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Vol. 21 Issue No. 22
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In an effort to ease Kolonia Town traffic, DPS makes traffic flow changes in Pohnpei By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press
November 2, 2021 Pohnpei—It’s been nearly two weeks since the Pohnpei Department of Public Safety completely changed the traffic rules at what has come to be known as the “Blue Nile Intersection”. Overhead video shows that even after all this time and with announcements having been made on State Radio Station V6AH, many people have not noticed the changes and are continuing as if no changes were made. But the changes are significant and according to Director of the Department of Public Safety, Patrick Carl, more are scheduled to begin soon. For now, the principal change has to do with who has the right of way at the Blue Nile Intersection. Before the change, travelers coming toward Kolonia from the direction of Sokehs had the Click here for continuation right of way while travelers
Click here for a short video featuring some clips of traffic at the “Blue Nile intersection”
Mortain Peles arrested in connection with the brutal stabbing death of his uncle By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press October 30, 2021 Pohnpei—Pohnpei Police Officers arrested and jailed Mortain Peles in connection with the brutal murder of his uncle, Liberson Peles who was found dead in his home in Ipwal, Sokehs on the evening of Friday, October 22. Liberson’s brother, Boaz discovered his brother’s body inside his home. Boaz immediately called his friend Ferny Perman who told him to call 911 emergency dispatch immediately. By the time Perman arrived at Liberson’s home, police were already on site conducting their crime scene investigation.
Based on witness statements, police arrested Mortain. On October 25, Pohnpei prosecutors filed a criminal information charging Mortain with Murder, Assault and Battery with Dangerous Weapon, Felonious Assault and Battery, Assault and Battery, and Boaz’s search ended at his brother’s home with the Disorderly Conduct and all as related gruesome discovery. He told Perman that he counted eight to domestic violence. stab wounds on his brother’s body. Doctors later learned that there were more than 30 stab wounds on the body. Click here for continuation Liberson, who worked at FSM Congress as a handyman had not arrived at work on the morning of the 22nd. That afternoon, Boaz’s wife called Boaz who was working with Perman on the Dekehtik Causeway. She told him that she had seen their nephew driving Liberson’s car and asked Boaz to go and search for Liberson.
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Marine Protected Area(MPA) Surveillance and Compliance training
Conservation Society on Pohnpei October 29, 2021 Pohnpei—The very first compliance and surveillance training of trainers led by Pohnpei State Division of Fish & Wildlife (DFW) was held at the Governor’s conference room on October 28-29, 2021. DFW, in partnership with the Conservation Society of Pohnpei (CSP) and support from the FSM Department of Emergency Climate change and Environmental Management (DECEM) and Ridge to Reef (R2R) conducted a MPA surveillance and compliance training to Community Conservation Officers (CCO) from active MPA communities including Police Officers from the Department of Public Safety from each of the five municipal governments (Madolenihmw, U, Nett, CCOs are not deputized to enforce MPA laws, they play a critical role in providing eyes and ears to both municipal police and Sokehs and Kitti). DFW. The training also included basic exercises where DFW In these two days training, the CCOs and designed scenarios for CCOs to practice. Simple reporting forms municipal Police officers had the chance were designed by DFW for all CCOs to follow when reporting to familiarize themselves with the basics incidents. of Pohnpei’s code with regards to Marine Sanctuary and Wildlife Refuge System CCOs participated at the training can now go back to their presented by DFW officers. State DFW respective communities and train their fellow community officers also simplified the roles of Municipal and further enhance communication between surveillance peers. Police Officers and CCOs in MPA “We understand that 2 days are not enough, but we believe that surveillance and compliance. Although this initial training will enhance our partnership and may result in
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more support from our governments to build on to it”, stated DFW Chief Hermis Edmund. CSP and DFW will continue to garner inter agency partnership by working more closely with Department of Resources and Development to strengthen MPA rules and regulations as well as the Department of Land for protected areas delineation and demarcation. The partnership will continue to explore ways to continue building a stronger surveillance alliance to reduce the growing Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing in Pohnpei’s coastal waters.
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FSM Supreme Court dismisses some of FSMTC’s counterclaims against OAE but not permanently By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press November 2, 2021 FSM—The complicated case of FSM’s Open Access Entity (OAE) versus FSM Telecommunications Corporation (FSMTC) revolving around matters related to the validity of the agreement between the two entities took a slight turn when the FSM Supreme Court dismissed several of FSMTC’s counterclaims against OAE. Though the Court dismissed some of those claims, it did so without prejudice, which means that FSMTC can file them again after meeting certain requirements. The court said that in dismissing those claims, it had not done so on the merits of the arguments.
The Court dismissed in whole or in In its $13.6 million counter-claim part FSMTC’s claims 1, 3, 4, and 6 because it ruled that FSMTC had not against OAE made six claims: exhausted administrative remedies 1. declaratory relief to set aside the and therefore the Court has no subject Deed Granting Indefeasible Rights matter jurisdiction in those matters. of Use (“IRU Deed”) and to halt The administrative remedies the the OAE’s involvement in fiber-to- Court referred to was an appeal to the Telecommunications Regulatory the-home projects; 2. unconstitutional taking of property Authority. without just compensation; 3. intentional and negligent FSMTC provided documentation interference with a contract; and argued that “even if it has not 4. intentional or negligent interference exhausted the administrative process, with business opportunities; the court may still exercise jurisdiction 5. breach of contract and the breach because any attempt by Telecom of the covenants of good faith and to complete that process would be fair dealing; futile, and that this [futility] is a well6. anti-competitive conduct. known exception to the general rule.” However, the Court said it was not
convinced that it would be futile for Telecom to first pursue its remedies administratively. “Furthermore, the [administrative] relief that Telecom seeks regarding fiber-to-the-home projects seems to apply as much to a non-party to this action, an entity (and telecommunications licensee) referred to as iBoom, as it does to the OAE, Telecom asserts that iBoom has now started to provide internet service in Yap and is therefore now, allegedly with the OAE’s assistance, unfairly competing against Telecom in the Yap market where Telecom intends to provide, or is providing, fiber-to-the-home internet services. Those claims are best first addressed through the administrative Click here for continuation
Etscheit seated in Pohnpei State Legislature as representative for Sokehs Click here for video of Etscheit taking his oath of office October 28, 2021 Pohnpei—This morning, the Pohnpei State Legislature received Brian P. Etscheit as representative for Sokehs municipality. Speaker Stevick Edwin issued the oath of office and Etscheit’s son held the Bible for him as the oath was delivered. Etscheit won the special election in Sokehs in a tight race with 679 votes.
Photo by Senator Jay Walter
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SPC donates sea safety equipment to NORMA for distribution to fishers in Pohnpei By NORMA
of the assistance is that NORMA will provide technical advice and support with SPC to our active fishermen of Pohnpei and other recreational fishermen who may not necessarily carry sea safety gear out to sea. This is to help ensure the promotion of sea safety practices for all active Pohnpei fishermen and recreational communities.
October 28, 2021 Pohnpei—On Thursday, October 28, The Pacific Community (SPC) officially presented to FSM NORMA (National Oceanic Resources Management Agency) several items for boater safety. Included in the donation were 86 marine safety Personal Life Beacons, 100 life jackets, waterproof grab bags including NORMA would like to thank our State mirrors, whistles and compasses. partners, the Department of Public Safety, Department of Resources and The assistance from SPC is part of Development, the Office of Fisheries the on-going work on data collection, and Aquaculture, business community community awareness and capacity and local grassroots organizations who building for coastal anchored Floating are currently assisting in this important Aggregating Devices (FADs) and project. industrial drifting FADs. The intent
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TRADE MARK CAUTIONARY NOTICE Notice is hereby given that PIRELLI & C. S.P.A. of Viale Piero e Alberto Pirelli 25, 20126 MILANO MI, Italy, is the sole owner and proprietor in the Federated States of Micronesia and elsewhere of the trade mark below:
which is used in connection with the following goods: Class 9: Data processing equipment; computers, computer peripherals; computer hardware; computer software; computer games; electronic games; gaming apparatus for use with television receivers and/or monitors; computer games software; computer games cartridges; interactive educational games for use with television receivers and/or monitors; electronic handheld devices for the wireless receipt, storage and/ or transmission of data and messages; digital music players; MP3 players; personal digital assistants, electronic organizers, electronic notepads; telecommunications apparatus; telephones; mobile telephones; apparatus, instruments, software and media for recording, reproducing, carrying, organising, storing, processing, editing, extracting, encoding, decoding, encrypting, playing, manipulating, downloading, uploading, streaming, transmitting, broadcasting, receiving, retrieving and reproducing music, sound, images, text, signals, software, information, data and/or code; music, sounds, ringtones, images, games, text, signals, software, information, data and code provided by telecommunications networks, by online delivery and/ or by way of the Internet and the world wide web; computer software to enable peer-to-peer networking and file sharing; database management software, character recognition software, telephony management software, electronic mail and messaging software, paging software, mobile telephone software; data synchronization programs and application development tool programs for personal and handheld computers; search engine software; computer software for conducting and coordinating real-time and asynchronous communications among computer users sharing information and audio/video data via electronic communications networks; electronic publications [downloadable]; screensavers; electronic card; digital photographic images; sound and/ or video recordings; downloadable digital sound and /or video recordings; computer software facilitating the licensing and/or exploitation of intellectual property; computer software for payment of licence fees; computer software to allow users to perform electronic business transactions via the Internet; computer software for supply chain management; data carriers; magnetic and/or optical data carriers, recording discs; CDs, CD-ROMs, SACDs (Super Audio CDs); DVDs, DVD-ROMs; DVDaudio; DVD-video; UMDs [Universal Media Discs]; memory cards, random access memory, read only memory; solid state memory apparatus; batteries; rechargeable batteries; chargers; chargers for electric batteries; headphones; stereo headphones; inear headphones; loudspeakers; amplifiers; printers; cameras; video cameras; bags and cases adapted or shaped to contain any of the aforementioned goods; parts and fittings for all the aforementioned goods. Class 12: Tyres; pneumatic, semi-pneumatic and solid tyres for vehicle wheels; wheels for vehicles; rims; rims for vehicle wheels; inner tubes for pneumatic tires; tyre mousse inserts. Class 25: Clothing, footwear, headgear. Class 28: Toys, games puzzles and playthings; gymnastic and sporting articles not included in other classes; electronic games, handheld electronic games; gaming apparatus [other than adapted for use with television receivers]; bags and cases adapted or shaped to contain any of the aforementioned goods; parts and fittings for all the aforementioned goods; play and modelling components (including in the form of kits, construction kits or sets containing the aforesaid components) for building models of land, water and air vehicles, space vehicles, space stations and other large industrial equipment, and figures; toy cars and toy land, water and air vehicles, toy space vehicles, toy space stations. PIRELLI & C. S.P.A. claims all rights in respect to the above trade mark and will take all necessary legal steps against any person, firm or corporation counterfeiting, imitating, violating or otherwise infringing its rights in the Federated States of Micronesia. MUNRO LEYS Lawyers & Notaries Public, Pacific House, Butt Street, PO Box 149, Suva, Fiji Email: trademarks@munroleyslaw.com.fj www.munroleyslaw.com MUNRO LEYS
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College of Micronesia-FSM
www.comfsm.fm
Yap | Chuuk | Pohnpei | Kosrae
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Career & Technical Education Center (CTEC)
CTEC is located in downtown Kolonia, enrolls over 550 students each semester in various degree and certificate programs. The Division of Hospitality and Tourism offers an associate degree in hospitality and tourism management and conducts short-term hospitality training for area businesses. The Division of Technology and Trade offers applied associate of science degree programs in Electronics Technology, Building Technology, Telecommunications, as well as certificates in Carpentry, Cabinet making/Furniture-making, Construction Electricity, Electronic Engineering Technology, and an Apprenticeship program in Building maintenance and various other trades. The Division of Technology and Trade also serves as the center for a computerized distance education system for electronics (NIDA) throughout the FSM. Other certificates offered at Pohnpei Campus include general studies, bookkeeping, secretarial science, trial counselors, community health sciences—health assistant training program, and agriculture and food technology. Pohnpei Campus hosts two TRIO programs- Educational Talent Search Program and Upward Boundthat serve elementary and secondary school students in cooperation with Pohnpei State Department of Education. Pohnpei Campus is also home to Pohnpei Business Development Center (PBDC). By recruiting experts from within the college system and community, Pohnpei Campus is able to offer customized training programs and continuing education classes, including computer skills, English, business management, building technology, customer service, and leisure classes such as cultural dance and local language classes. The Cooperative Extension Services (CES) component of the Land Grant Program is integrated into the operations of the Pohnpei Campus to better serve the local communities and people in Pohnpei.
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...FSMTC & OAE Continued from page 3 regulatory process.” On FSMTC’s second counterclaim the court dismissed only the portion of the claim that related to the claim that OAE had unconstitutionally taken property belonging to the FSM States without just compensation. The Court ruled that FSMTC can only assert its own claims and right and not those of other parties. On that claim, OAE had argued that since both OAE and FSMTC are government entities it cannot assert an unconstitutional taking of property claim against it, another governmental entity. FSMTC did not address that issue and the Court said that the resolution to that argument isn’t clear to it as yet. “The court notes that when the OAE acquired, through the IRU Deed, a half interest in the Hantru submarine cable, it acquired a half interest in a mortgaged
property. The OAE’s half of the Hantru marine cable (as had the whole before the OAE acquired half) carried a mortgage from the Rural Utilities Service, which had to be satisfied, and which Telecom did eventually satisfy or exonerate on its own. Since, even if Telecom is legally unable to assert an unconstitutional taking claim, it might be able to assert a general property law claim for the value of the mortgage satisfaction or exoneration, the court will deny the OAE’s motion to dismiss telecom’s second counterclaim in its entirety or as it applies to the Hantru cable,” the court wrote in its ruling. FSMTC claims that OAE in fact never paid anything for its interest in the HANTRU spur cable, and when the US RUS waived the balance of the loan for the spur, OAE received an even bigger windfall, which would be half of the $8 million that was still owed on it. What currently remains of FSMTC’s counterclaims are breach of contract and the breach of the covenants of good faith and fair dealing and the other matters that were only partially dismissed.
The Court has yet to consider many filings from both parties, including OAE’s motion for summary judgment asking the Court to rule that the agreement between FSMTC and OAE (the IRU) is a valid and enforceable contract. In that filing, OAE said that its claims are urgent because the East Micronesia Cable project, which would connect Kosrae to fiber optic cable, is at risk of “imminent failure” due to FSMTC’s refusal to recognize the IRU. Indeed, the World Bank has already pulled its funding from that project. However, OAE says that another source of funding has been identified for that project but it cannot proceed until the IRU is in enforceable effect. “This is a waste of time and resources, as well as harmful to the FSM public, particularly the Kosrae public who, unlike Pohnpei, Chuuk, and Yap, are yet unable to drink the water or breath(e) the air of fiber optic connectivity in their homes, schools, and workplaces,” OAE wrote in their motion. In its 57 page opposition to motion for summary judgment, FSMTC pointed
...Traffic
will instead slam into them as they travel through the intersection.
Continued from front page
“We are looking at a way of decreasing traffic congestion in Kolonia by inviting those carrying students to SDA, PICS and CCA schools to take the Dolonier route if they are coming from Sokehs and Kitti,” Director Carl wrote. “The yield sign is intended to keep traffic flowing without the need to stop its clear on both sides (Kolonia to Dolonier and vice versa).
to and from Dolonier either had a stop sign or a yield sign. Now the right of way belongs to travelers to and from Dolonier. DPS removed the stop sign that applied to traffic from Dolonier into Kolonia Town. They also removed the yield sign for traffic from Kolonia Town heading toward Dolonier. DPS has now installed a yield sign that applies to traffic from Sokehs traveling toward Kolonia Town. As the attached video shows, many have been slow to get the message and there have been several “near misses” at the intersection. Travelers to and from Dolonier are also unfamiliar with the changes and are hesitant to take advantage of their right of way, fearing that those traveling from Sokehs will not recognize their yield sign and
He said that eventually there will be a change also at the Botanical Gardens intersection that will apply for one hour each day from 7:45 to 8:45. That change will bar right turns onto the PICS road for traffic traveling from the Bank of FSM direction. “Most vehicles coming from Kitti and Sokehs turn right at this (Botanical Gardens) intersection to drop off their kids at CCA & PICS high school which I assume is closer and convenient for them,” Carl wrote. “Our goal is to divert all vehicles carrying students to SDA, PICS & CCA to use the Dolonier route. It is our hope that the onehour closing will encourage these
November 3-16, 2021
Kaselehlie Press
out that OAE had not responded with court ordered discovery documents. OAE argues that FSMTC has asked for documents that are unrelated to the legal proceedings, including the competition on the Fiber-to-the-Home project. FSMTC listed its affirmative defenses as: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Failure to State a Claim Failure of Consideration Breach of Contract Failure to Mitigate Damages Offset, Waiver Bad Faith Set Aside FSMTC IRU Unconstitutional Taking Fraud, Misrepresentation, Detrimental Reliance 10. Intentional and Negligent Interference with Business Opportunities The court has not yet ruled on OAE’s Motion for Summary Judgment. Considering the number of issues still left to be decided, all appearances are that it may yet be a long while before it is able to do so. vehicles to use the road. We believe by splitting the traffic this way, it will help the congestion in Kolonia most especially at the Botanical Garden and Amcres Station intersection.” Other changes that have been made in recent months include re-routing of traffic during school drop off and pick up times. Travelers from Nett can no longer turn left at the 4TY intersection during those times, or at least they are not supposed to, though some turn there anyway, despite police placed pylons hampering the move. Left turns are not permitted during those peak times for travelers heading into Kolonia on Kaselehlie Street onto the former Dollar Up road nor onto the cut through road to the FSM Development Bank. Travelers heading the other direction are barred from turning left during those peak times into the Molan’s building parking lot, nor onto the cut through road leading past the Pohnpei State Legislature. While drivers come to grips with the new changes, it is recommended that drivers be vigilant and drive defensively. Proper use of turn signals at intersections is also urged.
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...Homicide Nine to twelve tropical cyclones predicted for Continued from front page 2021/2022 cyclone season The criminal information says that Mortain allegedly used two knives in the attack, basically “destroying his body” (as translated from Pohnpeian). It said that Liberson was like a father to Mortain but that Mortain didn’t seem to care at the time of the attack. Ferny, who is very close with Boaz said that Mortain had been staying with Liberson after Mortain had beat up Liberson’s other brother, the suspect’s uncle. He said that Liberson took Mortain in so that he could try to “talk sense into him”. That effort ended in tragedy for the Peles family. During Mortain Peles’ bail hearing, Boaz pleaded with the court not to release him. The court subsequently denied bail pending trial.
SPREP PROE
and Vanuatu.
The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) has predicted that between nine to twelve tropical cyclones could impact the the Pacific region this cyclone season. Three or more could develop into severe tropical cyclones.
Mr Noll also briefly provided a review of the previous tropical cyclone season 2020/2021. The Pacific also experienced La Niña conditions last year, and the same climate drivers are also present this year as the Pacific gears up for the upcoming cyclone season.
The prediction was revealed during the Ninth Pacific Island Climate Outlook Forum (PICOF-9) this week. Mr Ben Noll, Meteorologist at NIWA, said the Pacific would have a near or slightly above normal season, with the increased likelihood for La Niña conditions. La Niña is the phenomenon, which results in below normal rainfall for countries in the Central and Eastern Pacific which can result in droughts, while countries in the South West Pacific will experience higher than normal rainfall, and will become more susceptible to flooding. The 2021/2022 Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) outlook predicted a 59% chance of more than four tropical cyclones in the western region of the Pacific, which includes countries like Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and New Caledonia. It predicted a 46% chance of more than six tropical cyclones for the eastern region, which includes countries like Fiji, French Polynesia, Samoa, Tonga
A normal to slightly below normal season was accurately predicted by BOM and NIWA. Both agencies predicted about nine tropical cyclones, and NIWA predicted three to develop into severe tropical cyclones. “Last cyclone season, we observed a total of eight tropical cyclones and three of those were severe tropical cyclones,” Mr Noll said. These included Cyclone Yasa, a Category 5 Tropical Cyclone which caused considerable damage to Fiji, Tonga and Vanuatu. “It only takes one. Even in a season that had slightly reduced numbers, we still saw considerable damage from several severe cyclones,” Mr Noll added. He reminded participants that it doesn’t
necessarily take a severe cyclone to cause severe impacts. Flooding in some areas can happen even with weak tropical cyclones and not just Category 3, 4 or 5 cyclones. The South West Pacific’s cyclone season runs from November to April. Countries are reminded to remain vigilant at all times and take heed of information and warnings from the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services. The PICOFs are organised through a collaborative partnership between SPREP and WMO, with technical support provided by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), the Pacific Community (SPC), Meteo France, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as members of the Pacific Regional Climate Network Node for Long-Range Forecasting, together with the Pacific Islands Climate Services Panel of the Pacific Meteorological Council. For more information, please contact the Pacific Meteorological Desk Partnership at pacmetdesk@sprep.org.
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Notice of Inactive Bank Accounts
Please take notice that as of June 30, 2021, the following SAVINGS and CHECKING ACCOUNTS on deposit with BANK OF GUAM® are inactive and the accountholders listed below must immediately contact their respective BANK OF GUAM® Branch, otherwise, the funds contained in these accounts will be transferred to the Secretary of Finance during the month of January 2022, pursuant to 29 FSMC §106 (6) and 29 FSMC §602 and under the procedures set forth in 17 FSMC §102. Please take note that after January 2022, all inquiries pertaining to the accounts below must be directed to the Secretary of Finance. SAVINGS ACCOUNTS
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MARKARET MANNY PO BOX 471 • WENO CHUUK, FM 96942
JULIE SIKEMEN PO BOX 938 • WENO CHUUK, FM 96942
FRANCISCO MARIANO OR LORENZO MARIANO PO BOX 20516 • CHUUK, FM 96942
SURELY SIRAUO PO BOX 831 • CHUUK, FM 96942
ESDM CULTURAL LEARNING CENTER TWO SIG. REQUIRED PO BOX 2375 • POHNPEI, FM 96941
SANDER S. MARK PO BOX 213 • WENO CHUUK, FM 96942
SOCIETY OF ST VICENTE DE PAUL PO BOX 427 • WENO CHUUK, FM 96942
NELPERSON ETSE PO BOX 838 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-0838
DORNINA MATIN PO BOX 430 • WENO CHUUK, FM 96942
JOANES SONY PO BOX 743 • CHUUK, FM 96942
KUKIE MAUFA MOEN • TRUK, FM 96942
MANUEL D SOUND FOR LT. GOV. PO BOX 314 • CHUUK, FM 96942
NEILEEN GALLEN PO BOX 1020 KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941
REIKINA MICKY PO BOX 535 • WENO CHUUK, FM 96942
CECILIO TERRY PO BOX 582 • TRUK, FM 96942
MOCH MUNICIPALITY CHUUK, FM 96942
ENGKICHY TIM OR KENIA K PETER PO BOX 943 • WENO CHUUK, FM 96942
ADELYNE OKICHY MONY PO BOX 1257 • WENO CHUUK, FM 96942
GRACELINE TIMOTHY PO BOX 66 • WENO CHUUK, FM 96942
CATHERINE MOSES PO BOX 672 • TRUK, FM 96942
TRUK HOUSING AUTHORITY PO BOX 427 • WENO CHUUK, FM 96942
JUNAITA MOSES PO BOX 361 • CHUUK, FM 96942
RIANITY UNGENI PO BOX 188 • WENO CHUUK, FM 96942
bankofguam.com
SANDRA T PERKINS PO BOX K3108 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-3108 POHNPEI SAVINGS ABDUL AZIZ FOAZI PO BOX 1149 • POHNPEI, FM 96941 ANNAMY ADALPRET PO BOX 2121 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96 KILATRISE ALBERT PO BOX PS 356 • POHNPEI, FM 96941 EMERY R AMUSTEN WONE KITTI • POHNPEI, FM 96941 ANNA ARMISAIS OR THOMAS ARMISAIS PO BOX 2176 LACHHU TULJARAM ASNANI ROOM 504 LEADER COMMERCIAL BLDG 54 56 HILLWOOD RD TSIMSHATSUI KOWLOON HK AURELIA PLAIS AUGUSTINE OR BENDURA AUGUSTINE PO BOX PS 202 • POHNPEI, FM 96941 DELTA LEI BERNARD PO BOX 159 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941 PETERIKO CELESTINE PO BOX 2122 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941 SONYOUNG CHO PO BOX 520 • POHNPEI, FM 96941 SYLVIA JACK EDGAR PO BOX 575 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-0575 IAKOPUS EDMUND PO BOX 138 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941
MIHNA LOYOLA PO BOX 1655 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941
JURIN MILIVOJ PO BOX 7 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941 NANPARANGON COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION PO BOX 1311 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941 JOSTER NENA PO BOX 933 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941 WAINER NETH PO BOX K2728 • POHNPEI, FM 96941 EDUARDO B NICANOR PO BOX 1532 • POHNPEI, FM 96941 MAURINE PANUELO ITF: JENNIFER PANUELO PO BOX 925 • POHNPEI, FM 96941 ERLY PAUL PO BOX 1960 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-1960 MANUEL J PEREIRA 3400 CARLING AVE NEPEAN ON CANADA ENTRIHKA PETER PO BOX 654 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941 SARMEA M PHICHIOL PO BOX 1989 • POHNPEI, FM 96941 BESIHNER PHILLIP ITF: BERNITA TIFFANY HEDSON PO BOX PS 6 • PALIKIR POHNPEI, FM 96941 POHNPEI MULTI MEDIA STUDIO PO BOX 779 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941 CLEMENTE PRIMO PO BOX 1905 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941 RAJATHURAI RAJAMOHAN PO BOX 1210 • POHNPEI, FM 96941 JOANNE RAMON PO BOX PS43 • POHNPEI, FM 96941 OLFER REPID PO BOX K2659 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941 MERLINDA ROBY PO BOX 899 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941 MARTHA ROSARIO PO BOX 790 • POHNPEI, FM 96941 ANAGLEDA E SANTOS PO BOX 329 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-0329 KAREL SANTOS PO BOX 1109 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941
KENYE I MONGKEYA PO BOX 627 • TOFOL KOSRAE, FM 96944
CHECKING ACCOUNTS CHUUK CHECKING TARWIS T JOL PO BOX 333 • CHUUK, FM 96942-0333 KELBIE R KENNEDY PO BOX 1050 • CHUUK, FM 96942-1050 GABRIEL JORDAN MCCOARD PO BOX D • CHUUK, FM 96942 JOHN PAUL SAIMON PO BOX 225 • CHUUK, FM 96942-0225 JUGINA TEMAKI PO BOX 1229 • CHUUK, FM 96942-1229 YAP CHECKING KHALILUR RAHMAND DBA ORGANIC FARM PO BOX 551 • COLONIA YAP, FM 96943-05 POHNPEI CHECKING MARIA NELLEN M ALVA PO BOX 1758 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-1758 EDITA SERRANO BORDA PO BOX K2644 • POHNPEI, FM 96941 JOANNE HELD CUMMINGS PO BOX 1286 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-1286 FSM JUNIOR BASEBALL ASSOCIATION INC PO BOX 1975 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-1975 LOU ANN GARVEY PO BOX 2136 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-2136 DOHSIS HALBERT PO BOX 220 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-0220 NOEL S LO PO BOX 1002 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-1002 LYON ASSOCIATES INC POHNPEI PO BOX 2355 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-2355 JULIE ANN S R MIRALLES PO BOX 21364 • BARRIGADA, GU 96921-1364 HERBICH H NASHON 1712 CLARK ST 5 • HONOLULU, HI 96822 LIZA NENNIS PO BOX 821 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-0821 PANUELO FAMILY CORPORATION PO BOX 171 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 9694
MAYNARD M SERCY PO BOX 826 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96
PINGELAP MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT PINGELAP SATELLITE SYSTEM PO BOX 641 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-0641
ANDREW NELSON SITJAR MIJARES ST POBLACION IBANJAY AKLAN PI 0561
POHNPEI EXPORT ASSOCIATION PO BOX PS74 • PALIKIR POHNPEI, FM 96941-0074
ALDIN SOLOMON PO BOX 765 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941
HOWARD L RICE PO BOX 2724 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-2724
JOHN JR GILFETEN OR LOVE-INA GILFETEN PO BOX 446 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941
SENSILYNN SONDEN PO BOX 2176 • POHNPEI, FM 96941
KRISTINE POTESTADES SUSA PO BOX 1002 • POHNPEI, FM 96941-1002
RODRIQUEZ HADLEY PO BOX PS 137 • POHNPEI FM, 96941
LEZILE GABRINEZ TAMPARONG PO BOX 692 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941
ARLYNN HELGENBERGER PO BOX 986 • POHNPEI, FM 96941
UBSA ACTIVITY FUND TWO SIGNATURES REQUIRED PO BOX 614 • POHNPEI, FM 96941
ETRICK HELGENBEGER PO BOX 1937 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941 JUNE S HELLAN PO BOX 1197 • KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941
JOEL EVAN G VIAJAR PO BOX 2401 KOLONIA POHNPEI, FM 96941
AURELIA HICKS PO BOX PS273 • POHNPEI FM, 96941
FSM: Chuuk (691) 330-2567/331 • Pohnpei (691) 320-2550/2446 • Yap (691) 350-8865 • Kosrae (691) 370-8858
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Young Junior Spence takes top prize at Annual Matson Fishing Tournament in Pohnpei By Pohnpei Fishing Club October 23, 2021 Pohnpei—Matson and their local agent, Amcres sponsored the Annual Matson Tournament on October 23, 2021. 17 boats registered and fished on a day of fine weather. Young Junior Spencer caught a 106.5-pound yellow fin tuna that was bigger than him for the grand prize for the biggest fish of $600. Bryan Kapriel’s 78.5-pound yellow fin captured the $400 second prize. Konrad Englberger’s 24.5-pound wahoo took third place for $300. Dave Spencer’s 19.5-pound yellow fin was the last of the big fish winners for $200. Only first place prizes were awarded for biggest fish of each species. That cash prize was $100. David Perry caught a 13-pound skipjack for that prize. Konrad Englberger caught an 18.5-pound wahoo. Craig Hoskin landed an eightpound barracuda. Dicklet Paul bagged an 18.5-pound yellowfin, and Nile Panuelo scored with a 7.5-pound grand trevalle. The US Embassy donated two EPIRBS and held a raffle for winners of those two potentially life-saving devices. Winners were Oliver Nanpei and Andy Musrasrik. The US Embassy has expressed an interest in continuing to donate EPIRBS. The club wishes to explicitly thank them and Ambassador Carmen Cantor for their support to the safety of Pohnpei anglers. To make it easier for participants to get their boats back to their docking places, the club has decided that all future weigh-ins with begin at 3:00 and end at 4:00. There was a barbecue with hot dog and sausage sales going to support the Pohnpei Public Library. Many thanks to all the volunteers who help out on the dock and keeping score. It’s a big job, so thanks Virginia, James, Doc, and the guys on the dock and boom truck. We also want to thank Matson for their support. It is much appreciated.
Click here for video of Young Angler’s big day
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Pacific likely to experience double dip La Niña episode SPREP PROE The Pacific is likely to experience a rare occurrence of what is called a double dip La Niña in the coming months, Climate models and predictions tools used by Pacific National Meteorological and Hydrological services (NMHSs) show. The prediction, based on anomalies identified by the climate models and tools, was revealed in a statement on the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), presented during the Ninth Pacific Islands Climate Outlook Forum (PICOF-9), held this week. La Niña is the name given to the phenomenon where the trade winds become stronger, enhancing the warm pool in the Western Pacific and causing the sea surface temperatures in the Central and Eastern Pacific to become cooler with above normal rainfall in the west compared to eastern Pacific. As a result, Pacific Island countries in the Central Pacific region such as Kiribati, Nauru and Tuvalu may experience below normal rainfall during this period, while islands in the South West Pacific will experience higher than normal rainfall, such as Fiji, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu. According to the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme’s (SPREP) Meteorology and Climatology Adviser, Mr Salesa Nihmei, a double-dip La Niña episode occurs when two La Niña events develop one after the other. “Usually when a La Niña occurs, it takes between 3-7 years before another one starts to develop. Often La Niña is followed by a neutral phase or an El Niño. However, the Pacific experienced a La Niña event towards the end of last year, and we are once again observing the likely development of another. This is why it’s referred to as a double-dip La Niña episode.” La Niña is part of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) which is a climate driver that influences rainfall, temperature, and sea level patterns across the Pacific. ENSO is a slow onset event, whereby the impacts are not felt immediately by Pacific Islands, but gradually over time. This is unlike rapid onset events such
as tropical cyclones, whereby the impacts are felt as soon as the event occurs. PICOF-9 brings together representatives of Pacific NMHSs to discuss the climate outlook for the Pacific over the next six months and to reflect on the outlook of the last six months since the previous PICOF, which was held in April 2021. The virtual PICOF 9 was attended by over 150 participants from the Pacific and around the world. According to the Pacific Regional Climate Centre represented by APEC Climate Centre (APCC) in South Korea, the oceanic conditions, such as the upper ocean heat and subsurface temperature changed to shift from neutral ENSO conditions to a La Niña development starting from mid-July 2021. They placed a high chance of a La Niña developing in the coming months. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology’s Australian Community Climate Earth System SimulatorsSeasonal (ACCESS-S) model also reached the threshold for a La Niña occurrence in October, and all seven international models surveyed by BOM anticipate further cooling, with La Niña thresholds to be met by November. The ENSO tracker used by the Pacific Regional Climate Centre (RCC) also showed all four scientific institutions (NOAA, APCC, BOM and NIWA) indicating La Niña. The PICOF-9 will therefore inform and prepare Pacific NMHSs and communities of the possibility of a La Niña event, so they can begin to prepare their respective countries on how best to respond when a La Niña event is officially declared. Low-lying atoll nations such as Kiribati, Nauru, Tuvalu and northern Cook Islands, with little supply of freshwater, will be amongst the countries that usually experience below normal rainfall during a La Niña event. They will need to prepare by ensuring they have sufficient supplies of freshwater stocked up before it occurs. On the flip side, countries in the western Pacific such as Palau, PNG,
Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Niue and southern Cook Islands will experience a lot of rainfall in the coming months especially during the early part of the wet season. Excessive rainfall can also cause flooding and damages to infrastructure and Energy supply. The PICOFs are organised through a collaborative partnership between SPREP and WMO, with technical support provided by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM),
National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), the Pacific Community (SPC), Meteo France, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as members of the Pacific Regional Climate Network Node for LongRange Forecasting, together with the Pacific Islands Climate Services Panel of the Pacific Meteorological Council. For more information, please contact the Pacific Meteorological Desk Partnership at pacmetdesk@sprep.org.
FSM announces 72 percent between 18 and 99 vaccinated, with Pfizer more may be eligible By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press FSMPIO November 2, 2021 FSM—An FSM Information Services press release says that The State of Yap has recently received the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, which is used for vaccinating adolescents aged between 12-17 years. At present, only the States of Yap and Kosrae have received this vaccine, but the FSM National Government expects the States of Chuuk and Pohnpei to receive the Pfizer vaccine in the coming weeks and months. Significant quantities of the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines remain available for eligible adults. Approximately 72% of the Nation’s population of adults aged between 18 and 99 years have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Approximately 85% of adults aged between 45 and 99
years have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The FSM has received a stockpile of the REGEN-COV “Regeneron” COVID-19 medicine from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, which is presently being prepositioned in each state hospital. Regeneron is a treatment for patients who are diagnosed with COVID-19. Treatment of patients early in the course of infection, and who are at risk of severe COVID-19, reduces the incidence of hospitalization or death by 70%. The Regeneron medicine consists of two monoclonal antibodies directed against the spike protein of Coronavirus. Use of Regeneron does not replace vaccination against COVID-19, which remains mandatory for all FSM citizens residing in the FSM.
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Notice of Inactive Bank Accounts Bank of the FSM currently maintains accounts for the following individuals & groups: Shiro Gloria Kenye Elvina Richard Aminis Manuel Kenye Hilla Merlinda Belinda Jagdish Madhu Ana Maria PENTECOSTAL LIGHTHOUSE ACADEMY Eoranei Youth Association Chuuk Fairo Center Chuuk State Government DEAL FAIR INCORPORATED Kieichy Tanauo Batilda Rosinta Kenio Komis Soledad Katary Kaios Junior Atarina Mora Asoritom Coopnama Municipal Cyril Julie Elizabeth Geraldine Manuel Patricia Ignacio Shirley Hermana Torwan Joyce Korine Adgil Eunicia Peter Kieichy Tanauo Batilda Rosinta Kenio Komis Soledad Katary Kaios Junior Atarina Mora Asoritom Coopnama Municipal Theodore R. Annaleen Kapingamarangi Youth Commission Inc. Marshall Islands Holdings, INC. Bertin Kasiner Harleen Patricia
Timothy George Aliksa Leney William Albert Benjamin Rogers Charley Daryanani Eis
Komusin Willy Naich Mwangin Kandito Daunny Gozun Reynoso Sop Wengu Ezra Juda Chugrad Giltmag Sulog Dugwen Faimau Googmow Giltmag Faanmog Kenyel Laman Gurwan Mangatmag Gilpong Fanagmoon Komusin Willy Naich Mwangin Kandito Daunny Gozun Reynoso Sop Wengu Ezra Juda Valentine Augustin Gilmete Chulak Hainrick Amor
P.O. Box 322 P.O. Box 965 P.O. Box 985 P. O. Box 480 2705 Hunt Cliffe Dr. 3148 Ala Ilima 101 P.O Box 351 P.O. Box 601 P.O.BOX 451 P. O. Box 305 P.O. Box 51 P.O. Box 943
Tofol Tofol Tofol Tofol Augusta Honolulu Tofol Tofol Tofol Weno Weno Weno
KOS KOS KOS KOS GA HI KOS KOS KOS CHK CHK CHK
P.O Box 576 P.O Box 44 P.O. Box 849 P. O. Box 185 Munien Tol Uman Island P.O. Box 753 P. O. Box 539 P.O. Box 38 P. O. Box 795 P.O. Box 1559 Nema Eor Village P. O. Box 369 P.O. Box 1555 P.O. Box 988 No Address From Source P.O. Box 952 P.O. Box 42 P.O. Box 295 P.O. Box 5092 P.O. Box 811 P.O. Box 953 P.O. Box 42 P.O. Box 790 P.O. Box 1106 P.O. Box 1432 P.O. Box 261 P.O. Box 368 P.O. Box 216 P.O. Box 183 Munien Tol Uman Island P.O. Box 753 P. O. Box 539 P.O. Box 38 P. O. Box 795 P.O. Box 1559 Nema Eor Village P. O. Box 369 P.O. Box 1555 P.O. Box 988 No Address From Source P.O.Box 1567 P.O. Box 1534 P.O.Box 1274 P. O. BOX J P.O.BOX 1940 P.O. Box 633 P.O. Box 392 P.O. Box 514
Weno Weno WENO Weno Moen Moen Chuuk Weno Chuuk Weno Weno Weno Weno Weno Weno Chuuk Bugol, Tomil Gargey, Tomil Magachgil, Gilman Mangilao Arngel Dalipebinaw Colonia Yap State Colonia Yap Colonia Colonia, Colonia Colonia Colonia Colonia Colonia Moen Moen Chuuk Weno Chuuk Weno Weno Weno Weno Weno Weno Chuuk Kolonia Kolonia Kolonia Majuro Kolonia Kolonia Kolonia Kolonia
CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK YAP YAP YAP GU YAP YAP YAP YAP YAP YAP YAP YAP YAP YAP CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK CHK PNI PNI PNI RMI PNI PNI PNI PNI
As required by FSM law, the Bank wishes to inform customers that accounts will be closed and the funds transferred to the FSM Secretary of Finance in January 2022. If your account appears on this list, you can avoid having your funds turned over to the Secretary of Finance by making a deposit or withdrawal to the account before December 31, 2021. Kosraean: In fwal nuke pusren Masap lun FSM, Bank FSM inge akkalemye nusin Customers nukewa ma e akkalemyeyuk lung inge la account lowos ma akkalemyeyuk inge e tufwa kauli a money ka an ac tuhfah itukyan nusin Secretary lun Finance ke FSM National Government ke January 2022. In oralla account se lom an tia putatyan nuke oakwuk ku oiya se inge, kom enenu in tuku nu Bank FSM oralla sie deposit ku withdrawal nuke account san meet liki December 31, 2021. Chuukese: Sia awora ei esinesin ngeni ami kei aramas, mwicheichen aramas, ika sopai mi affat itemi assan pun faan pungun annukun FSM, masowan ami kei accounts epuene lo ngeni ach ewe FSM Finance lon January 2022, ika pwe ese wor mwokutukutun uttut (withdrawal) ika isonanong (deposit) lon me mwen December 31, 2021 Ach anean pwe kopwe chuuto rech ach sipue annisfengen won om kei account. Yapese: Tan e Motochiyal nu FSM, Bank e badag ni nge yog ko pi customer rok ney ni rayan I January 2022, maran close nag e pi account ney, man pii e salpiy riy ko FSM Secretary ko Finance. Fa’an ra be mug e account rom ko re list ney, ma rayog ni dabni pii e salpiy rom ko Secretary ko Finance faanra ngamub mu deposit fa mub mu withdraw nag e salpiy ko account rom u m’on ko December 31, 2021. Pohnpeian: E kosonndier sang ni ruwes en kosonned en FSM me FSM Bank udahn pahn pakairkiheng aramas oh pwihn en aramas me sansalehr powe, me epwelpen amwail tungol de sapwellimomwail nekinek nan Bank en FSM pahn katoktokidi nan sounpwong en January pahr 2022. Mwoni koaros me patpato nan nekinek pwukat pahn kesepwillang FSM Secretary en Finance. Ma mwaromwi iang sansal powe ah komwi kak pwaredo de ketido oh kapidohi de kasauwada omwi tungol de sapwellimomwi nekinek sang nan FSM Bank mwohn December 31, 2021 ma komw sohte kupwuriki omwi tungol de sapwellimomwi nekinek en kepideklang FSM Secretary en Finance. MEMBER FDIC
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Cabalen Queti Pohnpei holds awarding ceremony after highly contested finals series Alvie B. Cabañez Kaselehlie Press Volunteer Contributor On October 31, 2021, Cabalen Queti Pohnpei (CQP), a regional organization of United Filipino Community of Pohnpei (UFCP), hailed the Blue Team as the Kings of the Court at the public gym. His Excellency David W. Panuelo and First Lady Patricia Edwin were the guests of the awarding ceremony. This year’s tournament was in line with the theme, “Unity in Sports and Health.” All players exhibited sportsmanship and camaraderie throughout the tournament. “I really love the theme. I love it when you say it’s for unity, for sports, and for health. That’s a very short way to put it. And I congratulate UFCP,” said H.E Panuelo. “I want to thank the officers of UFCP, and the other officers of your respective organizations. All of you have done a very good job in making your community so united. And then, I also want to thank all the teams who competed since the beginning of the tournament. I have not really sat down yet to watch a game like I did today, so thank you for the invitation,” he continued. All throughout the Finals series, the Blue team yet again proved how strong and a defensive team they were. But the Red team didn’t give up without a gallant fight. Both teams were neck and neck towards the end of the second quarter. However, on the second half of the match the Blue team pulled away with ten points that silenced the Red team fans. With the high-flying, Bhey Pineda scoring almost at will, the Blue team steadily pulled away until they practically settled the issue with five minutes left in the fourth quarter when their lead ballooned to ten points from the 3-point zone, well-placed pass, and one-handed alley-oop finish. His Excellency Panuelo, UFCP President Figueras, CQP President Jessie Serrano assisted in giving away the well-deserved trophies, medals, and cash prizes to all the teams. Both the Black and Yellow team received Sportsmanship awards. They received a trophy and $120 cash prize. The 3rd runner up was the White team, which received a trophy and a $150 cash prize. The Green team was the 2nd runner up which received $200 and a trophy. The Red team, who went neck-and-neck
with the Blue team in the Finals series, was the 1st runner up. They received a trophy and $250 cash prize. The Best Local Player was awarded to Mauricio Santiago who received $50 cash and a trophy. The Best Coach award was presented to Jim Reden Paulino, who also happens to be a playing coach. He received a medal. The 3-point Shoot Out Champion award, was won by Jeffrey Buno who received $50 cash. The Mythical Five, who have shown exemplary skills that propelled the team in each and every game were also recognized. The Best Guard award was given to Enrico Clomeria; Best Power Forward, Darwin Musngi; Best Point Guard, Gustave Gabriel Bacareza; Best Center, Jems Garcia; and the Best Player, Jack Paler. Each player received $50 and a trophy. Bhey Pineda from the Blue team was hailed the Most Valuable Player of the tournament. He received
$100 cash and a trophy. And the Kings of the Court, the Champion, Blue team, received $500 cash, a trophy, and medal to each member. H.E Panuelo was given a certificate of appreciation, customized umbrella, a set of jersey, and Barong Tagalog, an
embroidered Filipino national costume. All the sponsors and donors were also given a token of appreciation. Refreshments were served throughout the game. The emcees were Margarita Almazan and Alvie Cabañez.
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Key interventions critical for food production sustainability in FSM launched
The Federated States of Micronesia looks to boost its vegetable production and promote small livestock units through a newly launched Pacific Community (SPC) project in the country. POHNPEI, FSM – In a new benefit for the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) that will help boost food security, the recently initiated Micronesia COVID-19 Response project (MICCO19) will focus on increasing local food production levels through the provision of conventional seeds for backyard gardening and traditional planting materials, in addition to improving sustainable livestock production. The MICC019 project is funded by the European Union and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) with the generous support of the American people. The project is implemented in FSM by The Pacific Community (SPC) Land Resources Division in collaboration with the FSM Department of Resources and Development and the counter State Departments of R&D Agriculture units. All four FSM state governments – in collaboration with farmers and producers – have selected actions that they see as most critical for sustainable production of food in their states. Planned highlights of the project include: • The islands of Chuuk State will import clams (potentially from Kosrae, Yap and Palau) to reseed giant clams around community Marine Protected Areas and other critical marine areas. • The island of Kosrae will work with local farmers to support establishment of sweet potato nurseries to grow
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and distribute seedlings to households. The main island of Pohnpei will purchase 15 large, prefabricated nurseries and greenhouses for distribution to selected producers around the island, with technical assistance on starting up and growing. The islands of Yap will work with local farmers and communities to produce local animal feed using copra, spoiled breadfruit, fish waste and establishment of a solar food dryer house. All States are participating, along with national government and United Nations partners, in the UN Food Systems Summit dialogues to help move toward a more cohesive, communityled approach to sustainable food systems in FSM. The dialogues were held throughout 2021 leading up the first UN Food Systems Summit in New York on September 23.
A target of 5,500 households in the FSM will receive six varieties of seeds and gardening tools to start gardens in their communities. A training guide will also be provided to help educate households and
Livestock Inspector Jason Livaie, Extension Agent Aliksa Kilafwakun and farmer Tulen Jack at a sweet potato farm site in Inlam, Kosrae. FSM President David Panuelo with national government and UN staff at the Food Systems Dialogue in Pohnpei.
farmers on organic pest control to promote governance component – the National Pacific Food Security Governance Project – to support increased sustainable outcomes of the project. awareness and institutional and systemic capacity FSM states will focus their livestock to integrate the people centered approach into FSM projects on establishing small chicken food systems. hatcheries, as well as expanding the gene base and availability of pigs through Planned stakeholder consultations held in the four artificial insemination and placement of states to bring together voices from the communities, especially those of women, youth and the disabled, clams in MPAs. will help the states organize project roll out over the The project will integrate a “People next few months. Centered Approach” across its work, meaning that communities will have a For more information, please contact your state chance to provide local level inputs and Department of Resources and Development, governance on project implementation. Agriculture divisions. USAID provides funding support for the
FSM COVID-19 task force gives preliminary approval to safely bring in essential workers By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press FSMPIO
November 2, 2021 FSM—The FSM COVID-19 Task Force has begun to take on the task of bringing in essential workers and others to keep FSM’s infrastructure functioning. The plans are only in the preliminary stages, but FSM has indicated its willingness to move forward to make it possible for those personnel to enter FSM safely. The FSM COVID-19 Task Force has approved the expedited entry of these groups, which were confirmed by President Panuelo, though arrival dates for these groups is to be determined. It is likely that the group of essential workers hired by the National and State Governments will arrive
via an international commercial carrier.
FSM Petroleum Corporation/Vital has recently briefed the FSM COVID-19 Task Force on an array of overdue work, including API653 inspections, aviation upgrades, tank upgrades, facility upgrades, JIG inspections, pipeline inspections, firefighting upgrades, and the completion of the Integrated Coconut Processing Facility on Tonoas. The inspections are required for Vital’s continued operation. Without them, they will not be licensed to perform the services necessary for the FSM’s economy and security. Vital proposed that it would charter a cruise ship, with the Republic of Fiji as the point of embarkation, as a means of ensuring approximately twenty (20) essential workers for these purposes to arrive
into the FSM. All requirements per the Declaration of Public Health Emergency and the COVID-19 Task Force would be adhered to. The personnel would be quarantined aboard the vessel under the care of a physician that Vital would hire for the purpose. In this way, the employees would be able to begin work immediately after arrival in the FSM, if COVID-19 tests are all negative and remain that way. The FSM COVID-19 Task Force approved the request, which was confirmed by President Panuelo. The Government expects the cruise ship with Vital’s essential workers to arrive in the FSM in approximately three months. Additionally, there are two more groups of essential workers whose entry into the Nation the Government is seeking to
expedite. One group is a list of essential workers as determined by the Department of Transportation, Communications, & Infrastructure, including electricians, plumbers, engineers, and other skilled workers who will assist in the completion of numerous development projects around the FSM. Another group is a list of essential workers as determined by the FSM National Government and the Government of China, whose entry into the Nation is essential for the purpose of completing projects such as the National Convention Center in Palikir and renovations to the Pohnpei State Government Complex. When they have been cleared to do so, the essential workers providing assistance though the FSM-China Great Friendship will arrive via a direct charter flight from China.
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Chuuk recognizes IOM on International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction By International Organization for Migration October 13, 2021 Chuuk-The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDR) began in 1989 and was created by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Held every 13th of October, it serves as a day to promote a global culture of risk awareness and disaster reduction. This year’s theme was: “Substantially Enhance Community Cooperation
within our Islands through adequate and Sustainable Support.” Chuuk State Disaster Emergency Operation Center (CDEOC), in coordination with the Department of Environment Climate Change and Emergency Management (DECEM) organized an event that included a speech contest for students and a special recognition award and appreciation to all the implementing partners in the State. The International Migration (IOM)
Organization for Micronesia was
presented with a certificate of appreciation in recognition for its exclusive contribution in promoting disaster risk reduction and preparedness in the State of Chuuk. IOM has done this through a number of projects, including the Typhoon Maysak Reconstruction Project (TMRP), RESILIENCE Program and the ongoing Typhoon Wutip Reconstruction Project (TWRP).
to deliver much needed assistance and support not only to the State of Chuuk, but all throughout FSM, as well as in RMI and Palau. USAID Pacific Islands
IOM, through its partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), continues
Micronesian Heritage Inc received aid from the CJC & LDS (Mormons) By Wehns Billen In the middle of September, Chairman Buroeau Neemeia of the Micronesian Heritage (MH) sent a request to Bill Davis of the Church of Jesus Christ & Latter Day Saints (CJC/LDS), Guam chapter, requesting few and essential office supplies. Mr. Davis acknowledged the request and in the first week of October, Swingle Hemon, President of the MH picked up packages of a computer lap-top, a projector and a printer with toner at the DHL at Dekehtik. On October 12, approximately 12:30pm, Mr. Lensper Kalio, President of the CJC&LDS, Pohnpei Chapter, represented Mr. Davis and officially presented the office equipment to the Micronesian Heritages Inc, represented by
Swingle Hemon, President, Wehns Billen, Advisor and Juity Hainrich, member. Mr. Kalio expressed the gratitude of his agency, which oversees the Mormons throughout the Micronesian regions, for supporting such organization as the Micronesian Heritage. He further encouraged the organization to work harder and to contact him, if needed. With sincere humility, President Hemon, expressed the utmost appreciation of the group toward Mr. Kalio and his generous denomination. He continued saying that this organization would continue to strive toward their goals if and when the local governments would support them. The brief ceremonial event wrapped up at 12:54pm.
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President Panuelo advocates for aligning investment strategies to national climate goals FSM Information Services
PALIKIR, Pohnpei—His Excellency David W. Panuelo, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), and in concert with His Excellency Surangel S. Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau, has advocated for the global investment community to consider adopting the FSM’s and Palau’s approach to aligning national investment strategies with national climate goals, and environmental values of low-carbon investments. The President’s advocacy can be seen here: https://www.ft.com/ partnercontent/wilshire/aligninginvestment-strategy-to-nationalclimate-goals.html Learn more about aligning national investment strategies with national climate goals here: www.wilshire.com/ esg The FSM has adopted the approach of aligning the Nation’s investment
strategy to its national climate goals through Public Law No. 22-06. The law amended the FSM Trust Fund Act to recognize the existential threat of Climate Change, and mandate that the investments made in the Trust Fund follow a sustainable investment policy that integrates the considerations of the risks and opportunities coming from a global transition into a lower carbon economy, such as renewable and clean energy.
Change is one of the ultimate challenges of this generation—sufficiently ultimate that, if it’s not addressed, there may not be future generations—the FSM National Government is giving attention and priority to investing in renewable energy, and encourages countries around
Through this national legislation, investment policy for the FSM Trust Fund will avoid investments in companies whose value will be negatively impacted by the global movement into lower carbon alternatives, and will also seek to support investments in companies that lead the global transition into a lower carbon future.
On October 19, 2021, Mr. Josef Rold was sworn in as a member of the FSM Supreme Court Bar, licensed to practice law before the FSM Supreme Court. The motion to admit Mr. Rold to practice law was entered by Daniel Rescue Jr., attorney at law with the Ramp and Mida Law Firm Chuuk office.
The FSM Trust Fund was originally created to provide a sustainable and permanent sovereign wealth fund that can support the Nation’s financial independence. Given that Climate
Repatriation plans continue in all of the States, FSM mulling hiatus during the month of December By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press FSMPIO November 2, 2021 FSM—A recent press release from FSM Information Services covers repatriation efforts in each of the FSM States, including the announcement that the FSM is considering a temporary halt to formal repatriation flights during the month of December. For many months, FSM Consul officials, along with medical officials in Yap, Pohnpei and Kosrae and others have worked 18 hours, seven days a week to coordinate the repatriation efforts. The tentative plan is an effort to avoid employee burnout. The press release says that The FSM COVID-19 Task Force has approved the State of Chuuk’s request for its first direct repatriation flight from an international commercial carrier to occur on November 10th, 2021. Consistent with the State of Yap’s
first repatriation flight, the initial group of repatriating citizens will consist exclusively of vaccinated persons, and future flights will include unvaccinated persons who are exempt from taking the COVID-19 vaccine (e.g. young children). As of October 29th, 2021, a team of medical professionals from the Department of Health & Social Affairs are in Chuuk to help ensure that the first repatriation there is successful. The next repatriation flight into Pohnpei State is November 3rd, 2021. The most recent repatriation flights to the States of Yap and Kosrae were on October 24th and 25th. Future repatriation dates for the States of Pohnpei, Yap, and Kosrae have not yet been scheduled, but it would be consistent with previously scheduled flights for the next round of repatriation activities to occur on or around the final week of November 2021.
the world to consider adopting similar approaches. Public Law 22-06 can be found in full here: https://gov.fm/files/PL_22-06_ FSM_TRUST_FUND_docx-min.pdf
Chuuk swears-in newest FSM Bar member, Mr. Josef Rold
Josef Rold was born in Chuuk, and is the son of Abram and Merced Rold, and he has two sisters, Joann Abram and Marilou Rold Yatilman, and one brother, Won Pat Rold. Josef attended St. Cecelia Elementary School in Chuuk, and graduated from Xavier High School in 2009. He then attended the College of Micronesia national campus in Pohnpei, receiving his Associates degree in Micronesian Studies in 2012. In 2016, Josef received his Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Guam, and in 2018 received his Master’s Degree in Public Administration also from the University of Guam.
In June of 2018, Josef began working as a Prosecutor with the Chuuk State Attorney General’s Office, and was admitted to the Chuuk State Bar in May of 2019. In December 2019, Josef completed the COM Trial Counselor’s Program in Chuuk, and was a part of the first graduating class of the program. In March of 2021, Josef resigned from the Chuuk AG office and joined the Micronesian Legal Services Corporation Chuuk office as a Trial Counselor and remains employed with MLSC until today. In August of 2021, Josef took and successfully passed the FSM Supreme Bar Exam. The ceremony was administered by FSM Associate Justice Larry Wentworth, and was attended by Justices of the Chuuk State Supreme Court, members of the FSM Bar, family, friends, and colleagues.
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Over eight days, President Panuelo virtually receives eight ambassadors; FSM strengthens relations with Belgium, France, the Holy See, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Italy, and Turkey FSM Information Services PALIKIR, Pohnpei—Over a period of eight days, His Excellency David W. Panuelo—President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)—virtually received eight Ambassadors, for both their Presentation of Credentials ceremonies and courtesy calls. The President virtually received the Ambassadors from the Kingdom of Belgium, the French Republic, the Holy See, Hungary, the Republic of India, the Republic of Indonesia, the Italian Republic, and the Republic of Turkey. The new Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the FSM is H.E. Michel Parys. Ambassador Parys expressed Belgium’s eagerness to assist the FSM in areas of mutual concern, such as combating Climate Change, promoting peace and stability, and the law of the sea. President Panuelo solicited Belgium’s support in establishing an Office of the European Union in the North Pacific to better collaborate with the new United Nations Multi-Country Office hosted by the FSM. The new Ambassador of the French Republic is H.E. Michele Boccoz. Ambassador Boccoz noted that France is ready to assist the FSM and the Pacific at large in areas such as health, the protection of biodiversity, the fight against Climate Change, and scientific cooperation and economic development. President Panuelo solicited France’s support at the 26th Conference of Parties in Glasgow, emphasizing that France has an outsized history of positive philosophical and scientific influence in the World, and that such influence may be the deciding factor in the World’s success in tackling Climate Change. The new Ambassador of the Holy See is Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Novatus Rugambwa. The Ambassador emphasized that all human beings are created in God’s image and, therefore, we are all brothers and sisters; additionally, the Ambassador conveyed, on behalf of His Holiness, Pope
Francis, the Holy See’s best wishes for the peace and wellbeing of the People of the FSM. President Panuelo—a practicing Catholic— touched on the positive influences of Catholic Missionaries to the FSM, and solicited for the Holy See’s continued support in tackling Climate Change and promoting human rights. H.E. Titanilla Toth is the first Ambassador of the Republic of Hungary to the FSM, and it is on that premise that additional space in this release is devoted to this historical event in FSMHungary relations. Ambassador Toth conveyed on behalf of His Excellency Janos Ader, President of Hungary, his cordial greetings, and best wishes, on behalf of the People and Government of Hungary to the People and Government of the FSM. Additionally, Ambassador Toth spoke at length about the FSM’s and Hungary’s mutual concerns about Climate Change. In particular, the Ambassador noted that Hungary is a key player in water solutions and water technologies, and encouraged the FSM to join such conversations as a means of exploring future FSM-Hungary partnerships. President Panuelo solicited Hungary’s assistance in exploring the possibility of establishing an Office of the European Union to be hosted in the FSM, as a means of providing augmentative support for both the North Pacific United Nations Multi-Country Office and the Micronesian Presidents Summit. Additionally, President Panuelo noted that while some Micronesian islands do not necessarily have drinking water issues—such as Pohnpei proper, which is one of the rainiest parts of the Planet— that remote atolls have substantive water issues further exacerbated by the effects of Climate Change (e.g. Kapingamarangi Atoll). The new Ambassador of the Republic of India is H.E. Shambhu S. Kumaran. The Ambassador, noting that India is strongly in support of the Paris Agreement as a means of tackling Climate Change, proposed that the FSM join the
International Solar Alliance, a group of more than 120 countries focused on solar energy. Additionally, the Ambassador encouraged the FSM to explore bilateral grants from India that can be used in renewable energy projects. President Panuelo noted the FSM’s appreciation for India’s support, advising that previous Indian support has helped the FSM’s integrated agriculture census and supported the development of coconut-related projects as a means of strengthening the Nation’s food security. Additionally, both Ambassador Kumaran and President Panuelo discussed the increasing importance of cybersecurity in the context of the promotion of a Free & Open Indo-Pacific. President Panuelo noted the recent establishment of the FSM Cybersecurity & Intelligence Bureau (CSIB), and Ambassador Kumaran noted that India has training opportunities in that area—which the FSM intends to make use of. The new Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia is H.E. Heri Akhmadi. The Ambassador described Indonesia's commitments to tackling Climate Change and the importance of maintaining regional security. President Panuelo highlighted the FSM's commitment to a Free & Open Indo-Pacific, affirmed the FSM's support of Indonesia's territorial integrity, and solicited Indonesia's support at COP26 in tackling Climate Change. Additionally, President Panuelo solicited continued engagement on the Memorandum of Understanding regarding the Eauripik Rise, and highlighted the FSM’s support for an FSM-Indonesia visa waiver that is presently being finalized by the Executive Branch for submission to the FSM Congress for their ratification. The new Ambassador of the Italian Republic is H.E. Marco Clemente. Ambassador Clemente solicited the FSM’s support for Italy’s candidatures for the International Law Commission and the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, noted that Italy has appointed a
Special Envoy in Rome to provide consistent Italian policy to Pacific Islands, congratulated the FSM on its efforts in tackling COVID-19, emphasized Italy’s support in the event of a confirmed case of COVID-19, and agreed that Climate Change represents an existential threat to the World, particularly to countries like the FSM. President Panuelo took note of Italy’s candidature requests for joining the International Law Commission and UNESCO World Heritage Committee—which the FSM has since committed to publicly supporting—and solicited Italy’s support in establishing an Office of the European Union in the North Pacific, which would assist the FSM, the Republic of Palau, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Republic of Kiribati, and the Republic of Nauru. Additionally, President Panuelo thanked Italy for their financial support in contributing to the development of the FSM’s Nationally Determined Contributions in tackling Climate Change. The new Ambassador from the Republic of Turkey is H.E. Korkut Gungen. Ambassador Gungen noted that Turkey remains ready to assist the FSM with projects tackling Climate Change, and that Turkey is concluding work on a Civil Aviation Agreement which would promote people-to-people exchanges and economic empowerment initiatives. President Panuelo noted that the FSM is ready to engage with Turkey on Civil Aviation to finalize this agreement, solicited Turkey’s support at COP26 in tackling Climate Change, and noted that the FSM is looking forward to gaining membership in the International Police Organization (INTERPOL) at the forthcoming gathering to take place in Istanbul. INTERPOL membership, President Panuelo noted, is one of the priorities he highlighted in his inaugural address. The FSM extends to all peoples and nations that which it seeks: peace, friendship, cooperation, and love in our common humanity.
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Secretary Elieisar emphasizes the FSM’s request for China to collaborate with the United States to combat Climate Change FSM Information Services
PALIKIR, Pohnpei—On October 21st, 2021, the Honorable Kandhi A. Elieisar—Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)—attended the inaugural China-Pacific Island Countries (PICS) Foreign Ministers Meeting. Joined in person by His Excellency Huang Zheng, Ambassador of China to the FSM, and virtually by most of the Foreign Ministers of the PICS with diplomatic relations with China, Secretary Elieisar spoke on the Nation’s Great Friendship with the People and Government of China, and reiterated President Panuelo’s call for all countries—to include China, the United States of America, Japan, and Australia—to make Climate Change a distinct and non-political matter for discussion and cooperation with all countries in the World. The inaugural Foreign Ministers Meeting between China and Pacific Island Countries is regarded as a success, and the FSM National Government looks forward to, and advocates for, frequently scheduled iterations of the forum on an annual basis. This release intends to summarize the most crucial points of the meeting as considered by the FSM National Government, and concludes with the Nation’s statement in full. The first speaker of the meeting was the Honorable Wang Yi, China’s Foreign
Minister, who provided opening remarks, including that China aims to build a new multi-lateral dialogue platform for greater policy communication, such as to ensure strengthened cooperation in economy, trade, investment, infrastructure, telecommunications, forestry, fishery, and other fields.
Foreign Minister Wang described multiple avenues for legitimate and positive technical and economic development cooperation between China and PICS like the FSM, including cooperation in tackling COVID-19 and Climate Change. The Foreign Minister noted that China will develop a ChinaPICS Emergency Supplies Reserve (such as for tackling the COVID-19 Pandemic and other medical emergencies), a ChinaPICS Poverty Reduction & Development Cooperation Center to help PICS achieve independent and sustainable development more quickly, and a China-PICS Fisheries Cooperation Forum to help translate fisheries into rich development advantages. Arguably of most interest and import to citizens of the FSM is that China will establish a China-PICS Climate Action Cooperation Center to support island countries in tackling Climate Change. Additionally, Foreign Minister Wang described the expansion of people-topeople exchanges in areas such as health, education, sports, and scholarships for study in China.
The second speaker of the meeting was His Excellency Taneti Maamau, the President of the Republic of Kiribati—a fellow member of the Micronesian Presidents Summit—who also serves as Kiribati’s Foreign Minister. Of most interest to FSM citizens, President Maamau spoke of China and Kiribati’s mutual commitments for full and effective implementation of the Paris Agreement. The third speaker was the Honorable Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the Republic of Fiji. Prime Minister Bainimarama spoke at length about mutually shared concerns regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic, including its relationship with loss of life and economic decline, noting that if countries work together that we can collectively build back better. Prime Minister Bainimarama described the importance of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and—in the view of the FSM National Government— virtually pleaded for a global response to the existential threat of Climate Change. The fourth speaker was the Honorable Pohiva Tu’i’onetoa, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Tonga. The Prime Minister commended China’s leadership role in responding to the COVID-19 Pandemic, welcomed global economic development cooperation, and spoke about Tonga’s interests in food security and clean energy development.
The fifth speaker was the Honorable Dalton Tagelagi, Premier of Niue. Premier Tagelagi emphasized that COVID-19 remains a threat to PICS, thanked China for its ongoing and sincere support to Pacific Islands, and the great importance of the Belt & Road Initiative (BRI) to fully promote the sustainable development of Pacific peoples. The sixth speaker was the Honorable Soroi Eoe, Papua New Guinea’s Minister of Foreign Affairs & International Trade. Foreign Minister Eoe called for increased Chinese investment in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific region as a whole, in sectors ranging from tourism, fisheries, and extractive industries sector, including energy, infrastructure, and special economic zones in Papua New Guinea and other parts of the Pacific. Foreign Minister Eoe commended China for taking actions to reduce CO2 emissions, and noted that Papua New Guinea recognizes multilateral issues discussed at multi-lateral forums, including support for the United Nation’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the threat of Climate Change. The seventh speaker was the Honorable Marc Ati, Vanuatu’s Minister of International Cooperation and External Trade. Minister Ati congratulated China for its extensive cooperation with
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FSM to become member of WHO’s Executive Board By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press FSM PIO November 2, 2021
FSM—According to a rambling press release from FSM Information Services, the FSM will become a member of the World Health Organization’s Executive Board next year representing the AsiaPacific Region. The FSM’s membership in the Executive Board will last for three years, and as a member of the Board, the FSM will assist in implementing the decisions and policies of the World Health Assembly. “I would like to extend our Nation’s appreciation to the other Pacific Island Countries for their support, notably the People and Government of the
Republic of Fiji,” His Excellency David W. Panuelo, President of the FSM, said in a statement, “And, particularly, my good friend Prime Minister Bainimarama, for withdrawing their candidature in support of the FSM. This
is a gesture of Pacific goodwill that we will not forget, and I give my categorical guarantee to Fiji, and all countries and peoples of the Pacific, that the FSM will represent all of our collective interests in the Executive Board of the WHO.”
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...PICS meeting Continued from previous page PICS, including assistance in acquiring COVID-19 vaccines, and called for urgent action taken at all levels for effective implementation of the Paris Agreement. Minister Ati commended China for its announcement of a Climate Change Action Cooperation Center to assist PICS in improving capacity to tackle Climate Change under the framework of SouthSouth cooperation and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The eighth speaker was the Honorable Kandhi A. Elieisar, Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs of the FSM. In recognition of the FSM’s limited delegation at the forthcoming 26th Conference of Parties meeting in Glasgow, Scotland, the key idea of the FSM’s statement focused on the existential threat of Climate Change, and the Nation’s request for all countries in the world—including China, the United States of America, Australia, and Japan— to work together in making Climate Change a distinct and non-political matter for discussion and cooperation. The ninth speaker was the Honorable Jeremiah Manele, Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Solomon Islands. Minister Manele registered deep appreciation to the People and Government of China for being the first country to respond to their calls for COVID-19 assistance, ranging from vaccines to medical supplies and equipment. Minister Manele noted Solomon Islands’ appreciation for China’s infrastructural assistance to their country, particularly as they prepare to host the 2023 Pacific Games. Solomon Islands vocalized support for China’s intentions to assist with Climate Change and poverty reduction (support which the FSM shares but did not explicitly vocalize in its statement). The tenth speaker was the Honorable Henry Puna, Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum. SecretaryGeneral Puna called for assistance on implementation the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, noting that through collaboration with China and other international partners, the Blue Pacific sees the opportunity to build back better in areas such as the COVID-19 Pandemic, Climate Change, and Climate Change-related Sea-Level Rise. The Secretary-General urged action at the forthcoming 26th Conference of Parties, which is seen by the FSM National Government as the last chance for the World to develop a gameplan for humanity to save itself from Climate
Change. Foreign Minister Wang of China provided the closing remarks, reiterating that the modernization of China would not only advance human progress but also bring opportunities for developing countries. Foreign Minister Wang noted that China will make more efforts to support the BluePacific Strategy, and that China will strengthen cooperation with PICS to completely defeat COVID-19 and tackle challenges such as Climate Change and marine environment protection. The FSM National Government agrees in principle with the bulk of the jointly stated outcomes stemming from the inaugural China-PICS Foreign Ministers Meeting, and views the annual formation of the China-PICS Foreign Ministers Meeting as an amplification of the FSM-China Great Friendship. The outcomes can be seen on China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website here: https://www.fmprc. gov.cn/mfa_eng/zxxx_662805/t1915970. shtml “On behalf of the People and Government of the FSM,” His Excellency David W. Panuelo, President of the FSM, said in a statement following the ChinaPICS Foreign Ministers Meeting, “I emphasize again our Nation’s extension of peace, friendship, cooperation, and love in our common humanity to the People and Government of China, with whom we share a Great Friendship. The FSM appreciates China’s technical and economic cooperation support, and deeply looks forward to China’s establishment of a Climate Change Action Cooperation Center. As Climate Change is an existential threat to humanity, with the threat projection being total civilizational collapse within our children’s lifetimes, Micronesia urges China to work together with the United States of America in making Climate Change a distinct and non-political matter for discussion and cooperation with all countries in the World. Neither China nor the United States can fix Climate Change alone, but if our two allies work together, convincing other allies like Australia to come on board, and friends like Brazil to do more, we can still save humanity.” Statement by the Honorable Secretary Kandhi A. Elieisar On the Occasion of the Inaugural ChinaPICs Foreign Ministers Meeting October 21st, 2021 1. Your Excellency State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, 2. Distinguished Foreign Ministers from the Pacific Island Countries, 3. Friends, Ladies and Gentlemen; It gives me great pleasure to extend, on behalf of His Excellency David W.
Panuelo, President of the Federated States of Micronesia, warm greetings from our beautiful islands. This inaugural Foreign Ministers Meeting between Pacific Island Countries and the People’s Republic of China is a testament of the importance and value that we collectively hold for our bilateral and multilateral relationships with one another. The Federated States of Micronesia, which shares a Great Friendship with the People’s Republic of China, believes strongly in the importance of the global community extending to everyone peace, friendship, cooperation, and love in our common humanity. At the outset, I would like to reiterate President Panuelo’s request at the 76th United Nations General Assembly: that the global community must look past what separates us, and focus on what unites us. In this respect, the existential threat of Climate Change threatens to cause civilizational collapse within our children’s lifetimes. As President Panuelo has said, Micronesia urges China to work together with the United States of America in making Climate Change a distinct and non-political matter for discussion and cooperation with all countries in the World. The forthcoming 26th Conference of Parties in Glasgow represents the last best hope for humanity to save itself, and as such it is absolutely necessary for our friends, allies, and development partners to work together in preventing the loss of life through what would otherwise be total economic and ecological devastation. Preventing the loss of life is thankfully one of China’s premier qualities. Micronesia is thankful for China’s support throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic, including its donation of containerized isolation units, personal protective equipment, and technical support and guidance. Our Nation remains COVID-19 free in large part due to cooperation and support from ours friends, allies, and development partners, including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, the World Health Organization, and the People and Government of China, among others. We thank China again for its support in this. Micronesia also appreciates China’s ongoing respect for our Nation’s development needs. Only a month ago, we saw the opening of the Madolenihmw Secondary Roads project in Pohnpei State, and recent years have seen key infrastructure projects such as the Chuuk State Government Complex. It is a sign of China’s genuine respect for its neighbors and partners that Chinese assistance to Micronesia is in the form of grants, not loans, which signals to the rest of the World that Chinese aid comes sincerely and with no strings attached. Meanwhile,
your
Excellencies,
the
practical reality is that—as Micronesia’s borders remain closed due to the COVID-19 Pandemic—many of our ongoing and forthcoming development projects, such as the construction of our National Convention Center and renovations to the Pohnpei State Government Complex, have been delayed. While Micronesia respects the bidding process that China has for its aid assistance, we recommend and request at this time for China’s favorable consideration to encourage companies that are already on the ground in our islands to carry out projects that are within their abilities. Such creative solutions will not only ensure that projects are completed on time, but would also be cost-effective given the very expensive mobilization cost of machines, personnel, and logistics required. I am pleased to take this opportunity to reaffirm, and reassure, that Micronesia has shared a Great Friendship with China for more than 32 years, based on the bedrock of the One-China policy, and mutually shared values such as peace, unity, and liberty, and mutual respect for territorial integrity. In this regard, I wish to highlight that President Panuelo, like other Heads of Government and Heads of State across the Pacific, has recently put forward a formal Declaration on Preserving Maritime Zones in the Face of Climate Change-related Sea-Level Rise, which has been affirmed by both the Micronesian Presidents Summit and the Pacific Islands Forum. The Declaration proclaims that maritime zones, and the rights and entitlements that flow from them, shall continue to apply, notwithstanding any physical changes connected to Climate Change-related Sea-Level Rise. Micronesia joins other Pacific Island Countries in seeking global support for the Declaration, including support from China, as the Declaration’s views as expressed are supported by both the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and the other legal principles underpinning it. Your Excellencies, in closing, please accept my sincere congratulations for the successful hosting of this inaugural Foreign Ministers Meeting between Pacific Island Countries and China. The Federated States of Micronesia appreciates its Great Friendship with China, and fora such as this complements nicely with our China-Pacific Economic Development and Cooperation Forum. I look forward to the opportunity where we can all meet in person, and engage with each other more closely. Thank you, kinisou, kahlangan, kammagar, kulo, and xie xie.
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The FSM Bids Farewell to H.E. Hidenobu Sobashima, Ambassador of Japan; “Thank you for your friendship and for strengthening our FSM-Japan Kizuna” FSM Information Services PALIKIR, Pohnpei— On October 28th, 2021, His Excellency David W. Panuelo—President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)— attended, alongside his Cabinet, the farewell ceremony for His Excellency Hidenobu Sobashima, Ambassador of Japan to the FSM. Throughout his service, Ambassador Sobashima has strengthened the FSM-Japan Kizuna (special bond), and has shown the FSM that which it seeks: peace, friendship, cooperation, and love in our common humanity. “I wish to publicly state, on behalf of the People and Government of the FSM, and on my personal behalf, our appreciation to Ambassador Sobashima for his service. Thank you for your friendship and for strengthening our FSM-Japan Kizuna,” President Panuelo said in a statement following the farewell ceremony. President Panuelo’s address to Ambassador Sobashima, as delivered at the farewell ceremony, is below. Kaselehlie Maingko, Kobanwa, and Good Evening to you all. It is indeed an honor and pleasure to be given this opportunity to represent the People and the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia to attend this farewell reception honoring a close friend of the FSM, H.E. Hidenobu Sobashima, whose service in our country has concluded. We gather here tonight with mixed feelings, as we reflect on the FSM-Japan Kizuna or Special Bond, the many accomplishments Ambassador Sobashima has made to strengthen that Kizuna, and collectively wish our friend all the best as he journeys to the next chapter of his life. Mr. Ambassador, two years have passed since you were appointed by your esteemed government to your assignment to the FSM. Our Nation was well aware of your accomplishments before your arrival in the FSM through your service in improving Japan’s
Nation’s development, be it in the form of teaching mathematics at our elementary schools, or in organizing sports activities for our youth.
relations with Zambia, and we were excited for your arrival, as we knew Japan was sending one of its most capable public servants. I am confident, Ambassador, that your two-year stint with my country has endeared you to both our Government and People. As a demonstration of this confidence and endearment, I would like to acknowledge some of the efforts and contributions that you have made, personally and professionally, to the development and advancement of FSMJapan relations. During your first courtesy call with me after your presentation of credentials, we spoke on many issues, one of them being my invitation to the enthronement of the new Reiwa Emperor of Japan in November 2019. The visit remains a highlight in my tenure as the President of the FSM, to witness a tradition that has been kept sacred throughout Japan’s history, and whose tradition and importance has been passed from one generation to another. I want to thank you for the effort in putting together that memorable and historical visit, which coincided with a meeting with former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Several weeks later, in large part due to your effort, I visited Japan again for more in-depth discussions with the Japanese Government. Amongst the various outcomes, I assured Japan, as I assure Japan again today, that the FSM fully supports Japan’s permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council; that the FSM joins Japan in seeking to ensure a Free & Open Indo-Pacific; and that the FSM views Japan as one of our closest friends and allies. I say again today what I told former Prime Minister Abe in 2019: the FSM will always be on Japan’s side, particularly when it comes
to upholding the rule of law, promoting democratic values, and strengthening maritime security. Ambassador, when the FSM became aware of the COVID-19 Pandemic and first took action to implement our Declaration of Public Health Emergency on January 31st, 2020, I asked if Japan would join our COVID-19 Task Force so that our Government would be as informed as possible on how other countries have been handling the Pandemic. Words cannot express the enormous gratitude we have for your constant presence at those meetings, where you rightfully earned the reputation for being highly reliable, highly informative, and a wonderful partner. Your presence in our Task Force meetings has been priceless. Additionally, Japan has, through your leadership, has provided the FSM nearly four million dollars of COVID-19related assistance, which has taken the form of grants, medical equipment, and personal protective equipment. Ambassador, the FSM is grateful for your leadership, and for Japan’s generous assistance, in so many other areas in our development. We are grateful for Japan’s funding assistance to the College of Micronesia’s Fisheries & Maritime Institute facility project. We are grateful for Japan’s support in infrastructure, from large-scale projects such as at Pohnpei State’s port, to sports facilities across our four states, as well as support to local community groups and non-governmental organizations. In particular, I would like to thank you, Ambassador, and Japan, for the ongoing partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Association or JICA. JICA Volunteers directly contribute to our
Ambassador, I also wish to recognize Japan’s successful hosting of the PALM-9 Summit this summer. I appreciate that two of the major issues we discussed at the PALM-9, such as the ALPS Treated Water from Fukushima, and World War 2-related oil leakage in Chuuk Lagoon, are politically sensitive, and I thank you and Japan for taking our concerns seriously. The recent signing of the Contract Agreement between the Embassy of Japan and Japan Mine Action Service (JMAS) is a demonstration of Japan’s commitment to the environment, and it is especially welcoming to see Japan partner together with Australia on this important issue. Before concluding my remarks, let me also take this opportunity to thank your esteemed Government, through you, for the dedicated presence of your Embassy in the FSM, and your hardworking staff. I appreciate very much the work that generations of Embassy staff have done in cultivating our Kizuna, including the existing staff under your leadership. Finally, Ambassador, I want to close with these parting words—As you know very well, our Kizuna is based on shared values, and the relationship between the FSM and Japan is one of our most dear and important. It is through these close ties that I kindly ask of you, Ambassador, that, when you return to Japan, and take up your next assignment, that you continue to promote our relations as a former Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary, as a Goodwill Ambassador of my country to your country and people. I wish you the best in your future endeavours, and I hope you and Madam will be able to visit us in the future. You will always have a second home here in the Federated States of Micronesia. Kalahngan, Kinisou Chapur, Kamagar, Kulo, and Arigatou Gozaimashita.
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FSM immunization launches Pfizer vaccination for adolescents in Yap State Alvie B. Cabañez Kaselehlie Press Volunteer Contributor On October 29, 2021- FSM Immunization Program Manager, Carter Apaisam together with his team launches Pfizer Vaccination for adolescents in Yap State. It was held at Yap State HospitalDivision of Public Health. The Vaccination plan includes 3 main vaccination sites: the Community Health Centers, Schools and Hospital, mainly the Division of Public Health. A hybrid approach of availing vaccination at multiple setting is recommended to achieve the COVID-19 vaccination targeted coverage within a specific timeframe. “I admire these children’s courage,” Martina Legasugram, Yap team Leader,
said in a statement, “They are little superheroes of Yap. They are role models for showing us that we have the power to protect our loved ones,” she continued. The Department of Health and Social Affairs, in collaboration with the Department of Education will ensure that all children between the ages of 12-17 will have the opportunity to be vaccinated. The overall goal is to conduct all these with minimal disturbance to the classrooms. Globally, clinical trials have showed that Pfizer is safe and effective for this age group. In May, the US and Canada were the first to approve Pfizer for use in children aged 12 years and older. In the US, by the end of July, 42% of 12 to 17-year-olds had received their first dose and 32% their second dose. In May, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) approved the Pfizer vaccine for 12 to 15-year-olds. Since then, several countries in the EU have begun vaccinating children. France has vaccinated 66% of those aged 12 to 17 with one dose, and 52% are fully vaccinated. In June Germany's scientific advisers recommended the vaccine should only be offered to children aged 12 to 15 with underlying health conditions. But in August, after the Delta variant started spreading more widely, the rollout was extended to all those over 12 years old. New Zealand has approved Pfizer for use among children aged 12 and older in June and Australia approved it in August. The mission team was composed of Martina Legasugram, Yap Team Leader; James Yaingelouo, Acting Director Department of Health Services; Ari Skilling & Roland Irons, Immunization Program; Morgan David, Program Officer Micronesia Red Cross Society; Semenson Ehpel, Country Liaison Officer, World Health Organization, Northern Micronesia Region; and Cromwell Bacareza, Chief UNICEF, North Pacific. It is the intention of the FSM National Government to get commitment from multiple stakeholders to ensure that all adolescents who eventually wish to receive the vaccine may do so. “Vaccination is the country’s hope to protect our families and our communities,” said Carter Apaisam, FSM Immunization Program Manager.
Opinion Editorial US-FSM COFA: 35 years of enduring and expanding ties November 3, 2021, marks the 35th Anniversary of the independence of the Federated States of Micronesia and the ratification of the Compact of Free Association (COFA). This is a momentous occasion that should be celebrated for all that the Federated States of Micronesia has accomplished since 1986, when it became an independent sovereign island nation. Since its independence, the FSM has built lasting democratic institutions that secured the peaceful transition of power through elections. It has also been an active member of regional and global organizations and has been one of the strongest proponents for climate action on the world stage.
We share a special relationship with the FSM through the COFA: FSM citizens can freely travel, study, and work in the United States. COFA funded grants have provided technical assistance and financial support in education, healthcare, environmental
Click here for FSM President and Ambassador’s video message protection, and infrastructure development over the past 35 years. US federal governmental departments and agencies contribute economic support totaling more than $110 million dollars of annual support, Since the inception of the COFA, thousands of FSM citizens have served in the US armed forces. FSM citizens serve in our armed forces at a greater per capita rate than any other US State or territory. We honor those who have shed their blood and even sacrificed their lives for the sake of our shared democratic values. Under the Compact, the United States is entrusted with the defense of the FSM, and we assume that great responsibility and honor, with the full force and commitment of the United States Armed Forces. During our recent trip to the US Indo-Pacific Command in Hawaii, senior US military leaders assured President Panuelo that they
will defend the FSM the same as any US State, because the FSM is part of IndoPacific Command’s “Pacific Homeland” for defense. Our partnership is one where we respond to crisis together. When the FSM government swiftly responded to the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, the US Center for Disease Control (CDC) provided safe and effective vaccines, as well as equipment and training, to protect the health and lives of the people of the FSM throughout this crisis. We are pleased that safe and effective vaccines are now available for everyone ages 12 years of age and above, and that vaccines will soon be released for those ages 5-11. We encourage everyone to get vaccinated to protect themselves and their loved ones from this deadly virus. The US and the FSM continue to grow our deep and enduring bond to face new challenges that threaten the well-being
of the citizens of the FSM. Climate change is already inundating land in the FSM, destroying crops and damaging infrastructure. Typhoons have become more destructive in recent years. Tackling the climate crisis is imperative and we must take ambitious climate action now. We must work together to meet these challenges. As we pause to celebrate the past 35 years, let us reflect on all that our nations have accomplished together. We share a common set of values - mutual respect for freedom, democracy, and human rights. We share the same future in the face of worldwide threats. The US will stand by the FSM’s side as its partner, ally, and friend, finding global solutions to global problems, and expanding our enduring and unique ties. Carmen G. Cantor United States Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia
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Pacific Young Climate Leaders call for urgent climate action ahead of COP26
Remarks by the Deputy Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Dr Filimon Manoni at the Pacific Regional Conference on Kava
Pacific Islands Forum
Pacific Island Forum
Monday, 25 October, PIFS Suva – Eight Pacific Young Climate Leaders shared their experiences of climate resilience and activism in an inaugural dialogue with the Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General, Mr Henry Puna on 21 October 2021.
Delivered on 27 October 2021
Sharing their youth climate work experience across the region the newly formed Alliance also shared their solutions and insights on COP26 regional priorities. These young climate leaders are: Ms Kathy Jetnil-Kijiner, Ms Selina Neirok Leem, Republic of Marshall Islands; Mr Solomon Yeo, Ms Gladys Habu, Solomon Islands; Mr. Fenton Lutunatabua, Mr Ernest Gibson, Fiji; Ms Stephanie Stephens, Vanuatu; and Mr Kim Allen, Papua New Guinea. “One of the key priorities from our perspective for COP26 is loss and damage and ensuring the Santiago Network on Loss and Damage is fully operationalised. Not only ensuring that there is a dedicated financing mechanism for loss and damage but those who are responsible are being held accountable”, Mr. Solomon Yeo, Campaign Director of the Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change. This sentiment was one of many echoed by all the Pacific Young Climate Leaders that participated in the dialogue. Ms. Kathy Jetnil-Kijiner, Republic of Marshall Islands’ Climate Envoy and Pacific island poet highlighted the need for embedded funding support for national youth representatives involved in national led consultations to enable their attendance at international negotiations such as the UNFCCC-COP. Welcoming the inaugural dialogue as a chance to broaden Pacific climate conversations, Secretary General Puna told the Alliance their many hats and networks were vital parts of the influence they wield. He said he is a strong believer of a multi-stakeholder and multi-sectoral approach to successfully address climate change. “Therefore, the work that you do and your role as Pacific Young Climate Leaders is extremely important,” he added. “Let me say this to you and other Pacific youth out there, you are our heroes and role models for our children and future generations. You ae our Pacific Change Makers that aspire to see a sustainable and resilient future for Pacific People," said Mr Puna. The Young Climate Leaders called for transformational leadership and for young people to be included in the decision-making process as well as take ownership of the decisions that have impact on them and our communities. “In the heart of our work, to ensure that the sustainable development goals and climate declarations are achieved, our people in the communities must embrace these and take ownership and translate them into daily realities,” said Ms. Stephanie Stephens, Climate Campaign Manager for Save the Children in Vanuatu and climate advocate with Vanuatu Climate Action Network (VCAN). Mr. Ernest Gibson, a member of the United Nations Secretary General's Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change (the only Pacific Island representative) emphasised that “in terms of youth engagement, it’s one thing to have ambition, and the other to resource it. So, when we talk about funding for youth projects and activities, we must ensure that the process is flexible and accessible to young people.”
Honorable James Bule, Minister for Tourism, Trade, Commerce and NiVanuatu Business of Vanuatu Director General of Pacific Community, Dr. Stuart Minchin Our Co-organizer representatives from PHAMA+, ITC, OACPS and the EU Excellencies and Senior Trade and Agriculture Officials Development Partners, Private Sector and Kava stakeholders Ladies and Gentlemen May I take this opportunity on behalf of the Secretary General to acknowledge the invitation of the Government of Vanuatu to provide a few remarks to mark what looks to be an exciting three days of ‘talanoa’or ‘storian’ on a topic that is at the heart of our Blue Pacific Continent. This Pacific KAVA conference comes at an important juncture. Like other regions across the world building back economies from the impact of the pandemic is very much the focus. It should be no different for our Blue Pacific Continent. Our Leaders are focussed on solutions, sustainability and resilience. The KAVA sector provides a key opportunity in this regard. We are here today supporting a United Approach to KAVA, wan ples wan KAVA theme It will not be easy. We all know too well the experiences and misfortunes of the past – we are resilient on our zeal for a united approach on developing effective solutions. The Wan ples, wan KAVA theme is in alignment with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent on the region’s ongoing commitment to work as a collective, in organising ourselves as one collective to address our common challenges, and leveraging on our collective strength – as a region for a successful post-COVID 19 economic recovery. And it is that collective strength that is driving this important milestone moment, today. In July, our Forum Trade Ministers acknowledged the importance of KAVA in the region by endorsing the Concept to develop a Regional KAVA Development Strategy. Forum Island
Countries are going to inform and shape that strategy. It will respond to their challenges. It will identify a range of regional actions and approaches to leverage support for your national efforts. We must not overlook the impact of the EU KAVA ban that led to the loss of livelihoods for over 3,000 Pacific KAVA producers and an estimated USD$200m/year at the height of the industry to the world from the Pacific region. We must come together as stakeholders and have a unified approach to tackling these practical challenges the Pacific KAVA industry faces and ensure we don’t face the same market access disruptions again. Many thought that the EU KAVA ban would be fatal to the Pacific KAVA industry, however, through the resilience of our KAVA producers and the determination of our Pacific Ambassadors in Brussels ably led by Vanuatu, we were able to overcome this obstacle and recommence market access into the EU. This experience highlights the critical importance of a Regional KAVA Strategy. I wish to also inform the participants that the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) in partnership with PIFS, SPC, PHAMA+ have jointly organized an awareness building training for all stakeholders involved in the KAVA sector to learn more on how to protect KAVA as the Pacific’s’ Green Gold which commenced on 6 October till 17 November 2021 The tradition of KAVA is one that begins with a durable and hardy crop which has transformed from a medicinal and cultural icon to an economic life saver for entire communities across our vast region. In the same manner, I see your innovative thinking and practical solutions being gathered through this meeting and infusing the Regional KAVA Development Strategy. I look forward to a transformational outcome, one that ensures the commercial viability of a thriving KAVA industry driven by the resource owners as rights owners. This will help protect the interests of our kava producers and exporters at regional and international levels. I wish you well in your deliberations and look forward to the recommendations and way forward that would emanate from this meeting. Vinaka vaka levu, malo au’pito, faafeitai lava, tankiu tumas.
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COP26: The world’s best chance to save our one blue planet - Pacific ACP Leaders call on G20 for climate action Pacific Island Forum Thurs 28th October 2021—Ahead of the G20 Rome Summit and COP26 in Glasgow, Pacific Leaders have written a letter to G20 Leaders, asking the G20 to do their part, as the countries behind most of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, to ensure an end to the global climate crisis. Pacific Leaders state “we do not have the luxury of time and must join forces urgently and deliver the required ambition at COP26 to safeguard the future of all humankind, and our planet”. The letter to the President of the G20 Rome Summit, Italian Prime Minister Hon. Mario Draghi, attaches the ACP Leaders Statement on COP 26 for a 1.5-degree World, and asks G20 Leaders to ensure they “help set our path to ending our global climate change crisis, and ensuring no is left behind in our post COVID-19 world.” Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Henry Puna said “G20 members are responsible for around 75 per cent of the global contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, so a strong commitment and outcome from the G20 Rome Summit will pave the way for an ambitious and successful COP26”. “Pacific ACP Leaders urge G20 Leaders to make decisive commitments on climate action, including revised Nationally Determined Contribution targets that keep 1.5 degree Celsius within reach, carbon neutrality by 2050, the phase-out of coal plants and all fossil fuel subsidies and investments, and delivery of the USD100 billion climate finance goal, with a balanced allocation between adaptation and mitigation”, said Mr Puna. The COVID-19 pandemic must not delay ambitious climate action and recovery must be catalysed through green investments and technologies that are sustainable, clean, climate-smart and in line with net zero emissions by 2050.
Regional News Over a million Pacific Islanders to continue battle against COVID-19 through new UNICEF – United States Government partnership UNICEF/USAID Joint release SUVA, FIJI 22 October 2021 – Today, UNICEF and the United States Government through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), announce a new US$1.9 million partnership to support governments around the region, including Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Republic of Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu with their preparedness and response plans for COVID-19. “Pacific Island countries remain vulnerable to COVID-19 outbreaks even though COVID-19 vaccination coverage is increasing. The support from the United States will enhance the efforts of Pacific Island governments in ensuring that their populations are protected as they begin to reopen their borders,” said UNICEF Pacific Representative, Jonathan Veitch. “This new fund will enable UNICEF to further support the government partners to boost vaccine uptake among populations to reach higher coverage.”
is part of ongoing efforts by the U.S. government to empower our good friends and neighbors in the Pacific,” said Acting USAID Mission Director for Philippines, Pacific Islands and Mongolia Sean Callahan. “USAID’s on-going partnership with UNICEF will provide additional critical COVID-19 care to communities in several Pacific Islands countries that will help us overcome this devastating pandemic.” To date, the U.S. government, through USAID, has provided nearly $44 million to assist Pacific Islands countries, including Fiji, to combat COVID-19 and to protect the health and livelihoods of communities in the region.
“Delivering more COVID-19 support
UNICEF, through this partnership, will provide technical support to and work closely with the ministries of health, to strengthen immunization campaigns and develop effective public health messaging through several platforms. This includes through communitybased networks including religious and traditional leaders as well as using young volunteers to reach the most remote islands with life-saving information and to increase the demand for COVID-19 vaccines.
SPREP PROE
challenges.
November 2021, Glasgow COP26 – Pacific Island delegations at COP26 have a “home away from home” within the venue. Known as the Moana Blue Pacific, this hub will support our 140 island delegates as they strategise and plan across the two weeks of climate change negotiations.
Opening today with a special blessing in Glasgow, the Moana Blue Pacific is a partnership with Aotearoa New Zealand managed by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP).
The funding will also support strengthening water, sanitation and hygiene services in health facilities, vulnerable households and communities directly impacted by COVID-19. This new assistance, which builds on USAID and UNICEF’s continuing partnership in the Pacific in supporting COVID response and vaccine technical assistance, aims to further strengthen the COVID-19 immunization programme. The ministries of health will be provided with technical support and supplies including COVID-19 test kits, oxygen concentrators, personal protective equipment, immunization supplies and cold chain equipment, to meet COVID-19 prevention and response needs. This UNICEF and United States Government partnership plays a key part in supporting the ongoing planning and recovery activities in the Pacific. This partnership will strengthen the capacity of national governments and build the resilience of healthcare systems, families, and communities to cope with COVID-19 and the risks of transmission.
Moana Blue Pacific to make waves at COP26
The Twenty-Sixth Conference of the Parties to the UN’s Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP26) is reported to have 25,000 delegates attending. The Moana Blue Pacific will provide our Pacific Island delegates with a base to coordinate their teams and conduct meetings. The Moana Blue Pacific also hosts 14 side events amplifying the Pacific voice. These events will highlight a range of Pacific climate change experiences, showcasing the leadership that is being demonstrated in addressing these
“As we look around here this morning– our numbers are indeed small. Many of our leaders, negotiators and colleagues could not make the journey, but their hopes and voices guide and inspire our collective work here,” said H.E Fatumanava Dr. Pa’o Luteru, Ambassador and Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of Samoa to the United Nations. H.E Ambassador Luteru is also Chair of the Pacific Small Islands Developing States. “The Moana Blue Pacific Space is
the Pacific heart of the COP. It is the meeting point of all Pacific voices in the UNFCCC from leaders and champions to our technical negotiators, our youth and climate advocates and activists – it is our Islands in this ocean of COP.” The Moana Blue Pacific office, meeting room and side events are an adaptation of the Pacific Pavilions that were held at COP24 in Poland and COP25 in Click here for continuation
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Regional News Mana Moana Pacific Voices at COP26 SPREP PROE
Paris Agreement.
“We will not come to speak numbers. We will not be stuck in the small cages of spreadsheets. We come accounting for generations to come: knowing our blue bonds are to the ocean, earth and sky.” • Our Ancestors Speak, by Karlo ’Ulu’ave Mila
The Mana Moana – Pacific Voices is one way the Pacific are amplifying their voice at the event.
1 November 2021, Glasgow, COP26 - A compelling artistic work is harnessing the oratory skills of the Pacific to bring the heart-breaking reality of climate change from the islands to COP26. ‘Mana Moana – Pacific Voices’ is a collection of emotive and artistic video works created to amplify and support our Pacific call to drive global action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The powerful collection of 11 poems will be launched on 1 November 2021 at the UN climate change conference in Glasgow. The Twenty-Sixth Conference of the Parties to the UN’s Framework Convention on Climate Change is reported to bring together 25,000 people for the global negotiations. A particular focus is completing the UNFCCC rulebook for implementation of the
...Moana Blue Continued from previous page Spain. These familiar, popular sights at the UNFCCC Conferences welcomed over 10,000 people in 2018 and then again in 2019, across the two weeks of negotiations. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Pacific Pavilion has had to be adapted at COP26. In line with safety precautions, it was decided there would not be an “open door” Pacific pavilion scheduled with daily events at COP26. Instead, a private safe space for Pacific Island delegates to hold bilateral meetings, and strategise, was opted for. Social distancing, maskwearing, daily testing and limited numbers permitted per rooms are a strong feature across the COP26 venue in Glasgow, Scotland. This year, the Moana Blue Pacific aims to amplify the Pacific voice, safely. “We came because we have a job to do,
“Pacific Islanders are gifted in telling our story, our oratory nature is in our cultural make up as we have had to tell our story through the years, sharing our history through our lineage,” said Mr Kosi Latu, Director General of the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP). “This project gives voice to our climate change challenges, in a way that we know how. It allows us to share our voice beyond the science, statistics and policy speak, to reach people beyond their roles at these climate negotiations so they can feel our climate change stories.”
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the Pacific and globally. It was filmed in multiple locations featuring real people and voices from Aotearoa, the Cook Islands, Fiji, Guam, Hawaii, Kiribati, Niue, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tokelau, Tonga, Torres Strait Islands and Tuvalu. Our Islands Speak, another part of Mana Moana – Pacific Voices, culminates 10 different poems from 10 different Pacific Island poets merging with indigenous artists to create a visual, moving, digitally enhanced offering in the series of poems hand-picked by special curator Dr Karlo Mila. “These works have been designed to take tupuna - ancestors - and our Oceanic experiences - across the digital and pandemic divides - to arrive at COP26.” Said Dr Karlo ’Ulu’ave Mila Poet and Mana Moana special curator.
Supported by Aotearoa New Zealand, SPREP have worked with Mana Moana, a collection of artists, to amplify the Pacific voice at COP26 through the Mana Moana – Pacific Voices.
“We navigate vast distances as we always have, harnessing the technology at our fingertips, resourcefully, to strengthen the call from the Pacific at COP26 for a 1.5-degree Celsius world.”
The Mana Moana – Pacific Voices spans Our Ancestors Speak, a powerful work that is a call to arms for peoples across
The Pacific islands region is amongst the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change despite contributing
together, and this space is for us to work together. Our job is to bring a vision of the other side of the planet, our job is to help the people of this side of the planet understand and imagine the immensity of the Blue Pacific,” said H.E Kay Harrison, Climate Change Ambassador of New Zealand.
Pacific app is available for cellphones. By downloading the Attendify App, searching Moana Blue Pacific and registering - you will have access to Pacific events and activities at COP26.
“He Waka Eke Noa - there is just one canoe, and we are all in it together and we need all of the people out there to understand He Waka Eke Noa and if we are not in the same canoe, paddling in the same direction caring for one another then we understand what that means.” Access to the office and meeting room will be coordinated through minimal contact and cleaning will take place in between each gathering.
November 3-16, 2021
The Moana Blue Pacific Office is located next to the Aotearoa New Zealand/ Tokelau Office with a shared meeting room between the two. This is situated in Hall 3 at the Scottish Event Campus (SEC). The Moana Blue Pacific side events will be held on 3, 4, 5, 10 and 11 November in Hall 4 at the SEC. Further information can be found in the Moana Blue Pacific App.
The Moana Blue Pacific side events at COP26 will take place in a shared pavilion. Attendance will be preassigned to support contact tracing and the slots for the Pacific islands will be held after deep cleaning has been completed.
The Moana Blue Pacific at COP26 is a partnership with Aotearoa New Zealand managed by SPREP. The Twenty-Sixth Conference of the Parties to the UN’s Framework Convention on Climate Change is held in Glasgow, Scotland from 31 October to 12 November 2021.
To keep informed of the events from the Pacific at COP26, a Moana Blue
For further information please email moanabluepacific@gmail.com
to less than 0.06% of the world’s total greenhouse gas emissions. The Paris Agreement commits to limiting global warming to well below 2, preferably 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to preindustrial levels. The Paris Rulebook will be the mechanism that details how countries are to action the Paris Agreement to achieve a 1.5-degree Celsius world. For the Pacific Islands, this legally binding agreement is a promise of survival as the impacts of climate change reach across many different levels. The Mana Moana – Pacific Voices collection will be showcased throughout the COP26 at different events and platforms, including the Moana Blue Pacific events to help amplify the Pacific voice. “We are pleased to welcome the support of our Pacific Island poets in telling our climate change stories,” said Mr Latu. “We hope this is the start of even greater opportunities to amplify our voice through our Pacific artists.” The initiative is supported by Aotearoa New Zealand and coordinated by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme with support from many Pacific islands people, organisations and communities. These videos have been developed to be screened during the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) COP26 and other relevant climate change events. For further information please visit: https://www.sprep.org/ cop26#mm-pacific-voices and www. manamoana.co.nz/pacificvoices/ or contact Ms Nanette Woonton, Acting Communications and Outreach Adviser, SPREP at nanettew@sprep.org. The Mana Moana – Pacific Voices collection can be viewed at: https:// www.youtube.com/user/sprepchannel