On September 1, 2020, Governor Oliver and Lt. Governor Perman met with the Board of Directors and the Management staff of the Small Business Guarantee Finance Corporation (SBGFC). The purpose of the meeting was to update the Governor, Lt. Governor, and cabinet members present on the current status of this state-owned subsidiary/corporation. The meeting was significant because it was the first meeting the leadership of this corporation had with the new leadership of the Pohnpei State Government. It is a very important program created by state law to strengthen private sector development. SBGFC not only provides or secures financial capital needed for business development but equally important serves as a capacity-building outfit for entrepreneurial and business management skills for business owners. In attendance with Governor Oliver and Lt. Governor Perman was Director of the Department of Resources and Development, Mr. Hubert Yamada, Director of Treasury and Administration, Ms. Christina Elnei, Public Affairs Officer, Mr. Kapilly Capelle, and State Budget Officer, Mr. Leon Panuelo, Jr. SBGFC was represented by the Chairman of the Board, Mr. Salvason Salvador, Board Members Mr. Joseph Felix Jr., and Mr. Rullens Phillip with Mr. Thomas Pablo Administrator and Mr. Kerman representing the management. Governor Oliver thanked the Executive Director and Board for their presentation. Noting the presence of other lending institutions in Pohnpei, he asked what can SBGFC do, in addition to their lending programs, to help the people of Pohnpei realize economic goals and enhance their living standards. Specifically, Governor Oliver asked about providing financial education on how to start up a business, file taxes, read and prepare financial statements, book-keeping, and other business fundamentals. SBGFC’s mandate is to provide, promote, develop and widen in both scope and service reach, various alternative modes of financing for small enterprises including, but not limited to direct and indirect project lending, venture capital, financial leasing, secondary mortgage, and/or re-discounting of loan papers to small business. SBGFC is attached to the State Department of Resources and Development. For more information on SBGFC and their programs, call 320-2968.  

On Friday, August 28, 2020, Governor Oliver was paid a courtesy visit by Mr. Autry Waguk and three trainees from the Department of Education’s Workforce Development and Skills Training Program (WD & ST). Mr. Waguk and his trainees shared their recent harvest of vegetables with Governor Oliver and Lt. Governor Perman. The harvest included cucumbers, eggplants, red and green peppers, green onions, and other vegetables. Governor Oliver thanked Mr. Waguk and the trainees for their visit highlighting the importance of agriculture to health. He encouraged and supported agriculture not only as a profession but also as an important skill for food security, especially during this global pandemic and for future generations. Mr. Waguk explained that he also teaches agriculture and farming skills to elementary school students across Pohnpei. The harvest yielded by Mr. Waguk and his trainees also supplement the school lunch program at all Early Childhood Education (ECE) centers in Pohnpei. Mr. Waguk was accompanied by trainees Relian Saimon, Jaylee Barnabas and Marlo Kallop The Workforce Development and Skills Training program train the youth to develop and acquire the skills for employment and to be self-sufficient. The services are designed and delivered in a manner that maintains focus and relevant career development, education alignment, and job placement. For more information please contact the Department of Education at 320-2103.

The newly appointed Board of Land Trustees for the Administration of Public Lands held their inaugural meeting on August 25, 2020, 9:30 am at the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Director of the Department of Land and Natural Resources Hon. Peter Lohn (Wasahi Sokehs) and key staff were also present for the inaugural meeting. The purpose of this inaugural meeting was to organize the new Board as follows: Chairman – Mr. John Nakanaga Vice-Chairperson- Mrs. Antonia Primo Moses (Likend U) Secretary – Mr. Patterson Shed Trustee – Mr. Lewis Santos Trustee – Mr. Wayne Mendiola Jr. Trustee – Mr. Max Lebehn Trustee – Mr. Esirom Neth The Pohnpei State Public Land Trustee Board of Trustees is now set to conduct business with the first regular meeting scheduled for September 9, 2020. Photos: Courtesy of Mr. Patterson Shed

On August 27, 2020, Governor Oliver, Lt. Governor Perman, and Director of the Department of Treasury and Administration, Christina Elnei attended the Pacific Islands Development Bank (PIDB) Board of Governors Annual Meeting. It was conducted virtually. The agenda items for the meeting included Bank´s Operations, Strategic Initiatives, Budget and Financial Statements, Loan Portfolios, and Delinquency Reports. The PIDB Board of Governors is ultimately responsible for overseeing the Bank´s activities and administration, although, in practice, they delegate many of those responsibilities to the Board of Directors. The Pacific Islands Development Bank (PIDB) is a sub-regional financial institution established to assist member countries/island jurisdictions in their economic development endeavors through its lending and assistant programs. Current members include Pohnpei State, Chuuk State, Yap State, Kosrae State, Territory of Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Republic of Palau, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. For more information, you can visit the PIDB website at https://pacificidb.com/ or contact the Public Information Officer at phone number: 320-2235 or email:pohnpeipublicinformation@gmail.com

On August 24, 2020, the Honorable Reed B. Oliver, Governor of Pohnpei State attended the opening ceremony for the Pohnpei State Department of Public Safety Police Academy 20-20, at the Pohnpei State Division of Fire and Rescue building. In his special remarks to the cadets of Police Academy 20-20, Governor Oliver thanked Director of Public Safety, Mr. Patrick Carl, for putting together the Police Academy this year. With 24 recruits from the state, national and municipal jurisdictions, Governor Oliver noted that this sort of cooperation strengthens existing agreements like the Joint Law Enforcement Agreement (JLEA) between state, national, and municipal Police forces. Governor Oliver shared three virtues with the cadets to help them during their training: Respect, Responsibility, and Honesty. Governor Oliver said these three virtues will not only help them during the Academy but also afterward in positions as Police Officers and in all areas. After the introduction of Academy Staff and Instructors, Police Academy 20-20 officially started, with the Instructors getting to know the cadets through an intense round of discipline and physical training. Police Academy 20-20 will run for 12 weeks. Good luck to the cadets! #Enginkehlap

On August 20, 2020, Lieutenant Governor Feliciano M. Perman represented Governor Reed B. Oliver at the Kahmar, Nett Bridge hand-over ceremony. In a symbolic hand-over of the Kahmar bridge from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM, Pohnpei State, and Nett Municipality), a framed photo of the bridge was presented by Mr. Wu of China Railway Construction Company to Ambassador Huang Zheng then to FSM Vice- President George then to Pohnpei State Lt. Governor Perman who finally handed over to the Nett District Administrator Hon. Nelsin Iriarte. H.E. Huang Zheng and T.H. Yosiwo P. George’s remarks highlighted the relationship between China and FSM founded on the bedrock of the One-China Policy. This relationship and the many infrastructure projects completed in the FSM. T.H. Yosiwo P. George, on behalf of President Panuelo, thanked Ambassador Huang and the Government of PRC for its generous assistance to the FSM. “The bridge will be a long-standing symbol of the friendship between the People’s Republic of China and the People of FSM,” he said. In his remarks, Lt. Governor Perman echoed similar sentiments expressed by Vice President George by thanking the Government of PRC for various programs and projects to Pohnpei State. In addition to Kahmar Bridge, the secondary roads and the Farm Pilot Project in Madolenihmw, the Pohnpei State Government Administration Building, and its expected renovation. Iso-Nahnken of Nett thanked Ambassador Huang Zheng and the China Railway Construction Company for the bridge on behalf of his people and his Kingdom of Nett. He noted that the completion and opening of the bridge is highly anticipated because ease of transportation is very important for the communities in Nett. Following the remarks made by the dignitaries, Nahnkeniei Nett led the spouses of the dignitaries to the Bridge and performed the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Dignitaries at the hand-over ceremony included His Royal Highness, Salvador Iriarte, Iso-Nahnken of Nett, His Excellency Huang Zheng, PRC Ambassador to FSM, Hon.Yosiwo P. George, Vice President of the FSM, Hon.Felciano M. Perman, Lt. Governor of Pohnpei State, Hon. Ausen T. Lambert, Speaker of 10th Pohnpei Legislature, Hon.Kandhi Eliesar, FSM Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Carlson D. Apis, FSM Secretary of Transportation, Communication and Infrastructure, Nett District Administrator, Hon. NelsinIriarte and Nett Municipal Chief Justice and Soukahmar Hon. Inos Ponapart.

In a short ceremony held at the Governor’s Conference Room on August 17, 2020, at 10:00 a.m., four members of the Pohnpei State Contract Review Board were sworn-in by the Governor of Pohnpei State, Hon. Reed B. Oliver.  Fr. Dave Andrus, S.J., blessed the occasion with an opening prayer.  In attendance was Iso Nahnken of Madolenihmw, Hon. John Adolph, as Administrator of the Office of Transportation and Infrastructure (T & I), Hon. Ausen T. Lambert, Speaker of the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature, Lt. Governor Perman, Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC) General Manager, Nixon Anson, spouses of members, relatives, T & I  and Governor’s Office staff. After the administration of the oath, ISO Adoph and Speaker Lambert presided over the presentation of certificates of appointments to the members as follows: 1. Mr. Quirino Loyola 2. Ms. Josephine Carl 3. Mr. Stanley Etse 4. Mr. Alex Nanpei   Governor Oliver gave brief remarks by congratulating the new Board Members and thanked Speaker Lambert and all members of the 10th Pohnpei Legislature for their blessing and support in the confirmation process. He also thanked and recognized those who were in attendance especially spouses and relatives of the members.   Speaker Lambert congratulated the members and offered an aide-memoire or memory aid as “food for thought” to help them while discharging their important duty of reviewing and awarding contracts for the State of Pohnpei.   Mr. Quirino Loyola represented his colleagues and thanked the Governor, Speaker, and Members of 10th Pohnpei Legislature for their trust, support, and the opportunity to serve the People the best they can in that capacity.     Congratulations to the new Board members! #Enginkehlap

On Friday, August 14, 2020, Pohnpei State Governor Hon. Reed B. Oliver administered oaths of office to newly confirmed members of the Board of Land Surveyors Examiners and Public Lands Trust, Board of Trustees at the Governor’s Conference Room. In attendance at this important occasion were Waslapalap Sahngoro, 10th Pohnpei Legislature, Speaker Hon. Ausen T. Lambert, Lt. Governor Felciano M. Perman, Director of Land/WahsahiSokehs Peter M. Lohn, Senior Pastor/Former FSM Congress Speaker Bethwel Henry, several honorable members of the legislature, cabinet members, spouses and relatives of the Board members, friends and government employees. In his opening remarks, Governor Oliver welcomed everybody and extended his special thanks to Speaker Lambert, Chairman of Committee on Land, and the 10th Pohnpei State Legislature for their cooperation and support to confirm the members of these two important Boards. He highlighted the crucial roles both Boards play in the service and management of our most valuable resource/possession; our land. Speaker Lambert echoed similar sentiments on the importance of their roles and encouraged proper discharge of the duties and responsibilities called for in the administration of public lands held in trust by the government. The Board of Land Surveyors Examiners are: 1. Mr. Alex Nanpei 2. Mr. Kuhmer Biza 3. Mr. Marcelino Actoucka 4. Mr. Rensper Alpet For the Public Lands Trust, Board of Trustees they are: 1. Mrs. Antonia Primo-Moses, Likend U 2. Mr. Esirom Neth 3. Mr. John Nakanaga 4. Mr. Patterson Shed 5. Mr. Max Lebehn 6. Mr. Wayne Mendiola, Jr. 7. Mr. Lewis Santos Mr. Alex Nanpei represented the Board of Land Surveyors Examiners and Likend U, Mrs. Antonio Primo-Moses represented the Public Lands Trust in giving short remarks thanking Governor Oliver, Speaker Lambert and Legislature for the opportunity to serve on these Boards. Congratulations to the newly sworn-in Board members! The full ceremony on video will be available on Pohnpei Public Broadcasting Corporation’s Facebook page and Youtube Channel.

On August 11, 2020, Governor Oliver and Lieutenant Governor Perman received the FSM National Government’s assessment team for repatriation efforts at the Governor’s conference room. The FSM team, led by Dr. Eliaser Johnson and Dr. Ko, met Pohnpei State COVID-19 Task Force led by Chairman/Director Wincener J. David, to discuss areas of improvements/gaps identified by the team during its simulation exercise conducted on August 6, 2020, receiving, processing and handling repatriated citizens and residents upon arrival from COVID-19 infected areas in accordance with CEO 20-03 as amended by LR 40-20. In his opening remarks, Governor Oliver thanked the team on behalf of the people of Pohnpei and reaffirmed collaboration between the team and the State and National Task Forces. He further called for the FSM Government’s assistance with technical expertise and fiscal resources as needed to address and correct the identified gaps at the earliest time possible. Dr. Eliaser Johnson outlined the next steps in the process to address the gaps. The National Assessment team will be working with their state counterparts to formulate action plans to address the gaps. A full report to the Task Force will be expected by next week.  

The Pohnpei State COVID-19 Task Force application for a certificate of qualified entry and application for importation of human remains is posted below/available for download. Please note that admittance for travelers, including attendants of human remains, will be allowed on a case-by-case basis, subject to all screening, detection, quarantine & isolation procedures/protocols. Please fill out the application(s) entirely and send to email: WDavid@fsmhealth.fm Application for a Certificate for Qualified Entry CQE Application Application for Importation of Human Remains HR Application A1

On July 24, 2020, the Tenth Pohnpei State Legislature adopted Legislative Resolution (LR) 30-20 amending Pohnpei Constitutional Order 20-03.  The resolution, under paragraph 6, subparagraph iii allows exceptions with respect to international travel granted on a case by case basis into the state of Pohnpei  from “Pacific Insular areas determined by the Governor to be very low-risk jurisdictions for COVID-19 infection.”  These are the exceptions listed in the resolution:   Certified health experts, technicians and workers assigned to assist the Pohnpei Government or the FSM National Government with respect to COVID-19;   Stranded Pohnpei resident students who have been studying abroad   Stranded Pohnpei resident medical patients referred abroad, including if applicable, their medical or family attendants;   Crew members of open-sea fishing vessels who are citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia   The remains of deceased Pohnpeians and deceased residents of Pohnpei who may be accompanied by not more than five members of the immediate family of the deceased.   Admittance into Pohnpei shall be recommended by the Pohnpei COVID19 Task Force in consultation with the FSM National Task Force and shall be subject to all screening, quarantine, and isolation procedures and protocols of Pohnpei State.   All travelers shall first obtain a Certificate of Qualified Entry into the State of Pohnpei, which shall be issued by the Director of Health Services.  The certificate may be issued over a secured internet server. The Director shall ensure there is sufficient room at the Medical Monitoring Area in Dekehtik to accommodate incoming travelers.   The Public will be updated when the certificate of qualified entry will be made available.   LR 20-30 further allows interstate travel for the following categories:   Essential personnel People returning to the state of residence/employment As long as there are no confirmed cases of COVID19 within the state traveling from and where the traveler will be disembarking If there are confirmed cases, then requirements will be the same as international travel. To view the full Legislative Resolution, please click the link below: L.R. No. 30-20 For further information please call the Public Information Officer at 320-2235 or email: pohnpeipublicinformation@gmail.com

  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