project and the many projects from the Embassy of Japan that have helped the people of Pohnpei and looked forward to more projects in the future. In closing, he thanked the Embassy of Japan, Office of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) for the coordination and support, and Pacific Landscaping and Engineering Company (PLEC) for the construction of the building.

Kalahngan to the Seniors of PICS High School who visited Governor Oliver today for their Career Exploration Week.  Two groups of Seniors along with their teachers: Mrs. Rhodora Bacalando and Mr. Dixon Donre, visited Governor Oliver and his staff at the Office of the Governor. In welcoming the Seniors to the Governor’s Office, he expressed his gratitude and thanks to their teachers.  He let them all know that the Governor’s Office is their office, and they are always welcome.   In response to a question asked by one of the Seniors about the position of Governor, he replied that it is a 24/7, 365 days per year x four years responsibility.  Governor Oliver advised the students that he is the current steward and custodian of the Governor position, and he expects one of the students to return from school one day to continue in the position.  He showed the students pictures of the former Governor’s of Pohnpei and noted that there have been no female Governors, yet, but he encouraged the females present to aspire for such positions. Governor Oliver advised both groups of Seniors to do their best in school, to get educated, and come back to Pohnpei.  He counseled the Seniors to pay attention to the small things because in doing so they will take care of the bigger things in their lives. He encouraged them to stay positive in their future endeavors, to stay away from those who would bring them down or steer them away from their goals.  “Always stay on the sunny side of life,” he said.  Joining Governor Oliver to meet the Seniors was Chief of Staff, Mr. Kapilly Capelle, Public Affairs Officer, Mr. Peteriko Hairens, Protocol Specialist, Mr. Billston Charley, Public Information Officer, Mr. Patrick Pedrus and Mr. Kihper Rosario from the Office of the Governor.     

The first batch of repatriated residents was released from Quarantine today, May 20, 2021, after testing NEGATIVE for COVID-19 and being in quarantine for seven days in Pohnpei, and seven days of pre-quarantine in Guam. In a brief ceremony at the airport, Speaker Lambert and Governor Oliver officially welcomed them home. Mr. Englebert Perman spoke on behalf of the repatriates. Thank you to Mr. Sei Uemoto for your kind donation of food. The next batch of repatriates are scheduled to be tested and released tomorrow. We will continue to update the Public with further developments. Welcome, Home!

Welcome, Home! 28 passengers arrived today on a U.S. Coast Guard C-130, from Guam. All passengers underwent pre-quarantine in Guam and were all tested negative for COVID-19 before boarding the aircraft for Pohnpei. The passengers will undergo seven days of quarantine and be tested again on Sunday, May 16, 2021. The remaining passengers will arrive tomorrow in the same manner. We will keep the public posted on further developments. Kalahngan to US Embassy Kolonia, the Departments, Offices, Agencies in the Pohnpei State Government, FSM National Government, and our international development partners for their cooperation and collaboration. #Enginkehlap #PohnpeiCOVID19response

On Monday, May 10, 2021, Governor Oliver signed Constitutional Emergency Order (CEO) 20-06.  The CEO continues Pohnpei’s state of emergency in response to the continuous and imminent threat of COVID-19.  The CEO reactivates the Pohnpei COVID-19 Emergency Task Force, places Pohnpei’s COVID readiness condition based on the already established COVID-19 contingency response plan, and sets penalties for any violation of the provisions of the CEO at not less than $1,000 or imprisonment for not less than one year, or both such fine and imprisonment.  All prior policies, guidelines, and procedures established with respect to COVID-19 since the expiration of Constitutional Emergency Order No. 20-05 remain the same including, but not limited to, international and interstate travel.  The new CEO unless revoked or amended sooner will be effective for 30 days from May 11, 2021.  CEO 20-06 is attached, in PDF format, to this post for your reference: CEO 20-06  

1.Pohnpei COVID-19 Updates Immunizations As of May 7, 2021, 12,778 people have received the first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and single-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine.  5,303 people have received the second dose.  Pohnpei’s completion rate is at 25%.  The Moderna COVID-19 shot is available for all adults 18 years and above and can be received at Public Health across from the Pohnpei State Hospital.  The Johnson & Johnson single-dose vaccine is available for all adults 50 years and above. Outreach to the municipalities has already started.  The coverage rate by municipality is as follows: Kolonia – 45% Sokehs – 33% Nett – 30% U – 29% Kitti – 27% Madolenihmw – 17% Outer Islands – 3% Like all vaccines, the benefits of the MODERNA and Johnson & Johnson vaccines is that those who are vaccinated, gain protection without ever having to risk the serious consequences of getting sick with COVID-19, according to the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC).  Common side effects include pain in the arm where shot was administered, fever, headache, flu-like symptoms, which are not life-threatening. 2.Governor Oliver attends the opening ceremony of FSM Social Security Awareness week On Tuesday, April 27, Governor Oliver joined the Pohnpei Branch of the FSM Social Security Administration for the opening ceremonies of Social Security Awareness Week. After the opening prayer by Deacon Santiago and welcoming remarks by FSM Social Security Administration (FSMSSA) Deputy Director, Mr. Franscky Ilai, Governor Oliver delivered special remarks.  Mr. Nakama Sana, a member of the Social Security Board of Directors also delivered short remarks of thanks and appreciation for this event. Governor Oliver thanked the FSM Social Security Administration and Pohnpei Branch for their invitation to speak at the opening of Social Security Awareness Week.  He encouraged everyone to use this opportunity to learn more about their important social security benefits and applauded the FSM Social Security Administration, Pohnpei Branch for hosting this event.  He noted the presence of local municipal leaders, Luhk en Moanlap, Hon. Antonio Serapio, Nett District Administrator, Hon. Nelsin Iriarte, Acting Meninkeder Madolenihmw, Hon. John Rensle among others to underscore the importance of this event. The four-day event was held to educate and inform the public on the FSM Social Security Administration, policies, regulations, and benefits.  Question and answer sessions were held to better understand benefits and claims.  The information gathered by this four-day event will be used by the FSMSSA and the board of directors to dialogue with the FSM Congress. 3. OFA Advisory Board members sworn-in On Friday, April 30, 2021, Governor Oliver swore in the new Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture (OFA) Advisory Board at the Governor’s Conference Room, Peilapalap, Kolonia. In his remarks, Governor Oliver thanked Speaker Lambert and the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature, especially Chairman of the Resources and Development Committee, Senator Marvin Yamaguchi for their support and confirmation of the board members.  He also thanked the family members of the board members for their support. Governor Oliver encouraged the new advisory board members to work with OFA, the Department of Resources and Development, Department of Land, the Office of the Governor, Legislature and all relevant offices to take the necessary steps to fulfill their responsibilities.  He reminded the board that, especially with our natural resources, what we do today will affect the future generations of Pohnpei. The newly sworn-in members of the OFA Advisory Board are: Jasmine Mendiola Dr. Singeru Singeo Patricia Jack-Jossien Saimon Mix Donald David Before Chairman of the Resources and Development Committee, Senator Marvin Yamaguchi presented certificates of appointments, Speaker Lambert addressed the board members.  He urged the board members to look “deep and wide” to find ways to innovate and increase aquaculture activities in Pohnpei so that aquaculture activities can contribute to and complement fisheries activities. Mrs. Patricia Jack-Jossien, spoke on behalf of the newly appointed board members and thanked Governor Oliver, Speaker Lambert and the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature for the support and trust to nominate and confirm the advisory board. 4. Pohnpei State Imports first COVID-19 Human Remains successfully On Saturday, May 1, 2021, Pohnpei imported its first COVID-19 Human Remain(HR).  The HR was received well in Pohnpei and buried the same day. The process to receive the HR included an application and approval by the Pohnpei Pandemic Readiness and Response Unit (PRRU), the successor of the Pohnpei COVID-19 Task Force.  Pre-planning for the arrival of the HR was conducted with the family to provide information and solicit cooperation during the process.  Upon arrival of the HR no more than five family members were allowed viewing through plexiglass, before proceeding to the burial site.  An infection team from the Department of Health and Social Services was on hand to conduct disinfection immediately after the HR was removed from the Ambulance for burial. Grateful appreciation is extended to the family of the deceased. Without their patience, cooperation, and understanding this importation could not be as safe and as successful as it was. 5. Legislative Resolutions received by Governor Oliver at the end of the fourth special session On Monday, May 4, 2021, Governor Oliver received an official transmittal of Legislature Resolutions (L.R.) adopted by the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature (PSL) during its fourth special session, 2021.  The resolutions, in summary, are listed below, including dates and names of introducers: L.R. 59-21: Mourning the death of a dedicated political leader and strong advocate for the people of Pohnpei and of this nation, the late Honorable Bethwel Henry.  Introduced by Senators Marvin T. Yamaguchi, Jack Harris, and Helgena Johnson on January 28, 2021.  Adopted on April 23, 2021. L.R. 63-21: An urgent request to the Department of Health Services to allow both Dr. Perman and Dr. Gallen, who are presently associated with the Pohnpei Health Community Health Center to operate their respective clinics at Pohnpei State Hospital.  Introduced by Senator Shleten Neth on February 4, 2021, adopted on April 22, 2021. L.R. 64-21: Communicating an ongoing concern of the 10th PSL about Micare’s Health Insurance plan as it relates to

1.Pohnpei COVID-19 Task Force Updates As of April 28, 2021, 11,620 people have received the first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, 4,623 people have received the second dose.  Pohnpei’s completion rate is at 22%.  The Moderna COVID-19 shot is available for all adults 18 years and above and can be received at Public Health across from the Pohnpei State Hospital.  The Johnson and Johnson single Dose vaccine is available and safe for use.  Currently, Public Health is recommending the Johnson and Johnson vaccine for persons 50 years and above.  The repatriation date from Guam has been identified as May 13, 2021.  Two flights on military aircraft, funded by the US Embassy, are scheduled that day.  A final list of 43 FSM citizens and resident Diplomats has been shared with the Pohnpei COVID-19 Task Force’s repatriation subcommittee, from the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs.  Preparations at the Medical Monitoring Area in Dekehtik are ongoing to safely receive and quarantine the incoming passengers.   2. Governor Oliver meets with Mr. Gary Bloom from USDA Rural Development On Tuesday, April 20, 2021, Governor Oliver met with Mr. Gary Bloom, Area Director for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development, in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), in the Governor’s Cabinet Conference Room, Peilapalap, Kolonia.  Joining Governor Oliver was Public Affairs Officer, Mr. Peteriko Hairens, Local Government Liaison Officer, Ms. Suannrita Ladore, and Overseas Development Assistance Coordinator, Ms. Shirley Ligohr.   Mr. Bloom was invited to share programs available to the people of Pohnpei and the FSM through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development.  One of the programs Mr. Bloom shared that can benefit many Pohnpei residents is the USDA Rural Development 504 Housing (Renovation/Repair) Program.  This program provides a maximum loan amount of $7,499.00 and a maximum of $7,500 grant for eligible seniors (62 and over).  The purpose of this program is for home repair/renovations only to: improve/modernize a home, make it safe or sanitary, remove health/safety hazards, or make it accessible to disabled residents, install alternative energy systems (if the amount allows).   The full terms and conditions can be obtained from the Rural Development Office in Kolonia Town across from the Nohno Mwomwodiso Church in the JEM Building.  Their contact phone number is 320-2581.  This program and other available from the Rural Development Office and Pohnpei Housing Authority will be shared at the next scheduled Local Chief Executive meeting at the Governor’s Conference Room, on April 22, 2021.   3.  Pohnpei SSA branch meets with Governor Oliver re: Security Awareness Week On Tuesday, April 20, 2021, Governor Oliver met with the Assistant Manager of Pohnpei Branch of the FSM Social Security Administration, Mrs. Trueleen Albert, and Investigating Officer, Mr. Kester Etse Salvador in the Governor’s Office, Peilapalap, Kolonia. The purpose of this meeting was to inform Governor Oliver that the Pohnpei Branch will be hosting an awareness event, Social Security Awareness Week.   Mrs. Albert advised the Governor that Social Security Awareness Week will be from April 27-30, 2021, and will be held at the Kolonia-China Friendship Gym.  Each day from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.  Social Security Staff will hold awareness presentations on the following topics: FSM Social Security Administration (FSMSSA) Tax, IT and Accounting, FSMSSA, Pohnpei Branch roles, and responsibilities.  Governor Oliver thanked Mrs. Albert and Mr. Salvador for their visit and was happy to hear that awareness will be provided to the public concerning this very important organization.  The public is encouraged to attend and learn more about the FSM Social Security Administration benefits, programs, and services.   4. Local Chief Executives Quarterly Meeting On Thursday, April 22, 2021, Local Municipal Government Chief Executives met in the Governor’s Conference for their scheduled quarterly meeting. On the agenda for this meeting were presentations from the Budget Office, COVID-19 Task Force, Sports Office, and Housing Authority.   Presiding over the meeting was the Chairman of the Local Chief association, Luhk en Moanlap, Mr. Antonio Sarapio.  Representing the Governor was Public Affairs Officer, Mr. Peteriko Hairens, and Local Government Liaison Representative at the Governor’s Office, Ms. Suannrita Ladore.   Mr. Anthony Dainard represented the State Budget Officer to update the local chiefs on the current status of the 30% revenue sharing with municipal governments.  Dr. Rally Jim and Spencer Donre from the Public Health Immunizations program updated the local chiefs on the COVID-19 immunization numbers and repatriation efforts.  They also fielded questions on the Johnson and Johnson one-shot vaccine that is currently being held until the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) releases their findings on reported side effects.  Dr. Jim advised the local chiefs of the immunization and quarantine requirements in place for the repatriation of May 13, 2021, from Guam.   The Sports Office was represented by Mr. Mike Loyola and Mr. Ramsey Joab. Mr. Loyola updated the local chiefs on the preparations for the upcoming September 11, 2021, Liberation Day Games.   The Housing Office was represented by the Executive Administrator, Mr. Online Lawrence.  Mr. Lawrence updated the Local chiefs on housing programs and also the USDA 504 housing renovation/repair program that was shared with Governor Oliver by Mr. Gary Bloom from the USDA, Rural Development office.   5. Kolonia Elementary Social Studies Outcomes class meets Governor Oliver tours Pohnpei State Administration Building On Friday, April 23, 2021, Governor Oliver welcomed 15 students and two teachers from Kolonia Elementary School.  The students are part of a sixth-grade social studies outcomes class and came to find out more about the Government.   Accompanied by Kolonia Elementary School Principal, Mr. Jimmy Gallen, and Chief of Elementary Education, Mr. Peter Ramirez, the students and teachers met with Governor Oliver in the Governor’s cabinet conference to ask him some questions about the Government.  The questions ranged from the function of the Government, to immunizations and repatriations, air-conditioning in classrooms, and even pay raises.   Governor Oliver encouraged the students to do their very best in school because one day they will lead and take care of Pohnpei.  He encouraged the students to keep pursuing their goals and dreams, whatever they