August 2023

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.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: August 20, 2023 – 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.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: August 22, 2023 – 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!

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: August 8, 2023 – 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.

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Peilapalap, Pohnpei: August 4, 2023 – Governor Oliver welcomed Sarah Lou Ysmael Arriola, International Organization for Migration (IOM) Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, to Peilapalap. Regional Director Arriola was accompanied by IOM Chief of Mission Salvatore Sortino and IOM-Micronesia local staff, Mr. Dudley Lorrin and Mr. Warren Ching.     Previously, Ms. Arriola was the Undersecretary (Vice-Minister) for Migrant Workers’ Affairs of the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines. Her work involved the repatriation of hundreds of thousands of distressed nationals who were caught in wars, natural disasters, victims of abuse or stranded due to economic hardships and the recent pandemic.     During their discussions, Ms. Arriola explained that this is her first visit to Pohnpei and most of the North Pacific region, she extended continued support and coordination from IOM. She spoke of areas that IOM can assist with include climate change, skills training and labor mobility. IOM Chief of Mission Sortino shared updates on IOM ongoing projects in areas like women’s empowerment and capacity building for disaster preparedness. Governor Oliver warmly welcomed Ms. Arriola, Chief Sortino and staff. He shared some of Pohnpei’s priorities and challenges, noting that Pohnpei is going through an interesting time with the amended compact of free association and some of the challenges deal with public service employment, capacity building, and the loss of residents who are migrating to greener pastures in the U.S.A. Governor Oliver looked forward to coordinating with the IOM staff to see how their programs can address Pohnpei’s priorities and challenges.     The meeting was an introductory one that provided a platform for sharing ideas and concerns. Governor Oliver looks forward to the continued partnership and collaboration of development partners, like IOM, for the success and betterment of the State of Pohnpei and the Nation.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: August 3, 2023 – The leadership team of Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC) led by the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Erick Paul, General Manager, Nixon Anson, and Chief of Corporate Services, Trevayne Esiel, met with Governor Oliver to present an overview of the latest developments in PUC’s completed and ongoing projects. The meeting served as a platform to discuss progress, achievements, and future strategies aimed at enhancing utility services across Pohnpei.     The leadership team reported the following completed projects: Iron Removal Plant – $1,8000,000.00 funding source – US compact unallocated infrastructure funds Palikir Capital Water Rehabilitation – $621,094.24 funding source – FSM Congress Cash-water meters phase 1 – $500,000.00 funding source – US Office of Insular Affairs through unallocated FSM public infrastructure sector grants Cash-water meters phase 2 – $500,000.00 funding source – Same as above Waste-to-heat energy – $2,292, 600.00 funding source – USDA Rural Development and PUC contribution Nanpohnmal Power-line extension – $50,000.00 funding source – FSM Congress Takaiu, U power extension Phase 1- $25,000.00 funding source – FSM congress Salapwuk, Kitti Power extension – $43,000.00 funding source – FSM congress     The leadership team also updated Governor Oliver on the On-going projects: 7.5 mega-watt power plant: $11, 379, 728.68 funding source – World Bank (SEDAP) 2,000 KWh Solar power system with 2,000 KWh battery storage: $14, 668, 023.00 funding source – City Pro/KSEL (IPP/PPA) Maintenance Assistance program – $164,500.00 funding source – US Department of Interior, Office of Insular Affairs Lehnmesi Hydro and Drinking Water Readiness – $2,500,000.00 funding source – Asian Development Bank (PRF) Tomwara & Sekere power extension – $100,000.00 funding source – FSM Congress Mwudokalap, Madolenihmw power extension – $10,000.00 funding source – FSM Congress PUC Water Tank Rehabilitation – $5,500,000.00 funding source – US Compact unallocated infrastructure grants PUC Reform Phase 1 – $730,000.00 funding source – Asian Development Bank PUC Reform Phase 2 – $600,000.00 funding source – Asian Development Bank (REDP)     Governor Oliver commended PUC’s dedication to enhancing the quality of life for Pohnpei’s residents through these crucial infrastructure improvements. He shared and recognized their commitment to serving the public, while improving their services. He emphasized the importance of cooperation, coordination and prioritization between government bodies, public utilities and donor partners to ensure Pohnpei’s development and growth.     Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC) is Pohnpei’s provider of water, wastewater, and electric utility services. PUC is dedicated to provide efficient, reliable, accessible and cost-effective utility services to improve and sustain the quality of life in Pohnpei. More information on PUC services including the current tariff schedule can be found at: PUC (pohnpeipuc.fm )

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: August 3, 2023 – A joyful atmosphere filled the grounds of the Pohnpei Administrative Building as Governor Oliver played host to a grand welcome reception in honor of the delegation that proudly represented Pohnpei State at the 2nd Micronesian Expo in Kosrae. The event was a celebration of the delegation’s outstanding accomplishments and contributions to showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Pohnpei.     The Micronesian Expo, held annually, serves as a platform for the states of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) to unite their diverse cultures and economies. This year’s Expo in Kosrae showcased the best of each of the four FSM states, highlighting their unique traditions, products and opportunities for trade and investment.     In his welcoming remarks, Governor Oliver started off with apologies to the delegation for the late welcome reception. He went on to express his deep appreciation for the dedication, enthusiasm and hard work done to bring honor to Pohnpei State as a result of their performances and representation in Kosrae. Speaker Yamaguchi echoed the Governor’s words of appreciation, thanking the delegation for their beautiful representation of Pohnpei culture. Head of Delegation, Director of Treasury and Administration, Christina Elnei expressed her gratitude to the Governor and Speaker for their support, she also thanked the traditional leaders of the delegation who kept order and organization during the trip, including Dauk Kitti, Soulik en Sawmwei and Mr. Emerson Eperiam. Vice Speaker Miguel, who was also a member of the delegation, highlighted the important help from the Governor, Speaker and Legislature for funding assistance with the delegation. IsoNahnken of Madolenihmw and Administrator of the Office of Transportation and Infrastructure, Mr. John Adolph, closed the remarks for the day echoing again the deep appreciation for the delegation’s good work.     The welcome reception not only celebrated the delegation’s achievements but also underscored Pohnpei’s commitment to cultural exchange, economic growth and regional cooperation. The delegation was also able to perform their original song “KAMORALE” composed by Mr. Emerson Eperiam for the Governor, Speaker, IsoNahnken of Madolenihmw and all. Pohnpei is proud of the work done by the delegation to the 2nd Micronesian Expo in Kosrae and looks forward to the next annual Expo in Chuuk.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: July 31, 2023 – In a significant step towards strengthening Pohnpei’s economic development through assistance from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Mr. Alton Kimura, Program Director for U.S. Affiliated Pacific Islands conducted a courtesy call with the Governor of the State of Pohnpei, Reed B. Oliver, and key cabinet members. The meeting served as a platform to discuss and share information about USDA programs in the areas of water, environment, public facilities and the private sector.     During the call, Mr. Kimura emphasized the USDA’s commitment to support key areas that can benefit from the range of impactful USDA initiatives available to the Federated States of Micronesia. He noted that his visit is part of the USDA’s aim to increase their focus in the region. Along with discussing available programs, Mr. Kimura shared updates on financing and funding assistance schemes. Governor Oliver expressed his appreciation for the longstanding support of the USDA in Pohnpei State, and introduced key members of his cabinet representing areas that can benefit from USDA programs. Among the Departments represented during the courtesy call was the Department of Resources and Development, the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Department of Public Safety, Department of Treasury and Administration, Department of Health Services, Pohnpei Housing Authority and the Environmental Protection Agency.     The courtesy call concluded on a positive note, with Governor Oliver and Mr. Kimura expressing a shared commitment to explore the implementation of various initiatives discussed during the meeting.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: July 27, 2023 – The Commander of Joint Forces, Marianas, Rear Admiral Gregory Huffman, paid a courtesy call on Governor Oliver. Joining Rear Admiral Huffman was Kyle Papish, Acting Defense Attache, US Embassy Kolonia. Welcoming the Rear Admiral with Governor Oliver were the Administrator of the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Dahker Abraham, Director of the Department of Resources and Development, Hubert Yamada, Director of the Department of Public Safety, Patrick Carl, Overseas Development Assistance Coordinator, Shirley Ligohr, and Protocol Officer, Jordan Torres.     Rear Admiral Huffman is on Pohnpei, attending the Joint Presidential Inauguration of President Simina, Vice President Palik, Speaker Moses and member of the 23rd FSM Congress. In addition to overseeing installation management functions for both U.S. Naval Base Guam and Anderson Air Force Base on Guam, the Commander of Joint Region Marianas, also serves as Commander U.S. Naval Forces Marianas and Defense representative to Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Republic of Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM).     During the cordial introductory exchange at the Governor’s Cabinet Conference Room, Rear Admiral Huffman conveyed his appreciation for the courtesy call and expressed his enthusiasm to continue to work with Governor Oliver and the Pohnpei State Government to further expand on the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation between the U.S. Government and the FSM. Governor Oliver warmly welcomed Rear Admiral Huffman acknowledging the significance of enhancing ties and furthering cooperation with the U.S., particularly with Joint Region Marianas in areas of security and law enforcement.     Both Governor Oliver and Rear Admiral look forward to the next Joint Committee meeting where the issues of security, law enforcement and maritime law enforcement will be formally discussed.

Dekehtik, Pohnpei: July 27, 2023 – Governor Oliver attended a wreath laying ceremony at the Pohnpei State International Airport arrivals hall. The ceremony was held in honor of fallen service members from the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. Ten framed photographs of fallen U.S. Armed Forces members from the FSM are posted in the arrivals hall of the Pohnpei International Airport. Also known as the Hall of Heroes, this special area highlights the unique and enduring partnership between the United States of America and the Federated States of Micronesia. Vice President of the Federated States, Aren B. Palik, delivered remarks sharing close connections with some of the fallen members, highlighting the interconnectedness and intimacy of the close-knit communities in the FSM. U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Deb Haaland delivered moving remarks, speaking of her connection with the military, having a Father who served as a Marine in the Vietnam War. Both Vice President Palik and Secretary Haaland, thanked Governor Oliver for attending the solemn ceremony of remembrance and both highlighted the importance of the enduring USA-FSM partnership. The Hall of Heroes pays tribute to service members from the FSM who gave the ultimate sacrifice during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Four of the ten fallen are from Pohnpei: US Army Sergeant, Skipper Soram, died September 22, 2004, Operation Iraqi Freedom. US Army Specialist, Derence J. Weilbacher Jack, died October 31, 2005, Operation Iraqi Freedom. US Army Specialist, Henry Paul, died September 26, 2006, Operation Iraqi Freedom. US Army Sergeant Youvert Loney, died September 5, 2009, Operation Enduring Freedom.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: July 24, 2023: Governor Oliver attended the opening ceremony for the Department of Public Safety’s Police Academy, General Inspection and awards ceremony held at the Kolonia-China Friendship Gym. Also attending with Governor Oliver was Ms. Cheryl Burkindine, Grants Management Specialist from the U.S. Department of Interior Office of Insular and International Affairs and a member of the Pohnpei State Police Commission, Ms. Phyllis Silbanuz.     This is the third Police Academy held during the Oliver/Ioanis Administration. The recruits will undergo a 14-week course of instruction that includes lots of physical training delivered this year with the assistance of Marines from Task Force Koa Moana ’23. The recruits will also learn policing foundations, traffic management and enforcement, property crimes, crimes against a person and applied policing tasks.     Director of the Department of Public Safety, Patrick Carl, delivered remarks on behalf of Governor Oliver to highlight the good work the Department has undertaken leading up to the Police Academy. He also introduced U.S. Marine Corps Captain Lucas Walters who thanked Director Carl for allowing the Marines to be a part of the training. Captain Walters advised the Officers to train hard and to “relish the opportunity” to train and suffer because that will better prepare them to meet the challenges of being Police Officers.     You can view the follow their progress and find updates on the Department of Public Safety’s Facebook page: Pohnpei State Department of Public Safety. Thank you to the Marines of Task Force Koa Moana for their help, thank you to the U.S. Government’s Capacity building fund for their generous support to the Department of Public Safety’s Police Academy.  

Palikir, Pohnpei: July 26, 2023 – Governor Oliver delivered welcoming remarks at the Joint Presidential Inauguration for President Simina, Vice President Palik, Speaker Moses and the 23rd FSM Congress. Governor Oliver was accompanied to the inauguration ceremony by First Lady Estle G. Oliver.     The Joint Inauguration ushers in the 10th President of the Federated States of Micronesia, along with Vice President Aren B. Palik. Dignitaries and esteemed guests were in attendance, including His Royal Majesty Nanpwutak Pikiniap, Nahnmwarki of Sokehs, His Royal Highness IsoNahnken of Madolenihmw, His Royal Highness IsoNahnken of U, His Royal Highness IsoNahnken of Sokehs. Also joining were the State Governors of Kosrae and Chuuk and the Lt. Governor of Yap. Presidents of the Republic of Palau and Republic of Marshall Islands were also there along with the Speaker of the Nauru Parliament and Lt. Governor of Guam. Delegations from the U.S, China, Japan were also in attendance along with resident diplomatic embassies and diplomatic partners from India, New Zealand and South Korea. International and Regional Organizations were also represented including UN, JICA, PIDB, SPC, OFCF and Tuna Commission.     In his welcoming remarks that emphasized unity, Governor Oliver described the beginning of the Simina/Palik administration as the “dawn of a new era guided by the resounding theme OUR UNITY IS OUR STRENGTH AND PROSPERITY”. Governor Oliver spoke of the hope and confidence brought on by the leadership of President Simina, whose experience includes terms as Governor of Chuuk and Speaker of the FSM Congress. He also quoted the late President Tosiwo Nakayama, first President of the FSM’s first inaugural speech, describing the Federated States of Micronesia like a rainbow, “ it is a single beautiful thing, yet it is composed of many different colors. Our differences do not divide us, but make us richer through their diversity. The ocean is our common link, it is our heritage and our greatest natural resource. Our islands form our way of life and our many islands together, our states together, make us stronger than our four separate states apart.” Governor Oliver closed his remarks with heartfelt     congratulations to President Simina, Vice President Palik and Speaker Esmond Moses and expressed hope that the inauguration would be a turning point in the FSM’s collective pursuit of progress and unity.     The Governor joined President Simina, Vice President Palik, Speaker Moses and all the dignitaries that joined the Presidential Inauguration for a dinner reception later in the evening at Mangrove Bay to conclude the Joint Presidential Inauguration activities that included a Church Service at Seinwar, Kitti and Cultural celebrations at COM-FSM Palikir the day before.     You can watch the Inauguration on video, thanks to Pohnpei Public Broadcasting Corporation: https://www.youtube.com/live/Rj1pMrF06-4?feature=share

Pohnpei: July 21, 2023 – Governor Oliver attended the Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC) appreciation day at Club Flamingo. The event, attended by PUC employees, family members, Board of Directors and Management recognizes and awards the work done to keep Pohnpei electricity, water and sewer services running.     Joining Governor Oliver at the event was Speaker Marvin T. Yamaguchi, Senator Brian Etscheit and Chairman of the PUC Board of Directors, Mr. Erick Paul. The Master of Ceremonies for the event was Mr. Trevayne Esiel, Chief of Corporate Services.     In his remarks, Governor Oliver congratulated the Board of Directors, Management and Employees of PUC who provide services to Pohnpei 24/7, all year around. Governor Oliver also paid a special tribute to the wives and families of those who work around the clock, who help the employees at home, cook for them and care for them so they can provide the essential services of electricity, water and sewer to Pohnpei State. Governor Oliver also joined Speaker Yamaguchi and PUC Management to recognize and congratulate the eight PUC linemen who assisted Guam Power Authority in recovery efforts after Typhoon Mawar.     PUC is dedicated to providing efficient, reliable, accessible and cost-effective utility services to improve and sustain the quality of life in Pohnpei. More information on PUC services including the current tariff schedule can be found online at: PUC (pohnpeipuc.fm)

AA Getaway Sokehs, Pohnpei: 21 – 22 July, 2023 – In a remarkable display of collaboration and cooperation between the State Governments and the National Government of the Federated States of Micronesia, Governor Oliver and Speaker Yamaguchi participated in the first ever Chief Executives Council (CEC) hosted by President Simina, Vice President Palik, Speaker Esmond B. Moses and the National Government.     This important gathering brings together Governors and Speakers from across the nation to tackle pressing challenges and cultivate stronger governance practices for the betterment of the nation.     Both Governor Oliver and Speaker Yamaguchi joined forces with their fellow counterparts from Yap, Chuuk, Kosrae and Chuuk to dialogue with the National Government and collectively address critical issues such as the status of the compact of free association, as amended.     By leveraging their diverse perspectives and collective expertise, the CEC endeavors to charter a path towards a more prosperous, equitable and sustainable future for all citizens of the nation.     A joint communique on the CEC will be shared shortly.