Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

Governor Oliver attended a wreath laying ceremony at the Pohnpei State International Airport arrivals Hall.

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.

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

Governor Oliver attended the opening ceremony for the Department of Public Safety’s Police Academy

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.  

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

Governor Oliver delivered welcoming remarks at the Joint Presidential Inauguration for President Simina, Vice President Palik, Speaker Moses and the 23rd FSM Congress.t

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

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

Governor Oliver attended the Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC) appreciation day at flamingo

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)

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

Governor Oliver attends Chief Executive Council (CEC)

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.

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

First Digital Billboard in Pohnpei State

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.

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

Caroline Fisheries Corporation (CFC) hands over a dividend check to Pohnpei State Government

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.

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the French Republic to the Philippines and Non-Resident Ambassador-designate to the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Republic of Marshall Islands, and Republic of Palau pays courtesy call on Governor Oliver

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: July 3, 2023 – Governor Oliver received H.E. Ms Michèle BOCCOZ, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the French Republic to the Philippines and Non-Resident Ambassador-designate to the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Republic of Marshall Islands, and Republic of Palau. This is the first visit to FSM for Ambassador BOCCOZ. Ambassador Boccoz is based in Manila, Republic of the Philippines. She has been trained as a Diplomat, joining the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs in February 1991. Her most recent posting was as the Assistant Director-General and Special Envoy of the Director-General at the World Health Organization in Geneva, Switzerland. Governor Oliver conveyed his appreciation and honor to receive H.E. Michèle Boccoz to Peilapalap and welcome her to Pohnpei. Ambassador Boccoz explained that France considers itself a Pacific nation with New Caledonia and French Polynesia. She noted that the Pacific region is “where the world is changing” and both her and Governor Oliver agreed they share the same concerns with regards to conservation and climate change. Ambassador Boccoz also shared upcoming opportunities to connect online and learn the French Language and looked forward to working with Pohnpei State through the FSM National Government in areas like Agriculture, Fisheries and Energy.

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

New Board of Directors for Pohnpei Public Broadcasting Corporation (V6AH)

Congratulations to the recently sworn Board of Directors for Pohnpei Public Broadcasting Corporation. Governor Oliver swore in the following new Directors at the Governor’s conference room on June 29, 2023: 1. Steezia Aldis 2. Helper Samuel 3. Baron Mendiola 4. Jordan Torres Both Governor Oliver and Speaker Yamaguchi delivered congratulatory remarks, noting the importance of the board and V6AH’s responsibility to share information to the public. Senator Stevick Edwin presented certificates of appointment to the new Directors. The full ceremony can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/4YK0tp7EJGw

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

Joint Leadership meeting to support the eight proposed constitutional amendments

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: June 30, 2023 – A joint leadership meeting was held at the Governor’s conference room. Governor Oliver and members of his cabinet welcomed Speaker Yamaguchi, Senators of the 10th Pohnpei Legislature and local Chief executives and Speakers. The joint leadership meeting primary topic was the upcoming plebiscite and support for the proposed eight constitutional amendments on July 4, 2023. Members of the Constitutional convention awareness team were also present. Unanimous support for the 8 proposed constitutional amendments by the 4th constitutional convention was voiced by Speaker Yamaguchi and the Local Chief Executives. The full video of the leadership meeting is available on Pohnpei Public Broadcasting Corporation’s YouTube channel. Please click the link below:

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

72nd Commencement Exercises at PICS High School attended by Governor Oliver

PICS Field, Pohnpei: June 27, 2023 – Governor Oliver and Speaker Yamaguchi attended the 72nd commencement exercises for PICS High School.  Under the banner/theme “Endless educational commitments ensure and promote all learning” translated figuratively into Pohnpeian as “Tuhken wahr tupwutupw wahr seisei”, 217 students transitioned to graduates of PICS High School class of 2023.     Vice President of the Parent-Teacher Association Mr. Engily Ioanis delivered welcoming remarks.  Speeches were also delivered by the Salutatorian Jessa Holiday and Valedictorian Valigene Loney.     Keynote Speaker, Mr. Mason Albert, Noahs U and Vice President of the National Fisheries Corporation delivered an inspiring speech to the students.  As a graduate of PICS High School class of 1990 Mr. Albert gave some valuable advice to the students.  He advised the students to stay committed to their goals and at that same time understand that opportunities are all around them.  Governor Oliver also delivered special remarks.  He expressed appreciation and pride for the accomplishments of the 217 graduating Seniors.  He echoed the charge of the keynote speaker for each student to pursue what they are passionate about, and added to the theme “tuhken wahr tupwatupw wahr seisei” saying that where there is no struggle there is no progress.     Over 75% of the graduating seniors will be furthering their education at the College of Micronesia.  Congratulations to the Graduates and their families.      

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

First State Visit of President Simina and Vice President Palik to Pohnpei State Government

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: June 8, 2023 – Governor Oliver and First Lady Estle G. Oliver were joined by Lt. Governor Ioanis and 2nd Lady Lilly Jean Ioanis to welcome the President of the Federated States of Micronesia, H.E. Wesley W. Simina and the Vice President of the FSM, T.H. Aren B. Palik, along with the 1st and 2nd Ladies of the FSM and Speaker of the 23rd FSM Congress, T.H. Esmond Moses and his wife to Peilapalap. The visit was the first state-visit for the Simina/Palik administration. The welcome at the Governor’s conference room was preceded by a welcome of students from Pohnpei Catholic School, who lined the driveway entering the Governor’s office to welcome the President and Vice President with a song. In the Governor’s conference room, the program was led by the Master of Ceremonies, Pohnpei State Public Affairs Officer, Mr. Peteriko Hairens, who introduced Lt. Governor Francisco Ioanis for welcoming remarks. Lt. Governor Ioanis welcomed the President, Vice President and Speaker. He thanked the President for his visit, which he referred to as a gesture of unity, and a reminder that to lead is to serve. Speaker Marvin T. Yamaguchi, delivered remarks on behalf of the 10th Pohnpei Legislature, joining the Lt. Governor, Governor and people of Pohnpei to welcome the President and Vice President. Speaker Yamaguchi noted that challenges will be coming and said together we can achieve what was once thought impossible. Speaker Moses also delivered remarks, noting that it has been a long time a state visit was done, and it is long overdue. He noted that there is a lot of work ahead and for all to work together. He highlighted the recent signing of compact agreements, noting that the last amended compact was not fully utilized and that now is the time for collaboration and to update development plans. He closed by saying that he was happy to join the state visit to show appreciation for the President’s early start to visit the states of the federation, starting with Pohnpei. Governor Oliver spoke before the final remarks by President Simina. He called the President’s first state visit a moment of great significance for the nation and a source of pride for the people of Pohnpei, the host of the FSM National Government. Governor Oliver went on to say that President Simina’s visit held great promise and offered a unique opportunity to further strengthen the ties that bind us. Before closing, Governor Oliver said: “Let us remember the power of unity and strength lies within our collective efforts. Together we can overcome any obstacle, build resilient communities and create a better future for generations to come.” President Simina extending his thanks to the Governor and Lt. Governor assuring them and all that the visit comes from the heart, which is why the visit was done as early as possible. President Simina noted that he puts a premium on getting to know people, state officials and needs, developing rapport and building bridges of solidarity. The President said that he and Vice President are committed to doing their best but can’t do it alone. He called for the importance of domestic mechanism in place for collaboration, cooperation and progress. President Simina highlighted the importance of State and National Leadership Conferences (SNLC) as venues to share and discuss important domestic issues, which he called key ingredients of FSM’s foreign policy. He also acknowledged the important role of donor partners to the FSM, as well as the FSM’s growing diplomatic members. President Simina thanked Governor Oliver, Lt. Governor Ioanis and Pohnpei for being a gracious host to the National Government and invited everyone present to join him and Vice President Alik for their inauguration on July 26, 2023. Following the remarks, Governor Oliver and Lt. Governor Ioanis presented gifts to the President and Vice President, along with the First Lady Oliver and Second Lady Ioanis presented gifts to the First Lady and Second Lady of FSM. A sakau ceremony was performed after the speeches and students from Nett Elementary School performed traditional dances for the President, Vice President, First and Second Ladies. You can watch the visit on video at: https://youtu.be/KGzLX2cXWCU

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

Governor Oliver receives head of FSM Diplomatic mission in the Republic of Fiji

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: May 19, 2023 – The Deputy Chief of Mission/Charge’ d’affaires of the Embassy of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) in the Republic of Fiji, Mr. Wilson Waguk, paid a courtesy call on Governor Oliver. All heads of FSM Foreign missions have returned to the country after the change of the administration, and as a matter of protocol and courtesy pay a visit to the Governor of Pohnpei as the host state of the Federated States of Micronesia. During the courtesy call, Mr. Waguk had the pleasure of informing Governor Oliver of the success of FSM Students studying in the Republic of Fiji. He shared that while the number of students studying in Fiji has been reduced, the students he has encountered from the FSM are the most serious, mature and well-behaved students who are excelling in their studies. He advised Governor Oliver that there have been no problems encountered regarding students in Fiji. He went on to share the total number of FSM students studying in Fiji is 33, with 19 from Pohnpei. Most students are studying under fully covered AusAid scholarships, there are 12 studying as nurses, doctors and lab technicians, three studying urban regional planning, and one theology student. Governor Oliver thanked Mr. Waguk for his visit and the updates. He congratulated Mr. Waguk and his staff for their good work in Fiji, taking care of our students, noting that his First Secretary, Mr. Rofino Roby is a native of Pohnpei. Governor Oliver asked Mr. Waguk to continue to update the Governor’s Office on the progress of Pohnpeian students, especially those in the medical field, as Pohnpei has an urgent need for more medical workers.

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

FSM Ambassador to China and Deputy Chief of Mission visit Governor Oliver

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: May 19, 2023 – The FSM Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, H.E. Vincent Sivas and Deputy Chief of Mission, Francis Anefal, paid a courtesy call on Governor Oliver. During the courtesy call, Ambassador Sivas and Deputy Anefal thanked Governor Oliver for receiving them and thanked the Governor for his leadership during the pandemic. Ambassador Sivas then shared updates from the Embassy including scholarship and training opportunities available. Ambassador Sivas noted that during the last round for Chinese Scholarships, not all available slots were filled and encouraged students in Pohnpei and across the nation to take full advantage of scholarships to China, citing local Ambassadors of Chinese Education: Dr. Nora Liwy in Pohnpei and Engineer K.k. Kiyoshi in Chuuk . Ambassador Sivas shared that there are currently 26 students from the FSM studying at Universities in China. He also spoke of vocational training opportunities that are available and informed Governor Oliver that the Embassy has a database of legitimate companies, so citizens wanting to engage with businesses in China can contact them via email: embassy@fsmembassy.cn to ensure they are dealing with legitimate businesses. Ambassador Sivas assured the Governor that FSM’s relationship with China remains strong and the FSM Embassy in Beijing, China stands ready to assist Pohnpei and all States. Governor Oliver conveyed his appreciation to Ambassador Sivas and Deputy Anefal for their visit and all the updates they provided, noting the educational scholarships and vocational opportunities. Governor Oliver assured Ambassador Sivas that Pohnpei will support awareness efforts for these opportunities and looks forward to working with the FSM Embassy in Beijing on educational, health and infrastructure projects.

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

FSM Ambassador to Japan visits Governor Oliver and Lt. Governor Ioanis

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: May 18, 2023 – Governor Oliver and Lt. Governor Ioanis received H.E. John Fritz, Ambassador to Japan. Ambassador Fritz was accompanied by his daughter Mickey and staff from the FSM Embassy, Ms. Christina Shigeta, who hails from Kitti, Pohnpei. Ambassador Fritz shared updates from the FSM Embassy in Japan with the Governor including expanding accreditation for the Embassy to Vietnam and the Republic of the Philippines. Governor Oliver expressed his appreciation for the Ambassador’s visit. He appreciated the updates provided by Ambassador Fritz, noting an upcoming student exchange program involving Pohnpeian students, and looked forward to more educational opportunities in Japan for Pohnpeian students. More information on the FSM Embassy in Japan can be found on their website: Embassy of the Federated States of Micronesia in Japan (fsmemb.or.jp)

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

Compact agreements signed, Governor Oliver attends

On Tuesday, May 23, 2023, Governor Oliver, Lieutenant Governor Ioanis, and Vice Speaker McGarry Miguel joined the President of the FSM, H.E. Wesley W. Simina, Vice President of the FSM, T.H. Aren B. Palik and Speaker of the 23rd FSM Congress, T.H. Esmond B. Moses at Palikir to witness the historic signing of three agreements related to the U.S. – FSM Compact of Free Association. The three agreements: An Agreement to Amend the Compact, as Amended, a new Fiscal Procedures Agreement, and a new Trust Fund Agreement were signed by U.S. Embassy Kolonia Charge’ d’affaires Alissa Bibb and Joint Committee on Compact Review and Planning Chief Negotiator Leo Falcam Jr. in the President’s conference room filled with National, State, and U.S. Embassy personnel.

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

President of Bank of Guam visits Governor Oliver on re-establish, solidify and building relationship tour

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: May 18, 2023 – Governor Oliver received the President of the Bank of Guam, Mr. Joaquin Cook and Vice President for Governmental Affairs, Mr. Asterio Takesy, former FSM Ambassador to the United States of America.   President Cook informed Governor Oliver that his visit to Pohnpei and the rest of Micronesia was to re-establish, solidify and build relationships with the communities.  He shared the position of the Bank of Guam as a member of the community, looking for ways to assist their fellow community members.   Governor Oliver thanked President Cook and Ambassador Takesy for their visit.  He spoke of his long relationship with the Bank of Guam, through the former President and current Governor of Guam, Lou Leon Guerrero.  Both the Governor and President Cook discussed programs like the Bank’s scholarship for graduating seniors, the possibility of another ATM machine to be placed in the newly renovated Pohnpei Administration building, home loans in collaboration with FSM Development Bank, and future possible programs to help economic development.  President Cook noted that all Bank of Guam personnel are hired from the local community, utilizing local talent.   Governor Oliver closed with his sincere thanks to the President and his family for the services provided through the Bank of Guam, sending his regards to the Governor of Guam, Lou Leon Guerrero.

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

Law Day Debate at Pohnpei Legislature Chambers, Governor Oliver attends opening

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: May 16, 2023 – Governor Oliver attended the opening of the recent Law Day debate at the Pohnpei Legislature chamber where he delivered remarks thanking the organizers of the event for inviting him to attend the debate. He went on to encourage and congratulate the young debaters from Pohnpei High Schools whose debating topic was focused on whether or not land issues would be best resolved by the national or state courts. Congratulations to all the students and the two debate teams that will represent Pohnpei in the National Law Debate:   Our Lady of Mercy High School Pohnpei SDA High School

Wahu Pahrekier Sapwekeika

Governor Oliver bid farewell to Special Envoy Yun and Assistant Secretary Cantor

Governor Oliver bid farewell to Special Envoy for Compact negotiations Joseph Yun and Assistant Secretary Cantor on behalf of the people and government of Pohnpei for the significant work done during their brief visit.   From initialling certain provisions of the compact of free association between the Federated States of Micronesia and United States of America, and also presenting a check for over $28 million to the Government of Pohnpei for infrastructure projects (Palikir elementary 9 million, Lukop elementary $8 million and Pohnpei Primary Care Facility $11.4 million), their visit was important to FSM and Pohnpei.

Scroll to Top