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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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:

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.      

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

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.

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.

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)

Thank you to JICA Micronesia Office for the courtesy call on Governor Oliver by the Preparatory Survey Team from JICA Tokyo for “The Project for Pohnpei Port Expansion”. Pohnpei State looks forward to the expansion of the Dekehtik port with the help and support of the Government and people of Japan.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.