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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Congratulations to Nanpei Memorial High School (NMHS)! The winners of the 2nd annual Jeopardy High School competition. NMHS won with 100 points in an academic competition that included subjects like math, social studies, writing, and Pohnpei studies.  Other high schools that participated included PICS High School, Madolenihmw High School, PCS High School, SDA High School, Our Lady of Mercy High School, and Calvary Christian Academy (CCA). The Honorable Herolyn Movick, Pohnpei State Senator and Chairperson of the Public Works, Transportation, and Communication Committee delivered remarks during the opening ceremony.  She noted that while the students are competing in a game today but the same principles they are using to win the competition are the same principles that apply in the real world, “the foundation is built upon from elementary to high school and college and then to the real work: hard work, dedication, and determination.” The Honorable Reed B. Oliver, Governor of the State of Pohnpei also delivered remarks before the competition. He spoke of timing and being punctual as being a way to show respect. Governor Oliver told the students that whatever the students achieve in the competition, they are all great and the best of their schools. He noted that education is a lifetime process and is very proud of each of the students, hoping that this competition will continue in the coming years. After the competition which was held at the Pohnpei Gymnasium (PICS gym), the students were treated to a luncheon where trophies were awarded along with a banner to the winning team to hang proudly at their school.   1st Place: Nanpei Memorial High School 2nd Place: SDA High School 3rd Place: Our Lady of Mercy High School  

Thank you to the Director of the Department of Education, Mr. Stanley Etse, and education employees for putting together another successful Education week.  The theme for this year was: “Endless education commitment ensures and promotes all learning capacities” Which was then translated into Pohnpeian as “Tukehn wahr tipwitipw, wahr seisi” a cultural reference to never giving up and always moving forward in spite of circumstances. Starting in Pohnlangas Gym in Madolenihmw to Pehleng Elementary School in Kitti then Sekere Gymnasium in Sokehs, and finally at the PICS High School cafeteria, students, teachers, staff, and parents were recognized for their hard work and dedication during the previous school year. Students who excelled academically with 4.0 Grade Point Averages, had perfect attendance and those who competed and excelled in academic competitions during the school year were given certificates and prizes for their efforts.  Teachers, Resource teachers, cooks, and school bus drivers were recognized for their dedication and perseverance to the education of our youth. Governor Oliver attended each of the events across the island, along with the Director of Education members of the Board of Education, Parent-Teacher Associations, resident diplomatic representatives, and local dignitaries. Keynote speakers shared positive and encouraging messages with students, teachers, and parents present.  On the first day, Board of Education member Ms. Phyllis Silbanuz delivered the keynote address, focusing on commitment and obligation. On the second day in Kitti, Mr. Pressler Martin, formerly the Chief of Curriculum and Instruction at DOE, delivered the keynote remarks, addressing the theme of education week.  On the third day, Pastor Kihleng from the Baptist Church delivered the keynote address on reliability.  The final keynote speaker was Senator Sonster Edgar from the 10th Pohnpei Legislature. Congratulations to the students, teachers, and staff of Pohnpei schools for all your hard work and dedication.

Governor Oliver met with Mr. Russell Figueras, Principal of Our Lady of Mercy High School (OLMCHS) on January 17, 2023. Governor Oliver, who is also the Honorary Consul for the State of Israel in the Federated States of Micronesia, congratulated Mr. Figueras and wished him the best as he departed for Israel to begin a training course in Israel on “Innovative Strategies” organized by the MASHAV Educational Training Center, Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.   The training course will provide among other things, innovative teaching methods for specific subject matters (science, language, etc.), as well as interdisciplinary subject areas, enabling participants to choose the methods and tools suitable to the particular needs of their environments. Accompanying Mr. Figueras from OLMCHS were Sr. Krista Namio and Sr. Paula Ishikawa. Director of the Department of Education, Mr. Stanley Etse, Chief of Primary Schools, Mr. Peter Ramirez, and Public Affairs Officer Peteriko Hairens were also present.   Congratulations to Mr. Figueras!

On Friday, January 13, 2023, Governor Oliver welcomed the Mile A Day (MAD) Moms to the Governor’s Office for a turnover of donated items to the Pohnpei State Hospital pediatric and maternity wards.  Senator Brian Etscheit, Chairman of the Health Committee at the Pohnpei State Legislature was also present at the turnover, along with Senator Jayson Walter, Chief of Hospital Administration Mrs. Merihter Elias Etse, and Chief of Hospital Supply Mr. Salter Etse Jr.   Mrs. Sophia Pretrick represented the MAD Moms and delivered remarks during the turnover.  She shared the history of the MAD Moms group and a recent challenge called the RUNSTREAK challenge that garnered $7,582.25 in donations from sponsors.  These donations were used to purchase items that were then donated to the Pediatric and Maternity wards.  Mrs. Pretrick shared details of their RUNSTREAK challenge that started in November and ran for 39 days ending in December, covering the most tempting and busy times of the year.  The challenge was to walk a mile a day for 39 days and have sponsors pay $1 a day or more.  Mrs. Pretrick reminded everyone that one action can cause a ripple effect, and each of the participants of the RUNSTREAK challenge took action every day.   Governor Oliver expressed his deep appreciation and gratitude to the MAD Moms for their generous donations.  He praised their initiative to not only stay healthy during the holidays but also turn their efforts into something that benefits others.  Their donations not only included items for patients on the pediatric and maternity ward but also wheelchairs, thermoscans, and stethoscopes for healthcare providers.  Senator Brian Etscheit also delivered remarks to express his deep appreciation and gratitude.  He likened their efforts to the “butterfly effect” where one action affects many others.   Dr. Nora Liwy, Chief of the Medical Services Division at the Pohnpei State Hospital, also thanked the MAD Moms for their donations on behalf of the patients and staff of the hospital.  Dr. Liwy noted that the donations are exactly what mothers and newborns need in the pediatric and maternity wards.  On behalf of the Director of the Department of Health Services, Chief of Hospital Administration, Merihter Elias Etse, extended sincere gratitude to the MAD Moms for their generous donations.   Congratulations and thank you to the following participants and sponsors:   #FSMRunStreak22- Participants and SPONSORS: Kalangan LAP Amytz Tom Anna Pelep Ashley Leigh ($665.00)- Cheeney Ludwig, Snowii’s, Velisa/Derick Dainard, Cardi Joel, Alice Etse, Anonymous (4) Brandon Tarra, Nixon Higgins, Janet Gompers Belinda Bel Benny Henry ($40.00)- Joan Ching Brigeen Lawrence ($100.00)- Maiti Kepinle Celine Oliver- ($156.00)- Estelle Oliver, Pakalolo, Kuaine, Estein Oliver Charlene Abraham- Cheeny Ludwig- Different cause/(sponsor) Chris M Lebehn ($140.00)- Leilani Welly Biza, Dipwin Lih Cutelynn Eliou ($339.00)- Senator Herolyn Movick, Lovana Edward, Eugene Joshua, Melynda Irons, Rusen Eliou, Wetsin Pelep, Ryan Eliou, Stephanie E. Eliou Dwaila Falcam- Ehsa Jocy Anson- ($557.00)- Serlinda Soukon, Lorlain Oliver, Eileen Luda, Alvin, Keiki Nanpei, Myree Daniel Ehsa, Pedrus Ehsa Jr. Ricky, Corner Treats Clean Ice Cube, Corner Treat Retail, Rose, Dr, Nora Liwy, Junsuh Ehsa Else Rout and Team Young and the Breathless- ($39.00)- Brandon Tarra Ensyleen Johnson Erlyn Pelep Eutynijo Panuelo ($239.00) Maria Welch and Jordan Panuelo Ez Mar Flynn Boss ($40.00)- Rainbow Zumba Glenn Primoo (45.00)- Self Sponsored Irene Primo Yamada- ($39.00) -Char Neth Ivy Mariano- ($39.00)- Maria Mauricio Vengelynn Andon Amusten ($39.00)- Maria Mauricio Janelle Anson ($277.00)- Pelihda Anson, Sammy Moses, Clancy, Brad Philip, Wefonne, Kamile, Brandon Tarra Joan Ching- ($90.00) -Benny Henry, Self-Sponsored Joice Henry Peter ($219.00)- Char Neth, Dr. Santiago, Anonymous Jo Lynne Gallen ($231.00)- William Kostka, Niqui Peterson, Aline Hankey, Natalie Nimmer, Winfred Mudong, Santiago Joab, Jr. Jovee Philip- Julyn Shoniber Perman Kaping Hinga Korihna Carius Lane Zhu Julein w/Different cause Lane Jano Lapake Oalipip Lioanoai- ($50.00) Self-Sponsored Lynn Lohn Lynn Martin- ($80.00) Melora Albert, Dae Marie David, Mark David Maiti Kepinle- Maria Mauricio- ($122.00) Self-Sponsored Welensin and Leilane Marmelyn Panuelo ($44.00) Kyle Panuelo Marsy Maruame @McClain Gilmete ($100.00) Jared Morris & Tracy Ardos Mer-Jer Wendolin Melissa Ponens Wendolin- Melynda D Irons – ($129.25) Kyle Panuelo, Cindy David Iriarte, Jocy Anson Ehsa Merly Leopold- ($39.00) Self-Sponsored Mihla Mak Bexley Mei Mihne Pretrick- ($50.00) Glen Primo Minerva Milane Stephen Pablo- ($78.00) Dorothy Stephen and Celine Oliver Nanmadol Pohnpei- ($280.00) Joan Ching, Robert Weilbacher Jr., Troy Weilbacher, AAliya Weilbacher, Uni Yamase Lawrence, Sue Napo Donre Pauline E. Panuelo- ($100.00 & 100cups in-kind donation by FSM Bank) Leon Panuelo, Jr., Eula Panuelo Pearl Habuchmai Olter-Pelep Pedra Panuelo Archer – (150.00) Self-Sponsored Pelihda David- Roslinda Harris Ryan Edgar Sandra Anson- ($39.00) Kyle Panuelo Santos Cantero Serlihda Soukon- Suhle Weilbacher Tamara Greenstone-Alefaio Tarz N Lilly- ($500.00) Tindia Gisell Thelma P. Higgins – ($50.00) Fiona Isotoff Tracen Agrippa Olter Kemelios Huston Jim Verna- ($89.00) – Char Neth, Self-Sponsored Yolanda Yamada Nanpei- ($80.00)- Lynn Lel Yamada, Yoriko Nanpei Yolina Yamada Irons- ($80.00) Lynn Lel Yamada, Anonymous Yukleen Yoma Yuleen Nanpei Perman- ($2,228.00) Snowii’s, Cheeny Ludwig, Kyle Panuelo, Stephanie Ritland, William Kostka, Seni Hainrick, Shanty Sigrah Asher, Joella Joab-Olkeriil, the Baby Shop, Fiona Isotoff, Tamara Greenstone-Alefaio, Juleen Kai Kanai, Ikaika Isotoff, Phylicia Isotoff, Chelle Kamber, Quincy Perman aka Keanu Reeves, Casmira Mix, June Neth, Tish Abe, Lorrain William, Troy Travis Pelep, Eddie Musrasrik, Chelsea Rion, Jared Morris, Greg Reffner, Napo Donre, Maria Welch, Gustin Kohler, Rospein Marcella Peterson #sponsporsupdate #pediatricward #CharityMiles

On January 10, 2023, Governor Oliver received the Committee to Wait on the Governor.  On behalf of the Speaker of the 10th Pohnpei Legislature, Marvin T. Yamaguchi, Chairman of the Committee, Senator Stevenson Joseph called on Governor Oliver to inform him that Legislature started their first regular session of 2023 on January 9, 2023, for 60 days and to discuss areas of mutual interest and concern.  Accompanying Chairman Joseph were Committee member Senator Sendilina Lekka and Legislative staff Serleen Hadley Walliby.     Governor Oliver and Chairman Joseph briefly discussed items including the compact of free association negotiations, run-off election, election law amendments, and awareness efforts of the eight proposed constitutional amendments.       Governor Oliver informed Chairman Joseph that awareness efforts for the constitutional amendments will begin shortly at the community level. He shared outcomes of recent meetings with Constitutional Convention (ConCon) delegates, Noahs U Mason Albert, and Mr. Tendy Liwy to discuss strategies moving forward.  Governor Oliver advised Chairman Joseph that he looks forward to hearing from Pohnpei’s representatives on the Joint Committee on Compact Review and Planning for compact negotiations, whom he has already contacted to provide an update to both the executive and legislative branches.     Governor Oliver advised Chairman Joseph that a run-off election for the Lt. Governor’s seat is scheduled for January 17, 2023.  He also wanted to follow up on transmitted requests for proposed amendments to the election law to allow early voting times and closing of polling stations at 5 pm vs. 7 pm.       Governor Oliver thanked Chairman Joseph, Senator Lekka, and Ms. Walliby for their visit and the opportunity to share updates between the Legislative and Executive branches.  

On January 5, 2023, Governor Oliver attended a ceremony at the Embassy of Japan in Kolonia for the turnover of a $252,000 cheque from the Embassy of Japan to the Pohnpei State Government, Department of Education.  The amount which was sourced from the Embassy of Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots human security project will go towards the construction of a gymnasium at the Saladak Elementary School in U.     In his remarks, the Ambassador of Japan to the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), H.E. Hisashi Michigami expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity through this project to contribute to the economic development and welfare of the people of the FSM, particularly in U.  Ambassador Michigami noted that in addition to having a place for children to play during the rain, the gymnasium will also benefit the community as a site for meetings and emergency shelter.  Ambassador Michigami ended his remarks with the good news that Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) volunteers will be returning soon to the FSM to assist with other projects and technical assistance and hoped that exchanges between our people will be back to normal.     Governor Oliver delivered closing remarks for the ceremony echoing Ambassador Michigami’s remarks on the great benefits of the gymnasium to the people of U and Pohnpei.  He expressed his sincere gratitude to Ambassador Michigami and the staff of the Japan Embassy for all their work and assistance to the people of Pohnpei over the years including the Palikir Elementary School project and for upcoming projects like the Pohnpei Port expansion and Nan Madol Information Center projects.  He acknowledged the work of the Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) Coordinator, Ms. Shirley Ann Ligohr, and her counterparts at the Japanese Embassy for their coordination and cooperation on this project.     Also present for the ceremony was the Speaker of the 10th Pohnpei Legislature, Marvin T. Yamaguchi, Secretary of the FSM Department of Finance Administration, Hon. Eugene Amor, Pohnpei Senator Sonster Edgar, and  Pohnpei Senator Stevenson Joseph, Chief Minister of U, Rofino Primo and his wife, Speaker of U Council Olter Andon, Principal of Saladak Elementary School, Mr. Joseph Amor, Director of the Department of Treasury and Administration, Ms. Christina Elnei, Acting Director of the Department of Education Mr. Peter Ramirez, Public Affairs Officer Mr. Peteriko Hairens, Local Government Liaison Officer Ms. Suannrida Ladore, Protocol Officer and Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Emerson Eperiam.  

Governor Reed B. Oliver has declared Welfred H. Edmund as receiving the most votes in the special election for Nett’s delegation to the Pohnpei Legislature. The announcement comes after the Election Commissioner’s certification of the results of the 2022 special election. According to the Election Commissioner, Mr. Edmund received a majority of the votes cast in the special election, which was held to fill a vacancy in the Nett delegation. The special election was conducted in accordance with the laws and regulations of the State of Pohnpei, and the results were certified as accurate and legitimate.  

Staff from the Governor’s Office led by Public Affairs Officer Peteriko Hairens trekked across Pohnpei via the main circumferential road to spread Christmas cheer and candy to children in Sokehs, Kitti, Madolenihmw, U, Nett and Kolonia.   Kalahngan to the children of all ages that came out to collect candy. Kalahngan to the Department of Public Safety for escorting this movement. Kalahngan to V6AH for your continuous updates that informed the public of the Christmas candy drop location. Special Kalahngan to Senator Jayson Walter for coming along to support this effort.