February 28, 2024

Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 16, 2024 — Acting FSM Postmaster General Juliet Jimmy, accompanied by her delegation, Pohnpei Postal Branch Manager Yupeter Pelep, Postal Inspector Wensper Raymond, and Secretary Stephanie Mendiola, recently paid a courtesy call to Governor Stevenson A. Joseph, fostering an open dialogue on postal services and addressing key concerns related to the FSM Postal Services. Governor Joseph warmly welcomed Acting Postmaster General Jimmy and her delegation, expressing gratitude for the essential role played by the postal system in facilitating communication and commerce within the Federated States of Micronesia. He specifically acknowledged the valuable assistance provided by the U.S. Post Office in supporting the FSM Postal Services. During the meeting, Governor Joseph raised concerns about the escalating prices associated with sending items via mail and its impact on the public. Despite these concerns, he affirmed his support for the FSM Postal Services, recognizing the vital role it plays in connecting communities and facilitating trade. Acting Postmaster General Juliet Jimmy clarified that the increase in postal rates is a result of the agreement between the FSM and U.S. Postal Services. She explained that postal rates are set by the U.S. Postal Services, and conditions have remained virtually unchanged in the new Compact of Free Association, pending ratification by the U.S. Congress. Regarding concerns about the sale of goods by mail, Acting Postmaster General Jimmy clarified that while it is prohibited under the agreement with the U.S. Postal Services, sending gifts through postal services is allowed, with usual restrictions placed on these items. Acting Postmaster General Jimmy acknowledged the need for improved public awareness and customer service within the FSM Postal Services, committing to make it a priority. She emphasized the importance of providing clear and accessible information to the public regarding postal services. Addressing a past issue of rats at the Post Office, the Acting Postmaster General assured Governor Joseph that the situation has been taken care of and is under control. She also revealed plans to upgrade postal facilities to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience. The courtesy call concluded with a commitment to ongoing collaboration and transparency between the FSM Postal Services and the Pohnpei State Government, ensuring the continued improvement and accessibility of postal services for the people of Pohnpei.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 15, 2024 – In a brief ceremony at the Governor’s temporary office in Kolonia, Pohnpei, Mr. Elden John was officially sworn in as a member of the Pohnpei State Sports Commission. The ceremony, graced by the presence of Pohnpei Sports Development Officer Mr. Ramsie Joab, witnessed Governor Stevenson A. Joseph administering the oath of administration, with Mrs. Elsy Rose Santos holding the Bible for Mr. John. Following the swearing-in, Mr. John expressed his gratitude to Governor Joseph, the Legislature, and U Municipality. He humbly acknowledged the trust placed in him and assured that he would strive to do his best in collaboration with his fellow Commissioners. Mr. John refrained from making promises, emphasizing his commitment to dedicated service. Governor Joseph, in his remarks, highlighted the meticulous process that led to Mr. John’s appointment. The Chief Minister of U submitted Mr. John’s nomination, which subsequently received the due advice and consent from the Legislature. Governor Joseph charged Mr. John to be a responsible member of the Pohnpei Sports Commission, emphasizing the role of strengthening the minds and bodies of the local community. In a forward-looking vision, Governor Joseph urged Commissioner John and Sports Development Officer Ramsie Joab to collaborate with other members of the Sports Commission. Their collective efforts are essential in preparing Pohnpei for the upcoming Micronesian Games scheduled to be held in Majuro in July this year. Mr. Elden John’s induction into the Pohnpei State Sports Commission not only signifies an addition to the esteemed body but also reflects his dedication towards advancing sports excellence in Pohnpei.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 15, 2024 — Governor Stevenson A. Joseph welcomed Mr. Ramil Ilagun, representing Medpharm, in a cordial courtesy call to express gratitude and appreciation for the invaluable healthcare services provided by Medpharm to the people of Pohnpei. During the meeting, Governor Joseph thanked Mr. Ilagun and the entire Medpharm team for their longstanding commitment and contributions to the healthcare sector in Pohnpei. He acknowledged the pivotal role of Medpharm in enhancing medical facilities and services ultimately benefiting the residents of Pohnpei and the Federated States of Micronesia. Mr. Ilagun shared essential updates with Governor Joseph, highlighting that Medpharm currently boasts the only CT scan in Pohnpei and the entire Federated States of Micronesia and that a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine is also expected soon. He also mentioned ongoing and upcoming developments, such as the imminent arrival of an Optometrist at Medpharm Clinic and the collaboration and training between Lab specialists from MedPharm and Pohnpei State Lab. Furthermore, Mr. Ilagun informed Governor Joseph about the presence of a Biomed Engineer at Medpharm, emphasizing the commitment to maintaining and enhancing the technological infrastructure for better healthcare outcomes. Governor Joseph expressed his appreciation for the diversity of healthcare facilities available in Pohnpei, including the Pohnpei State Hospital, Genesis Private Hospital, and medical clinics like Dr. Isaac’s Family Clinic and MedPharm Clinic. He recognized the collective efforts of the private sector in complementing the public healthcare system and providing comprehensive and accessible medical services to the community. Looking forward, Governor Joseph conveyed his eagerness to strengthen collaboration with the private sector during his new administration. He emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing healthcare initiatives and ensuring the well-being of the people of Pohnpei. The courtesy call concluded with mutual appreciation and a shared commitment to fostering a collaborative and thriving healthcare ecosystem in Pohnpei.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 15, 2024 — The distinguished father-and-son team of conservationists from Cultural Site Research and Management (CSRM), Dr. Douglas Comer and Mr. Jake Comer, have embarked on a significant visit to Pohnpei to collaborate with the FSM National Government, Pohnpei State Government and local authorities on the preservation and conservation of the historic Nan Madol. Renowned for their unwavering commitment to the preservation of cultural heritage sites, the Comers have been actively involved in studying and safeguarding Nan Madol for many years. Their visit to Pohnpei includes a pivotal presentation on their groundbreaking findings at Nan Madol, utilizing Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) technology to unearth the intricacies of this architectural marvel. During discussions with Governor Joseph, the management and conservation of Nan Madol took center stage. Dr. Comer emphasized the need for proactive measures to address challenges such as over-vegetation and siltation that pose threats to the site’s integrity. Dr. Comer referred to Nan Madol as “an incredible engineering feat,” underscoring its significance as a global cultural treasure. The visionary proposal of creating a trust discussed between the Comers and Governor Joseph aims to foster collaborative efforts in securing funding and technical support for the ongoing preservation of Nan Madol. This initiative aligns with the shared goal of ensuring Nan Madol remains a beacon of cultural heritage for future generations of Pohnpeians and the world. Governor Stevenson A. Joseph expressed his gratitude for the visit and the valuable insights provided by Dr. Comer and his son, acknowledging the crucial role of experts in uncovering and preserving Pohnpei’s rich cultural heritage. He remarked, “We have not fully realized some of the achievements” of our ancestors, highlighting the need for continued exploration and protection of Pohnpei’s historical sites. Dr. Comer also shared the results of LIDAR mapping on Temwen, revealing vast agricultural fields and expressing a commitment to extending the search for other historical sites across Pohnpei using this advanced technology. LIDAR, a remote sensing method utilizing pulsed laser technology, provides precise three-dimensional information about the Earth’s surface characteristics, enabling a deeper understanding of historical landscapes and aiding in effective conservation strategies. The collaborative efforts of Dr. Douglas Comer, Mr. Jake Comer, and Governor Stevenson A. Joseph underscores a shared commitment to preserving and celebrating Pohnpei’s cultural heritage, setting an inspiring precedent for the sustainable conservation of historical sites worldwide. Ms. Kukulynn Gallen, Chief of Pohnpei Tourism and Ms. Shirley-Ann Ligohr, Overseas Development Assistance Unit Coordinator joined Governor Joseph during the meeting.