Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

Palikir, Pohnpei: May 22, 2023 – Governor Oliver paid a courtesy call on H.E. Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia and T.H. Aren B. Palik, Vice President of the Federated States of Micronesia.   Governor Oliver reaffirmed Pohnpei State’s commitment to work in cooperation and collaboration with the FSM National Government. Governor Oliver also thanked the President for the quick response of the National Government for a medical evacuation request only one day into President Simina’s term.   President Simina thanked Governor Oliver for his visit. He expressed his appreciation for Pohnpei’s role in the development of the nation, including the use of land at the Palikir capital complex, for the benefit of the nation. He also expressed his appreciation for Pohnpei’s contribution during the Pandemic, and looked forward to working with Pohnpei State, noting that there are many exciting things on the horizon.   Vice President Palik also thanked the Governor for his visit. He said he wanted to forge very close relationships with the States and will reach out for courtesy visits in the coming weeks, starting with Pohnpei State.   Joining Governor Oliver was Mr. Patrick Carl, Director of the Department of Public Safety, Protocol Officer Emerson Eperiam and Public Information Officer, Patrick Pedrus. Attending from the FSM National Government, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Khandi Elieisar, Chief of Staff Jane Chigyal, Special Assistant to the Vice President Ari Skilling and Andrew Falcam from the FSM PIO office.  

Cliff Rainbow Hotel, Pohnpei: May 9, 2023 – Governor Oliver attended the opening of the USAID clean cities, blue ocean pilot project workshop. A courtesy call made on Governor Oliver, May 8, 2023, by Mr. Roger Gardner and Mr. Renee Acosta from USAID informed and invited Governor Oliver to the workshop, in collaboration with the Pohnpei State Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Kolonia Town Government. Mr. Francisco Celestine, EPA Executive Officer delivered welcoming remarks U.S. Embassy Kolonia Charge’ d’Affaires, Ms. Alissa Bibb gave an overview of the clean cities, blue ocean program that aims to reduce plastic pollution in the Oceans and communities, develop capacities to improve solid waste management and help build behavioral change. The mayor of Kolonia Town, Hon. Betrigo Jacob, expressed gratitude on behalf of the Kolonia Town Government and advised all that Kolonia Town was locked and loaded to provide all the assistance required to move forward with the pilot project. Governor Oliver delivered the final remarks of the day. He noted that on his way to the workshop, he witnessed Ohmine Elementary fifth-grade students picking up trash on the side of the road, and was very encouraged to see students taking ownership of the cleanliness of their community. He thanked the U.S. Embassy and USAID for their continued support and assistance with important local issues at the municipal level with Kolonia Town Government. He noted that behavioral change was not enough, but behavioral upbringing is needed, starting in the households. Governor Oliver closed with a challenge to walk the talk, and not talk the walk when it comes to keeping our oceans and communities clean and safe.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: May 8, 2023 – Caroline Fisheries Corporation (CFC) President and CEO, Marko Kamber, and former Governor of Pohnpei, Mr. Johnny David, representing the CFC Board of Directors, meet Governor Oliver. During their brief visit, Mr. Kamber and Governor David were updated by Pohnpei Port Authority (PPA) Seaport Manager, Baron Mendiola, on current seaport fees and policies. Both Mr. Kamber and Governor David thanked Governor Oliver and Mr. Mendiola for the important updates and all parties look forward to continuing cooperation and collaboration as CFC continues to contribute to the economic development of Pohnpei. Pohnpei State Government owns 42 percent of CFC.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei May 8, 2023 – Governor Oliver received the Commanding Officer of the 30th Naval Construction Regiment, CAPT Dean Allen, USN for a courtesy call. LT Adam Bossom, India Company Commander, Detail Pohnpei OIC, Liaison Officer, Federated States of Micronesia introduced CAPT Allen to Governor Oliver. LT Bossom also shared project updates with Governor Oliver including the completion of a school project in Pohnlangas, Madolenihmw next month. Upcoming exercises with the U.S. Armed Forces were also discussed including the upcoming Koa Moana exercise in the summer. Governor Oliver thanked CAPT Allen, his Officers, and Sailors for their visit. He welcomed CAPT Allen to Pohnpei, who is here for the first time, commending the Seabees teams for all the important projects undertaken that have benefitted Pohnpei, and looked forward to the strong and enduring cooperation of the Seabees and U.S. Government. CAPT Dean Allen was accompanied by Command Master Chief Allen Johnson, USN, LT William Pelger, LT Adam Bossom, USN, Senior Chief Daniel Shaver, USN, Capt Theodore Donahue, USA, SSG Tarsis Harper, USA, PO1 John Eckert, USN and PO2 Kristen Olofson, USN.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: May 8, 2023 – Governor Oliver met with USAID Country Manager, Roger Gardner, and USAID project Officer Mr. Herman Semes, Jr., who introduced Renee Acosta and Jasmin Tutor from the USAID Clean Cities, Blue Ocean program. Mr. Acosta and Ms. Tutor are based in the Philippines and are here to facilitate a workshop to pilot the USAID Clean Cities, Blue Ocean project with Kolonia Town Government. The project aims to reduce plastic pollution in the oceans, directly at its source. The project develops capacities to improve solid waste management and helps build behavior change. Governor Oliver welcomed Mr. Gardner, Mr. Semes, and Mr. Acosta warmly to the Governor’s Office. He was happy to hear of the project’s purpose and expected outcomes. Governor Oliver noted and agreed that behavioral change is very much needed to address these issues. Governor Oliver related the change starts at home and we all need to take ownership to reduce pollution in our communities. He pledged the support of the Pohnpei State Government through the Environmental Protection Agency. Executive Officer of EPA, Mr. Francisco Celestine also joined Governor Oliver to welcome the USAID team, looking forward to the training and working with the local government and students on environmental issues like Earth Day. Mr. Roger Gardner thanked Governor Oliver and ExO Celestine for their support. He stated that it is important for us to learn from each other, through pooling our resources and collective energy. Thank you to U.S. Embassy Kolonia and USAID.

Lower Town, Kolonia: May 5, 2023 – Lieutenant Governor Francisco L. Ioanis attended the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture’s (OFA) new office space opening ceremony.   After an opening prayer by Deacon Edmund, OFA Administrator Mr. Dahker Abraham delivered welcoming remarks.  He conveyed his appreciation and gratitude to all present, recognizing the presence of Lieutenant Governor Ioanis and the various cabinet members present.  He thanked the contractor J&B Construction construction for their good work and also thanked the land owner of the adjacent lot, the Honorable Beauleen Carl-Worswick for her assistance and support during the construction of the office building and the parking area.  Administrator Abraham related the condition of the old OFA building and expressed his gratitude once again to the administration, cabinet, and OFA advisory board for their support and assistance.    The Chairman of the OFA Advisory Board, Mrs. Patricia Jack-Jossien, cut the ribbon to officially open the new office space assisted by Administrative Officer Memory Route.  A key turnover was done in the Office Space by Lieutenant Governor Ioanis.     Congratulations to the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture on their new office space.  The construction of the new office space amounted to $202,380.09.  The new office space construction was possible with funds available under the amended Compact for Infrastructure Maintenance Fund (IMF) sector grants.      OFA is made up of four divisions: 1) Aquaculture Division 2: Hatchery Division 3) the Fisheries Statistics Division and 4) the Maintenance Division. OFA is responsible for the following: (1)To improve the health of the offshore marine ecosystem within Pohnpei’s Exclusive Economic Zone for sustainable environmental and economic benefits. (2)To improve the health of the inshore marine ecosystem. Enacting and implementing sustainable inshore fisheries policies and minimizing the negative impacts of land-based activities on lagoons and reefs are essential for the health of the inshore fishery ad the ecosystem upon which it relies. (3)To strengthen and improve Pohnpei State’s fisheries management policies, programs, and operations. Long-term ocean and lagoon health depends on prioritizing policies that will lead to sustainable long-and short-term fisheries management programs and operations. (4)To increase aquaculture activities in a sustainable manner. Sustainably operated aquaculture businesses can provide supplemental revenue-producing opportunities and related employment for Pohnpeians.    

The U.S. Defense Attaché Office, Oceania Engagement Team, and Pohnpei Veterans Association met with Governor Reed Oliver late last month to discuss the furthering of the Micronesian Youth Leadership Academy (MYLA) Pilot Program. The goal of the program is to teach high school seniors skills that will enable them to become the leaders of tomorrow. MYLA will conduct training focused on academic development, leadership development, life skills development, and community development, and will be directed by members of the Department of Defense, and the Pohnpei Veterans Association. Next academic school year, 15 students will participate in the MYLA Pilot Program. The program hopes to expand in future years to come. Governor Oliver thanked the U.S. Defense Attaché Office and the U.S. Embassy Kolonia for their continued support, friendship, and cooperation with the people of Pohnpei, and was happy to support this important program for the Youth of Pohnpei. Joining Governor Oliver during this important meeting was the Acting Defense Attache, Mr. Kyle Papish, Captain Ted Donahue, Staff Sergeant Gary Likiak, Staff Sergeant Tarsis Harper, YN1 Patrick Howard, and Mr. Herman Semes, Jr., President of the U.S. Veterans of Pohnpei (USVP) association. Prepared in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy Kolonia Defense Attache Office.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: April 20, 2023 – Governor Oliver attended a grand re-opening ceremony at the Pohnpei State Hospital for the Pohnpei State Laboratory. The re-opening of the laboratory marks a significant milestone for the hospital and the people of Pohnpei as it ensures that patients receive timely and accurate diagnostic services.   Before touring the renovated laboratory, Governor Oliver joined the Director of the Department of Health Services, Mr. Wincener David, and Assistant Secretary Moses Pretrick, representing the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs for a short ceremony in the Hospital Conference room. Mr. Herbert Johnny oversaw the short ceremony as the Master of Ceremonies.   In his remarks, Governor Oliver thanked the FSM National Government for their assistance with securing the grant from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), through Mrs. Lisa Barrow-Kohler. He congratulated Director David and the laboratory staff on the renovation of the laboratory and emphasized the importance of maintenance of the laboratory, pointing out that taking care of small things, like daily maintenance and care, takes care of the bigger things. On behalf of the Speaker of the 10th Pohnpei Legislature, Governor Oliver conveyed his appreciation for the care provided to the people of Pohnpei.   Assistant Secretary Pretrick and Director David also expressed their gratitude and appreciation to Mrs. Lisa Barrow-Kohler for her help with writing and submitting the grant for funding the renovation. Assistant Secretary Pretrick expressed his thanks for CDC’s assistance with this grant and help to all the states during the recent pandemic.   After moving out and starting renovations in March 2022, the upgraded laboratory’s increased diagnostic capabilities will improve patient care and save lives, particularly in cases where timely diagnosis and treatment are essential. The renovation and upgrade project was funded by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity COVID supplement grant for infectious Diseases. The supplement called Enhancing Detection aims to improve laboratory systems.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: April 19, 2023 – Governor Oliver received officials from the Pacific Community (SPC), who are in Pohnpei to engage with Government leaders, civil society, and community stakeholders to help establish a national human rights institution.   Mr. Ahmed Shahid, Capacity Development Manager, Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions, and Ms. Neomai Maravuakula, Team Leader for Governance and Institutional Strengthening, Human Rights and Social Development Division, Pacific Community (SPC related that the FSM National Government invited SPC in 2017 to assist with establishing a national human rights institution. A visit and report were completed in 2019, but the pandemic caused some delays. The officials are now in Pohnpei and the other four states in the FSM to re-engage with stakeholders and offer support and guidance to establish a national human rights institution.   Governor Oliver welcomed the officials to Pohnpei and expressed his support for their work. He asked the officials to work closely with the Pohnpei State Attorney General, Belsipa Mikehl-Isom, who was present, to ensure that Pohnpei’s unique needs and concerns are considered with the establishment of a national human rights institution.   Also present during the meeting was the Director of the Department of Public Safety, Mr. Patrick Carl, Assistant Attorney General Monaliza Abello-Pangelinan the Chief of Primary Health Care, Norleen Deorio, Overseas Development Assistance Coordinator Shirley-Ann Ligohr and Mr. George Isom, SPC FSM Country Focal Officer (based in Pohnpei).

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: April 14, 2023 – Mr. Luciano D. Abraham was sworn in by Pohnpei State Supreme Court Associate Judge Robert Nakasone in the Governor’s conference room as Mrs. Nanette A. Hallens, Director Abraham’s daughter, held the Bible.   After the oath of administration, Director Abraham delivered remarks conveying his appreciation to Governor Oliver, Acting Governor Ioanis, Speaker Yamaguchi, and the 10th Pohnpei Legislature for the nomination and confirmation as Director. He also thanked the Acting Director of Land, Wallet Elias, and the Department of Land employees for their work. Director Abraham underscored the importance of land in Pohnpeian culture while acknowledging the backlog of work that still exists. He presented a solution that includes computerizing land records for efficiency and to ensure they are not lost in a fire as court records were in 2019. Director Abraham also spoke of the work ethic he expects from his employees, calling attention to the importance of training and pledged to do his best as Director. He closed by sharing that he went to Genesis Hospital for a health check-up to ensure that he can meet the demands of his position as Director and received a positive response.   Speaker Marvin T. Yamaguchi presented a certificate of appointment to Director Abraham after being sworn in and IsoNahnken of Madolenihmw, Administrator of the Office of Transportation and Administration, John Adolph presented congratulatory remarks on behalf of the Acting Governor.   The brief ceremony was well attended by family members and employees from the Department of Land. Pwoud Lepen Palikir, Mr. Wilbur Walter, attended along with Senators from the 10th Pohnpei Legislature including Senator Mitaro Simina who delivered the opening prayer, Senator Ricky Carl, Senator Dahker Daniel, and Senator Wilfred Edmund.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: April 11, 2023 – The Executive Director of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, also known as the Tuna Commission, Mrs. Rhea Moss-Christian paid a courtesy call on Governor Reed B. Oliver.  The visit was the first official meeting between Governor Oliver and Executive Director Moss-Christian since she took over the helm of the Tuna Commission in March of 2023.   Rhea Moss-Christian is the first female Executive Director of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission and was also the first woman to chair the Pacific Tuna Commission, a body that brings together all the big fishing nations from Europe, Asia, and North America with developing Pacific nations.  The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission is a regional fisheries management organization, with its Secretariat based in Pohnpei, responsible for the world’s largest tuna fishery, accounting for approximately 60 percent of the global tuna catch.   During their brief meeting, Executive Director Moss-Christian thanked Governor Oliver and the Pohnpei State Government for their support and assistance over the years and pledged to continue to be good neighbors.  They discussed areas of mutual interest and concern, concluding with Governor Oliver on behalf of the Pohnpei State Government, expressing his gratitude for the courtesy call, and reaffirming assistance and support for the Tuna Commission.   Joining Executive Director Moss-Christian were Finance and Facilities Manager Aaron Nighswander and Executive Assistant Arlene Takesy.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: April 6, 2023 – Governor Oliver received Mr. Rodger Gardner USAID Country Coordinator, Micronesia who introduced experts from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) who are on the island to look at Pohnpei State water systems.   Mr. Gardner introduced Ms. Angela Sandoval from the US EPA Region 9, based in Guam, who works in the FSM, RMI, and Palau with local governments to identify possible environmental hazards that need to be removed in addition to providing technical expertise for compact projects involving water and sanitation. Mr. Barry Pollack, a retired U.S. EPA employee is assisting Ms. Sandoval in providing consulting services and assisting governments to resolve environmental issues.   Also accompanying Ms. Sandoval and Mr. Pollack was Ms. Susan Jamerson, who works with the U.S. EPA as a contractor. She explained to Governor Oliver that she is assisting Pohnpei State along with Ms. Sandoval and Mr. Pollack, specifically Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC) to identify funding sources for water system projects. One priority water project mentioned by Ms. Jamerson was the replacement of the water tank in Dolonier, Nett.   The team of experts expressed their appreciation for working with PUC and Pohnpei’s EPA on water systems, plans, challenges, and funding solutions. They noted that Mr. Leeronson Hairens from PUC was very helpful in helping them understand Pohnpei’s water system plans and challenges. On behalf of the Pohnpei State Government, Governor Oliver thanked Mr. Gardner, the team of experts from EPA, and the U.S. Government for their support to PUC and EPA on water and environmental issues in Pohnpei and looked forward to further updates and outcomes of projects.   Also joining Governor Oliver was Environmental Protection Agency Executive Officer, Mr. Francisco Celestine, Overseas Development Coordinator, Ms. Shirley Ann Ligohr, and PUC Water Manager Leeronson Hairens.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: March 17, 2023 – Governor Oliver met Mr. Serizawa Shinichiro, Director, Country Assistance Division, and Mr. Yosuke Ishikawa from the Japan International Cooperation System (JICS). Mr. Serizawa and Ishikawa are in Pohnpei to oversee site preparation for a press machine at the Pohnpei State Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new recycling center in Dekehtik. The press machine is provided through Japan’s Grant Aid for the Economic and Social Development Programme. Thank you to the Government of Japan for their ongoing support and cooperation.

Thank you to the following organizations and businesses that helped make the Governor’s Office Christmas Drop program a success in 2022:   1. Ace Hardware 2. Black Sand Enterprises 3. Moylan’s Insurance Company 4. CITC 5. National Fisheries Corporation 6. Caroline Fisheries Corporation 7. Bank of FSM 8. FSM Telecommunications 9. Pohnpei Hardware 10. XIX Store 11. Ace Office Supply 12. Kaselehlie Diner 13. PUC   Your generosity and compassion are truly appreciated and made a significant impact in the lives of those who benefitted from your donation. Your contribution to this worthy cause demonstrates your commitment to making a positive impact in our community.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: March 17, 2023 – Fifteen (15) High School Seniors and four (4) adult chaperones from Kwajalein High School on U.S. Army Garrison-Kwajalein Atoll in the Republic of the Marshall Islands paid a courtesy call to Governor Oliver and Lt. Governor Ioanis. Governor Oliver welcomed the students and chaperones to the Governor’s Office and to Pohnpei. He encouraged the students to continue their education, pointing out their potential as leaders in their country and around the world. Governor Oliver also spoke on harmony and unity among people and nations.  A short question and answer session was followed by a photo session and gifts presented to the Governor by the students. Governor Oliver encouraged each student to return to Pohnpei with their families to experience more of the beauty and culture of Pohnpei. Kwajalein Jr./Sr. High School is a secondary school in Kwajalein, Marshall Islands on U.S. Army Garrison-Kwajalein Atoll. The school serves families in the US military and civilians working for the US government in the Republic of the Marshall Islands. The students and chaperones are on a school sponsored senior trip.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: March 16, 2023 – Governor Oliver and Lt. Governor Ioanis welcomed Mr. Ledua Vakaloloma from the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) in Fiji and Mr. Herman Semes from the Pohnpei Chamber of Commerce.  Mr. Vakaloloma is on the island to consult with local businesses through the Pohnpei Chamber of Commerce and across the Federated States of Micronesia to raise awareness on climate change funding for the private sector. Governor Oliver thanked Mr. Vakaloloma and Mr. Semes for their visit.  He noted that the private sector is the engine of development for the economy and asked Mr. Vakaloma that whatever plans are made as a result of consultations consider the unique needs of Pohnpei.  Mr. Richie Adams from the Pohnpei Chamber of Commerce and Mr. Smith Sigrah from the Kosrae Chamber of Commerce were also present during the meeting.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: March 14, 2023 – Governor Oliver met with the Cultural Day Committee recently to discuss the upcoming Cultural Day celebrations.   Committee Chairman, Santos Abraham, provided an overview of the proposed schedule to Governor Oliver. The Cultural Day celebrations will take place at PICS Track & Field on Friday, March 31, 2023, a public holiday. Further awareness, including a radio program on V6AH, is expected in the coming week. Updates will also be shared on this page.   Joining Chairman Abraham was Vice Chairman, Soulik en Pohn Dien, Mr. Salter Pluhs, members Suannrita Ladore and Anthony Dainard and Acting Director of R&D, Michaela Saimon.   Cultural Day, a public holiday is observed annually on March 31 to celebrate and showcase Pohnpei’s unique culture and tradition.  

Governor Oliver welcomed Counsellor Pooja V. Vernekar from the Embassy of India to Peilapalap on Monday, March 13, 2023. During the introductory meeting with Governor Oliver, Counsellor Vernekar was accompanied by Deputy Assistant Secretary Kalvin Ehmes from the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Department of Foreign Affairs. Counsellor Vernekar shared training and funding opportunities from the Government of India and listened to the Governor and members of his cabinet who were present share their needs for Pohnpei State. Governor Oliver expressed his appreciation to Counsellor Vernekar for her visit. He looks forward to continued aid and cooperation from the Republic of India, noting India’s recent grant assistance to Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC) through the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs for the procurement of water well materials to construct two new wells. Joining Governor Oliver to welcome and meet Counsellor Vernekar was the Director of Education Mr. Stanley Etse, the Director of the Department of Public Safety Mr. Patrick Carl, Acting Director of Resources and Development Ms. Michaela Saimon, Public Affairs Officer Mr. Peteriko Hairens, Overseas Development Assistance Coordinator Ms. Shirley Ligohr and Protocol Officer Mr. Emerson Eperiam. The Government of India established diplomatic relations with the Federated States of Micronesia in November 1996. The Embassy of India is located in Metro Manila, Republic of the Philippines.

Congratulations to all the future leaders who took part in the 3rd annual Student Takeover Day 2023. Over 30 students from public and private schools in Pohnpei participated this year. The Governor’s Office was happy to receive Student Lt. Governor from Madolenihmw High School, Mr. Keola Johnny Silbanuz. The idea behind student takeover days with government offices and other organizations is simple: to expose students to the working world and to give them a glimpse of what it’s like to work in different fields. Students have the opportunity to work alongside professionals in their chosen fields, learning about the challenges, rewards, and day-to-day tasks involved in various jobs. This provides students with a unique opportunity to explore different career paths, discover their passions, and build valuable networks. Acting Governor, the Honorable Francisco L. Ioanis delivered remarks on behalf of the Governor conveying his appreciation and congratulations to all the students, employers, and the Department of Education for undertaking another successful student takeover day.

The Pohnpei State Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Environmental Surveillance Laboratory has been re-certified by the U.S. Freely Associated States Laboratory Certification Program. Ms. Edna L. Buchan, a USEPA Lab Certification Officer, certified the laboratory and four lab staff members: Laboratory Supervisor Fermin Scaliem (in absentia) certification as Level III Analyst, Acting Laboratory Supervisor Brad Soram certification as a Level III Analyst, Senior Analyst Quinton Lawrence as a Level III Analyst, and new Analyst Elson Elias as a Level I Analyst. Acting Governor T.H. Francisco L. Ioanis attended the recertification program at the Pohnpei EPA office. He delivered remarks on behalf of the Governor and the Pohnpei State Government to congratulate Executive Officer Francisco Celestine, the re-certified Analysts, and Ms. Edna Buchan for their strong work and collaboration. The EPA laboratory has been certified since 2008 to produce scientifically valid and legally defensible data on water quality in Pohnpei.   Congratulations to EPA Executive Officer and Analysts for a job well done!