On Wednesday, March 2, 2022, Governor Oliver held the first-ever virtual oath of office administration for a board or commission member in the Pohnpei State Government. Ms. MaryAnn Eperiam was sworn into the Board of Directors for the Pohnpei Port Authority (PPA). She was sworn in from Yap where she is currently on duty-travel for her current position as Program Manager for the North Pacific, Australian Volunteers Program. Joining Governor Oliver in Pohnpei was Acting General Manager of PPA, Mr. Zorro Donre, Chairperson of the PPA Board of Directors, Mrs. Limanman Helgenberger, Seaport Manager Mr. Baron Mendiola, Airport Manager Mr. Ronald Reyes, Acting Marketing Manager, Mr. Coltrick Albert, and family members of Ms. Eperiam. Governor Oliver congratulated Ms. Eperiam on her nomination and members of her family for joining the event. Governor Oliver also noted the medium in which Ms. Eperiam’s swearing-in took place, a first for Pohnpei. He thanked Speaker Yamaguchi and the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature and members of the PPA Board of Directors and Administration, for their support of Ms. Eperiam’s nomination and confirmation. Chairperson of the PPA Board of Directors, Mrs. Limanman Helgenberger delivered congratulatory remarks welcoming Ms. Eperiam to the Board of Directors and recognizing Ms. Eperiam’s important work with gender issues. Ms. Eperiam closed the virtual event with gratitude and appreciation to Governor Oliver, 10th Pohnpei State Legislature for their support.

On Friday, March 4, 2022, Governor Oliver welcomed H.E. Carmen Cantor, U.S. Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), and members of her staff, Defense Attache, U.S. Navy Commander Thomas Price, and Political Officer Roger Chuang to Peilapalap, Kolonia. During their discussions, Ambassador Cantor congratulated Governor Oliver on the recent signing of legislation to make March 8, a public holiday to mark and observe International Women’s Day. They also spoke briefly on repatriation activities and about vaccination levels in Pohnpei, with Ambassador Cantor inviting Governor Oliver to their next vaccination campaign on March 18, 2022, at the U.S. Embassy parking lot. Governor Oliver thanked Ambassador Cantor and the U.S. Government for their continuing support and assistance and invited her to the Governor’s State of the State message, on Thursday, April 10, 2022, at the Pohnpei State Legislature chamber. Joining Governor Oliver to welcome Ambassador Cantor was Chief of Staff, Kapilly Capelle, Public Affairs Officer Peteriko Hairens, Public Information Officer Patrick Pedrus, and WD&ST Trainee Shane Celestine. Vaccination levels for Pohnpei can be found here: https://sites.google.com/…/moderna-vaccine-administration

On Monday, March 7, 2022, Governor Oliver attended the 57th day of the seventh regular session of the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature to mark the swearing-in of Senator Shelten Neth as the President of the Association of Pacific Island Legislatures (APIL) The short ceremony was streamed LIVE online. Floor Leader Hudson Abraham was the Master of Ceremonies. Senator Mitaro Simina, also a member of the APIL opened the ceremony with a prayer of gratitude and blessing. Senator Ricky Carl delivered welcoming remarks. He welcomed Wasalapalap Isipahu, Nahnmwarki of Madolenihmw, Governor Oliver, Acting Chief Justice Nickontro Johnny, and all the honored guests, including the family of Senator Shelten to this very important event. After being sworn in by Acting Chief Justice Nickontro Johnny, with his wife Mrs. Evelynn Neth holding their family Bible, Senator Neth expressed his extreme appreciation and gratitude for the honor to serve as the President of the Association of Pacific Island Legislatures. Speaker Yamaguchi congratulated Senator Neth on this important position and chose Vice Speaker McGarry Miguel to fill in the vacant spot that was created when Senator Neth became President for APIL. He explained that each Legislative body in the APIL provides two members. The other member from Pohnpei is Senator Simina. Congratulations to Senator Shelten Neth, APIL President. The APIL is a regional organization committed to working together on matters of mutual concern and interest. The APIL, formed in 1981, is comprised of legislative representatives from 12 island governments: American Samoa, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas, Island of Guam, FSM State of Chuuk, FSM State of Kosrae, FSM State of Pohnpei, FSM State of Yap, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Republic of Palau, The state of Hawaii, Republic of Nauru, Republic of Kiribati According to their website, the APIL meets regularly to consider matters in areas where regional cooperation, coordination, exchange, and assistance may help governments achieve their goals through collective action. More information on APIL can be found at their website: https://www.apilpacific.com/index.htm

Statement by Honorable Ieske K. Iehsi, Former FSM Secretary of Foreign Affairs, on the The occasion of the Bestowal of the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun upon him, at the Embassy of Japan, February 25, 2022.   In keeping with the traditional customs of our respective nations, please permit me to preface my statement by paying my OJIGI to His Majesty the Emperor of Japan and my customary respects to the Traditional Chiefs of Pohnpei and the FSM.   Your Excellency MICHIGAMI, Hisashi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan, Governor Oliver, President Haglelgam, Deputy Secretary Cantero, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen.   I cannot begin to say how surreal an experience this is … a son of Micronesia was just being honored by a personal representative of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan–this is recognition beyond comprehension.   And for those of us who have Japanese ancestry – and are profoundly grateful for it – this is a particularly poignant moment. For me personally, I feel like the spirits of my MASAOKA family ancestors are at this very moment standing elatedly at attention, just as I am today. I am deeply grateful to His Majesty the Emperor and the Government of Japan for gracing me with this highest honor for a foreigner.   This Imperial honor makes the point that our two peoples have much in common.  We are both island peoples – we look to the sea for our sustenance, and for our future.  We both understand, cherish, practice and live the importance of tradition and ceremony.  We both place value on an individual’s honor and integrity. We understand that honor and integrity are truly a man or woman’s bond.  And we both are peoples with long memories. We do not forget who are our friends, even with the passage of time.   I have had the honor of serving my country in a number of leadership roles from the earliest days of independence. And whether it has been as an assistant and advisor to the president, or as foreign secretary, or in the private sector in recent years, it has always been with the knowledge that Japan is, one of our oldest, closest and truest friends.   Thus, it has been a natural instinct to look for ways to strengthen the bonds of friendship between our two countries and peoples. In the process, kizuna or the relationships that bring our two nations together, cannot help but grow stronger.   Technically, we have had a formal diplomatic relationship since August 5, 1988. That was when we established formal ties. And it is a date I remember well, having served as Chief of Staff at the time to President John Haglelgam. In that position, I worked closely with the FSM Foreign Affairs Department to establish our government-to-government relationship.   I also made a modest contribution to our bilateral relations when I served as Vice Chairman of the Micronesian Maritime Authority (MMA) from 1988-1991. That was the organization that negotiated fisheries cooperative agreements with the Japanese fishing industry, and the predecessor of now NORMA. I believe both our countries mutually benefitted immensely from the implementation of a balanced approach to harvesting as well as conservation of our tuna fish resources in our waters. On this note, I must mention my appreciation in absentia, to my late Chairman of MMA who later became FSM Supreme Court Chief Justice, The Honorable Andon Amaraich, who led our FSM negotiating team and often successfully concluded our negotiations to the satisfaction of both sides, through a combination of his good personal attributes and finessed negotiation skills.   There were many other highlights. But I would rather focus on how both of our countries are better for strengthening our relations in so many ways to find common ground., I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge a Micronesian colleague who was the first citizen from our nation to be honored by His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. He is, Ambassador Kasio Mida, who headed our diplomatic mission in Tokyo. We have been friends and colleagues since independence, and I can think of no person who better exemplifies the values of kizuna than Ambassador Mida.   I also offer my heartiest gratitude to five of our former Presidents – Nakayama, Haglelgam, Olter, Nena, and Falcam – for asking me to serve in their administrations for a total of 24 years. I gratefully share this honor with my family. It has been because of their support and infinite patience that I have been able to do the things that have led to this moment. I thank them and thank everyone here today for your unwavering friendship and support.   Finally, to mark this historic occasion, I present this memento to you Ambassador MICHIGAMI. This handcrafted souvenir will serve as a permanent reminder, of our mutually strong and growing relations between Japan and the Federated States of Micronesia. Domo arigato gozaimasu.   Thank you very much, Kalahngan en kupwur koaruhsie oh Kaselehlie!

Kalahngan to Pohnpei Port Authority (PPA) for their participation in this year’s Student Takeover Day with four positions: Acting PPA General Manager – Isabella Sipos, Acting Marketing Manager – Jeffrin Saul, Airport Manager – Marmayon Santiago, and Seaport Manager – Jade Dawn Holiday. #studenttakeoverday2022 #Enginkehlap

On Friday, February 25, 2022, Governor Oliver joined former President John Haglelgam, H.E. Hisashi Michigami Japanese Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Deputy Secretary of FSM Foreign Affairs, Mr. Ricky Cantero, former FSM Ambassador to Japan, Kasio Mida and friends and family of Mr. Iehske Iehsi to honor him as he was bestowed with the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun from the Emperor and Government of Japan. Mr. Iehsi received this prestigious honor because of his many contributions to the strengthening of relations between Japan and the FSM. The decoration is awarded to individuals who have made distinguished achievements in international relations, this honor is one of the highest orders bestowed by the Japanese government. Mr. Iehsi is only the second citizen of the FSM, and first from Pohnpei, to be honored by the Emperor and Government of Japan for services to promote good relations with Japan. Ambassador Kasio Mida was bestowed with the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2019.

Governor Oliver welcomed participants and members of the public to the Joint Leadership Meeting between Executive and Legislative branches of Pohnpei State Government and 4th FSM Constitutional Convention (ConCon) Delegates at the Pohnpei State Gymnasium on Monday, February 28, 2022. The event was streamed LIVE, and available for viewing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tup4gfIHPlg Pohnpei Delegation chair IsoNahnken of Nett Hon. Salvador Iriarte was joined by delegates Ricky Cantero, Dendy Liwy, Mason Albert, Berney Martin, and Secretariat Kapilly Capelle. They updated Pohnpei State leadership on the progress of the Constitutional Convention. Two proposed amendments have been approved and will now require the citizens of the FSM to decide in a national public referendum. The two approved amendments are: 1. Threshold (3/4 to 2/3) – Amending the required number of votes to approve an amendment to the Constitution from 3/4 of the votes cast in 3/4 of the states to 2/3 of the votes cast in 3/4 of the states. 2. Dual Citizenship Still pending: 1. Allottee of public funds shall be the executive branch (President, Governors) 2. FSM Laws that provide land ownership should be nullified 3. Limit annual aggregate salary and allowance for congress members, other purposes 4. Creation of an office of independent prosecutor 5. Direct election of President and Vice President 6. Not less than 40% of all revenues collected from fishing fees to be shared with the states A question and answer session was provided after the general overview by delegation members. Wasalapalap Isipahu Nahnmarki of Madolenihmw, Likend Kelekel, Vice Speaker of FSM Congress, Hon. Esmond Moses, Pohnpei State Senator Ricky Carl, who was MC of the event, Pohnpei State Senator Jayson, and Senator Jack Harris also joined the meeting. Vice Speaker of the Pohnpei State Legislature, Hon. McGarry Miguel delivered the closing remarks. For more information on the 4th FSM ConCon, please visit their webpage at: https://constitution.gov.fm/ YOUTUBE.COM Pohnpei Leadership Meeting with Pohnpei Delegation to 4th FSM Constitutional Convention_02282022

Kalahngan to the SDA High School Debate Team. Vice Principal and Advisor, Leighton Edward and six members of the team, visited Governor Oliver on Tuesday, February 22, 2022, to ask questions relating to this year’s Law Day debate theme: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia shall enact legislation establishing a minimum wage for the FSM. The students asked questions relating to the current minimum wage in Pohnpei and any future plans on raising the wage in preparation for their upcoming debate. Governor Oliver and Ms. Shirley-Ann Ligohr, who heads Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) and secretariat for the Economic Planning Commission (EPC), advised the students that formal communications have been submitted to the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature requesting an increase to the minimum wage from $1.75 to $2.00. Governor Oliver thanked Mr. Edward and the students for their visit and their continued quest for knowledge, he congratulated the previous SDA team for winning last year’s debate and encouraged this year’s team to do their best. The first debate is scheduled for April 5, 2022, with the next debate scheduled for April 21, 2022. The team members who accompanied Mr. Edward to the Governor’s Office: Sharlynn Sakios Sophia Bacalando Sean Ruepong Noah Hadley Caitlin Nanpei

The 2nd annual Student Takeover Day successfully concluded at the PICS gymnasium on Wednesday, February 24, 2022, with a ceremony to recognize the student leaders and employers. This year also saw more student participation including special remarks at the closing ceremony by Student Governor, the Honorable Ian Perman, student reflections by July-O Saimon, Prinet Richard, Isabella Sipos, JD Nelper, Jade Dawn Holiday, Kachaena Tolenoa, and Kathleen Dacanay, and closing remarks by the Student Director of the Department of Education, Ja’cy Wes Lukan. In his closing remarks, Student Governor Perman said it was his honor to speak on behalf of Governor Oliver and conveyed gratitude and appreciation to the Department of Education for arranging the Student Takeover Day. He said the future of our country depends on the youth and this Student Takeover Day has helped to inspire, motivate and encourage the youth to be the best they can be. He closed by saying that he believed like him, most of the students that participated in this year’s Student Takeover Day will take the experiences they had to help them decide on a career path. Congratulations to all the students and employers who participated in the 2nd annual student takeover day.

On Tuesday, February 22, 2022, Governor Oliver signed L.B. No. 02-20 into State Law 10L-75-22, amending 1 PC 7-101 of the Pohnpei Code by creating a new Holiday to be known as “International Women’s Day” in recognition of Women’s Day celebrated throughout the world on March 8. Joining Governor Oliver to witness this historic occasion from the Pohnpei Women’s Council, President: Mrs. Emy Musrasrik-Carl, Vice President, Maria Donre, Secretary – Bernolina Hedson, Treasurer – Judy Shoniber Perman Mauricio, and from the Women’s Program Coordinator from the Division of Social Services, Ms. Katsandra Shed. Chief of Staff, Kapilly Capelle, Public Affairs Officer, Peteriko Hairens, and Mrs. Elsy Santos, Legislative Liaison from the Governor’s Office were also present. Congratulations Pohnpei Women’s Council and all who supported this important undertaking!

PDF file below: Sokehs Rebellion Day 2022

PDF file below: Kitti Constitution Day 2022  

STUDENT TAKEOVER DAY 2022 Governor Oliver welcomed students, Mr. Ian Perman from Calvary Christian Academy and Ms. Destiny Rose Gallen from Pohnpei Adventist High School to the Governor’s Office along with Department of Education personnel, Mr. Benjie Phillip, and Mr. Remenster Johnna on Wednesday, February 16, 2022. The students are participating in the upcoming Student Takeover Day, on February 23, 2022, and stopped by for an orientation to what will be their offices for a day. Mr. Perman is the student Governor and Ms. Gallen is the student Lt. Governor. This is the second year for Student Takeover Day. Employers from the State, National, and Non-Governmental Organizations will allow High School Seniors from public and private schools across Pohnpei to takeover, participate and experience what it is like to be in the workforce. Thank you to the following offices and organizations for their support and participation: FSM Telecommunications Corporation Department of Land Department of Treasury and Finance Pohnpei Port Authority Office of Public Auditor Pohnpei Housing Authority Environmental Protection Agency Budget Office Pohnpei FSM Social Security branch FSM Development Bank Department of Public Safety Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture Pohnpei Public Broadcasting Corporation (V6AH) Department of Health and Social Affairs National Oceanic Resources Management Authority (NORMA) Micronesian Conservation Trust Weather Station Department of Education Division of Tourism, Department of Resources and Development Micronesian Legal Services Corporation Pohnpei Transportation Authority Ohmine Elementary School Kolonia Elementary School Pohnpei Community Health Center Dispensary UNICEF Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Pohnpei Sports Development Office

On Thursday, February 10, 2022, Governor Oliver joined the Director of the Department of Education, Mr. Stanley Etse, at Palikir Elementary School for the official handover of the Japan-funded Project for Palikir School facilities. The project renovated three restrooms with over 15 toilets, 14 handwashing sinks, and draining ditch covers. Additionally covered walkways to the restrooms were also constructed. The project was funded through grant aid from the people and Government of Japan as a token of friendship and cooperation. Welcoming remarks were provided by Mr. Kasner Aldens, Palikir Elementary School PTA President. Opening prayer was provided by Deacon Mike Ioanis. H.E. Hisashi Michigami, Japanese Ambassador to the FSM, officially declared the project complete and presented a key to Governor Oliver, who then presented the key to Director Etse, Director of the Department of Education. Ambassador Michigami stated that it was an honor to help with the education of Pohnpei’s children. He spoke of Japanese culture and tradition to do your best regardless of who is watching and to respect ancestors, seniors, teachers, and traditional skills. In his remarks, Governor Oliver conveyed his deep appreciation to the people and Government of Japan for the renovated bathrooms, toilets, sinks and constructed walkways. He translated the Ambassador’s speech to the Palikir Elementary school students to explain the similarities in our cultures which include respect for our elders, and to take ownership of the contributions generously donated to the school, at all times, encouraging the students to take care of these important and generous contributions to their school. He thanked the Pohnpei State Legislature and the Department of Education for their assistance to bring forth these generous contributions to the people of Pohnpei. Also present during the handover ceremony: Principal: Francisco Ifamlik Education Committee Chair: Senator Kasinda Ludwig, Vice-Chair: Senator Mitaro Simina, and Chief of Staff, Kapilly Capelle

Chief of Staff, Mr. Kapilly Capelle, represented Governor Reed B. Oliver during Education week activities at the Kolonia/China Friendship Gym. Elementary Schools from Kolonia and Sokehs were represented and academic awards for teachers and staff were presented during the activity. Ms. Phyllis Silbanuz was the keynote speaker for the event. Drawing on this year’s theme: “Navigating with passion, collaboration, and perseverance to succeed”, she spoke of passionate educators and success. During his remarks, Chief of Staff Capelle conveyed Governor Oliver’s gratitude and appreciation for the good work that has been carried out at the Department of Education and especially with Education week activities to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of Teachers and Students. He shared the importance of Education as a means to creating a better life, explaining that it is our responsibility to do so. Congratulations to all the Students, Teachers, and Principals for navigating the school year with passion, collaboration, and perseverance to succeed. Congratulations to Ohmine Elementary School for being awarded the Statewide Competition Winner of the Year!

On the morning of Sunday, January 23, 2022, Governor Oliver and First Lady of Pohnpei, Mrs. Estle G. Oliver attended the funeral services of the late Honorable John Ehsa, 5th Governor of Pohnpei at Alohkapw Church in Madolenihmw. The actual services were held in Wichita, Kansas, USA, and streamed live to Pohnpei via video. IsoNahnken of U, Mr. Ihlen Joseph, and IsoNahnken of Madolenihmw, Mr. John Adolph also attended the event. On behalf of the Pohnpei State Government, Governor Oliver conveyed sincere and profound gratitude for the life and service of the late Honorable John Ehsa. He paid special respect to the former First Lady of Pohnpei, Ms. Julilnida Weital. Governor Oliver noted that the late Honorable John Ehsa not only contributed to Pohnpei but also to the Federated States of Micronesia during his long and distinguished public service career. He spoke of the popular motto that Governor Ehsa started during his administration, Pohnpei Met, which later gave birth to Kairoihir Ehute, which in turn gave birth to Enginkehlap which continues today. Chief of Staff, Kapilly Capelle followed Governor Oliver and read the Executive proclamation signed by Governor Oliver in honor of the late Honorable John Ehsa. IsoNahnken of U, Mr. Ihlen Joseph also said a few words to memorialize and pay tribute to the late Honorable John Ehsa, noting their long friendship and relationship from the Trust Territory times to his selection as Governor Ehsa’s Chief of Staff and State Public Auditor. Rest in Peace, late Honorable John Ehsa, Fifth Governor of the State of Pohnpei.

Governor Oliver was joined by Speaker T.H. Marvin Yamaguchi, Senator Brian Etschiet, members of the Governor’s cabinet, and Governor’s Office staff to bid farewell to Budget Officer, Leon Panuelo Jr., on Friday, January 21, 2022, at the Governor’s Office, Peilapalap, Kolonia. Mr. Panuelo has been selected for the position of FSM Social Security Administrator. Before presenting Mr. Panuelo with a certificate of appreciation for his service to the people of Pohnpei as the State Budget Officer from July 2020 to June 2022, the Governor delivered remarks. He expressed his gratitude to Mr. Panuelo for his service to the people of Pohnpei in a challenging position and congratulated him on behalf of the Speaker and Pohnpei State Government for his selection to an important position as the FSM Social Security Administrator. Mr. Panuelo thanked Governor Oliver for the opportunity to serve as the State Budget Officer and praised the staff of the Budget Office for their hard work and dedication during their time together. Congratulations and Farewell to Mr. Leon Panuelo Jr.

On Friday, January 21, 2022, the keys to two brand new toilet facilities were turned over from the U Corona Volunteers (UCV) to Awak Elementary School, Pohnpei State Department of Education. The toilet facilities include two fully functional toilets, sinks, and showers. The toilet facilities are part of UCV and the U municipality’s COVID-19 response efforts. A second pair of toilet facilities will also be installed at Saladak Elementary School. Mr. Kennely Marquez, President of UCV, turned over the keys to the toilet facilities to the Pohnpei State Department of Education, Chief of Primary Schools, Mr. Peter Ramirez. Joining the ceremony to witness the handover was Vice Speaker of the FSM Congress, T.H. Esmond Moses, Chief Minister of U Municipality, T.H. Rufino Primo, Senators T.H. Stevenson Joseph, and T.H. Sonster Edgar of the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature. The facilities were constructed with donations from the FSM Congress and the U Municipal Government. UCV is a group of local volunteers from U municipality who have dedicated their time and energy to help U’s COVID-19 response efforts. Their efforts have included addressing food security through the teaching and preparation of local foods like “mahr”, vaccination efforts, and this recent turnover of toilet facilities to Awak Elementary School and another set of toilet facilities for Saladak Elementary School that will be done soon. As part of UCV’s COVID-19 response plans, both elementary schools in U have been designated as quarantine sites in the event of community transmission of COVID-19.