July 19, 2023

Kolonia, Pohnpei: July 14, 2023 – Governor Oliver attends the ribbon cutting ceremony for the first digital billboard in the State of Pohnpei.  The billboard, strategically located in the heart of Kolonia town is a successful outcome of collaboration and cooperation among the Pohnpei Public Broadcasting Corporation, USAID, U.S. Office of Insular Affairs, FSM Telecommunications Corporation, Pohnpei Utilities Corporation and the FSM Social Security Administration, Pohnpei branch.     A ribbon cutting ceremony was done before speeches.  Governor Oliver was joined by the Administrator of the Office of Transportation and Infrastructure, Iso John Adolph, Speaker Marvin T. Yamaguchi, U.S. Embassy Acting Charge d’affaires Andrew Posner and FSM Social Security Administration Executive Director, Mr. Leon Panuelo, Jr.     PPBC Board of Directors Chairperson, Steezia Aldis delivered welcoming remarks, PPBC Commissioner Peterson Sam shared the story of collaboration that brought forth the billboard and was able to share a short video clip highlighting the resolution and detail of the billboard.  U.S. Embassy Acting Charge d’affaires Mr. Andrew Posner delivered brief remarks commending the use and re-purpose of compact funds for the billboard.  Speaker of the 10th Pohnpei Legislature, T.H. Marvin T. Yamaguchi also delivered remarks applauding PPBC for keeping up with the rest of the world and calling the digital billboard “ a reflection of our way forward in advancement”.  Governor Oliver delivered the final remarks, thanking the US Embassy, Mr. Posner Office of Insular Affairs Ms Cheryl Burkindine, USAID Mr. Roger Gardner, FSMTC CEO Fredy Perman, PUC, Mr. Trevayne Esiel, FSM Social Security Administration Executive Director, Leon Panuelo Jr., Gonzales construction company and all parties involved for their collaboration and cooperation.  He asked that the digital billboard be used “for the betterment of our community” and commended the board and management of PPBC for providing such an exemplary example of leadership.     The digital billboard will be streaming announcements via streaming video and images.  For more information on the digital billboard, please contact Pohnpei Public Broadcasting Corporation at 320-2296.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: July 14, 2023 – CFC President, Marko Kamber and Chairman of Board of Directors, Johnny P. David, who is also a former Governor of Pohnpei State, paid a courtesy call on Governor Oliver to present a dividend check in the amount of $206, 142. 86 to the Pohnpei State Government.     Caroline Fisheries Corporation, is a locally owned and operated Fisheries company, that is partially owned by the Pohnpei State Government.  The Department of Treasury and Administration Director is a member of the Board of Directors.     During the handover, Governor Oliver thanked CFC CEO Marko Kamber for the continued successful operation of CFC.  He noted that the handover of the check is the direct result of CFC’s hard work and dedication to the welfare of Pohnpei State.     Custody of the dividend check was turned over to the Director of the Department of Treasury and Administration for proper handling and disposition.