Pakair sang FSM Social Security Administration, Pohnpei Branch ong koaros me kin ketiki sapwelimamwail imwin sounpwong ni Ohpis en Social Security.  Patodahn check en imwin sounpwong en July pahn tepida Niare, July 28, 2020, kuloak duwahu ni-menseng (9:00 AM). Ong koaros me kin ketiki nan Posto, nan Bank de ni Institution teikan, wasa me kupwuramwail ketin kilelehdier en ketki ie, pahn ketiki Nialem, July 31, 2020. Pwehki Pohnpei ah ketket nan irair en doare soumwahu COVID-19, Ohpis en Social Security, Pohnpei Branch pil pekpekihte wiawihdahn sapwelimamwail bank account de pwuhk en Bank pwe sahpis en direct deposit me konehng nan ansou apwal wet.  Mwuri, komwi anahne pwarodo ansou mwadang ni Ohpis en Social Security oh audehda “Change of Address” Form. Komwi pil anahne ketkihdo sapwelimomwi daropwehn bank me iei (Bank Receipt), de pwuhken Bank de bank statement me kadedehda me mwaromwi me pato pohn account wet.  Ma mie sapwelimomwi iren kalelapak, a komwi wehwehdo pwehki ehu pene en kak mie. Komw kak eker delepwohn nempe 320-2709 de 320-2181 de email address:  pohnpeissa@mail.fm *************************************************************** This announcement is to inform all FSM Social Security Monthly beneficiaries who obtain their benefit checks at the Pohnpei SS Branch Office, please be informed that issuance of monthly benefit checks will begin on Tuesday, July 28, 2020. For those who obtain their monthly pensions at the Banks, Post Office, and other Institutions, availability of their pensions shall be on Friday, July 31, 2020. We humbly ask that beneficiaries without accounts take the responsibility now to apply up Bank Accounts in order to accommodate the restrictions as to the pandemic as we try to follow strategies to be COVID-19 free. Furthermore, when the account is fixed, please visit the Branch Office for completion of the “Change of Address” form, and present the Bank Receipt, or the Bank Book, or Bank statements that indicate ones possession of the account. Kindly observe and respect the pre-cautions for COVID-19 so that distribution days will go smoothly and peacefully. Kalahngan en kupwur koaros  

Yesterday, July 13, 2020, seven crew members from a United States Coast Guard C-130 aircraft landed in Pohnpei. The aircraft is in the area at the request of State and National Governments to conduct search and rescue operations for a fisherman reported lost at sea on Saturday. The aircraft will refuel and leave today, July 14, 2020. The crew of the aircraft, originating from Barbers Point, Oahu, HI were housed overnight at the Medical Monitoring Area (MMA) in Dekehtik. In accordance with Pohnpei’s Constitutional Emergency Order 20-03, paragraph 6, search and rescue assets are allowed to disembark within the immediate seaport or airport facilities in the performance of their duties provided that no contact is made and all required health preventive measures are fully complied with during their stay. Accordingly, the crew members were escorted in a separate vehicle by Pohnpei Port Authority officials to the MMA where they stayed overnight and returned to the tarmac in the same manner, i.e. no contact, for their flight this morning at approximately 9 AM. Kalanghan to the crew of the USCG C-130 Search and rescue aircraft and U.S. Embassy Kolonia for their assistance with the search and rescue operations.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Please refer to the posted document, Pohnpei’s Constitutional Emergency Order 20-03, signed July 11, 2020, by Governor Reed B. Oliver, declaring a continued state of emergency for the state of Pohnpei in response to the continuous and imminent threat of COVID-19. Unless revoked or amended sooner, this Constitutional Emergency Order is valid for a period of thirty (30) days counting from July 11, 2020 For further information, please leave a message, call the Public Information Officer at 320-2235 or email: pohnpeipublicinformation@gmail.com

ENGINKEHLAP NEWS EXCERPTS   ENGINKEHLAP NEWS EXCERPTS FOR THE WEEK OF 29 June to July 3, 2020   On Tuesday, June 30, 2020, the Madolenihmw Municipal Government (MMG) COVID19 Task Force presented their COVID-19 response plan to Governor Oliver, Lieutenant Governor Perman, and the COVID-19 Task Force.  Chairman of the MMG Task Force, Mr. Stuard Penias, Meninkeder Lapalap, Mr. Petrick Ringlen, and Task Force member, Mr. Patterson Shed, Chairman of MMG’s Land and Natural Resources Committee gave an overview of the plan.  The plan covers Madolenihmw Municipal Government’s levels of readiness once a positive case is identified in Pohnpei and then, once a positive case is identified in Madolenihmw. Food Security plans incorporate Rice and Taro. The plan also highlights the importance of aligning state and municipal resources to protect and prepare the community through controlling movement in Madolenihmw, home isolation, and continuing critical public services. Governor Oliver thanked the MMG COVID19 Task Force for their presentation.  They are the second municipality to present their COVID19 response plan to the State Task Force. On Tuesday, June 30, 2020, Pohnpei Public Auditor, Iso-Nahnken U, Ihlen Joseph, and his staff visited Lieutenant Governor Perman, COVID-19 Task Force Chairman, Mr. Wincener David, Director of Finance and Administration, Ms. Christina Elnei and members of the State COVID-19 Task Force. The purpose of the meeting was to conduct an audit entrance conference.  The Pohnpei Public Auditor’s office will be conducting an audit on all COVID-19 expenditures from February to June 30, 2020.  Public Auditor Mr. Ihlen Joseph noted that this is a global movement that is occurring across many countries even in the Pacific to hold real-time audits to counter fraud, abuse, and waste of much-needed funds for COVID19 response efforts.  Governor Perman pledged to support the audit and noted that Pohnpei State Government continues to meet all requirements set by Financial Management Regulations even during this crisis. On Wednesday, July 1, 2020, from the Department of Resources and Development, led by Mr. Hubert Yamada, a group of approximately 20 farmers from the Lenger Island Partnership Guaranteed System held their first local produce sale. On May 15, 2020, with a $200 donation provided through the Micronesian Conservation Trust from a family in the USA, and technical support from Pohnpei State’s Resources and Development’s Division of Agriculture, the Farmers started planting seeds.  After an additional visit by Chief of Agriculture, Mr. Mark Kostka, to provide further training to transplant the seedlings to the ground, the group was able to sell all their local produce on 1 July 2020 within minutes at the Pohnpei Public market generating $600. The Division of Agriculture under the Department of Resources and Development provides information and technical assistance to farmers to improve crop and livestock production.   COVID19 update:  There are no COVID19 cases in FSM, RMI or Palau, due to total bans on disembarkation of passengers from COVID19 infected countries.   According to the Pohnpei State Department of Health COVID19 Situation Report #25 for July 4 – 6, 2020, these are the global and regional COVID-19 numbers:     Location Confirmed Cases New cases Deaths Global 11,304,534 211,352 531,659 Hawaii 999 82 19 Guam 288 40 5 CNMI 31 1 2   Two news articles in Hawaii, have noted that Pacific Islanders in Hawaii, including Micronesians, make up 4 percent of the population but account for 23 percent of all COVID19 cases.  The articles note that the communal style of living, contributes to the high infection rate among the Pacific Islanders, including Micronesians, in Hawaii.   For any questions or comments on these stories, please call the Public Information Officer at 320-2235 or email: pohnpeipublicinformation@gmail.com  

Weekly updates from Pohnpei State Government Departments, Offices and Agencies submitted to the Governor’s Office:   From the Director of the Department of Land, Wasahi Sokehs, Mr. Peter Lohn: Under the Division of Historic Preservation local senior citizens in U and Madolenihmw have been contacted to collect Oral Histories of Pohnpei for a public awareness program on V6AH. The program will not only help preserve culture and heritage, but also inform our younger generations about our rich and unique history. Under the Division of Public Land: Inspection of dredging sites continues in Eir Sokehs, Dien Kitti, Metipw, Mesihsou, and Ohwa, Madolenihmw to ensure proper protocol and procedures are being taken to protect our environment. From the Administrator of the Office of Transportation and Infrastructure, IsoNahnken of Madolenihmw, Mr. John Adolph: The following projects have been completed or close to complete by the Pohnpei Transportation Authority, headed by Commissioner Welson Panuel. Kurumw, U Paved Road upgrade -100 % – Completed Awak Pah, U Paved Road upgrade – 100 % – Completed Saladak, U Paved Road upgrade -100 % – Completed Sokehs Powe Paved Road Maintenance Project – 100 % – Completed Sokehs Pah Paved Road Maintenance Project – 100 % – Completed Diahdi, Kitti Paved Road Maintenance Project – On-going, 90% complete Rohi, Kitti Paved Road Maintenance Project – On-going, 90% complete The Office of T&I is still waiting for proposals from qualified Architectural and Engineering firms for the Pohnpei State Supreme Court proposed building design and layout.  Requests for proposals are due on July 10, 2020, at 5 pm. From the General Manager of Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC) Nixon Anson: The PUC Board recently approved General Manager Report No. 19/2020 regarding a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between PUC and Nexus Energy Company of South Korea. The MOU allows for PUC to sell 130,000 gallons of used oil (refined oil) to Nexus Energy Company for an amount to be determined by both parties.  The sale and removal of the used oil will not only bring in revenue for PUC, but also remove the dangers of having so many flammable items at PUC’s power plant.   COVID-19 update:   An assessment was completed on June 19, 2020, to assess Pohnpei’s ability to receive returning residents from COVID-19 infected areas.  Dr. Eliaser Johnson from the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs presented the findings to the Pohnpei State COVID-19 Task Force on June 23. The findings recommended a re-assessment to address the issues that were identified in the initial assessment before any decision will be made to allow residents to return to Pohnpei from COVID19 infected areas.  Both parties agreed to a reassessment on July 3, 2020.   There are currently no COVID-19 cases in the FSM, RMI, and Palau.  This is due to the total ban on the disembarkation of passengers from COVID19 infected countries.   In the entire USA, over 2.5 million confirmed cases and over 128K deaths reported from COVID-19.   As of July 2, 2020, in Guam, there have been a total of 280 confirmed cases of COVID-19 with 5 deaths, 179 released from isolation, and 96 active cases.   In Hawaii, there are 926 confirmed cases and 18 deaths have been reported. In the state of Oregon, there are 9,300 confirmed cases and 211 deaths have been reported In the state of Utah, there are 23,466 confirmed cases and 176 deaths have been reported In the state of Missouri, there are 23,063 confirmed cases and 1,056 deaths have been reported Listen to the Enginkehlap Radio Program below:

On Friday, June 19, 2020, NMCB-5 Detail Pohnpei officially handed over the remaining shower and toilet facilities for the COVID-19 Medical Monitoring Area (MMA) at Dekehtik. Governor Oliver formally accepted the last set of shower and toilet facilities on behalf of the Pohnpei State Government, for a total of six toilet/shower combinations and four toilets and four showers stand-alone, portable facilities. This project began in April and as part of Pohnpei’s Covid-19 response plan, was initiated to ensure restroom facilities are compliant with international standards for quarantine. As a show of appreciation and gratitude, US Ambassador to the FSM, H.E. Carmen Cantor and members of the NMCB-5 team, led by Lieutenant Brian Wood, were invited to the Pohnpei Port Authority Conference room after the turnover ceremony and presented with Certificates of Appreciation by Governor Oliver and Speaker Lambert “In recognition of their outstanding service to the people of Pohnpei” during their extended deployment.     In his remarks, Governor Oliver thanked LT Wood and his team for their many contributions to the state of Pohnpei including the Saladak Dispensary, Pehleng Elementary School, Sokehs Powe Elementary School projects and others, including numerous community volunteer activities such as beach clean-ups, that they undertook during their nine-month deployment to Pohnpei. Speaker Lambert echoed the sentiments and added that their contributions are significant and beneficial to the people of Pohnpei now and for many years to come. H.E. Carmen Cantor, U.S. Ambassador to the FSM, also gave a brief statement of thanks to LT Wood and his team and Governor Oliver, highlighting the continued cooperation and special friendship between the USA and FSM. LT Wood presented Governor Oliver with a small token of appreciation from the team, a set of NMCB-5 work shirts with a map of Pohnpei. Thank you and kalahngan lap to NMCB-5 Detail Pohnpei and US Embassy Kolonia. For more information on this story, please contact the Public Information Officer at 320-2235 or email: pohnpeipublicinformation@gmail.com

On the morning of June 22, 2020, Governor Oliver joined H.E. Carmen Cantor, US Ambassador to FSM, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Kandhi Eliesar, US Defense Attache’ LtCol. Erin Richter, NMCB-5 Detail Pohnpei Officer in Charge, LT. Brian Wood and US Embassy Staff at the arrival hall of the Pohnpei International Airport for a short ceremony to re-unveil new photos of the FSM Fallen Soldiers. Four of the ten FSM Soldiers honored on the wall are from Pohnpei: US Army Sergeant, Skipper Soram, died September 22, 2004, serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom US Army Specialist, Derence J. Weilbacher Jack, died October 31, 2005 serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom US Army Specialist, Henry Paul, died September 26, 2006 serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom US Army Sergeant Youvert Loney, died September 5, 2009, serving during Operation Enduring Freedom. Photos: Courtesy of Abigail Kim, U.S. Embassy Kolonia.  

Enginkehlap News Line up:   Virtual conference with JCRP Wiekupwur en Mwoalen Wahu Ileilehn Wein Pohnpei Virtual conference with President Panuelo and State Governors COVID-19 Donations Updates provided to the Governor’s Office   You can also listen to the news in Pohnpeian: Enginkehlap News Excerpts 1.Monday, June 1, 2020 – Governor Oliver joined a virtual conference with the Joint Committee on Compact Review and Planning (JCRP).  Chief Negotiator and FSM President’s Chief of Staff Leo Falcam, Jr. and JCRP Chairman, former Ambassador AsterioTakesy, shared a broad timeline for compact re-negotiations this year.  Chairman Takesy said the next three months would consist of virtual meetings with the U.S. Compact negotiation team and depending on the COVID-19 situation, face-to-face meetings will take place later in the year followed by outcomes in January 2021.  Governor Oliver thanked the JCRP for the updates and noted that he would be coordinating with Pohnpei’s JCRP representative, FSM Congress Vice Speaker Esmond Moses, and former Speaker of the FSM Congress, Mr. Bethwel Henry, for input and updates as negotiations move forward.  Also on the call, were the Governors of Kosrae, Yap, and Chuuk.  Attending the zoom conference with Governor Oliver, was Lieutenant Governor Perman, Public Affairs Officer, Kapilly Capelle, and External Grants Coordinator, Ms. Shirley Ligohr, Chief of Staff Suzanne Lowe Gallen and PIO Patrick Pedrus. The Royal Council of Chiefs of Pohnpei, MwoalenWahu, requested a meeting with the COVID-19 Task Force.  Chairman and Director of the Department of Health and Social Services, Mr. Wincener David, and Vice Chairman and Director of the Department of Public Safety, Mr. Patrick Carl attended the meeting.  Updates were provided on the repatriation of Pohnpei residents and two resolutions to amend Constitutional Emergency Order (CEO) 20-02 being proposed by the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature – the first concerning social and physical distancing mandates and penalties when the first positive case reaches Pohnpei and the second regarding interstate travel.  The Chair and Vice-Chairman informed the Mwoalen Wahu that equipment and material for the Medical Monitoring Area (MMA) in Dekehtik are being ordered while the grounds are being prepared to accommodate 30 container units for quarantine.  The resolutions are still pending approval by the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature, in their ongoing current session. Present at the Royal gathering: Isipahu, IsoNahnken Madolenihmw, IsoNahnken U, IsoNahnken Nett, Likend Madolenihmw, LuhkenLengso, Dauk Kitti, IsoNahlaimw Madolenihmw,Nahnmadau en Idehd Kitti, Nante Kitti.  IsoNahnken Nett is the Chairman of the Mwoalen Mwahu. On Thursday, June 4, 2020, Governor Oliver and Lieutenant Governor Perman participated in a virtual conference with President Panuelo and the State Governors of Chuuk, Kosrae, and Yap. Also joining the conference were COVID-19 Task Force Chair and Director of Health and Social Services, Mr. Wincener David and Chief of Staff, Mrs. Suzanne L. Gallen. The discussion topics included the planning progress for financial assistance to stranded FSM citizens, current readiness status and COVID-19 preparedness, recently adopted congressional resolution amending the emergency declaration, and the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program update.  Governor Oliver received confirmation from President Panuelo that the FSM National Government will be supporting COVID-19 testing abroad before currently, stranded citizens return from COVID-19 infected areas.  Chair David updated the President on the progress of the Medical Monitoring Area (MMA) and readiness to receive returning residents.  While the MMA estimated completion time is in August 2020, he did note that due to limited capacity, only a controlled, pre-determined number of returning residents would be allowed to disembark in Pohnpei once travel restrictions are lifted.  Chair David noted that Pohnpei’s quarantine facilities are still receiving fishing vessel crewmembers who are disembarking for medical emergencies and injuries.  Governor Oliver conveyed to President Panuelo that while the new Congressional Resolution 21-149 presents challenges for preparation and readiness to receive Pohnpei residents, because of the continued fishing operations in Pohnpei waters, Pohnpei State will continue to align response efforts with the National Government, to protect and safeguard the people.   A brief update on the Pandemic Unemployment assistance was shared by Secretary of Finance, Mr. Eugene Amor, who later met the Governor and other Pohnpei State Government officials to share further details of this new program. COVID-19 Donations: The Governor’s Office and COVID-19 Task Force are grateful for the generous donations from local businesses and organizations, which will greatly assist with Pohnpei’s COVID-19 response efforts. The Office of the Governor would like to thank the following businesses and organizations for their generous donations to date: Pohnpei Hardware – 500 face masks FSMTC – 2000 face masks Marcela Foundation – 10,500 face masks + additional numbers to be confirmed Yoshie Enterprises – 500 face masks A detailed list of donations to Pohnpei State Government from resident Embassies and international organizations can be found here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nKyYLgZuF5_WVqIvcj7vTzayXZkYCmsI/view Here are updates provided to the Governor’s Office from some of our Pohnpei State Government Departments and Offices: The Pohnpei Transportation Authority (PTA) has been busy patching potholes across the island. Most recently, PTA was busy repairing numerous potholes on the pavement in Nett, from Genesis Hospital to the Nett District Government Office buildings.  PTA is also helping Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC) and Pohnpei Port Authority (PPA) with the ongoing design and construction of the COVID-19 Medical Monitoring Area (MMA) in Dekehtik.   The Commissioner of PTA is Mr. Welson Panuel. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently disinfected an incoming cargo vessel, the Kyowa Stark as part of the Pohnpei State Government’s continuing COVID-19 response prevention efforts.  The Executive Director of EPA is Mr. Henry Susaia.   Department of Resources and Development: A total of 78 farmers visited the Agriculture office and received services from our Agriculture staff including seeds, animal medications, fertilizers, seedlings, and tractor services.  The Director of the Department of Resources and Development is Mr. Hubert Yamada.   Department of Health and Social Services: Construction of walkways to the isolation rooms at the Pohnpei State Hospital is complete, with roofing currently being placed by the contractor.  The Director of the Department of Health and Social Services is Mr. Wincener David.   Department of Education: Training

Kaselehlie Maingko, Please find posted, the full Legislative Resolution 34-20 LD1 amending Constitutional Emergency Order 20-02, signed by the Honorable Ausen T. Lambert, Speaker of the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature on June 9, 2020, as follows: “Unless revoked or amended sooner, this Constitutional Emergency Order is valid for a period of sixty (60) days counting from May 11, 2020.” Click the link below to download the PDF file: Leg. Resolution No. 34-20, LD1

SPECIFIC PROCUREMENT NOTICE Federated States of Micronesia Project for Strengthening Public Financial Management Grant No.:          IDA / D324-FM Contract title:    Supply and Installation of a Financial Management Information System (FMIS) RFB No:             FM-DOFA-66242-GO-RFB   The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has received financing from the World Bank toward the cost of the Project for Strengthening Public Financial Management and intends to apply part of the proceeds toward payments under the contract for the Supply and Installation of a Financial Management Information System (FMIS) which will be a configurable, COTS (commercial off the shelf) financial management package, to be implemented based on a load-balancing technology using an underlying distributed database architecture supporting one national government and a clustered database for four state governments. For this contract, the Borrower shall process the payments using the Direct Payment disbursement method, as defined in the World Bank’s Disbursement Guidelines for Investment Project Financing, except for those payments, which the contract provides to be made through a letter of credit. The Department of Finance and Administration of the National Government, on behalf of the FSM now invites sealed Bids or encrypted and protected with a password or password-protected bids from eligible Bidders for the Supply, Installation, Integration, Testing and Commissioning of a Financial Management Information System (FMIS) and related Services. The entire turnkey solution will comprise a commercially available configurable off-the-shelf (COTS) financial management information system (FMIS) deployed as a distributed database solution to be accessed discretely by the national and four state governments (Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei, and Yap) that comprise the Federated States of Micronesia. The National Government is based in the national capital Palikir (located on the island of Pohnpei). The State level governments are based in their on-island capitals. Distances between States and the National Capital are significant – Chuuk 740 km, Kosrae 550 km, and Yap 1700 km. All islands except Kosrae are linked inter-island and therefore internationally by reliable fiber optic cable. Kosrae is planned to be connected by fiber in early 2022. For the National Government, a central server room with multiple servers will be located at the Department of Finance and Administration (DoFA) in Palikir which will provide a replicated/ mirrored or equivalent service for National applications such as FMIS, hereafter referred to as “DoFA Central Servers’ Room”.  This is a centralized managed facility providing oversight and management of all security, network, management, user access, and data management for National FMIS and other national applications, e.g. RMS. The service design of the DoFA Central Servers’ Room is such that it represents effectively a mostly generic Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) resource for any FSM National government application, wherever it may be located in FSM. The FMIS solution is expected to provide each State government with control over on-site management such as data and security, combined with optional off-site highly encrypted data back-up to a physical device (USB stick), a separately provided cloud-based backup storage service either at the DoFA Central Servers’ Room or elsewhere. The National Government and 4 States will each have exclusive ring-fenced access to their own data and be directly responsible to administer user privileges to their specific environment. Where relevant, data may be partitioned in shared infrastructure and according to their responsibilities. The National Government and 4 States will have their own servers for daily in-country and in-State back-up of data.  For States, this data – as noted above – could also be transferred to external devices and stored at a secondary location locally based on a per State back-up policy. For State level service delivery, the FMIS service is self-contained in each State Treasury and is intended to run independently of the National FMIS operations.  Additional services can be provided from the DoFA Central Servers’ Room by-election or upon request. National Government data held at National Field Offices (NFO) will be replicated in real-time or close to real-time to DoFA Central Servers’ Room such that the data is part of a homogeneous distributed database or according to the Supplier’s solution partitioned by island. State data will be replicated between clustered dual servers located within the State IT operations and will not participate in replication to DoFA Central Servers’ in the first implementation. There is nothing in the DoFA Central Servers’ Room or infrastructure design to stop DoFA providing such a State-isolated service if so requested. The policy of the National and State governments is that cloud storage services are not to be used as a method of active FMIS delivery for live operations or disaster recovery. This policy is based upon retaining control of live sovereign data and operations only within the jurisdiction of FSM. The solutions for National and State implementations will require necessary design, configuration and commissioning and testing of the required National and State FMIS application functionality; project management, training, integration support, and other services as described in the Bidding Documents, sufficient to ensure the full operational capacity of the supplied goods and services. The FMIS Operational Acceptance is planned to achieve within eighteen (18) months from the Contract Effective Date. The Bidders shall meet the following minimum qualification criteria to demonstrate their general and specific experience and capabilities to successfully complete the Contract: (a) the Bidder’s net worth for the last three (3) years calculated as the difference between total assets and total liabilities should be positive. In the case of a Joint Venture, each Joint Venture member should meet this requirement; (b) minimum average annual turnover of USD 3 million, calculated as total certified payments received for contracts in progress or completed, within the last three (3) years. In case of a Joint Venture each Joint Venture member should have not less than 25% and at least one JV member not less than50% of the minimum average annual turnover; (c) access to, or availability of, financial resources such as liquid assets, unencumbered real assets, lines of credit, and other financial means in the amount of at least two hundred fifty-thousand US Dollars (USD250,000). In the case of a Joint

Enginkehlap News Excerpts 25-29 May 2020 You can listen to the audio version on V6AH’s Facebook Page at 8 am and 4 pm: Click Here  You can also listen to the Pohnpeian version anytime online:  Enginkehlap News Excerpts After 11 months, construction on the Kahmar Bridge in Nett is complete. A final joint safety inspection is required before opening the bridge for public use.  The Pohnpei State Office of Transportation and Infrastructure will conduct the joint inspection with the FSM Department of Transportation, Communication, and Infrastructure and China Railway Construction Company (CRCC).  Additionally, engineering work on the Lukop, Madolenihmw to Kepine, Kitti secondary road project is complete. The next step will be to pave the road. Both projects have been generously funded by the People’s Republic of China and the FSM National Government. With the help of the Madolenihmw and Kitti Municipal Governments, Departments of Health and Social Services, Treasury and Administration, and the Pohnpei Transportation Authority, Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC) are currently drawing up plans to rehabilitate the Pohnlangas and Wene Dispensaries. The Department of Public Safety is also helping with coordination and cooperation through the use of their fire trucks to transport water to the dispensary tanks and providing inmates from the Pohnpei rehabilitation center to help with the cleanup of the tanks. The proposed plans include new 1500 gallon water tanks, rehabilitation of plumbing, and new sinks. On May 26, 2020, the Director of Education, Mr. Stanley Etse, updated Governor Oliver and the Pohnpei State COVID-19 Task Force on plans for the next school year 2020-2021.  The plan includes a blend of on-site learning with a limited amount of students in classrooms and distance learning on the internet, as applicable, or home-schooling.  On-site learning will involve dividing up the students into groups and limiting the school days.  Distance learning will involve utilizing the internet and sending lessons by email or uploading on the Department of Education’s website.  Home Schooling will involve delivering lessons to homes.  All plans are in strict compliance with COVID-19 social distancing guidelines. Members of the Pohnpei State COVID-19 Task Force and the Judiciary & Governmental Operations Committee of the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature met at the Medical Monitoring Area (MMA) in Dekehtik on Tuesday, May 26, 2020. The Task Force representatives updated Senators on the progress of the containment facilities that will be used to quarantine incoming passengers. The visit was made following a public hearing to propose amendments by the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature to the current Constitutional Emergency Order (CEO) 20-02. The proposed amendments are provisions to regulate interstate travel and temporary enforcement measures, including penalties when Pohnpei has a confirmed case of COVID-19. The amendments, submitted under Legislative Resolutions 29-20 and 30-20 are still under review in the ongoing session of Legislature. The public will be updated on any amendments and developments relevant to CEO 20-02. Senators from the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature who visited the MMA included Chairman of Judiciary and Governmental Operations, Senator Jack Harris, Floor Leader McGarry Miguel, Senator Dahker Daniel, Senator Marvin Yamaguchi, Senator Mitaro Simina and Senator Steve Joseph.   Pohnpei State COVID-19 status: Pohnpei State continues to be in a state of emergency and there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19. Quarantine facilities at China Star Hotel continue to hold crew from fishing vessels who have sought emergency disembarkation, in accordance with Pohnpei Constitutional Emergency Order 20-02, and are closely monitored by Health and Security Personnel.  The Medical Monitoring Area (MMA) in Dekehtik is under construction with the help of PPA, PTA, PUC, and the U.S. Navy Seabees, and will serve as quarantine and containment center for Pohnpeian residents wishing to return home when the time is right. The Pohnpei State COVID-19 Task Force is currently working on standard operating procedures (SOP) to allow incoming passengers to disembark in Pohnpei. Pohnpei residents stranded in Hawaii and Guam have been asked to register at the FSM Consulates in preparation for their return home, in small, manageable groups in line with capacity limitations, on dates yet to be determined. The Pohnpei Covid-19 Task Force will be coordinating these efforts with the National Covid-19 Task Force. Because of the numerous unprecedented disembarkations from fishing vessels, as long as fishing vessels are still in operation in Pohnpei ports, the State will not be able to foresee and have the assurance of adequate space in quarantine to bring anyone from Guam, Hawaii or elsewhere.   The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has advised against quarantine co-mingling of individuals from low-risk areas, a category which fishing vessels currently fall under, and individuals from higher risk areas, a category which anyone come from a Covid-infected area would fall under. On Wednesday, May 27, Governor Oliver sent a letter to the Speaker of the 21st FSM Congress, T.H. Wesley W. Simina. The letter expressed Governor Oliver’s concerns over FSM Congressional Resolution 21-138.  The resolution allows fishing vessels to continue operating in Pohnpei waters and as a result, Pohnpei has seen an increase in cases from fishing vessels that require disembarkation and quarantine due to medical and other emergencies.  Governor Oliver requested a temporary halt of fishing activities at least until stranded Micare referral patients and their attendants return home. The Pohnpei Covid-19 Task Force has been provided information on the number, location, and health status of all Pohnpeian resident crew on fishing vessels in the region. The Medical Team has advised that any Pohnpei resident crew wishing to disembark should immediately notify the proper authorities. Since the beginning of the ongoing pandemic, fisheries observers and crew wishing to disembark in Pohnpei and who fall under paragraph 6 of the Constitutional Emergency Order (CEO) have been allowed to disembark in most instances. As of this date, no Pohnpei resident has ever been declined disembarkation On Wednesday, May 27, Chief executives from the local municipal governments and members of local NGO’s were given a presentation by the U Corona Volunteers (UCV) on resiliency and preparedness for COVID-19. Governor Oliver commended UCV’s

Kaselehlie Maingko, Please find the latest COVID-19 situation report from the Pohnpei State Department of Health and Social Services, Situation Report No. 15: To download the PDF version:  Situation Report No. 15 Kalanghan.

  This announcement had been made to inform FSM Social Security Monthly beneficiaries who obtain your monthly benefits at the Pohnpei SS Branch Office.  FSM Social Security checks for the month of May 2020 are in the alphabetical first name order.  For those that have your monthly pensions issued at Pohnpei Branch Office, the following are the designated days and the first name letters that all should comply with: May 26:  Tuesday, first name letter A to D May 27:  Wednesday, first name letter E to K May 28:  Thursday, first name letter L to P And on May 29:  Friday, first name letter Q to Z For those who have your monthly pensions issued at Banks, Post Office and other Institutions will be available on May 29, Friday at the respective Institutions mentioned above. Kindly observe and respect the pre-cautions for COVID-19 so that distribution days will go smoothly and peacefully. Thank you all. Pakair sang FSM Social Security, Pohnpei Branch ong koaros me kin ketiki sapwelimawmail imwin sounpwong ni Ohpis wet, (General Delivery) Pohnpei Branch.  Patodahn check en imwin sounpwong en May pahn tepida wiawi Ni Are, May 26, 2020 oh pahn imwisekla Ni Alem May 29, 2020.   Patodahn check pwukat pahn patohda nin duwen mwohmw me wiawier nan soupwong en March, 2020.   Tepin mwahr de ahd akan kan me pahn doadoak.   Eri iet rahn akan oh tepin mwahr de ahd akan me kosondier:   Ni-Are:  May 26, 2020 – Mesen inting A oh imwsekla D Ni-Esil:  May 27, 2020 – Mesen inting E oh imwsekla K Ni-Epeng: May 28, 2020 – Mesen inting L oh imwsekla P Oh Ni-Alem:  May 29, 2020 – Mesen inting Q oh imwsekla Z   Koaros me kin ketiki nan Posto, nan Bank, Nan Institution teikan pahn ketiki Ni-Alem wasa pwukat me kumwail ketin kelelehdier me iei wasa me kumwail kin kektki ie.   Pwehki Pohnpei eh ketket nan irair en doare soumwahu COVID-19, kongongpen wiawihdahn sapwelmamwail bank account pwehki sahpis en direct deposit me keieu konehng nan ansou apwal wet. Sapwelimamwail imwin sounpwong kan pahn kin inenla de direct deposit nan sapwelimamwail account a kaidehn ni address me pato likin bank account.   Komw pwarodo ansou mwadang ni Ohpis en Social Security oh audehda “Change of Address” oh ketkihdi sapwelimomwi bank account. Ma mie sapwelimomwi iren kalelapak, a komwi wehwehdo pwehki ehu pene en kak mie. Komw kak doadoangki delepwohn nempe 320-2709 de 320-2181 de email address:  pohnpeissa@mail.fm      Kalahngan.   Kalahngan.     Image by cwhrtmnn from Pixabay

Enginkehlap News Excerpts 12-20 for the week of May 18 –  22, 2020 For the Pohnpeian version: Click here to listen. Monday, May 18, 2020, Governor Oliver received a courtesy call from Mr. Shibata Shinji, JICA Micronesia Resident Representative. The purpose of Mr. Shinji’s visit was to bid farewell to Governor Oliver and inform him that his successor has been identified but will not be able to arrive until travel restrictions are lifted to enter Pohnpei.  In the meantime, Mr. Shinji assured Governor Oliver that JICA Micronesia will continue operations manned by three local staff.  Governor Oliver thanked Mr. Shinji and JICA Micronesia for their many years of support to Pohnpei.   Monday, May 18, 2020, Governor Oliver convened a meeting to coordinate the construction and stand up of the Medical Monitoring Area (MMA) in Dekehtik.  The MMA, when completed, will house quarantine and isolation facilities for those who are returning to Pohnpei from COVID19 infected areas.  The meeting included members of the Pohnpei State COVID-19 Task Force and members of the Governor’s cabinet.  As Chairman for the Ad Hoc sub-committee of the COVID-19 Task Force, Lieutenant Governor Perman will lead coordination efforts to build up the MMA as soon as possible with the help of Pohnpei Port Authority (PPA), Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC), Office of Transporation and Infrastructure, Department of Health and Social Services and Pohnpei Transportation Authority (PTA).    Monday, May 18, 2020, COVID-19 Task Force chairperson, Dr. Marcelle Gallen, joined the US Ambassador to FSM, H.E. Carmen Cantor, and the U.S. Navy Seabees at the Medical Monitoring Area (MMA) in Dekehtik.  Dr. Gallen was there to receive the turnover of the latest shower/toilet facilities built by the U.S. Navy Seabees.  The next set of shower/toilet facilities are expected to be completed in two weeks.   Wednesday, May 20, 2020, a joint leadership conference was held between the Executive Branch and the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature (PSL) at the Governor’s conference room.  The purpose of the joint conference was to discuss corporate land leases and other urgent issues.  At the conclusion of the conference, the 10th PSL pledged to work with the Executive Department on standardizing land lease rates for corporate and private businesses.   Wednesday, May 20, 2020, Governor Oliver signed into law, Legislature Bill No. 62-20, which was passed by the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature appropriating an amount of $114,300.00 for the procurement of furniture and basic medical equipment to complete the Dispensary in Saladahk U Municipality.  The needed items will enable the Dispensary to open soon.  A Memo was issued May 21, 2020, from the Governor’s office reminding Departments and Agencies in the Pohnpei State Government of the proper and legal use of Government vehicles.  The memo also designates the Lieutenant Governor to be in charge of vehicle permit requests.  The use of Government vehicles for other than official purposes is prohibited.     On Friday, May 22, 2020, the Pohnpei State COVID-19 Task Force met with representatives from Pohnpei Catholic School and Calvary Christian Academy.  The school representatives came to ask the Task Force for permission to hold limited graduation ceremonies for their students.  They also presented graduation plans that are aligned with Pohnpei State’s advisory on public gatherings.  The Task Force thanked the school representatives for their request and were happy to allow the graduation ceremonies that will follow strict social distancing guidelines in line with Pohnpei State’s advisory on public gatherings. 

Kaselehlie Maingko. Following the temporary closure of borders and extensive travel restrictions imposed by countries because of the current COVID-19 pandemic, we are aware that some Pohnpei residents are currently stranded in Guam and Hawaii and are eager to return home. The Pohnpei State Government empathizes with these affected individuals particularly in these challenging times and more importantly appreciates their patience while the government takes bold steps to facilitate their quick travel back home. Thank you for your enduring spirits!  Your quick return home and reunification with your families is very important to us. While there is no specific confirmed date yet for your travel back home, we would like to assure you that the Pohnpei State Government is actively working with the National Government and relevant entities to ensure your return home as soon as possible. In the meantime, we would like to encourage all affected and interested persons to kindly contact the nearest FSM Consulate Office (see phone numbers below) if not already done so, to register their Name; Passport Number; Date of birth; Age; Purpose of travel; Original intended travel date back to Pohnpei; Number of people you are traveling with (e.g. as a family), copy of itinerary or flight booking and contact details. This registration list will be used to coordinate flights into Pohnpei with United Airlines, the FSM National Government, and Pohnpei State Government.  Please note that you are still responsible for your own travel costs, i.e. purchasing your own ticket.  You will be required to be tested for COVID-19 before you depart.  Testing will be arranged and paid for by the FSM National Government.  Consulate staff will provide further details on testing when you register.  Upon arrival in Pohnpei, you will also be required to go through the Pohnpei State Department of Health and Social Services protocols for medical screening and mandatory quarantine for a minimum of 14 days in a designated quarantine facility. More information will be provided in due time. For further inquiries, please call below numbers: FSM Consulate General Guam (671) 646-9154 FSM Consulate Office Hawaii (808) 836-4775 Kalahngan and please be safe! Pohnpeian Translation to follow.

Kaselehlie Maingko, Please find the latest COVID-19 situation report from the Pohnpei State Department of Health and Social Services, Situation Report No. 11: To download the PDF version:  Click SitRep#11 Kalanghan

Kaselehlie Maingko, Please find the latest COVID-19 situation report from the Pohnpei State Department of Health and Social Services, Situation Report No. 10: To download the PDF version, click  SitRep#10 Kaselehlie O Kalanghan

Kaselehlie Maingko, Please find the latest COVID-19 situation report from the Pohnpei State Department of Health and Social Services, Situation Report No. 9: To download the PDF version SitRep#9 Kalanghan O Kaselehlie

Kaselehlie Maingko, Please find the latest COVID-19 situation report from the Pohnpei State Department of Health and Social Services. To download the PDF version CLICK HERE. You can also visit the Pohnpei State Department of Health and Social Services website: https://psdhs.fm/   Kalanghan O Kaselehlie

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Please refer to the posted document,  Pohnpei’s Constitutional Emergency Order (CEO) 20-02, signed May 11, 2020, by Governor Reed B. Oliver, declaring and continuing a state of emergency for the state of Pohnpei in response to the continuous and imminent threat of COVID-19. Unless revoked or amended sooner, this Constitutional Emergency Order is valid for a period of thirty (30) days counting from May 10, 2020. You can also download the PDF File: Pohnpei CEO No 20-02