By Bill Jaynes

The Kaselehlie Press

April 13, 2019

Weno, Chuuk—Though the FSM mission of the 14th Pacific Partnership actually began almost two weeks ago when the team was diverted to outer islands in the Mortlocks of Chuuk that suffered severe damage during Typhoon Wutip, the opening ceremony was not until this morning.

Moored at the Transco Dock, the expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Brunswick was the site of the opening ceremony.  Before the ceremony, Director of Mission Captain Patrick (Paddy) Allen of Great Britain’s Royal Navy conducted a private tour of the vessel for dignitaries including Chuuk Governor Johnson Elimo, FSM Secretary for Foreign Affairs Lorrin Robert, United States Ambassador to the FSM Robert Riley, members of the Chuuk legislature and other dignitaries.

The Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multilateral all-hazards preparedness mission in the Indo-Pacific region.  Led by the U.S. Navy and at the invitation of host nations, Pacific Partnership military and civilian organizations work collectively in medical, dental, veterinary, and engineering civic action programs that ensure the international community is better prepared to come together in times of natural disaster or crisis.  Its goal is to enhance readiness, strengthen relationships, and to exchange knowledge.  The Pacific Partnership works collectively to increase regional stability and security, open dialogue between leaders, and foster new and enduring friendships across the Indo-Pacific region.

More than 500 military and civilians from Australia, Canada, Japan, Malaysia, Peru, the Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, the United Kingdom and the US serve as part of the Pacific Partnership 2019.  This year the crew includes members of the US Army from the region.  Ambassador Riley asked Specialist Rally Gilmete from Pohnpei and Sergeant Joseia Lemari from Majuro, RMI to stand and be recognized during the ceremony.

This is the second time for the Pacific Partnership to incorporate a multinational command staff.  The Director of the Mission is from the United Kingdom.  The Chief of Staff is from Australia.

The partnership also includes public engagement.  Yesterday, members of Pacific Partnership visited Xavier High School where members of the team participated in sporting events from kick-ball to basketball.  The military band based in Pearl Harbor gave a stunning performance to the delight of the young crowd who fairly swooned at the performance.

Though the USNS Brunswick did not arrive at the Weno port until yesterday morning, the mission began in earnest two weeks ago when they were diverted to remote outer islands of Chuuk.  According to Ambassador Riley, who spoke at this morning’s ceremony, during their time there, the medical team members saw 1,200 patients.  Pacific Partnership brought from Kwajalein, gutter material with which they repaired the gutters on many of the houses.  That gutter material helps to fill the water catchment systems that are critical to the outer islands.  They repaired the roof at a school.  They also made connections with the islanders through sporting events and many other community events.

“This arrangement (US defense of the FSM agreed to through the Compact of Free Association) has been a force of stability in the FSM, and by extension, to the Pacific and this has global reverberations,” Ambassador Riley said.  “Over the last seven decades, the United States has promoted a free and open Pacific in which independent nations, with diverse cultures and different aspirations can prosper side by side in freedom and peace.  Our leaders, soldiers, and sailors have helped frame, and now strive to sustain and strengthen the international system of clear and transparent rules, peaceful arbitration pursuits and the rule of law.”

“Through sustained cooperation, our security engagement will increase in the near and the mid-term, as we align our security posture with the threats that currently exist in the Pacific theater,” Ambassador Riley said.

Governor Johnson Elimo reminded the audience that in 2008, the USNS Mercy visited Chuuk as part of the Pacific Partnership and provided medical treatments to over 20,000 people.  “Although it may look smaller than the 2008 mission, they have already visited the far flung islands treating our needy island people and interacting with them,” he said.  He thanked the team profusely for their service there.  “Let’s move on, embracing the vision of the Pacific Partnership to the fullest, fullest meaning of the word ‘partnership’ where governments embrace each other in the quest of seeking peace, happiness, and prosperity.

FSM Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Lorrin Robert who was representing FSM President Peter Christian was the next to address the audience.  He said that he was not surprised at the strong relationship with Micronesia.  “After all, it is right here in Micronesia where the American day begins,” he said.  “And also, we are, in terms of security and threats in the Pacific, in Micronesia, we are the tip of the spear…we will continue to contribute to peace and prosperity throughout the world.”

“I spent 33 years in the Royal Navy,” Captain Allen said.  “My whole premise from the Cold War when I first started has been about deterrents.  It’s about combating manmade threats, whether that’s a state threat or a non-state threat…But coming to Pacific Partnership, it’s the first time I’ve done a mission like this, it’s not about deterrents, because, as much as we look at the geopolitics of the region and have a look at the defense side, the security side and the resilience that we bring, that tsunami in 2004 killed a quarter of a million people in a matter of hours.  The greatest threat that you have for the security of the region, is Mother Nature,” he said.  “Then, it’s not about deterrents but about resilience.”

The Pacific Partnership was born after the tsunami in December 2004 that swept through parts of South and Southeast Asia.  It began as a military response to one of the world’s most catastrophic disaster.  The United States helped to spearhead the inaugural Pacific Partnership 2006.  Partner Nation militaries and Non-governmental Organizations worked together to expand disaster relief capacity in Bangladesh, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Timor Leste.  The mission focus evolved from direct assistance to furthering regional resiliency and security through disaster risk reduction opportunities to assist nations in preparing for and responding to crises.

The Pacific Partnership 2019 host nations are Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Timor-Leste, Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

By Bill Jaynes

The Kaselehlie Press

April 11, 2019

Pohnpei—On April 9, Pohnpei State prosecutors filed criminal charges against charged James Hadley, Jim George, Johnny Rantung, Mariana Silwer, Mayson Victor, Resner Manuel, and Saferi Wantoro for crimes involving sexual exploitation, and abuse of young women aged 14, 15, and 18.

The five sets of criminal information documents, numbered 19-69 through 19-73, alleged that the defendants committed the specific crimes of criminal conspiracy, criminal solicitation, kidnapping, criminal coercion, sexual abuse, trafficking in persons, sexual servitude of a minor, involuntary servitude, pandering, and prostitution.

On the same day, the court found that there was sufficient cause to issue a search and seizure warrant based on the application for the warrant and an accompanying affidavit.

The finding that led to the issuance of the search and seizure warrant is by no means a conviction of the named people.  Each is presumed to be innocent unless otherwise proven in court.

The Criminal Information documents indicate that in the case of the 14 year old victim, the crimes were alleged to have been perpetrated over the course of several days in late March. During that time she was allegedly coerced to have sex with several men who may have paid her alleged captors for the opportunity.

The search warrant authorized the search and seizure of commercial vehicles with license plate numbers CV-0106, CV-1400, CV-3780, CV-0501, and CV-4299 that were allegedly used in furtherance of crime.

It also authorized the search and seizure of a shack on the west side of the Dekehtik Causeway as well as a ship or vessel also moored on the west side of the causeway.

The warrant also authorized the seizure of cell phones and other digital and electronic media devices belonging to the accused.

The crimes were alleged to have taken place on the campus of Kolonia Elementary School, Misko’s beach, and the structures and floating vessels on the Dekehtik Causeway named in the search and seizure warrant.

By Bill Jaynes

The Kaselehlie Press

April 11, 2019

FSM—FSM’s Office of the National Election Director has ordered a revote of the Pohnpei Special Polling Place for the FSM Congress Kosrae State four-year at-large seat.  The revote is only for Kosrean voters living in Pohnpei who were eligible to vote in the March elections and will be held on April 18, 2019 at the FSM National Election Office in Palikir from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

According to the Office of the National Election Director everyone who voted at the Pohnpei Special Polling Place during the March 5 election MUST go to the National Election Office in Palikir on April 18, 2019 and revote.  Since there is a revote, NO votes from the March 5, 2019 will be counted.

“The revote will only be for those Kosrae voters who timely applied to vote absentee at the Pohnpei Special Polling Place prior to March 5, 2019 election and those with valid Voter IDs obtained prior to March 5, 2019,” the notice from the Election Directors says.  “Kosrae voters who voted in the election of March 5, 2019 outside Pohnpei will not be permitted to cast ballots in the revote.”

The announcement of the special election said that a shortage of ballots prevented 20 eligible, timely arriving Kosraen voters from casting their votes.  “This occurred because a larger than anticipated number of voters in possession of validly issued Voter ID card presented themselves at the Pohnpei special polling (place) to vote,” the notice of revote said.

On April 1, 2019, Vice President Yosiwo George, who won the Kosrae at-large seat over Aren B. Palik by 10 votes, filed a 41 page petition at the FSM Supreme Court to appeal the decision of the Office of the National Election Director.  His appeal asked for preliminary injunctive relief to bar the revote.

On April 9, 2019 a three member panel of justices consisting of Chief Justice Dennis K. Yamase, and Associate Justices Beauleen Carl-Worswick and Larry Wentworth denied the request for a preliminary injunction.  The revote will take place as decided by the Office of the National Election Director.

“One who seeks an injunction pending an appeal must show irreparable injury,” the ruling denying the injunction said. “A ‘winning’ candidate cannot show that a revote constitutes irreparable harm because, after the revote is held, that candidate may still be declared and certified as the winning candidate—the revote might not alter the ultimate outcome…George thus cannot show that he will suffer irreparable harm.  He can only show that he might end up losing an election that had seemed he had already won.”

The Court decided that one of the three pillars that would be required to be built before the Court should decide to issue any preliminary injunction also had not been met, that of harm to the public interest if an injunction is not issued.  The Court decided that it was in the public’s interest that fair and accurate elections should take place, and the balance-of-injuries favor neither George nor Palik in that regard.

“Because George cannot show irreparable harm, we need not, at this point, consider how likely he is to succeed on the merits (of the appeal he filed with the Court)”, the Court ruled.

At a status conference on appeal of the Court’s ruling this morning, the Court affirmed that the revote will take place and that any appeals on the matter will take place after the revote.

Embassy of Japan

On February 27, 2019, a Grant Contract Signing Ceremony was held at Yap State hospital conference room for the Project for “Procuring a Medical Waste Incinerator in Yap State”, which provided Department of Health Services, Yap State with $61,640 under the Grant Assistance for Grass-roots Human Security Projects.  

This project intends to provide one (1) Medical Waste Incinerator, in order to ensure a clean and safe environment without emission of pollutants.  

The Hon. Henry S. Falan, Governor of Yap State, showed his gratitude for the generous assistance from the Government of Japan. He also mentioned that with this project people in Yap will be ensured a clean and safe environment. Ambassador Ryoichi Horie stated that the important stage is to maintain and utilize this incinerator for the welfare of the people in Yap, and he hoped the Yap state hospital will continue and improve the provision of good medical services to the people in Yap.

The ceremony was witnessed by The Hon. Lt. Governor Jesse Salau, the Chief of Division of Media & Protocol Mr. Sebastian Tamagken, the Public Information Officer Mr. Joshua Libyan, the Director of the Department of Health Services Ms. Aileen Tareg, the Department of Health Services, Maintenance Division Chief Mr. Augustino Harongochem, the Finance Operations Manager Mr. Julius Tun, JICA volunteers and the staff of the Embassy of Japan in FSM.

By: Christina Higa, Co-Director, Pacific Basin Telehealth Resource Center

Pohnpei Hospital’s Dr. Payne Perman makes history again!  Today he conducted a gastrointestinal endoscopy in Pohnpei while a panel of experts from the Australian and New Zealand Gastroenterology International Training Association (ANZGITA) and Fiji School of Medicine offer real time advice and guidance by video teleconference. 

The procedure conducted today was quite complex.  It involved inserting an endoscope, a flexible tube with a light and camera, into the stomach.  He also used a balloon dilator that was inserted into the scope and through the narrowing to widen it.  This is a specialized procedure that is usually done by experienced endoscopist.

To assure optimal video image and teleconference quality, Pohnpei Hospital used a high definition camera and a new desktop screen so that the Pacific Island partners could be seen by the Pohnpei team during the procedure. 

During the procedure, Drs. Chris Hair; Mai Ling; Paul Clark observed and gave advice along the way.  Experts were able to advise on what instruments and sizes of instruments to use. Also help with the next steps in managing this patient. Dr. Perman is a general internist, so having access to super sub-specialists (e.g., gastroenterologists) expands his health care delivery to the people of Pohnpei. Especially to patients without insurance and are not able to get help abroad.

Dr. Perman said, “I would not have had the confidence to do this by myself and would typically have to refer these more complex cases off island; however, with the team of experts I was able to successfully conduct the biopsy and plan for next steps for the patient.”   Dr. Perman was able to gain the confidence because he had several experts looking on with him.  At the same time, other participants who joined the telehealth session learned much by observing and asking questions.  Other participants were from Kosrae, American Samoa, Fiji, Palau, Hawaii, and even Japan.

The patient was very thankful to have had this opportunity to receive care from a team of experts and expressed his gratitude to the Pohnpei team for their good care.   Today was a live procedure that benefitted a patient and health care providers from around the Pacific that observed and learned together.

This was the 9th gastroenterology distance learning session that is coordinated by Pohnpei Hospital and conducted in partnership with ANZGITA; Fiji School of Medicine; and the Pacific Basin Telehealth Resource Center. Finally, the Leo Etscheit Foundation and FSM Telecom should be recognized for the continued support in providing the bandwidth necessary for the program.

Embassy of Japan

On April 3, 2019, the Handover Ceremony was held at the Pohnpei Consumer Organization in Dolonier Nett for the Project for Construction of Support Center for Persons with Disabilities in Pohnpei state which provided the Pohnpei Consumer Organization (PCO) with US$109,105 under the Grant Assistance for Grass-roots Human Security Projects. 

The objective of this project is to increase awareness on human rights of persons with disabilities by constructing a new facility which will be utilized as a space to hold training and workshops for empowerment of persons with disabilities.

In his address, His Excellency Ryoichi Horie, Ambassador of Japan, expressed his delight for the completion of this project which brings a great supporting center that will contribute to the improvement in quality of lives of persons with disabilities in Pohnpei State. Mr. Henry Phillip, the President of PCO, expressed his sincere gratitude to the Government of Japan for the generous donation. Mr. Nelbert Perez, Founder of PCO, acknowledged Ambassador Horie for the generous donation and stated that the new building will be a model for accessibility for those persons with disabilities in the country and bring more possibilities for them. The Hon. Marcelo K Peterson, Governor of the Pohnpei State Government, expressed his deepest appreciation for the variety of continuous support from Japan to Pohnpei State. To close out the remarks, the Hon. Isonahnken of Nett Municipality, Mr. Salvador Iriarte expressed his sincere gratitude to the Government of Japan for the support to the people of Pohnpei.

The program was enhanced by presentation of songs from the people of Sapwuafik, Ambassador and Madam, and Mr. Danny Kalio, a member of PCO.

The ceremony was witnessed by Traditional leaders, The Hon. Lorin S. Robert, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, representatives of Pohnpei legislature, staffs of FSM National Government and Pohnpei state Government, members of PCO and staffs of Embassy of Japan.              

Trust Fund for the People of the

Federated States of Micronesia

April 3rd, 2019

WASHINGTON, D.C.– The Trust Fund Committee of the Trust Fund for the People of the Republic of the Federated States of Micronesia (the Fund) conducted its fiscal year 2019 (FY19) second quarter meetings on April 1st, 2019.

The meeting covered the Fund’s investment performance for the October-December 2018 quarter as well as the January-February 2019 period, a review of the Fund’s FY18 annual report and audit, adjustment of the Investment Policy Statement and investment fee schedule, and distribution policy for post FY23.

For the October-December 2018 quarter, the Fund lost 7.4%, net of fees, and had an ending net asset value of  $618,026,379. Losses were due to volatility caused by U.S. and global economic and finance uncertainty, especially in late December. During the quarter, a U.S. government annual contribution, per the schedule of the Compact of Free Association, as Amended, in the amount of $32,242,320 was deposited on October 2nd, 2018.

As of February 28th, the Fund had gained back most of the first quarter losses and was down 1.5%, net of fees, for the fiscal year-to-date (October 1st, 2018 to February 28th, 2019). The total asset value was $657,924,104 as of February 28th, 2019.

The Fund’s independent auditor, Baker Tilly, presented the Fund’s FY18 Audited Annual Financial Statements. The audit was conducted per U.S. Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS) and Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards (GAGAS). There were no negative findings or disclosures identified in the audit.

The FY18 Annual Report was presented to the Committee. The Fund ended FY18 (September 30th, 2018) with a restricted fiduciary net position of $636,086,452 compared to $564,970,738 as of the end of FY17. The gain was due to investment earnings and the annual contribution from the U.S. government. The Fund had an annual weighted rate of return of 6.8% for FY18 compared to 13.8% for FY17. The Committee approved the Annual Report and authorized dissemination of the Annual and audited financial statements to the respective governments. The full report and other information on the Fund may be accessed on the Fund website at https://fsmcfatf.com.

The Committee approved a revised Investment Policy Statement and fee schedule with Mercer Investing Management, the Fund’s Investment Adviser. The Investment Policy Statement was adjusted to include changes to the U.S. small/mid cap, emerging markets and fixed income asset strategies. These changes together with a reduced Mercer advisory fee schedule and elimination of the non-discretionary management will result in a reduced percentage of annual fees paid by the Fund for the Investment Adviser and money managers.

To address the formulation of a distribution policy and other issues regarding the Trust Fund Agreement for the post FY23 period, the Committee agreed to appoint a subcommittee to determine options for the Committee to review and consider. Future discussion will be held regarding the membership and terms of reference of the subcommittee.

As provided for under the Compact of Free Association agreements, as amended (U.S. Public Law 108-188), the Fund was established to contribute to the economic advancement and long-term budgetary self-reliance of the people of the Federated States of Micronesia when annual grant assistance under the Compact expires after fiscal year 2023. 

Embassy of Japan

On March 27th, 2019, the handover ceremony for the Project for Power Sector Improvement in Kosrae was held at Lelu, Kosrae State. For this project, 1.19 Billion JPY (equivalent to 10.7 million USD) was donated by the Government of Japan to construct a power plant with two 600kw diesel generators, 13.8 kV overhead distribution lines at Lelu island and 13.8 kV underground distribution lines at Okat area. Trainings for local engineers were also provided to maintain the donated equipment. This project will improve the livelihood of people in Kosrae and assist economic development in the Kosrae State.

In his address, the Hon. Carson K. Sigrah, the Governor of Kosrae State, expressed his appreciation for the generous donation from the Government of Japan, and stated that the new power plant will be the new landmark for the strong relations between Kosrae State and Japan. The Hon. Yosiwo P. George, the Vice President of the FSM, firstly thanked the suppliers and consultants of this project such as NBK Japan, Toshiba, Yachiyo Engineering for their hard work, and stated that the new power plant will provide a steady and reliable supply of electricity which is essential for Kosrae State to develop.

H.E. Ryoichi Horie, Ambassador of Japan, stated that the new power plant will benefit the people of Kosrae through the improvement of the infrastructure. He also encouraged KUA staff to conduct proper maintenance so that the donated equipment will last longer. Mr. Shibata, Resident Representative of JICA Micronesia, stated that the project could not be completed without kind cooperation from the Kosrae State Government and KUA.

After the ribbon cutting by the representatives of each organization, the Vice President George turned on the engine of new power plant.

The ceremony was witnessed by the representatives of NBK, Toshiba Plant System & Service, Nishishiba Electric, Daihatsu Diesel and Yachiyo Engineering and staff of National and Kosrae State Government, KUA, JICA Micronesia and the Embassy of Japan in the FSM.

By Susan Kihleng

April 10, 2019

FSM—Nine swimmers from the Federated States of Micronesia participated in the First Annual Micronesian Swimming Championships held in Koror, Palau from April 4 through 7.  Swimmers from the Marshall Islands, Saipan, and Palau also competed.

The first three days involved pool competitions.  The 4th day included a 5K ocean swim for the competitors aged 13 and over and a 1K ocean swim for the competitors aged 12 and under.

The team had been told that since the competition was FINA sanctioned that it would swim as Team FSM.  On arrival in Palau they learned that they were actually representing Pohnpei since the Championships were held using Micronesian Games rules.  Though all swimmers currently live in Pohnpei, some members are part Chuukese and others are part Kosraen.  The team opted to compete under both the Pohnpei and FSM flags.

Team Pohnpei/FSM made history while in Palau.  The swimmers took home a gold medal for their efforts in the first event of the competition, the 400 meter Free Relay.  Not only was it the first gold medal won in the first ever Micronesian Swimming Championships, it was also the first time a team from the FSM has medaled in a relay in an international competition.

Team Pohnpei/FSM took third place in the gold medal race with a total of eight gold medals.  The swimmers also brought home 10 silver and seven bronze medals.  They also set six new FSM National Records.

Medal winners are as follows:

Team Pohnpei/FSM - Mixed 400 Meter Freestyle Relay - Gold

Nicole Adams - Women’s 100 Meter Individual Medley - Silver

Jourdyn Adams - Womens 50 Meter Backstroke - Silver

Taeyanna Adams - Womens 100 Meter Breaststroke - Gold

Nicole Adams - Womens 100 Meter Breaststroke - Silver

Jessie Adams - Girls 100 Meter Freestyle - Bronze

Jourdyn Adams - Women 100 Meter Freestyle - Gold

Team Pohnpei/FSM - Mixed 200 Meter Medley Relay - Bronze

Team Pohnpei/FSM - Mixed 400 Meter Medley Relay - Gold

Tayeanna Adams - Women’s 50 Meter Breaststroke - Gold

Nicole Adams - Women’s 50 Meter Breaststroke - Silver

Noah Adams - Men’s 50 Meter Breaststroke - Silver

Kyler Kihleng - Men’s 200 Meter Backstroke- Silver

Kestra Kihleng - Women’s 100 Meter Butterfly - Gold

Kaleo Kihleng - Men’s 100 Meter Butterfly - Silver

Jourdyn Adams - Women’s 200 Meter Freestyle - Bronze

Mixed 200 Meter Freestyle Relay - Silver

Kestra Kihleng - Women’s 50 Meter Butterfly - Silver

Jourdyn Adams - Womens 50 Meter Butterfly - Bronze

Kaleo Kihleng - Mens 50 Meter Butterfly - Bronze

Taeyanna Adams - Women’s 200 Meter Breaststroke - Gold

Kestra Kihleng - Women’s 200 Meter Individual Medley - Silver

Nicole Adams - Women’s 200 Meter Individual Medley - Bronze

Taeyanna Adams - Women’s 50 Meter Freestyle - Gold

Jourdyn Adams - Women’s 50 Meter Freestyle – Bronze

Several representatives from FINA and Oceania Swimming participated in the running of the four day competition.  They also ran outstanding clinics throughout the week, including an athlete’s clinic by four-time Olympian and Olympic finalist Ryan Pini. There was a Coaches’ Clinic by FINA coach John Bladon, as well as Officials’ Clinic by FINA official Lesley Huckins.  Bill Sakovich of the Oceania Swimming Association, known as the Father of Swimming in the Pacific was also there to oversee the meet and work with both swimmers and coaches alike.

Coach Billy Brown of Palau and the Palau Swimming Association truly outdid themselves in hosting this amazing competition and certainly set the bar high for the islands that will be hosting this annual event in the future.

The next Micronesian Swimming Championships is scheduled to be held in Guam, with Pohnpei hosting the competition in 2021. All the swimmers have agreed this was one of the best swim competitions they have ever been a part of and are all looking forward to next year.

Pohnpei Fishing Club

April 6, 2019

Pohnpei—Ocean View West Wing, Best Buy, One World Plaza with support from Senator David Panuelo, and RAIN sponsored a fishing tournament in Pohnpei on Saturday April 6.  RAIN also participated by providing each boat with a case of locally bottled water.  18 boats braved the rainy weather to participate in the tournament.

Though for the most part, the fish that were caught weren’t particularly large, anglers landed several good catches in all categories.  Lara Trott won the grand prize of $600 for her catch of a 43.4 pound dog tooth tuna.  Trott also won the second place prize of $500 for a dog tooth tuna only 3 tenths of pound less than her grand prize winning fish.

The top three winners for point fish were lady anglers. Four lady anglers nabbed additional prizes in their category.

Most of the prizes were cash prizes though there were also some nice gift certificates provided by the sponsors as well.  The Lady Angler winners received a free night at Ocean View in addition to cash prizes for their catches.  The top two also received dinner.  The three top Junior Anglers won gift certificates for pizza along with their cash prizes.

The Pohnpei Fishing club couldn’t have tournaments without its sponsors.  Thank you to the sponsors for providing $4,000 in cash and prizes.

The next Pohnpei Fishing Club tournament will be the World Tuna Day tournament on April 27.

Prize winners for the April 6 tournament follow:

Care Micronesia Foundation

Each country across the planet has a different outlook on life.  One thing we have in common is that we want the best for our children.  One way that communities help their children have a better life is to protect their childhood and prevent them from getting married until they are old enough to start a family of their own.  This is called the age of consent and marriageable age, when two young people can have sexual relations and decide to legally get married.  In Pohnpei, this age was set at 16, but through lobbying from the churches, from Public Health, women’s groups and the Care Micronesia Foundation the Pohnpei State Legislature has recently created legislation raising it to 18 years of age.  This legislation was passed by the legislature and provided to the Governor.  It became law without signature after 30 days after its passage.

The reasons for lobbying for this change are numerous.   There are health concerns for all teenagers engaged in sexual relations at a young age. Once girls become teenage mothers, they are at more risk to health issues that their young bodies are not ready for.  Also, research shows that girls that marry at too young an age are at a higher risk of experiencing domestic violence. Once they marry they are also required to drop out from school and this hinders them from reaching their goals in life around education and earning a living. 

The Pacific Community’s (SPC) Regional Rights Resource Team (RRRT) provided support to the Care Micronesia Foundation’s campaign under the Pacific People Advancing Change project, funded by the Government of Sweden. Training on campaigning, mentoring and a small grant from SPC RRRT helped the Care Micronesia Foundation to run the campaign, including a roundtable discussion attended by representatives of the Pohnpei State Public Health and the Chairman of the Committee on Health from the Pohnpei State Legislature, Hon. Shelten Neth, as well as church leaders, traditional leaders, and women’s groups. 

Now, with the passing of the new law on age of consent, the Care Micronesia Foundation will continue to work with SPC RRRT and increase public awareness about the new law and what it means for parents, young people and traditional leaders.

The Care Micronesia Foundation would like to thank everyone who showed support for the new law, including state leadership, and we look forward to working with the Pohnpei State Government, church and traditional leaders to help inform the public and improve the lives of our young people.

By FSM Boxing Association

One year later, FSM Boxing World Champion Coach Andrea Galbiati from Italy has returned to Pohnpei to help train hopefuls for the FSM Boxing National Team to compete at this year's Pacific Games in Apia, Samoa come July 2019.  Galbiati has returned for one month and together with head Coach Erick Divinagracia have been training these hopefuls, which includes Mavrick Manalastas and returning 2015 Pacific Game team member, Derick Perman.  Such boxing training consists of a grueling 5 days a week 4 hours a day schedule, which is broken down into two workouts that start from 10AM - 12PM and another two hours in the evening from 6:30PM - 8:30PM and Saturdays as well.  "Training with Coach Andrea is hard, but its good work it's worth it I can see improvement in my technique, my speed, and my footwork is on another level. There is nothing that he does not explain and to have a Coach of his caliber critiquing us on every little thing we do improves our skills" said Perman.  

Galbiati has been involved with FSM Boxing since 2013 when he first met Yapese boxer, Jennifer Chieng in New York City where their training began together and he helped corner her for over fifteen fights on four different continents.  At the 2015 Pacific Games in Papua New Guinea, Jennifer and three other team members represented the first ever FSM National Boxing team, where she won the gold medal which lead to her to participating in an epic match at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio De Janiero.   

Galbiati’s involvement in the FSM is also not just limited to training Micronesian boxers, but also helping the local community and promoting the FSM whenever he can.  Last year, he provided basic self-defense training to the Kolonia Town Police and this year he was able to speak to students at the College of Micronesia and tell his story and the requirements of a professional athlete.  In his free time, Galbiati is constantly promoting the FSM on his social media pages and in interviews with the Italian media to help foster tourism between the two countries.  

In light of the Pacific Games in July, Coach Galbiati and Coach Divinagracia are hoping to narrow down the best boxer(s) in Pohnpei by June and then send them to live and train at Galbiati's gym in Brooklyn for at least a one month where these boxer(s) will be exposed to even more intense training under Coach Galbiati and the renowned New York boxing scene.  However, there are no guarantees.  Should the hopefuls not meet certain weight requirements by a certain date or their skill level is not up to par with the coaches’ expectations, then the boxers will not compete at the Pacific Games and instead will focus on more training and competing at smaller events to help build their experience.  “Our boxers health is our number one priority.  Boxing is not a sport that you play and is very dangerous. At the Pacific Games, there are highly skilled veteran boxers that have competed their whole life from the time they were youths to adults and some have competed at the World Championships and the Olympics. These guys are still young and have plenty of time to train and improve their skills and we are not going to risk their health if they can’t meet our expectations” said Divinagracia.

These activities would not have been possible without the support from the National Government, which includes receiving certain funds from the FSM Congress, support from the FSM Olympic Committee, long standing local business supporters such as Caroline Fisheries Corporation and Dongwon Fisheries who donated the boxing ring as well as donations from families and friends and support from the general public.  However, the program still needs your continued support to keep the sport of boxing thriving in the FSM to hopefully produce the next FSM Olympian boxer or World Champion! You can show your support by stopping by the gym across from the Christian Calvary Academy where boxing classes are every Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings or by visiting their Facebook page at "FSM Boxing Association."

FSM Information Services

PALIKIR, Pohnpei—On April 4th, 2019 His Excellency Peter M. Christian, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and the Honorable Yosiwo P. George, Vice President of the FSM, met with Mr. James Lynch, Deputy Director General, Pacific Department, of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The purpose of the meeting was to discuss ADB country programming in the FSM, including a combined total of 26 million dollars of grant funding available for 2019 and 2020.

Mr. Lynch described how ADB’s engagement with the FSM over the past few years has focused on three areas: energy, water, and education. President Christian, in turn, asked if it would be possible for that money to be used on infrastructural projects on the premise that such projects necessarily feed into energy, water, and education access and quality.

“You can’t go wrong with basic infrastructure,” President Christian said, “because where the road leads, the economy follows. Better roads means better houses, better sewer systems, better education response and better healthcare response….” President Christian followed up by asking if the combined 26 million from ADB for 2019 and 2020 can be used in such infrastructure projects.

“I think it’s…very much contingent on what the government’s priorities are,” said Mr. Lynch in response.

President Christian noted, for example, that in Yap multiple schools need paved roads to improve access and multiple bridges need to be rebuilt; and in Pohnpei State, the Jesuits have donated the former Pohnpei Agriculture & Trade School (PATS) complex to the National Government, and the current administration has been wanting to turn it into a new dedicated vocational education school—the FSM presently lacks such a dedicated vocational education institution.

President Christian further highlighted that infrastructure development can often have numerous positive side effects. “For example…every time we let a road be made of coral, we have to go out and re-dredge a reef in order to cover the road—but if we pave these roads, then we’re not just providing good access road, we’re saving the reefs from further degradation.”

“That’s a really interesting angle,” said Mr. Lynch. “This is one of the most interesting and innovative approaches [we’ve heard of].” Mr. Lynch emphasized the importance of ADB’s mission to the FSM, to include the future establishment of a Pohnpei-based FSM Country Office which will “give [ADB] more physical presence on the ground to really provide [FSM] the support that’s necessary.”

“Let me say that I appreciate this meeting,” President Christian said, “we will ensure we remain vigilant that this money we’re saying we have is used effectively…and I’d like to immediately tell the FSM states of Kosrae, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Yap that this is your share…but we recommend the best thing is to use it for roads.”

The meeting concluded with Mr. Lynch advising that ADB will “come up with a roadmap within 30 days that will help FSM allocate these resources…and the states comply with the timeframes we’ll set forward.”

The FSM National Government is committed towards providing essential services to the citizens of the Nation, and believes that FSM’s national sovereignty necessitates that genuine partnerships with foreign nations and independent organizations focus on development projects that enhance both the quality of life, and the quality and quantity of opportunity, for all who call these islands home.

On 3 April 2019 at COM-FSM’s MITC, FSM’s Maritime Surveillance Adviser, LCDR Lauren Milburn, Royal Australian Navy, and surveillance staff from the National Police Maritime Wing gave a presentation titled “Women in Maritime and Law Enforcement – Our stories, your opportunities”.

FSM Postmaster General Ginger Mida opened the presentation, which covered themes including the Pacific Patrol Boat program, Maritime Surveillance, and Women, Peace and Security within the FSM.

Accompanying LCDR Milburn were four surveillance officers - Aireen Lebehn, Younaleen Mathew, Fiona Halverson, Natasha Neth, and the Defence Cooperation Program’s administrative officer, Laine Lane.

The surveillance officers shared their work and training experiences in the maritime and law enforcement fields and encouraged more women to join them. Younaleen Mathew was the first female Surveillance Officer to join the Maritime Wing, after graduating from FSM’s Fisheries and Maritime Institute in 2013.

Aireen Lebehn served as an officer of the Kolonia Town Police Force prior to becoming a surveillance officer. Her decision to join the Maritime Wing was based on opportunities to progress her professional development. Since 2015, she has completed a number of courses offered by the Australian Government and US Coastguard, including general management and self-defence training. Aireen recently graduated as the first female to attend and complete the National Fisheries Officer course at the Australian Maritime College in Tasmania, Australia. She has also had the opportunity to work at the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre (RFSC) in Honiara, as a member of the operations team in support of regional fisheries operations. Last month, Aireen was the first female shiprider for FSM, embarked in a US Coast Guard patrol vessel.

Rene Edgar from the Department of Justice’s Anti-Human Trafficking division also spoke about the importance of having more women in law enforcement. Rene previously attended FSM’s Fisheries and Maritime Institute and is an Australia Awards Alumnus.

Each woman’s story demonstrates the unique strengths and determination they bring to the Maritime and Law Enforcement domain. Gender inclusion is an important enabler of any professional and capable organization, and this is particularly relevant to the Maritime and Security sectors.

APIC

TOKYO – Teresita Laarwon of Yap is one of three young women from Micronesia who have been named to a program in Japan that identifies up-and-coming regional leaders. They were selected by The Association for Promotion of International Cooperation, a Tokyo-based private foundation that promotes relations with the island nations of the Pacific and the Caribbean.

                The women chosen for this year’s APIC Young Micronesian Leadership Program along with Laarwon are Milañ Loeak of the Marshall Islands; and Joleen Ngoriakl of Palau. The women will travel to Japan this month to meet with regional affairs and environmental experts in government and academia. They will also get the opportunity to experience Japanese culture first-hand when they travel to Kyoto to learn how to wear kimono and the ancient art of the tea ceremony.

                “We believe these young women have the potential to be among the region’s top leaders, and even beyond,” said APIC President Peter Yoshiyasu Sato. “We’re looking forward to getting to know them, and having them learn about Japan.”

                Laarwon is a teacher at Yap Catholic High School and previously worked at the Yap Visitors Authority in the Federated States of Micronesia.  She is a graduate of Xavier High School, and has a degree from Spokane Community College. She’s completing requirements to graduate from Eastern Washington State University.

                Loeak is Managing Director of Lieom N. Corp., her family’s investment company, and is active in community and cultural organizations. Her father, Christopher Loeak, is a chief and former president of the Marshall Islands. She is a graduate of Xavier High School on Chuuk, and attended university in the United States.

Ngoriakl is chief of staff in the Koror State Government in Palau. She previously worked for a local agency and a regional authority in Palau. The author of a published book for kids, is a graduate of Mindszenty High School in Koror and of Regis University.  She is studying to complete her master’s degree at Johns Hopkins University.

                More information on The Association for Promotion of International Cooperation can be found at http://www.apic.or.jp/index_eng.html.     

Office of the Assistant Secretary

Insular and International Affairs

WASHINGTON – U.S. Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary, Insular and International Affairs, Doug Domenech today applauded successes highlighted at the mid-year meetings of the Joint Economic Management Committee (JEMCO) held on March 19, 2019, in Chuuk, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). The JEMCO members and U.S. and FSM government officials were apprised, in particular, on efforts being made in the FSM to systematize and institutionalize professional planning and management of public infrastructure projects.

With support and technical assistance provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the FSM Government has now established and fully staffed three out of five program management offices in the FSM, and continues to lay the foundation for the professional management and use of public infrastructure funding and building projects throughout the FSM. More than $200 million is available under the Compact of Free Association (Compact) to build and renovate schools, hospitals, utilities, and other public infrastructure across the FSM.

While in Chuuk, U.S. officials visited the Chuuk Public Utility Corporation (CPUC) power plant on Weno with Chief Executive Officer Kasio Mida, Jr., and other key staff, where they saw new generators, equipment, and renovated infrastructure that was supported through more than $10 million in Compact public infrastructure grants. In 2016, CPUC also successfully refurbished its wastewater treatment plant with funding support through the Compact.

“I understand that JEMCO Chair Nik Pula and the other members were impressed by their visit to the Weno power plant, a once-failing utility that is now a model in the Pacific region,” said Assistant Secretary Domenech. “I applaud this effective use of Compact public sector infrastructure grant funding that ultimately benefits the people of Chuuk and the FSM.”

“The power plant in Weno has gone from being one of the most challenged in the Pacific with rolling blackouts every day, to now providing consistent power 24/7,” said CEO Mida. “With the combined support of political leadership, professional management, and financial assistance under the Compact, we have turned this utility around. We continue to work with the U.S. and other partners such as the Asian Development Bank to develop our utility services, and explore alternative energy sources, not only on Weno but in other populated islands in Chuuk State.”

The U.S. team also visited the Chuuk State Hospital with Chuuk Public Health Director Julio Mariur and Dr. Dorina Fred. Discussions are underway to propose construction of a new hospital in Weno estimated to cost approximately $50 million. Built during the Trust Territory era, prior to the implementation of the Compact of Free Association in 1986, the hospital is in great disrepair. The hospital did benefit from renovations provided in 2008 by Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 133, through a Department of Defense Pacific Partnership program. Originally built with a 120-bed capacity, it is the only in-patient facility in the State of Chuuk, serving over half of the FSM population, nearly 50,000, spread out over dozens of islands inside and beyond the Chuuk Lagoon.

The Assistant Secretary, Insular and International Affairs, and the Office of Insular Affairs carry out the Secretary of the Interior’s responsibilities for the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Additionally, OIA administers and oversees Federal assistance under the Compacts of Free Association to the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau.

FSM Information Services

PALIKIR, Pohnpei—On March 26th 2019, His Excellency Peter M. Christian, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) met with Dr. Shirai Yoshiyasu, President of Osaka Gakuin University. The purpose of the meeting was to explore the possibility of Dr. Yoshiyasu serving as FSM’s Honorary Consul in the Kinki region, as well as to discuss educational programs such as student transfer, scholarship, and capacity development. Dr. Yoshiyasu had previously bestowed upon President Christian an Honorary Doctorate in Philosophy degree.

Speaking through a translator, Dr. Yoshiyasu said that he found the people of the FSM to be very polite. “The heart of the people is very warm.”

“The people of Micronesia are very loving,” said President Christian. “We’re a family because we are a small community.” President Christian then described how FSM’s relationship with Japan is like that of a canoe bound together by rope made by coconut fibers in that it is both strong and flexible.

“Japan has given us respect, and we respect Japan back in our national sovereignty,” said President Christian. “Doctor… I am asking if you would consider the possibility of becoming our Honorary Consul in Osaka, in the [Kinki] region.”

Dr. Yoshiyashu appeared truly touched by the request, and after thanking President Christian said that he wishes to take the offer, and to expand the relationship between FSM and Japan. “I was very surprised to come here and see the beauty of this island,” Dr. Yoshiyasu said.

“I apologize about the rain,” replied President Christian.

Dr. Yoshiyasu advised that the proposed location of the Honorary Consul’s office would be on Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, which is said to be the longest shopping street in Japan taking about forty minutes to walk its length. This would allow the office a high degree of visibility and to engage in promoting the FSM to a wide range of audiences.

After discussing other issues of interest, President Christian requested that the Honorable Lorin S. Robert, Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs, handle the next steps in the process of making Dr. Yoshiyasu an Honorary Consul of the FSM, which include contacting the Government of Japan.

The FSM is committed towards developing positive and peaceful relations with all countries throughout the world. The FSM celebrated 30 years of formal diplomatic relations with Japan in 2018 but has over 100 years of history together. It is the hope of the FSM National Government that the FSM and Japan remain strong and flexible allies.

By Bill Jaynes

The Kaselehlie Press

Pohnpei—On Saturday, March 16, women’s groups from Pingelap gathered in Mwalok, Sokehs for their own celebration of International Women’s Day.  The celebration began with a parade of three floats each displaying traditional weaving products followed by crowds of enthusiastic women dancing their way down the street culminating at the Pingelap community nahs.

Each of the three women’s groups had decorated their floats and prizes were awarded for their efforts.  Top prize was awarded to the women of Lih Sapwoahn representing Pingelapese in Sokehs.  Second Prize was given to Lih Deke representing Pingelapese from the atoll.  The third place prize winner brought their float in from the farthest away.  Lih Mand represented the Pingelapese community in Madolenihmw.

By Bill Jaynes

The Kaselehlie Press

March 19, 2019

Pohnpei—Associate Justice Mayceleen JD Anson of the Pohnpei Supreme Court found Benjamin Rodriguez guilty of seven criminal charges filed against him by the State.  Sentencing for those crimes is set for April 22.

Nearly two years ago, prosecutors of the Office of the Attorney General filed 13 separate criminal charges, each related to three separate incidents of theft of government funds.

The evidence was sufficient to prove that Rodriguez’s trip to the Philippines on April 1, 2011 was not for official reasons.  Therefore he was not eligible for the $5902.58 Pohnpei State provided in cash advances and ticket fare for himself and his spouse.  The trip was in fact for personal medical care and was fully covered by FSM Micare Insurance.  In addition to collecting $5902.58 in travel funds, the Rodriguezes returned from the Philippines two days early but failed to return all of the per diem and airfare the State had advance to him.

For that theft of funds, the court found Rodriguez guilty of “Cheating”, “Theft by Failure to Make Required Disposition of Funds Received,” and “Misconduct in Public Office”.  Rodriguez was Chief Justice of the Pohnpei Supreme Court at the time where he remained in office until he resigned in 2017.

The Court also found that on July 28, 2011, he requested and authorized a check to be issued to Genesis Pharmacy and Clinic in the amount of $322.20.  The money belonged to Pohnpei State and was used to pay for his personal medical expenses.  The Court again found him to be guilty of “Cheating”, and also found him to be guilty of “Petit Larceny” in that matter.

The criminal information filed in March of 2017 said that from 2011 to 2017, Rodriguez attended trainings, workshops, seminars and conferences.  Rodriguez’s travel, lodging and stipends or per diems for those events were paid for by the sponsoring entities for each of the events.  Among the sponsors were the U.S. Court Pacific Island Education Program, the Pacific Judicial Council, the Federal Court of Australia, and AusAID.  At the same time, Rodriguez also received full per diem from Pohnpei State for travel to the events though his living expenses were already covered by the sponsoring entities for each event.  The originally filed criminal information did not provide a dollar figure for the total amount of money Rodriguez wrongly received from the State.

For that crime, the Court found Rodriguez guilty of “Cheating” and “Misconduct in Public Office”.

Hearings on two other separate sets of criminal charges filed by the State against Rodriguez are ongoing.  A separate civil action filed by the State is on hold until all of the criminal matters are heard.

By Bill Jaynes

The Kaselehlie Press

March 14, 2019

Pohnpei—This morning Governor Marcelo Peterson delivered the State of the State address in the chambers of the Pohnpei State Legislature.  The speech was aired lived on State radio station V6AH.  A video of the speech as well as full English language and Pohnpeian language transcripts are available on the website of the State Government www.pohnpeistate.gov.fm. In the English language, the transcript of the speech spans 22 pages and is nearly 9000 words long.

He reminded his audience that three years ago the administration adopted a vision statement that says, “One Vision, One Community, and One State”, their way of saying that they hope to create one vibrant and prosperous Pohnpei.  He said that in line with the African proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, then you must go as a group,” his administration has led as a group.  He said that his administration has tried to build a courageous team of leaders in order to overcome the ever-mounting challenges the State faces.  “Challenges that come in the form of funding decrements for our social sectors; Challenges that come in the form of environmental threats, outmigration, etc.,” he said.

His detailed speech outlined the accomplishments and challenges of each sector and department beginning with the Department of Health and Social Services.  He said that based on the prior year’s statistics, management is compelled to: 1) reinforce and enhance the preventative and primary healthcare services to strengthen disease prevention, 2) maximize capacity of the secondary and tertiary/hospital care services to reduce the need for hospitalization and off-island medical referral cases caused by non-communicable and preventable illnesses/diseases, and 3) continue improving its facilities and support assets and resources which is a matter of record.

On the Environmental Protection Agency he said that the department continues to ensure that all projects taking place in Pohnpei’s islands for public infrastructure and economic development purposes are properly carried without adversely affecting our environment and its resources.  It also ensures that introduction of hazardous materials, diseases/illnesses and other undesirable contaminants are prevented.

He said that the Department of Education is the biggest Department and continues to provide learning opportunities to 10,251 students through secondary education.  He said that the Educational Development Plan or a Restructuring Plan realigning all of the schools under four distinct school districts is within the bounds of the law.  “Through this creative mode and the hard working efforts of our teachers and staff, we have raised the standard of our schools to meet the ever-increasing accreditation standards which have become the basis by which our schools are funded. Although, this may not sit well with some, it has delivered the results we had anticipated,” he said.

Readers are encouraged to read the detailed statements the Governor made during his address, regarding the significant increase in response capabilities of the Department of Public Safety (DPS).  He said that the four divisions of DPS, including the new division of fire and emergency have distinct responsibilities to collectively enforce State laws to deter crime, ensure peace and order and traffic, protect persons, property, endangered natural resources and environment, punish and rehabilitate law violators and oversee and assist in time of emergency and disaster.  The four Divisions of DPS are Police and Security, Corrections and Rehabilitation, Fish and Wildlife, and Fire and Emergency.

“For us Pohnpeians, land is life, livelihood, culture, identity and in this age, the economy. While it is a general policy direction to achieve sustainable economic growth via tourism, agriculture and fisheries, it is imperative that development of these economic sectors must be done in accordance with proper and strategic management of land to ensure economic development and preservation and conservation of natural resources coexist in tandem”, the Governor said of the efforts of the Department of Land and Natural Resources.  “As time changes, new needs and challenges emerge. The need to grow our economy in anticipation to elimination of US Compact funding assistance to Pohnpei, the desire of FSM citizens for self-reliance, increase globalization and economic activities interdependence and the inevitable trend of embracing modern lifestyle by the younger generations, it is incumbent upon this generation to be creative and perceptive in managing our most valuable resource, our land, to foster proper economic development activities and safeguard the natural beauty of our God-given land going forward.”

Embassy of Japan

On March 4, 2019, the Grant Contract Signing Ceremony was held at the Governor’s office for the Project for “Procuring Recycling Equipment in Chuuk State”, which provided Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Chuuk State with US$64,897 under the Grant Assistance for Grass-roots Human Security Projects.

This project will provide an Aluminum Baler and a Plastic bottle Baler which will assist in the implementation of a recycling system through Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in Chuuk State. The same type of recycling system has already been implemented in the other three FSM states. The way the system works is that 6 cents charged per beverage container, when consumers buy a beverage. Consumers who bring empty beverage containers to the recycling center will get 5 cents back for each can and bottle as a refund. 1 cent is used for operation cost of recycling system. Chuuk EPA is planning to implement the recycling system this year, but without the provided machines, the system can’t be implemented. Therefore, the provided balers will allow Chuuk State to implement the recycling system and as a result it is expected to reduce littering and improve the environment in Chuuk State.

Mr. Picho Cheida, the Legal Counsel at Chuuk EPA, commented on the project and stated that this project will help the efforts of the state to minimize the solid waste in Chuuk State. In his address, His Excellency, Ambassador Horie stated that it is his pleasure to assist the FSM and improve the environment for a better future. He encouraged a successful implementation of the recycling system in Chuuk State. The Hon. Johnson S. Elimo, Governor of Chuuk State, expressed his gratitude for the generous assistance from the Government and people of Japan.

The ceremony was witnessed by Hon. Mark Mailo, President of the Senate, Mr. Jason Poll, Acting Director of Chuuk EPA, Mr. Douglas Marar, Director of Chuuk Visitors Bureau, Mr. Season Jacky, Deputy Director of Transportation and Public Works, the staff of Governor’s office, the staff of Public Affairs, the staff of Chuuk EPA and the staff of the Embassy of Japan in the FSM.

Pohnpei—On Sunday evening, March 24, the Australian Embassy held a cocktail reception at Orchids Restaurant to say goodbye to Deputy Head of Mission, Katherine Grant and to welcome the Deputy Head of Mission, Vy Duong.

Present at the reception were the diplomats of each of the embassies in the FSM, members of the FSM and State governments and members of the business community.

Katherine served in Pohnpei for two years and now has begun her journey to Canberra along with her husband Peter for a new assignment within DFAT.

Rotary Club of Pohnpei

March 16, 2019

Pohnpei—The Rotary Club of Pohnpei had its annual fun run in the early morning hours of March 16 in honor of St. Patrick’s Day.  Registered runners wore the green T-Shirts that Ambros Inc. of Guam donated.

The exuberant crowd participated in a pre-run warmup led by the Zumba group until the power went out.  The power outage didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the runners whose entry fees went to support the many good causes that the Rotary Club of Pohnpei supports.

Along with many other community projects, last year the Pohnpei Rotary Club awarded $12,000 in scholarships.  They provided two hand held scanners to the hospital to assist in diagnosing rheumatic heart disease in children.  The club is expanding that program to include a rheumatic heart disease awareness campaign next year. 

The club contributed to the cause of eradicating non-communicable diseases when it purchased some of the exercise equipment on the causeway that has seen heavy usage since its recent installation.

The Club also supported the Pohnpei Spelling Bee that sent winning students to Guam to compete in the next round.

Though many participated in the Fun Run/Walk just for pure satisfaction of contributing to a noble cause, prizes were awarded to the top 20 finishers in the race.  Prizes were provided by Moylan’s Insurance and Village Travel.  They also received a calendar from the Rotary Club.  The top 20 finishers and their times are listed below:

1. Kota Murasato  19:49:34

2. Alex Brencht   20:44:10

3. Alex Rodriguez  24:10:17
4. Josh Gallen 24:12:24
5. James Crosby 24:57:08
6. Ryo Shibahara 25:03:61
7. Dana Lee Ling 26:13:43
8. Kayzee Foy 26:37:51
9. Gregory Enas 26:37:51
10. Tom Mache 27:08:95
11. Garcia Mitchell 27:42:35
12. Marcelles Mizard 27:42:35
13. Zachary Penias 28:51:44
14. Franky Donre 30:26:00
15. Diana Shigeta 30:29:45
16. Rayhard Rio 30:29:45
17. Antony Wilson 30:55:54
18. Rene Merencillo 32:25:00
19. Joseph Ortega 33:70:00
20. Mae Shalane Wendolin 38:15:54

The Rotary Club of Pohnpei thanks its sponsors Ambros, Inc. and Budweiser for the T-Shirts, Palm Terrace for the venue, Moylan’s Insurance and Village Travel for the prizes.  Australian Ambassador George Fraser also made important and appreciated donations.  The support of FSM National Olympics and the Pohnpei State Sports Office and that of many volunteers was crucial for the successful run.

The Fun Run Run/Walk also could not have been done without the support of the Kolonia Town and Pohnpei State Police officers who provided security

It was a great day out and a good way to get exercise in the morning and for once, during a Rotary Club Fun Run/Walk, we weren’t inundated by torrential rains.

Keep supporting Rotary and stay fit.

KOLONIA, Pohnpei – On March 13 - 26, 2019, the FSM Ridge to Reef Project, led by the Pohnpei State Environmental Protection Agency (Pohnpei EPA), commenced its Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Analysis Workshop at the Pohnpei State Governor’s Conference Room. Over 40 participants representing State and National Governments, NGOs, regional agencies and other community based organizations participated in the 2-weeks intensive workshop.

In his opening remarks, the Governor of Pohnpei State, Honorable Marcello Peterson, highlighted that “the SEA is very timely as the state is currently working on reviewing and updating its Strategic Development Plan and the results of the SEA process will help guide and provide sustainable development recommendations”. The Governor applauded the EPA and the SEA team for their efforts in undertaking the preparatory work which has led to the workshop and urged participants “…to provide their support and contributions to the SEA”.

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is a new concept in the FSM that has never been previously applied. It is an analytical and participatory approach applied to policies, plans and programs at the very earliest stages of decision-making to integrate environmental considerations and evaluate the inter linkages with economic and social considerations. This ambitious assignment is a large component under the R2R project, aimed to protect the environment, demonstrate approaches to foster sustainable development and provide better understanding of links between terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems to improve sustainable land use and protected area management in the FSM.

A scoping study was conducted between October 14 to November 15, 2018 to define the geographic scope of the project and identify main interests and concerns of key stakeholders. It also identified key existing environmental and social threats and issues, accessible datasets and crucially important gaps in information. Recent, ongoing and planned projects with relevance to the SEA were identified, and the process and evaluation methodologies to be used for the SEA and preparation of an Integrated Environmental Management Plan (IEMP) were agreed. Pohnpei State was selected to be the focus of a pilot SEA in the FSM.

An SEA team was established to facilitate the SEA (consisting of the international consultant hired to lead the assignment, Professor Barry Dalal-Clayton, the R2R Technical Coordinator, Ms. Vanessa Fread and Pohnpei R2R State Coordinator, Mr. Jorg Anson), and a State Expert team was set up. Preparatory work included the development of a National and Pohnpei State Environmental and Socio-economic Baseline Profiles combining existing information and new information from the State of Environment Report and revised National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBSAP). A capacity assessment of government departments/agencies and NGOs likely play a role in the IEMP was also undertaken and community consultations were conducted in each municipality on key environmental and socio-economic issues. Four economic growth scenarios (stagnant/contracting, business-as-usual - low growth, moderate and high economic growth) were developed.

During the workshop, participants assessed the environmental and socio-economic impacts of developments and activities likely to arise for fisheries, agriculture and tourism under the four growth scenarios, and identified what needs to be done to minimize and mitigate these. The next course of action will be to draft and finalize the SEA report and an Integrated Environmental Management Plan for Pohnpei. The challenge will then be to implement the plan.

For more details on the R2R in FSM project, please contact:

National Project Implementation Unit:

Project Manager, Rosalinda Yatilman, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tel:+691 320-8815;  Fax: +691 320-8936

For more details on the SEA in Pohnpei State, please contact:

Technical Coordinator: Vanessa Fread, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Pohnpei State Coordinator: Jorg Anson, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

JAA

On February 16, 2019, the JICA Alumni Association (JAA) officers and several members conducted a Waste Survey demonstration at Dekehtik Causeway to approximately eighty (80) Talent Search Program (TSP) seniors. The purpose of the waste survey was to collect information from a site that is mostly filled with garbage. This would be the third time the JAA group conducted a Waste Survey demonstration. The first one was held on November 11, 2016, at Nett Point to College of Micronesia-FSM Japan Micro group students. That survey confirmed the rise in plastics as part of marine debris. The second one was on March 2018 on Lenger Island.

This year's Waste Survey Demonstration at Dekehtik was attended by His Excellency Ryoichi Horie, Japan Ambassador and Madam Ambassador, Mr. Shinji Shibata, JICA Resident Representative and Mrs. Shibata, newly elected JAA-FSM Officers, JAA-State Officers from Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae, Embassy of Japan staff, JICA staff, FSM DECEM staff, FSM HESA Staff, Pohnpei State EPA staff, TSP staff, JICA Volunteers and several onlookers. A total of 130 participants engaged in the Waste Survey demonstration which entailed the following activities: a) collecting different types of waste along the sidewalks and shorelines; b) separating waste by types; c) counting each waste type, and d) weighing waste by types. A total of 88 aluminum cans was collected from the areas where Senator Perman's huts were located to the main entrance of the causeway a few feet from the stop signs. However, about 277.7 kilograms of plastic materials were retrieved from a single trash bag. There was a total of 100 trash bags utilized on that day. Of course, plastics remains to be the dominant waste type. For that, Mr. Ryota Okiguchi, a JICA Volunteer at Pohnpei EPA shared the importance of the 3Rs: Reuse, Reduce, and Recycle, and in addition, introduced another R: Refuse! Finally, an awareness billboard was installed near Senator Perman's huts to remind the general public to manage waste. Let's manage waste!

Weno, Chuuk - On February 18-22, 2019 the Pohnpei Office of the Public Auditor (POPA) was invited to conduct trainings on fraud awareness and prevention. This is part of POPA’s proactive efforts in promoting good governance, accountability and transparency in government. The training further discussed the benefits and values of the FSM Audit Offices in the various governments. Among others, the training also highlighted issues relating to budget and economic management of the Project Control Documents (PCD) for the Congressional Project Funds, the presentation of the newly and updated FSM Financial Management Regulations (FMR) and Contract issued by FSM Transportation, Communication and Infrastructure (TC&I). 

The FSM National Public Auditor also talks about matters relating to funding on CFSM Projects, the background of the Audit Offices and their authorities. It was the first-time ever to put together a workshop training for the entire FSM’s municipal Governments and Authorities, who are also allottees of the FSM Congressional Project funds.  The training was hosted by the Madam Secretary Sihna Lawrence, Department of Finance & Administration. 

The best way to prevent Fraud and Corruption is through Public Awareness and Public Education.  Sophia Pretrick has done too many talks and public speaking about good governance, integrity and anti-corruption for the past 10 years and the latest one was at the FSM 2019 Annual Finance & Budget Conference, which was held at the COM/FSM Gymnasium from March 11-14, 2019. The conference was attended by more than 200 delegates from the four (4) FSM States. Fraud and Corruption impact all aspects of our society that is why people especially from Government Sectors needs to know the impacts, how to prevent it and what to report.  As Madam Secretary, Sihna Lawrence of the FSM Department of Finance & Administration said “fraud and corruption are under-reported because people need to be aware and know what is fraud and corruption and be more vigilant in reporting it.”

The Pohnpei Public Auditor Iso Ihlen K. Joseph also attended the conference on the third day. The same date where the Youth-4-Change presented and showcased their own composition songs in front of delegates. They presented their own music video about corruption. Youth as the future leaders of Pohnpei are great ambassadors for doing anti-corruption activities.  Young people are some of the most important agents of change in the fight against corruption. Youth-4-Change is partnering with Pohnpei OPA in this endeavor. If our youth can invest their time for the good of our Island Pohnpei, lets also support and invest in our youth. As Franklin Roosevelt said “We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future.”

Concludes Third Session in Yap, Micronesia

U.S. Department of the Interior

WASHINGTON - U.S. Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary, Insular and International Affairs, Doug Domenech today applauded the twenty-six island government officials in the 2018-2019 cohort of the Pacific Islands Executive Leadership Development Program (ELDP). These officials recently completed the third and penultimate session of their leadership development and training program in Yap, Micronesia.

“We are proud to support the development of leadership skills and capacity in young professionals from the U.S. insular areas,” said Assistant Secretary Domenech. “We look forward to seeing them continue to develop and assume more responsibility in decision-making for the future of the islands.” 

The twenty-six participants hail from the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and from the freely associated states of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. Students from the U.S. Virgin Islands participate in a separate Executive Leadership Program that takes place in various locations on the East Coast and in Washington, D.C.

The third week of the ELDP focused on leading institutions, with the participants being challenged to practice policy advocacy skills through the use of leadership concepts and principles taught during the first two ELDP sessions. Participants interpreted and utilized fiscal and economic data to develop policy reform options to address issues relevant to island jurisdictions. Other activities included updating individual leadership development plans, presenting team project updates, and participating in one-on-one meetings with ELDP program advisors to review each individual leader’s progress to date and discuss continued professional growth.

ELDP participants were welcomed to Yap by Governor Henry Falan and heard from additional guest speakers including T.H. Vincent Figir, Speaker of the Yap State Legislature; Mr. Larry Raigetal, Traditional Navigator and Director of Wa’agey; T.H.Cyprian Manmaw, Yap State Chief Justice; and Dr. Margie Falanruw, Director of the Yap Institute of Natural Science. Three program advisors supported the ELDP during the week: T.H. Sebastian Anefal, FSM Ambassador to Fiji; Dr. Mary Okada, President of Guam Community College; and Ms. Anna Mendiola, President and CEO of the FSM Development Bank.

The ELDP was created in 2009 to address challenges attracting and retaining qualified individuals to work in core functions of island governments. The U.S. insular areas now count 103 alumni who have developed their leadership abilities through the ELDP. Graduates of the program now serve in their respective island governments as ambassadors, elected representatives, judges, cabinet members, directors, and dedicated public servants.

The ELDP 2019 participants from each insular area are as follows:

American Samoa

• • Katrina Hunkin-Seumanutafa, Travel Division Head, Office of the Attorney General
• • Peteru Lam Yuen, Financial Aid Officer, American Samoa Community College
• • Burg Salanoa, Community Services Block Grant Program Manager, Department of Commerce
• • Crystal Simanu, Teacher, Department of Education

Guam

• • John Camacho, Jr, Accountant, Department of Administration
• • Rodalyn Gerardo, Special Assistant, Office of Public Accountability

Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

• • Michelle Atalig, Special Advisor, Department of Public Lands
• • Ryan Camacho, Technical Financial Analyst, Department of Finance, Office of the Secretary
• • Patty Coleman, Program Leader, Nutrition & Health Programs, Northern Marianas College Cooperative Research, Extension, & Education Services
• • TaAnn Kabua-Demapan, Drug Court Manager, Judiciary

Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) National Government

• • Erick Paul, Assistant Secretary, National Treasury, Department of Finance
• • Shaun Suliol, Webmaster, College of Micronesia
• • Sherlyn Reynold, Budget Analyst, Department of Education

Chuuk, FSM

• • Roxalynn Kaminanga, Accountant, Chuuk Department of Administrative Services
• • Wisney Nakayama, Representative, Chuuk State Legislature

Kosrae, FSM

• • Julie Sigrah, Administrator, Kosrae Visitor’s Bureau

Pohnpei, FSM

• • Mitaro Simina, Vice Principal, Student Services, Bailey Olter High School

Yap, FSM

• • Vallynna Gippin, Staff Auditor, Office of the Public Auditor

Marshall Islands

• • Maybeline Bing, Secretary, Ministry of Finance
• • Laurence Edwards, II, Legal Advisor, Marshall Islands Marine Resources Authority
• • Holden Nena, Clinical Director Of Human Services, Health and Human Services
• • Isabella Silk, Director, Office of Compact Implementation
• • Francyne Wase-Jacklick, Assistant Secretary, Health & Human Services

Palau

• • Antonnette Merur, Director Of Nursing, Ministry of Health
• • Sunny Ngirmang, Director, Ministry of Community And Cultural Affairs
• • Tmong Udui, Epidemiologist, Palau Ministry of Health

The ELDP remains competitive, with over 100 applications received and evaluated each program year. This 2018-2019 cohort of the Pacific Islands ELDP will participate in one final session and graduate in June 2019.  

The ELDP is administered by the Graduate School USA with funding support through the Office of Insular Affairs’ Technical Assistance Program.  Additional information is available online at http://eldp.pitiviti.org. More information on funding assistance from the Office of Insular Affairs may be found at https://www.doi.gov/oia/fiscal-payments.

FSM Information Services

PALIKIR, Pohnpei— This week, from March 18th to March 22nd 2019, the Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Emergency Management (DECEM) is working with Pohnpei State Government, the United States Government via the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), to jointly and formally assess the damage caused in Pohnpei State by Typhoon Wutip.

This assistance from the United States Government comes in response to His Excellency Peter M. Christian, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) requesting such assistance after the March 11th, 2019 amendment of the National Declaration of Emergency became a National Declaration of Disaster. One of the outcomes of the 7th Special Session of the 20th Congress of the FSM was to formally extend this declaration for an additional sixty days beyond its original thirty day duration.

Upon completion of the assessment in mainland Pohnpei State this week, the Joint Damage Assessment (JDA) team will be traveling to the islands of Nukuoro and the Mortlocks and Pattiw Islands in Chuuk State to formally assess Typhoon Wutip-related damage.

Meanwhile, relief efforts to provide for the needs of the Nation’s affected citizens remain ongoing. On Saturday, March 16th 2019, the Caroline Voyager departed Pohnpei State for the islands in Chuuk State. Amongst its relief supplies include water, medicine, and assorted foodstuffs.

A cabinet meeting on March 20th, 2019 also emphasized the FSM National Government’s commitment to serving the citizens affected by this national disaster. The Honorable Marion Henry, Secretary of the Department of Resources & Development (DR&D), noted in the meeting that DR&D has funds available for food security, including the distribution of planting materials of local food crops. DR&D will be collaborating with DECEM and other FSM and partner agencies to assist with the recovery efforts.

The Declarations of Emergency by the Governors of the States of Pohnpei, Yap, and Chuuk remain in effect. The FSM National Government will continue to provide updates on Typhoon Wutip relief as information becomes available.

FSM Information Services

WENO, Chuuk—On March 19th, 2019, the Joint Economic Management Committee (JEMCO) convened its Mid-Year meeting which was held, for the first time in the era of the amended Compact of Free Association (COFA), in Chuuk State. Among other duties, JEMCO is responsible for the review of development plans and other planning and budget documents of the State Governments of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), including monitoring progress made towards sustainable economic development and budgetary self-reliance. Per the terms of the COFA, JEMCO also consults with providers of United States Government Federal Grants, including the review and evaluation of grant allocations and their related objectives. Comprised of five members total, of which the FSM has two, representing the FSM were the Honorable Lorin S. Robert, Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Vice Chairman of JEMCO, and Mr. Leo A. Falcam, Jr., Chief of Staff to His Excellency Peter M. Christian, President of the FSM. Representing the United States were Mr. Nikolao Pula, Director of the U.S. Office of Insular Affairs and Chairman of JEMCO, Mr. Nicholas Dean, Director of the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Island Affairs, Bureau of East Asia and Pacific Affairs, and Mr. William Gallo, Associate Director of the Office of State, Tribal, Local and Territorial Support Office of the Centers Disease Control and Prevention.

The agenda for JEMCO’s discussion included policy items surrounding effective grant administration, initiatives for improvements in education and health data and performance indicator management, further advancements on the establishment of the FSM infrastructure management institutions, and progress on infrastructure project implementation.

The FSM submitted for JEMCO‘s consideration an allocation of $2,118,213 for two health sector projects; the funding was received in its entirety via JEMCO Resolution 2019-11. $1,618,213 will be dedicated for the FSM’s response to the urgent need for mass screening, and related treatments, of tuberculosis cases in the islands of Weno, Tol, and Polle in Chuuk State. The remaining $500,000 is allocated for funding the FSM Key Performance Indicator (KPI) Project, whose purpose is to improve both the management of health data, as well as the reporting thereof, and support informed decision-making in areas ranging from the prioritization of healthcare funding to the diagnosing and treatment of the Nation’s citizens.

Other discussions in the Mid-Year meeting included an update on the progress of the FSM’s public sector infrastructure program. It is projected that the FSM may see eight major infrastructure projects, worth nearly $44,500,000 combined, begin construction by November, 2019. An additional fifteen projects, worth nearly $53,400,000 combined, may begin construction by November, 2020.

Among the remaining discussions included amplifying information on the improvements to the ongoing electric power crisis in Pohnpei State. COFA assistance was allocated in August, 2018, to support the overhaul of two generator sets ($828,220) and installation of cash-meters ($500,000). It is expected that the generator sets will be fully operational in July, 2019. For longer-term solutions, JEMCO expressed its willingness to support reforms efforts focusing on the management and operations of Pohnpei State’s public utilities.

Chairman Pula noted at the conclusion of the JEMCO that the outcomes were very positive, and noted his satisfaction on the update briefings and the progress indicated in each sector. In a cabinet meeting on March 21st, 2019, Secretary Robert said “It was indeed a very successful visit, a very successful JEMCO….”

Embassy of Japan

On February 27, 2019, the Grant Contract Signing Ceremony was held at Yap Catholic High School for the Project for “Construction of Gymnasium in Yap Catholic High School”, which provided Yap Catholic High School with $120,520USD under the Grant Assistance for Grass-roots Human Security Projects.

The goal for this project is to provide a gymnasium which improves the educational environment and students’ health at Yap Catholic High School. Yap Catholic High School has been unable to include formal Physical Education class into their school curriculum because of the lack of reliable space to use in the event of poor weather. After this construction, Yap Catholic High School will finally be able to implement a Physical Education program into the curriculum for all students beginning in School Year 2019-2020. The gymnasium will be open to local people as well.

The Hon. Nick Figirlaarwon, Yap State Legislature and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Yap Catholic High School, expressed his gratitude for the generous assistance from the Government of Japan. Rev. R. Richard McAuliff, SJ, the Director of Yap Catholic High School, commented on Yap’s close ties with Japan and its people in allowing Yap Catholic High School to be able to tackle two of many challenges that the school faces: Providing one of the best quality education to students while maintaining an affordable tuition for families and impressing upon students important values such as respect, honesty, integrity and generosity shown by the Government and people of Japan. In his address, Ambassador Horie stated that the Government of Japan is always pleased to assist the FSM and encouraged the students for a better future. Mr. Michael Wiencek, the Principal of Yap Catholic High School, expressed his deepest gratitude for the generous assistance from the people of Japan.

The ceremony was witnessed by The Hon. Henry Falan, the Governor of Yap State, The Hon. Jesse Salalu, Lt. Governor of Yap State, The Hon. Congressman Joseph Urusemal, Delegates from Yap Congressional Delegation Office, Delegates from Yap State Legislature, The Hon. Simeon Waathan, Mayor of Rull Municipality, Rev. Kelly Yalmadau, Episcopal Vicar of the Catholic Chuch in Yap, Mr. Rufino Xavior, the principal of St. Mary’s school, members of the board of Directors of Yap Catholic High School, faculty and students of Yap Catholic High School and the staff of the Embassy of Japan in the FSM.

FSM Information Services 

PALIKIR, Pohnpei—On March 22nd, 2019, FSM Supreme Court Chief Justice Dennis Yamase sentenced Defendant William Chunn to ten years imprisonment, and six years probation, after finding him guilty of six counts of Trafficking in Children and one count of Exploiting a Trafficked Person.

During trial in February 2019, the Court heard testimony of how Mr. Chunn used the taxi he was hired to drive to recruit, transport, and deliver minor girls to have sex with sailors on shore leave, and other men, on several occasions between 2015 and 2017. The Court heard testimony from witnesses who explained that Mr. Chunn would charge the men a fee and then deliver minors for sex, some of the victims as young as 12 years old.

At the sentencing hearing, prosecutors from the FSM Department of Justice asked the Court to give Mr. Chunn the maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and for him to pay restitution in the amount of $25,000 to each child victim.

However, the Court imposed a sixteen-year prison term with six of the years on probation. Mr. Chunn will be released on Sundays from 9 am until 4 pm to attend church and visit his children during the duration of his incarceration. The Court further ordered a total of $14,000 to be divided between the two identified child victims as restitution.

The Department of Justice is committed to cracking down on human trafficking within the FSM, particularly cases involving the exploitation of minors. Through the Department’s collaboration with state organized Anti-Human Trafficking Task Forces, the issue of taxi drivers ferrying minors for sexual exploitation has become an increased concern and priority. This is the first case in the FSM involving a taxi driver taking minors to provide sexual services to fishermen. However, prosecutors are optimistic that the sentence imposed in this case will deter other taxi drivers from engaging in similar conduct.  Prosecutors are also hopeful that this case, public awareness efforts, and tips to the National Police will aid in the prosecution of future human trafficking cases.

Mr. Chunn was originally charged for Human Trafficking and Trafficking in Children as a Co-Defendant of fishing boat Captain Joseph Parisi in 2017. Mr. Parisi subsequently fled the FSM in November 2018 as his trial date was approaching. The Department of Justice is currently working with the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of State to locate and extradite Mr. Parisi back to the FSM to stand trial.

FSM Information Services

PALIKIR, Pohnpei—From March 11th to March 14th, 2019, the 5th annual Department of Finance & Administration (DOFA) Finance & Budget Conference was held in the College of Micronesia China Friendship Gymnasium. Attended by over 200 representatives from across the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), including relevant staff in charge of finance and personnel from each of the four states (Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae), the conference signaled another milestone in FSM’s development and sovereignty.

“It’s been noted by leadership,” said the Honorable Sihna M. Lawrence, Secretary DOFA, “That there has been an increased effort at both the National and State level…[to reduce] our outstanding questioned costs, and in the last two audit rounds there were zero new questioned costs.” Secretary Lawrence emphasized that the National and State Finance departments, being responsible for the Nation’s and States’ “purse”, should demonstrate transparency, responsibility, and accountability at all times when conducting their work—and congratulated the attendees for demonstrating these qualities, particularly in recent years.

One of the highlights of the Finance & Budget Conference was the discussion on the new Finance Management Information System (FMIS), which the FSM National Government hopes to have completed and in active use throughout the Nation beginning Fiscal Year 2020 i.e. by October 1, 2019. Financed by the World Bank, Secretary Lawrence said the Public Financial Management Project will also provide “much needed capacity-building of our finance staff across our five Governments.”

Beulah Daunakamakama, Program Manager at DOFA’s Central Implementation Unit, described the FMIS as “a new comprehensive accounting system for the FSM National and State Governments, including hardware, software, training, and capacity-building…. There will be standardized internal controls, which will help strengthen the way things work.”

“Right now we’re maintaining manual files alongside the current system which don’t give real-time data and ultimately delays end-of-the-year reporting…. By freeing up accounting staff from data entry, they can focus more of their time and energy on what they were trained to do, more analysis and management,” said Program Manager Daunakamakama.

Another highlight of the Finance & Budget Conference was discussion on the updated Financial Management Regulations which came into effect on March 7th, 2019, approximately twenty years after the last major overhaul. “They cover everything,” said Rob Solomon, DOFA’s Macroeconomist. “The regulations have been expanded to make them more comprehensive and aligned with current international best practice.”

 “Since the first Finance & Budget Conference held in Pohnpei in 2015,” said Secretary Lawrence, “one notable improvement was the first conference for local governments, held in Chuuk [in February 2019]. The mayors were eager for more such training initiatives to continue in the future.” All levels of local government, including local municipal government leadership, were present at the 5th annual Finance & Budget Conference as well.

The FSM National Government is committed to transparency and dedicated to providing essential services to the citizens of the Nation. Citizens interested in learning more about how DOFA serves the public may wish to visit their website, found here: https://dofa.gov.fm/and citizens wishing to read the Financial Management Regulations may find them here: http://www.dofa.gov.fm/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Signed-FMR-Feb-2019.pdf

FSM Information Services 

PALIKIR, Pohnpei—On March 18th, 2019 the Honorable Yosiwo P. George, Vice President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), met with a United Nations (UN) mission to discuss government perceptions of how the UN is supporting FSM in achieving its sustainable development goals (SDGs). The mission is in response to the UN General Assembly resolution 72/279—adopted on May 31st, 2018—which requested the Secretary General to “conduct a review of the configuration, capacity, resource needs, role and development services of multi-country offices (MCOs), in full consultation with involved countries, to improve the contribution of the offices to country progress in achieving the 2030 Agenda.” Accompanying Mr. Sanaka Samarasinha—one of two UN Resident Coordinators heading one of the two MCOs for the Pacific region—were members of the MCO Review Team, engaged by the UN to gather data and provide an objective analysis to inform how the MCO operating model can be improved.

In response to the UN mission’s request for feedback on where the UN currently serves the FSM well and where it can be improved, Vice President George discussed the need for more technical assistance and reiterated a request made during the 19th Micronesian Presidents Summit in February 2019 for more UN presence in the FSM and the broader Micronesian region. “We are anticipating a lot of changes in 2023 that we’re not quite ready for. Our development isn’t at a level that we hope for… An MCO is something that can help, but what we would really like to see more of is more technical assistance from the UN.”

Mr. Gillian Doone, Assistant Director for the Office of Overseas Development Assistance, spoke in detail about how the UN had previously assisted the FSM with on-the-ground capacity-building and project implementation, e.g. UN Volunteers had at one point assisted Yap State with their strategic development plan.

“We have trouble with the lack of technical know-how in accessing funding, for example the Green Climate Fund and Climate Adaptation Fund,” said Vice President George. “On-the-ground assistance is something we need…. We have trouble with the lack of technical know-how in accessing funding, for example the Green Climate Fund and Climate Adaptation Fund.”

Vice President George and Mr. Samarasinha also discussed the possibility of UN staff, currently placed in Bangkok (Thailand) and Suva (Fiji) and who manage the aforementioned funds, potentially being placed in the FSM on detail assignments and/or FSM staff potentially being placed on temporary assignment abroad.

 In closing the meeting, Mr. Samarasinha discussed opportunities to continue conversations on how the UN can better support the FSM, including the UN Pacific Strategy review that is expected to occur on or around the week of April 22nd, 2019.

The FSM National Government is strengthening its partnership with the UN as one component of its ongoing commitment towards serving the needs of the citizens of the Nation. The FSM has been a member of the UN since September 17th, 1991.

FSM Information Services 

PALIKIR, Pohnpei—On March 18th, 2019 the Honorable Yosiwo P. George, Vice President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), met with a United Nations (UN) mission to discuss government perceptions of how the UN is supporting FSM in achieving its sustainable development goals (SDGs). The mission is in response to the UN General Assembly resolution 72/279—adopted on May 31st, 2018—which requested the Secretary General to “conduct a review of the configuration, capacity, resource needs, role and development services of multi-country offices (MCOs), in full consultation with involved countries, to improve the contribution of the offices to country progress in achieving the 2030 Agenda.” Accompanying Mr. Sanaka Samarasinha—one of two UN Resident Coordinators heading one of the two MCOs for the Pacific region—were members of the MCO Review Team, engaged by the UN to gather data and provide an objective analysis to inform how the MCO operating model can be improved.

In response to the UN mission’s request for feedback on where the UN currently serves the FSM well and where it can be improved, Vice President George discussed the need for more technical assistance and reiterated a request made during the 19th Micronesian Presidents Summit in February 2019 for more UN presence in the FSM and the broader Micronesian region. “We are anticipating a lot of changes in 2023 that we’re not quite ready for. Our development isn’t at a level that we hope for… An MCO is something that can help, but what we would really like to see more of is more technical assistance from the UN.”

Mr. Gillian Doone, Assistant Director for the Office of Overseas Development Assistance, spoke in detail about how the UN had previously assisted the FSM with on-the-ground capacity-building and project implementation, e.g. UN Volunteers had at one point assisted Yap State with their strategic development plan.

“We have trouble with the lack of technical know-how in accessing funding, for example the Green Climate Fund and Climate Adaptation Fund,” said Vice President George. “On-the-ground assistance is something we need…. We have trouble with the lack of technical know-how in accessing funding, for example the Green Climate Fund and Climate Adaptation Fund.”

Vice President George and Mr. Samarasinha also discussed the possibility of UN staff, currently placed in Bangkok (Thailand) and Suva (Fiji) and who manage the aforementioned funds, potentially being placed in the FSM on detail assignments and/or FSM staff potentially being placed on temporary assignment abroad.

 In closing the meeting, Mr. Samarasinha discussed opportunities to continue conversations on how the UN can better support the FSM, including the UN Pacific Strategy review that is expected to occur on or around the week of April 22nd, 2019.

The FSM National Government is strengthening its partnership with the UN as one component of its ongoing commitment towards serving the needs of the citizens of the Nation. The FSM has been a member of the UN since September 17th, 1991.

United Nations Development Programme Pacific Office

27 March 2019

Nadi, Fiji - In recognising that the Pacific, as a region, has the lowest level of women’s political representation globally, concerted efforts are being made to ensure equal representation in respective national parliaments. 

30 women Members of Parliament from six Pacific island countries are participating in the Pacific Women in Power Forum organised by the United Nations Development Programme Pacific Office in Fiji (UNDP).

The two-day Forum, with funding support from the Governments of Australia, New Zealand and Japan, provides a space for Pacific women MPs to interact and engage on key issues relevant to their leadership roles and the Pacific context in general. Some of the topics discussed in the Forum include the development of support networks for women MPs, encouraging more women in politics, the development of effective candidate training, and information on economic empowerment, integrity and leadership.

In delivering his address as one of the key note speakers opening the Forum, the Speaker of the Parliament of the Republic of Fiji, Honourable Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, highlighted the need for more equal representation to ensure more equal, stable and prosperous societies.  

“Not only are we tasked with breaking the chains of intergenerational poverty, but also, we are similarly challenged to break the cycle of gender inequality, now and for all generations to come”, said Hon. Ratu Nailatikau.

“Women are an essential, crucial catalyst to sustainable developments, so let us ensure their empowerment so we can live in a more equal, sustainable, stable and prosperous world.” 

He added, “Pacific women have always been extremely influential behind the scenes but now all over the region, they are finding a new and very clear voice in public life and we must do everything possible to make that voice heard, listened to and acted upon not only regionally but internationally.”

In the last decade, resources have been dedicated to programmes aimed at increasing women’s political leadership and participation, but progress has been slow, and in the case of some countries like the Federated States of Micronesia it has been non-existent, or even declined as in the case of Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea.

In her key note address to the Forum, the Deputy Prime Minister of Samoa, the Hon. Fiame Naomi Mata’afa drew from the Samoa context and highlighted that while the Pacific as a region has a long way to go, there are options for parliaments to consider in order to create change.

“A challenge for us here in the Pacific is that we are not sure how the process for Temporary Special Measures (TSM) would be implemented and people tie themselves up on how it would be implemented, and the end result is that countries don’t then implement TSM”, said Hon. Fiame.

Temporary Special Measures refer to measures to increase the number of women elected to parliaments through the adoption of electoral gender quotas.  Samoa is the only country in the Pacific which has adopted Temporary Special Measures at a national level in order to guarantee that a minimum of 10% of MPs in Parliament are women. Other Pacific countries have introduced TSMs at sub-national level.

“One of the positive things about the Samoa situation is that it has presented a model that can easily be replicated if other countries wish to do so”, said Hon. Fiame.

Speaking on behalf of the Speaker of the Parliament of the Cook Islands, Hon. Niki Rattle, who was unable to join the Forum, the Minister for Health for the Cook Islands, Hon. Vainetutai Rose Toki-Brown delivered her key-note address speaking to the theme of the Forum; “It’s About Time: Women Changing the Pacific”.

“I believe that the Cook Islands has stood up to the challenge of this bold statement with 6 women MPs out of 24 Members and a woman Speaker with this being the highest numbers ever”, said Hon. Brown

“Another historical development for Cook Islands women is that for the second time only, the Leader of the Opposition, is the Democratic Party’s Hon. Tina Browne. The role of the Leader of a Political Party has been a male dominant position for 53 years but not anymore.”

She added, “We also made history with the election of a 22-year-old woman MP Te Hani Brown, who is the youngest MP ever in the Cook Islands and in the Pacific.”

Through this Forum, UNDP promotes South-South Pacific and knowledge sharing and cross learning. These connections provide an effective platform for interaction and sharing of best practices for Pacific women MPs who share common contexts and challenges.

Enimwahn Development Association

On Saturday March 2nd, 2019 the Enimwahn Development Association celebrated the end of their FSM Small Grants project entitled “Improving the sustainability and diversity of home farming activities in Enimwahn” by holding an Impiohkai or agricultural festival an Nanmweid, Madolenihmw.  This impiohkai showcased all the locally grown fruits and vegetables that the EDA community grew under this food security themed project.   

                The Enimwahn community used this grant to educate themselves on the issue of climate change and biodiversity and planted different varieties of food crops to grow.  In addition, they created nurseries, a tool shed and a greenhouse to continue to grow planting materials for the community. 

                The event was attended by many dignitaries including the EDA village chiefs, the Honorable Shelten Neth - Pohnpei State Sentor and Chairman of the Madolenihmw delegation to the PSL, Meninkeder Lapalap – Chief Magistrate of Madolenihmw Municipality, Hon. Winsener John - Speaker of the Madolenihmw Council, Mr. Sohnsper Penias - councilman, and the FSM SGP Program Director, Mr. Simpson Abraham.

The keynote speaker was Mr. Adelino Lorens who is a long-standing supporter of eating local foods and is a role model as he has gone 10 years without eating rice.

                The Enimwahn community would like to thank all the stakeholders in Pohnpei that contributed to their project such as the Pohnpei State Agriculture Office, COM-Land Grant, USDA-NRCS, State Forestry, the Madolenihmw Municipal Government, FSM Congressman Dion G. Neth, Micronesian Productions, and the Island Food Community of Pohnpei.  Also, a big KALAHNGAN to the UN GEF FSM Small Grants Program for giving us this opportunity to improve our lives and our livelihoods.

Office of the Assistant Secretary

Insular and International Affairs

WASHINGTON – U.S. Interior Assistant Secretary Insular and International Affairs Doug Domenech has authorized a payment of $853,590 in FY 2019 funding for the Prior Service Trust Fund (PSTF) Administration, which distributes benefits to former employees of the post-World War II, U.S.-administered, Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands (TTPI) in the Western Pacific 

“The United States continues to meet its commitment to 771 beneficiaries who previously served in the U.S.-administered Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands,” said Assistant Secretary Domenech. “The Prior Service beneficiaries are elderly persons who rely on these monthly checks in varying amounts from $25 to $65 to pay for medicine, food, utilities, and even telephone service.” 

Employee benefits provided through the Prior Service Trust Fund represent a responsibility assumed by the Federal Government following the dissolution of the TTPI in 1986.  The program serves beneficiaries with five years or more of prior service.  The four jurisdictions to emerge from the TTPI were the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. 

The Secretary of the Interior is responsible for coordinating federal policy with respect to the territories of the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and administering and overseeing U.S. Compact federal grants provided to the freely associated states of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. On behalf of the Secretary, the Assistant Secretary, Insular and International Affairs, executes these responsibilities through the Office of Insular Affairs.

The Chuuk State Chamber of Commerce, the recognized private sector organization in Chuuk State is involved in improving the socio-economic condition of the Chuukese people and strives to promote collaboration between the sectors in this effort. The majority of island businesses are represented in the membership of the Chuuk Chamber of Commerce where the deliberation of mutually beneficial strategies, networking and execution of private sector programs are regularly discussed.

In honor of International Women’s Day March 8, 2019, the Chuuk Chamber of Commerce would like to recognize the following hardworking and accomplished women in their field of business. Their commitment to excellence in business is a positive reflection of the entire business community.

Congratulations Ladies and Happy International Women’s Day!

Enimwahn Development Association

On Saturday March 2nd, 2019 the Enimwahn Development Association celebrated the end of their FSM Small Grants project entitled “Improving the sustainability and diversity of home farming activities in Enimwahn” by holding an Impiohkai or agricultural festival an Nanmweid, Madolenihmw.  This impiohkai showcased all the locally grown fruits and vegetables that the EDA community grew under this food security themed project.   

The Enimwahn community used this grant to educate themselves on the issue of climate change and biodiversity and planted different varieties of food crops to grow.  In addition, they created nurseries, a tool shed and a greenhouse to continue to grow planting materials for the community. 

The event was attended by many dignitaries including the EDA village chiefs, the Honorable Shelten Neth - Pohnpei State Sentor and Chairman of the Madolenihmw delegation to the PSL, Meninkeder Lapalap – Chief Magistrate of Madolenihmw Municipality, Hon. Winsener John - Speaker of the Madolenihmw Council, Mr. Sohnsper Penias - councilman, and the FSM SGP Program Director, Mr. Simpson Abraham.

The keynote speaker was Mr. Adelino Lorens who is a long-standing supporter of eating local foods and is a role model as he has gone 10 years without eating rice.

The Enimwahn community would like to thank all the stakeholders in Pohnpei that contributed to their project such as the Pohnpei State Agriculture Office, COM-Land Grant, USDA-NRCS, State Forestry, the Madolenihmw Municipal Government, FSM Congressman Dion G. Neth, Micronesian Productions, and the Island Food Community of Pohnpei.  Also, a big KALAHNGAN to the UN GEF FSM Small Grants Program for giving us this opportunity to improve our lives and our livelihoods.

By Bill Jaynes

The Kaselehlie Press

March 10, 2019

Pohnpei--Mwoakillese traditional dancers greeted the passengers of crew of the “Caledonia Sky” as they arrived at the Pohnpei Port late on Sunday morning.  The sun broke through the clouds dispelling to insistent rain just in time as the bow of the vessel came into view.  

The 74 guests aboard the luxury vessel each paid a minimum of $14,000 for the cruise that departed from Rabaul, Papua New Guinea on March 7.  The cruise was offered by Zegrahm Expeditions which has been offering “one-of-a-kind expeditions to remote locations for 25 years. During their first day at sea, lecturers introduced them to the history of the Federated States of Micronesia. 

The vessel’s first landing was in Touhou, Kapingamarangi on March 8 while shell horns blew and locals sang and danced for the entertainment of the guests. There they toured the community, snorkeled, and took part in wreck dives guided by the Kapingamarangi Chief who is a dive master.

On the next day they arrived in Nukuoro where in addition to taking a walking tour of the island, they visited the school where they donated school supplies.  There was also a short opportunity for diving and snorkeling in Nukuoro’s pristine waters before the vessel departed for Pohnpei’s main island at 1:00 in the afternoon.

On arrival in Pohnpei, guests were whisked to buses past the local vendors who were on hand to sell offering a variety of products from Nukuoro black pearls to Kapingamarangi carvings and hand crafts.

Three tours were offered.  All of the tours included visits to Kolonia and the Catholic Bell Tower, Nan Madol World Heritage site and the beautiful Kepirohi waterfall, while each offered slightly different emphases.  One of the groups made a visit to the Adam’s family residence to view their private collection of WWII era tanks.  Another group spent some time at the Pohnpei Botanical Garden for bird watching.

After a five hour tour, the guests returned to the port where they spent a short period of time shopping.  Local vendors at the Port were H&D Store; LP Gas; Prints, Signs, and Solutions; Nukuoro Black Pearl; and Kapingamarangi Handicrafts shops.

After leaving the port, the vessel steamed to Oroluk.

The ship was scheduled to sail in a westerly direction with stops in Chuuk, Pulap, Satawal, Gaferut, Ifalik, Sorol, Ngulu, with disembarkation in Koror, Palau.

By Bill Jaynes

The Kaselehlie Press

March 13, 2019

Chuuk, FSM—Today the FSM Supreme Court in Chuuk sentenced Jayson Jappan and Anreta Fret to 92 months and eight months’ probation in prison for charges related to Human Trafficking.  The Court also ruled for the convicted felons to pay their victim who is now 15 years old, $40,000 each in restitution.

Last month the two were convicted of Human Trafficking, Trafficking in Children, Aggravated Human Trafficking and Conspiracy.  The crimes began when the victim was only nine years old.  The convicted couple is the victim’s mother and step-father.  The exploited little girl was living with her parents on the island of Fananu, part of Nomwin Atoll in Chuuk’s Hall Islands region.

The trial revealed that the couple had a pregnancy pact in which the young victim would have a baby for them since the mother could no longer bear children.  After the victim became pregnant from her step-father the parents became alarmed at the possibility of discovery and forced the girl, who was by then a young teenager, to take a variety of drugs in an attempt to abort the baby.  In addition to the ongoing abuse and exploitation, that act has caused permanent damage to the victim and to the victim’s infant.

The couple failed to return after a recess in the court proceedings.  The Department of Justice issued “wanted” posters for the two and recaptured them a day and a half later. The trial proceeded after their return.

During sentencing, Associate Justice Larry Wentworth convicted the Defendants of all charges except Human Trafficking, as the Court held that Human Trafficking and Aggravated Human Trafficking merged into one conviction. 

According to a press release by the FSM Public Information office (FSMPIO), The FSM Department of Justice (DOJ) plans to incarcerate Defendant Fret in Pohnpei, while Defendant Jappan will be incarcerated in Chuuk. The FSM DOJ will later move both Defendants to its prison facility in Kosrae.

“The Department’s Litigation Division considers this sentence a progressive step in the fight against Human Trafficking in the FSM. The combined $80,000 in restitution imposed by the Court on the two Defendants is one of the largest in FSM history,” a DOJ spokesperson told the FSMPIO.

The Chuuk State Department of Public Safety initially referred the case to the FSM Anti-Human Trafficking Division, which was then investigated by the FSM National Police. Assistant Attorney General Abigail Avoryie, Director of the FSM Anti-Human Trafficking Division, Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Buckner, Director of the Criminal Justice Section, and Assistant Attorney General Mohammed Kutty prosecuted the case on behalf of the FSM.

By Bill Jaynes

The Kaselehlie Press

March 14, 2019

FSM—According to certified election results that were amended yesterday, FSM voters chose to return all of the 14 members of the 20th Congress who ran for office to be their representatives for the 21st Congress.  Two of those members will be chosen by the 21st Congress to be the next FSM President and Vice President.

When the 19th Congress selected Pohnpei’s Senator Peter Christian to be the FSM President, and Kosrae’s Senator Yosiwo George to be the FSM Vice President, a special election was held to fill their vacated At-Large seats.  Former FSM Vice President Alik Alik filled Vice President George’s seat, and Senator David Panuelo filled President Christian’s seat.

During the March 5 election Pohnpei voters elected Senator Panuelo for the Pohnpei At-Large seat over veteran politician President Christian by a small margin.  It means that President Christian will not be returning to the FSM Presidency.

Kosrae’s voters chose to return Vice President George to the At-Large seat for the state but only by 10 votes over Aren Palik according to the FSM Election Commission’s certified results that were revised yesterday.

Candidates have until March 15 to file any complaints regarding the election, but according to Director of the FSM National Election Commission Tony Otto, Aren Palik of Kosrae is the only FSM candidate who has so far made an official request for a recount or a revote.  He said that Palik alleged that approximately 200 Kosrae voters from Kona flew to Honolulu to vote in the election but were turned away when their names didn’t appear on the voter registration.

Otto said that the National Election Commission’s legal counsel advised him to forward Palik’s formal request to the Kosrae Election Commissioner.

Otto said that voters in Kona were not barred from voting by mail if they applied.  He added that if they had previously voted in Honolulu, their names should have been on the voter list provided by the Kosrae Election Commission.

During the March 5 election FSM voters also approved a Constitutional Convention to review the FSM Constitution.  The establishment of Constitution Convention requires only a simple majority of FSM voters.  Any proposed amendments to the FSM Constitution delegates might approve during future meetings would require the assent of 75 percent or greater vote in at least three of the four FSM States.

Barring any changes to voter outcomes due to recounts or revotes, the 21st FSM Congress will consist of Chuuk Senators Elect Wesley Simina, Florencia S. Harper, Victor Gouland, Derensio Konman, Tiwiter Arritos, and Robson Romolow.  Kosrae will be represented by Senators Elect current Vice President Yosiwo George, and Paliknoa Welly.  Pohnpei will be represented by Senators Elect David Panuelo, Ferny Perman, Dion Neth, and Esmond Moses.  Yap will be represented by Senators Elect Joseph Urusemal and Isaac Figir.

Elected Senators Wesley Simina of Chuuk, Yosiwo George of Kosrae, David Panuelo of Pohnpei, and Joseph Urusemal of Yap are eligible to serve FSM President or Vice President for the next four years.  That choice will be made by Congress when the 21st FSM Congress is seated in early May of this year.

By Bill Jaynes

The Kaselehlie Press

March 6, 2019

Pohnpei—On March 6, the FSM Supreme Court found that there was sufficient evidence to convict William Chunn on six charges of trafficking in children and one of exploiting a trafficked person.

The Court will determine Chunn’s sentence for the crimes after a hearing on March 26, 2019.

On February 14, 2017, the FSM Department of Justice filed charges against two men for crimes involving prostitution of minors, William Chunn, a Pohnpeian taxi driver and Joseph Parisi, a ship captain from the United States.  Parisi’s trial is still outstanding after he fled the FSM’s jurisdiction.

Chunn was convicted of multiple incidences of delivering under-age girls for the purpose of paid sex to several men.  Only one of the men was identified in the initial charging documents. 

Chunn was convicted on charges that he delivered a 16 year old victim to Seven Stars hotel for the purpose of having sex and collected $50 from an adult male “customer” who had called Chunn for that purpose. 

He was also convicted of charges that said that in 2016 Chunn picked up “child victim 1” and “child victim 2” in his taxi. An unknown male was aboard. He drove the passengers to Tropic Helicopters and picked up another unknown male. He then drove them all to the former Rumors bar and dropped them off. “Child victims 1 and 2” had sexual intercourse with the two unknown males on the concrete floor of the former bar on blankets the two men had brought with them. They received $40 each from the men. Chunn came back and picked the two men up at which time “child victims 1 and 2” left Rumors on their own.

Prosecutors did not provide enough evidence to convict him on other alleged incidences for which he was charged.

VITAL

Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia – On January 9, 2019, a group of twelve farmers in Pohnpei formalized their partnership with Vital as coconut suppliers under the Participant Guarantee System (PGS) model. The Takaiou PGS of Takaiou, U Municipality were also registered as the first PGS group to be incorporated in the FSM. This is a significant milestone for Vital’s Coconut for Life (C4Life) initiative and its goal to improve livelihoods across the country. The group, with farmers ranging between 36 and 70 years of age, has since completed two trades with Vital, selling over 9,000 pounds of husked coconut to the Coconut Industry Development Unit (CIDU) in Dekehtik, Pohnpei.

In February, the Takaiou PGS visited CIDU, walking through the facility and witnessing their harvests being processed into virgin coconut oil. The farmers and representatives of Vital were also invited to a luncheon hosted by the Micronesia Conservation Trust (MCT), during which time MCT’s Santiago Joab, Jr. and C4Life Resource Analyst Peterson Anson both commended the group as the first to become incorporated. Anson stated, “C4Life is all for the benefit of the nation as a whole. That is why, among all the natural resources in the FSM, we are working with coconuts—because almost every island in every state has coconut trees, and everyone can participate as a supplier. We foresee that MCT and the Takaiou PGS have laid the path for several hundred more PGS groups to follow. I wouldn’t be surprised if, in six months’ time, our empty warehouse in Dekehtik will require an expansion, once farmers see the long-term benefits of the C4Life project.”

C4Life aims to contribute to the financial security of the nation. It is designed to create a new and sustainable source of income for farmers in the FSM, as the nation prepares for the conclusion of the Compact of Free Association between the FSM and the United States in 2023.

Community engagements in each state are tentatively scheduled in phases:

Phase 1 - Pohnpei communities (Sept 2018-Aug 2019)

Phase 2 - Yap Copra Agents (Q12019)

Chuuk communities (Q32019)

Phase 3 - Kosrae communities (Q42019)

For more information on the Participant Guarantee System model, and to register your community’s interest to supply coconuts to C4Life, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

By Bill Jaynes

The Kaselehlie Press

March 7, 2019

Pohnpei—Through its Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Project Scheme, the government of Japan provide $87,228 to Pohnpei Seventh Day Adventist School for facilities improvements.  The money will be used to provide a new restroom for high school students, renovation of 11 existing restrooms, and renovation of the current gymnasium.

Students and faculty gathered in the SDA gym to witness the grant signing ceremony.  They heard speeches from Principal Franky Edward, Shool Board Chairman Walter John, PTA President Hubert Yamada and Student Body President Mermy Jeanett Yamada. 

The school choir sang several beautifully harmonized songs.  Witnesses were surprised when Japanese Ambassador Ryoichi Horie and his wife Yuko also sang two songs, the Rose, and Somewhere Over the Rainbow.

Grant initiator Alexander Chang gave the closing remarks after which, participants posed for a group photo.

By Bill Jaynes

The Kaselehlie Press

March 7, 2019

Pohnpei—Through its Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Project Scheme, the government of Japan provide $87,228 to Pohnpei Seventh Day Adventist School for facilities improvements.  The money will be used to provide a new restroom for high school students, renovation of 11 existing restrooms, and renovation of the current gymnasium.

Students and faculty gathered in the SDA gym to witness the grant signing ceremony.  They heard speeches from Principal Franky Edward, Shool Board Chairman Walter John, PTA President Hubert Yamada and Student Body President Mermy Jeanett Yamada. 

The school choir sang several beautifully harmonized songs.  Witnesses were surprised when Japanese Ambassador Ryoichi Horie and his wife Yuko also sang two songs, the Rose, and Somewhere Over the Rainbow.

Grant initiator Alexander Chang gave the closing remarks after which, participants posed for a group photo.

Pohnpei Women’s Advisory Council

The Pohnpei Women Advisory Council (PWAC) celebrated International Women’s Day in Pohnpei from March 2-8, 2018.  PWAC, is the umbrella organization for women groups in Pohnpei, with 20 groups and over 2,000 members.

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day, is: “Balance for Better”.

On Saturday, March 2, members of PWAC organized a clean-up outside the Pohnpei State Hospital and planted trees and flowers.  On Sunday, March 3, PWAC visited the patients at the hospital and inmates at the Pohnpei State Jail, conducted prayer services and provided cash donations to the patients and food for the inmates.   A series of workshops were held on March 4, 6 and & 7 at the Governor’s Conference Room with presentations from various NGOs and Government offices.  The workshops included jam making, handicraft making, social issues, hydroponics, core values & noble causes, waste management, maternal depression, health, education social issues, Family Safety Act, Good governance, Conservation, Disability, Access to Justice, Pohnpei Domestic Violence Act, United Joint Presence, DRR & Community Resilience, Water Quality, and Geo-literacy Education in Micronesia.

Friday, March 8 was celebrated at the Kolonia-China Friendship Gymnasium at the Spanish Wall, from 9 a.m. to 5: p.m., with speeches, display of arts and crafts, agricultural and marine products with traditional and modern dances.  The Pohnpei Women’s Council legal counsel, Marstella Jack, delivered the keynote address.  Mayor of Kolonia Town, Jose San Nicolas, Luhk Pohnpei, gave the welcoming remarks.   Pohnpei Women Council recognized the Pohnpei Consumer Organization, a NGO for people with disabilities by donating a small cash donation to the organization.

 “This year’s event marks another history showcasing the unity of Pohnpei women.    Every year, IWD events are improving and we are proud of that.  This year’s theme calls for unity and betterment. says PWAC President Susana Sohs”.

PWAC would like to recognize the following individuals, government and businesses for their support in making this  year’s IWD a reality:

Honorable Iso Nanken of U

Kolonia Town Government

FSM Telecommunications Corporation

FSM Development Bank

Genesis Hospital

Western & Central Pacific Fisheries

PREL (Parent Role in Education)

FSM Health and Social Affairs

Pohnpei State Office of the Governor

Pohnpei State Social Affairs

COM-FSM

Pohnpei Youth for Change

Waste Management

Island Food Community of Pohnpei

Project LAUNCH

The Nature Conservancy

Micronesia Conservation Trust

Conservation Society of Pohnpei

FSM Supreme Court

Pacific Judicial Strengthening Initiative

United Joint Presence

Micronesia Red Cross Society

Environment Protection Agency

Senior Pastor Bethwel Henry

Sister Christina Elias

Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia – The Vital FSM Petroleum Corporation announces an upcoming price decrease of ten (10) cents per gallon in the wholesale price of gasoline, kerosene and diesel. The price reduction goes into effect on Wednesday, March 20, 2019. This decrease comes approximately three months after FSMPC wholesale prices dropped 10 cents in December 2018.

According to the Pacific Daily News, Mobil pump prices rose 10cpg on February 28, from $3.90 to $4.00 per gallon.  Two weeks later, on March 14, 2019, Guam pump prices increased by another 15cpg—from $4.00 per gallon to $4.15. “Regional and international oil markets have been displaying upward trends, but thanks to the stabilizing mechanism within Vital’s pricing framework, FSM prices are slowly but steadily heading downward,” stated FSMPC Chairman of the Board of Directors Mr. Faustino Yangmog.

While Vital implemented a 10 cent price decrease in December 2018, many FSM motorists saw little to no change at the pump. “For various reasons, some FSM gas stations elected not to pass along the ten cent savings to consumers,” Chairman Yangmog remarked. “We’re hopeful that motorists will be able to benefit from the upcoming price decrease,” he concluded.

FSM Information Services

PALIKIR, Pohnpei—On February 22nd, 2019 His Excellency Peter M. Christian, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), declared a national emergency in response to then-Tropical Storm Wutip, which later became designated as a typhoon. Due to the ongoing devastation and expected further damages caused by Wutip, on March 11th, 2019 President Christian amended the National Declaration of Emergency into a National Declaration of Disaster.

Preliminary assessments conducted by the FSM National Government and the State Governments of Yap, Chuuk, and Pohnpei have advised of significant damage to housing and food security infrastructure.

The amendment of the Declaration of Emergency into a Declaration of Disaster will enable the FSM, in accordance with the terms of our Amended Compact of Free Association, to formally request further disaster assistance and support from the United States Government.

The Declarations of Emergency by the Governors of the States of Yap and Chuuk remain in effect. Today, March 12th 2019, the Honorable Marcelo K. Peterson, Governor of the State of Pohnpei, formally declared a State of Emergency for Pohnpei State.

Takuya Nagaoka (NGO Pasifika Renaissance), Ono Rintaro (Tokai University) and Jason Lebehn (Pohnpei State Historic Preservation Office)

In February a team of Japanese archaeologists has started a four-year archaeological research project in Pohnpei in collaboration with the Pohnpei State Historic Preservation Office. The research project entitled “Archaeological Study of human migrations and inter-islands networks in Oceania” is funded by the Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research Program of the Japan Government (Principal Investigator: Dr. Ono Rintaro, 18KK0019).

The focus of the research is to shed light on the early Micronesian culture during the colonization period, when the ancestors of the Pohnpeian people first arrived on the island from Melanesia around 2000 years ago.

The team selected Lenger as the first fieldwork site because in 2007 Dr. Takuya Nagaoka of NGO Pasifika Renaissance excavated a small test pit there and recovered numerous ancient artifacts. Most interestingly an obsidian (volcanic glass) artifact was found in the pit that according to geochemical analysis, was brought from Papua New Guinea.. The artifacts suggest one of the oldest village sites in Pohnpei is in Lenger. The site is additionally suitable for archaeological excavation due to its location on land. It is difficult to carry out excavations at other early sites on Pohnpei due to their locations in coastal mangrove forests and shallow reef flats. Due to this difficulty, only small areas were excavated during the past investigations on this time period.

The team is planning to excavate larger areas during their four-year research to approach different research questions related to subsistence strategies, spatial use within village, interactions with other islands and social organizations.

From February 20 to 28, the team excavated the early village site on Lenger and found German-Japanese period artifacts such as glass bottles and iron artifacts in the upper layers. They found ancient artifacts such as pottery sherds, shell adzes, shell ornaments, and shell midden in the lower layers. Before the team makes analysis it will wait for details on the results of the excavations, but various artifacts recovered during their investigation seemed to confirm the fruitfulness of pursuing research at the site.

With the assistance of the Pohnpei State Historic Preservation Office, the team endeavors to promote Pohnpeian people’s participation in the research project and to foster their interest in local history. They have offered volunteer opportunities to the public through announcements on radio and Facebook and many volunteers of different nationalities, such as FSM, French Polynesia, USA and Japan, have volunteered every day. A group of twenty some Micronesian Studies students from the College of Micronesia led by Professor Delihna Ehmes also visited the fieldwork of the team.

After completing the excavations on Lenger, the team organized a one-day exhibition on March 1 of excavated artifacts at the Pohnpei State Historic Preservation Office in Kolonia to show the public the results of the archaeological research. More than a hundred people visited the exhibition.

During the exhibition, Nagaoka did powerpoint presentations about the archaeology of Micronesia and the project to eighth grade students from the Kolonia and Ohmine Elementary Schools and explained them about the excavated artifacts. The students showed interest in the ancient artifacts they saw for their first time.

The team will conduct various analyses on the excavated artifacts and is planning to continue the fieldwork in Pohnpei during this summer. It hopes to learn the history of the island with the people through the project during the next four years.

“It is our wish that students’ learning experiences with us will make them more interested in their own history, give them dreams, and raise future archaeologists,” Nagaoka said. “Kalahngan en kupwuromwail koaros, the chiefs, landowner and other people of Lenger who supported the project.”

By Delihna M. Ehmes

“What is archeology?”, a typical question I often get from my students.  In the last weeks of February and early March, the Micronesian studies students at the College of Micronesia-FSM, have been fortunate to be a part of an archeological excavation and lecture series. The archeological opportunity to learn and explore is owed to Dr. Takuya Nagaoka (NGO Pasifka Renaissance), for extending the invitation to the college. When asked what they thought about the Lenger excavation, these were some of the responses:

                “First thing is how dedicated and passionate they are. It made me realize that their work is not easy because it requires a lot of dedication and passion to carry out such projects. I say so because some of them are very young and some of them are very old, but they still go on. This is what inspires me the most. Second thing I found interesting is how they do their work, and that includes the digging, cleaning, sifting, classifying, and all that. It gave me much thought that it’s the career for me, but I won’t make a promise. It made me realize that its actually more fun to go out in the field than sitting behind a desk. And lastly, I’m interested in why they do their work. I mean, I myself, want to pursue a deeper knowledge of our history. And what they are doing is the exact answer to my desire.”; “1) It is very interesting to see such great work being done by our people and even people that came all the way from the other states. 2) The challenging part is the project itself. The project needs more people to participate because there are many things that need to be done. *Digging, measuring the site, brushing and etc….”; “The project itself was an interesting thing to me. Although it didn’t go out exactly the way I thought it would be, I was amazed at how everything was done in a certain way. The digging, sifting, measuring of boxes, and picking of things found while digging. Everything was done in a certain order. What did I find challenging about the experience? The challenge was that there was so much work and so little help. I think there should be a bigger team or group involved to get the work done faster. Since this is a 4-year research project, we have been re-invited to join them next year.”

                Following the field experience on Lenger, the students also participated in a lecture series on a Nan Madol Course unit. This lecture series was designed to provide students an overview of Nan Madol. The course unit is collaboration between the College of Micronesia-FSM and the Association for Promotion of International Cooperation (APIC).  The course unit was composed of 3 objectives: 1) Introduction to the peopling of Micronesia; 2) the cultural history of Pohnpei Island, and the archaeological discoveries and oral traditions of Nan Madol. ; 3) The processes taken for the approval of Nan Madol as a UNESCO World Heritage site and its future challenges.  The guest lecturers for all three topics were Dr. Osamu Kataoka of Sophia University, Dr. Rufino Mauricio and Mr. Augustine Kohler of FSM Historic and Preservation office. The lecture series concluded on Saturday (March 09, 2019), with an excursion to the Nan Madol ruins. A lot of credit is given to our guest lecturers and Mr. Jason Lebehn of Pohnpei HPO for an extremely enlightening and refreshing lecture and discussion series, and to COM-FSM for hosting and funding this learning experience.

                Both learning experiences were generally positive for the students, as they have a glimpse of what the career is like. The learning also put more emphasis to what they learned from the textbook. Both opportunities opened doors for both students and faculty to network with local and foreign experts. It remains the goal of the program that in time; more young people come to appreciate and realize the need for more experts in this area of archeology.

Pohnpei Fishing Club

March 9, 2019

Pohnpei—16 boats and their anglers registered for the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) and Caroline Fishing Corporation (CFC) fishing tournament.  It was a blustery day that turned fine until it was time for the 4:00 weigh-in when a squall blew in.  Despite the conditions, all of the boats made it back in.

Though schools weren’t out in force during the tournament anglers still managed to catch fish, the biggest of which was Rodney Phillip’s 109 pound marlin.  That fish won him a $500 cash prize for biggest fish.

The heart breaker of the tournament was Dane Nighswander’s 49 pound sailfish which was one pound short of the weight required for a qualifying sailfish.

Cash prizes provided by the WCPFC and CFC for top anglers are as follows:

Big Fish

                $500 - Rodney Philip for a 109 pound marlin

                $400 - Bernolina Hedson for a 29 pound Grand Trevally

                $300 - Konrad Englberger for a 21 pound Wahoo

                $200 - Chuck Handy for a 20 pound Wahoo

                $150 - Wilmar Acquino for a 19 pound Wahoo

Tiare Eastmond won $100 as the top lady angler for her 18 pound Wahoo.

Heziel Edward pocketed $100 as the top junior angler for his eight pound skipjack

Cash prizes of $100 and $50 respectively were also awarded for the biggest fish in species though in the case of Yellow Fin or other tuna the first prize went to Jimmy Obispo for his nine pound yellow fin.  The second prize was split between Welber David for his 6.5 pound yellow fin, and Dane Nighswander for his 6.5 Dogtooth tuna.

First prize for Mahi Mahi went to Junior Spence for his fish of 16.5 pounds.  Second prize was awarded to Westcott Panuelo for his 15.5 pound fish.

Nathan Glancy won the top prize in the Wahoo category for an 18 pound fish.  He was followed by John Alefaio with a 16 pound Wahoo.

Tiare Eastmond won $100 for her catch of an 11.5 pound Barricuda.  The $50 prize went to Konrad Englberger for his 10.5 pound catch.

Welber David caught a monstrous 17.5 Skip Jack and also a big 12.5 pound Skip Jack.  His catches earned him both first and second prizes.

The club and its members thank WCPFC and CFC for their continuing generosity in sponsoring the club’s activities and particularly for this first tournament of 2019.

Thanks also go to the volunteers who help make the tournaments happen.

The next Pohnpei Fishing Club tournament will be on April 6, sponsored by Ocean View West Wing and Best Buy.  The World Tuna Day tournament, sponsored by the National Fisheries Corporation, Taiyo, and Kasar will be on April 27.

By Nikisha Smith

March 1, 2019

Pohnpei—On Friday, the 1st of March Special Olympics Micronesia hosted a track and field event for students with intellectual disabilities. It was great to see the turnout to support our four students who will be travelling to Abu Dhabi to represent the FSM in the World Special Olympics Summer Games in Abu Dhabi. They will be competing in the 60m, 100m, shot put and long jump.

This is the first time the FSM has participated in the Special Olympics and is an honour for; Harrison Rea Eliou, Kimlein Kostika, April Luhk and A-Trick Paul to be our first ever representatives.

                They will be accompanied by their coaches; Maureen Villa and Patterson Anson. Also attending in Abu Dhabi is the Chairperson of Special Olympics Micronesia, Castro Joab and Sports expert, Dorothy Chieg.

                Special Olympics is the largest sporting organisation for people with intellectual and physical disabilities with a strong focus on what people CAN do.  It is through sports that people can challenge themselves in a competitive environment, develop skills, abilities and prosper to success.

                We are very honoured that Micronesia has been asked to participate in an inclusive and courageous event. Special Olympics Micronesia is our not-for-profit NGO that has been working with students in the FSM to train them for this big event.

                We are looking forward to continue to ‘Ensuring inclusion through sports’.

                A special thanks to our guests of honour; Hon. David Panuelo, H.E. George Fraser, Roddy Robert, Hon. Marcello Peterson, Marcus Samo and Arthur Albert.

Sokehs Municipal Government

The Sokehs Municipal Government sponsored another unique event this year for the 2019 celebration of Sokehs Rebellion Day.  The event, which was hosted on Saturday, February 23rd, was held at the Kolonia-China Friendship Gym at the Spanish Wall Park.  Nowadays, Rebellion Day has come to be more than just a municipal holiday and the event this year invited the general public to come for a 4pm Fun Run through Kolonia and sponsored a preview of Fr. Francis Hezel’s latest production which is a documentary on the Sokehs Rebellion.  The video, produced by Micronesian Productions and directed by Fr. Hezel and Eugenia Samuel, is a 45-minute docudrama which interviews several historians, including Dr. Rufino Mauricio, Damian Sohl, Enter Lawrence, and the late Tony Martin, to name a few.  It provides the historical facts as well as the local knowledge about the story of Soumadau en Sokehs and what transpired in 1910 to start the Sokehs Uprising.  The video also incorporates some re-enactments using local actors from Sokehs. Fr, Hezel flew down from Guam to be the guest speaker for the event, which drew about 200 people.

In his speech at the event, Chief Magistrate Hon. Michael Lieman stated that the Sokehs Government has focused the Rebellion Day event around the theme of rebelling against non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which Pohnpei suffers from greatly and is technically still in a state of emergency for health due to NCDs. The Fun Run represents our “fight” against unhealthy lifestyle activities and shows the strength and spirit of our people.  The winners of the fun run were (men’s category; 1. Dennis Pedrus, 2. Branston Gilmete, 3. Kawfika Lieman, 4. Denzel Lawrence, 5. Js Joseph, 6. Michaelson Lieman, 7. Junior Robert, 8. Masaro Jr. 9. Jailo Robert, 10. MJ. Imar, and Women’s category; 1. Reloliza Saimon, 2. Meliza Bartolome, 3. Bartola Bartolome, 4. Josephine Bartolome, 5. Emilon Leit, 6. Francine Joseph, 7. Sera Edgar, 8. Sonia Neth, 9. Lora Edgar, and 10. Keilani Lorrin) and prizes were given out to the winners.  Special thanks to our donors for this event, Mrs. Maggie Samo of Prints and Signs Solutions, Dr. Merlynn Abello-Alfonso, & Congressman Ferny Perman, who all sponsored the T-shirts for the event, and to Micronesian Productions for facilitating the screening of the video.

JICA

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has started the “Project for the Introduction of Hybrid Power Generation System in Pacific Island Countries” since March 2017. This is 5 years’ technical cooperation project targeted for 5 pacific island countries; Fiji, Tuvalu, Kiribati, RMI, and FSM. The aim of this project is to promote the deployment of a hybrid power generation system composed of Diesel Generators (DG) and Renewable Energy (RE) by providing technical support for the appropriate & economical operation and maintenance of DG as well as for the appropriate integration of RE, and operation and maintenance of RE. For this purpose, JICA offers technical assistance by Chief Advisor, Mr. Ogawa, long-term expert based in Fiji, and short-term expert team headed by Okinawa Ene-tech., Co, at each states of the FSM, as well as inviting trainees for trainings in Okinawa, and Fiji.

On January 29, 2019, the second Joint Coordinating Committee (JCC) meeting was held in Pohnpei at the Pohnpei State Government office with attendance from the Department of Resources & Development of the FSM, Office of the Governor of Pohnpei State, Kosrae Utilities Authority (KUA), Yap State Public Service Corporation (YSPSC), Chuuk Public Utilities Corporation (CPUC), Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC), JICA Micronesia, and the expert team.

Through the 2nd JCC meeting, the FSM side and JICA identified issues including the contents of the Project Design Matrix (PDM), the Plan of Operation (PO) and Project Monitoring Sheet. Both sides actively discussed the progress of the project activities based on the report of review for the last two years provided by a Japanese evaluation mission team. FSM side agreed to implement measures recommended by JICA Experts under the improvement plan later evaluated and updated in 2019. Training Equipment has been donated to the FSM side under the Project under the condition to be utilized in an appropriate manner. The venue for the 3rd JCC Meeting will be held around February, 2020 in the State of Yap.

The Minutes of Meeting was signed by Mr. Hubert Yamada, Assistant Secretary for Energy Sector for Hon. Marion Henry; Secretary of Department of Resources and Development, Mr. Tadayuki Ogawa; Chief Advisor of the project, Mr. Takahiro Suzuki; Assistant Director for Energy and Mining Group, JICA Headquarters and Mr. Shinji Shibata; Resident Representative of JICA-FSM.

As the next main activity of this project, officials from each state will be invited to counterpart trainings sometime this year to disseminate skills and knowledge on the Hybrid Power Generation System. Possible venue of trainings are Fiji, Yap and various DG plants within FSM.

By Sonia Kephas

 March 9, 2019

Pohnpei—The celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) across the world was a sight to behold. An unexpected crowd of approximately 100 participants, including both men and women, boys and girls joined Kosrae Women Organization (KITAIL) to commemorate Women’s Day on Saturday, March 9, 2019 at FSM – China Friendship Sports Center in Pohnpei. The celebration was the first time in history for “Mutan Kosrae” residing in Pohnpei to join women across the globe to celebrate this special day. KITAIL believes that women are important, and that the day should be celebrated by honouring women with gifts in different forms commemorating their significance in life and empowerment in all fields.

Several activities took place during the celebration:

1)            Amazing presentations of drawing contest among young girls from Elementary School to High School to highlights importance of this year IWD theme “Balance for Better”.  There were three winning contestants with cash awards of $45, $50 and $70. The awards were presented by Madam Zhao, the wife of the Ambassador Embassy of People’s Republic of China in the FSM.

2)            Q&A session which focused on the history of IWD, women’s health, and other subjects.

3)            FSM and China Friendship Q&A to raise more awareness about Chinese friendship support throughout FSM. KITAIL was fortunate to receive friendship funding support from China Embassy whereby free t-shirts, free Kosrae delicacy local soup were made available and served to everyone.

4)            Demonstration of local weaving specifically to younger girls, etc.

Keynote speaker, Mrs. Kenye G. Jackson presented a remarkable presentation for every woman to know that they are important in their family, society, and everywhere.

KITAIL is still in its infancy stage. Nonetheless, we are proud and grateful to join the world to celebrate 2019 Women’s Day for the first time in history. Let us continue to celebrate with honor and respect.

Officers for KITAIL:

1. Mrs. Sonia T. Kephas, President
2. Mrs. Senyorina A. Nena, Vice President/ Second Lady of Kosrae State
3. Mrs. Shrue P. Joseph, Secretary
4. Mrs. Mona A. Jackson, Treasurer
5. Mrs. Elisa Isaac & Mrs. Loucila S. Abraham, Assistant Treasurer/Secretary Treasurer
6. Mrs. Aimina W. Likiaksa, Advisor
7. Mrs. Yoslyn G. Sigrah, Legal Consultant
8. Dr. Lily H. Jonas, Health Consultant
9. Mrs. Kenye H. Jackson, Health Advisor
10. Mrs. Cancilina K. Kephas, Youth Advisor

List of donors:

1)Embassy of People's Republic of China in FSM

2) Micronesian Production

3) Mayor of Kolonia Town Government

4) Kosrae Kolonia Congregational Church

5) Etawi Fusr Kosrae Kolonia

6) Mr. Johnson Asher

7) Mr. Alik K. Jackson

8) Mr. Simpson Abraham

9) LM. Gerson A. Jackson

10) Dcn. Kalwin Kephas

By Sonia Kephas

 March 9, 2019

Pohnpei—The celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) across the world was a sight to behold. An unexpected crowd of approximately 100 participants, including both men and women, boys and girls joined Kosrae Women Organization (KITAIL) to commemorate Women’s Day on Saturday, March 9, 2019 at FSM – China Friendship Sports Center in Pohnpei. The celebration was the first time in history for “Mutan Kosrae” residing in Pohnpei to join women across the globe to celebrate this special day. KITAIL believes that women are important, and that the day should be celebrated by honouring women with gifts in different forms commemorating their significance in life and empowerment in all fields.

Several activities took place during the celebration:

1)            Amazing presentations of drawing contest among young girls from Elementary School to High School to highlights importance of this year IWD theme “Balance for Better”.  There were three winning contestants with cash awards of $45, $50 and $70. The awards were presented by Madam Zhao, the wife of the Ambassador Embassy of People’s Republic of China in the FSM.

2)            Q&A session which focused on the history of IWD, women’s health, and other subjects.

3)            FSM and China Friendship Q&A to raise more awareness about Chinese friendship support throughout FSM. KITAIL was fortunate to receive friendship funding support from China Embassy whereby free t-shirts, free Kosrae delicacy local soup were made available and served to everyone.

4)            Demonstration of local weaving specifically to younger girls, etc.

Keynote speaker, Mrs. Kenye G. Jackson presented a remarkable presentation for every woman to know that they are important in their family, society, and everywhere.

KITAIL is still in its infancy stage. Nonetheless, we are proud and grateful to join the world to celebrate 2019 Women’s Day for the first time in history. Let us continue to celebrate with honor and respect.

Officers for KITAIL:

1. Mrs. Sonia T. Kephas, President
2. Mrs. Senyorina A. Nena, Vice President/ Second Lady of Kosrae State
3. Mrs. Shrue P. Joseph, Secretary
4. Mrs. Mona A. Jackson, Treasurer
5. Mrs. Elisa Isaac & Mrs. Loucila S. Abraham, Assistant Treasurer/Secretary Treasurer
6. Mrs. Aimina W. Likiaksa, Advisor
7. Mrs. Yoslyn G. Sigrah, Legal Consultant
8. Dr. Lily H. Jonas, Health Consultant
9. Mrs. Kenye H. Jackson, Health Advisor
10. Mrs. Cancilina K. Kephas, Youth Advisor

List of donors:

1)Embassy of People's Republic of China in FSM

2) Micronesian Production

3) Mayor of Kolonia Town Government

4) Kosrae Kolonia Congregational Church

5) Etawi Fusr Kosrae Kolonia

6) Mr. Johnson Asher

7) Mr. Alik K. Jackson

8) Mr. Simpson Abraham

9) LM. Gerson A. Jackson

10) Dcn. Kalwin Kephas

World Bank

For International Women’s Day 2019, get to know some of the women driving change and increasing equality across the Pacific Islands and Papua New Guinea. Myjolynne Kim is a single mother, a PhD candidate and Pacific scholar who hails from Chuuk, in the Federated States of Micronesia and is working on history of Chuuk through women’s voices and stories.

In 2015 I started a PhD at the Australian National University in Canberra, for which I was grateful to be awarded a scholarship through the Australia Awards program through the Australian government. My PhD is on Chuukese local history, but in this research I’m interested in women’s history, their voices and their stories.

I don’t consider myself a ‘gender’ person, but in attempts to decolonize Micronesian history, I realized that much of our written history is based on an old-fashioned, colonial, male-dominant lens that concentrated on men’s stories and perspectives.

Interestingly, when we look at local history, the gender perspective is flipped, and local histories are centered women’s stories. Local histories are female related and clan histories all go back to women as we’re matrilineal society.

How do you get people to discuss their oral histories?

Ethnographic interviews [where researchers undertake in-depth, one-on-one interviews directly with individuals] were not as productive as I initially thought. First the style, approach and methods involved in an ethnographic interview are still foreign, so it is not that easy.

I ended up setting aside the interview sheet and really engaged in a mentor-mentee setting. It’s almost like a talanoa process, but in Chuukese tradition it’s the concept of the noos or the learning mat, where we just tell stories and learn from each other.

What set you on this path?

In my Masters Degree I was focused on Micronesian history in the area of traditional warfare and violence, and the violent reputation Chuukese people obtained over centuries. But as I was studying that, I saw all these local histories of women with a totally different view to what was dominant. So I delved deeper into local history, and then I was exposed to these rich women’s history and the important role they played in their societies then.

As a woman living in the islands, I had worked on education reform, youth policy, gender and even cultural policy, but there were so many barriers due to gender and culture. But as a local woman I knew that a lot of us were using culture in a political way which could be disempowering for women. For example, we feed on a violent history of Chuuk because colonial histories tell us we are, and this violent culture endorses violence among young men. For many, domestic violence then became a problem. Learning more about local history and deep cultural values made me see some hope. I see local history as empowering women, men and therefore our Chuukese communities. This is what led me to gender focused history.

I’ve also worked in areas and been in meetings where men don’t give you the space simply because you are a woman, but in my family I was given the space to speak as a woman and I was told that women have a significant voice. To have policies implemented [that lead to greater equality] you need cultural validation – so for us to have women leaders you have to have a local history that not only proves but supports that women are entitled to leadership roles – that is important to increase women’s participation in leadership roles.

People say women are not in leadership positions because people say it is culturally disrespectful, but my narrative history is showing that is not the case. And that’s why it is so important to be critical of what has been written about us and who’s defining and writing our stories.

What advice do you have for young women who want to take a similar path?

I would just say be open to opportunity; especially educational opportunities, as they don’t come up often. It is important to truly understand who you are, but also be open to what you learn outside your island cultures that can really foster inclusion and equity in your communities. Because that is a key to a healthy community. Women can influence positive change, it’s important to be responsibly influential.

What are the biggest issues in the Federated States of Micronesia right now, and how can they be addressed?

Inclusion, accessibility and equity. Problems here are due to political reasons and a lack of quality education; both cultural and formal education.

What drives you to work towards your goals?

My son, my nephews and nieces and the generation that is coming: I want my son to grow up in a healthy community, to experience equity and inclusion and to have a safe environment. I’m driven by this.

Sometimes I want to give up. But if did; who would do it? I can’t rely on others, I need to do it so that when I die, my son and others will have a good legacy and be able to live in a country where they feel they belong.

If you could use one word to describe women in FSM, what would it be?

Salient. Women hold the pillars in their homes, but they also hold their family and extended community together. Women are able to say, “my kids will have food on the table, my son or daughter will go to a good school.” These are the little things that really influence the greater society and government.

Also, in our culture we really listen to our parents. Sons listen to mothers. Moms have a strong influence on changing and shifting narratives, and with more educational opportunities they will be able to lead their communities and families into a more inclusive space.

**The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of the World Bank Group and its employees.

Office of the Assistant Secretary

Insular and International Affairs

WASHINGTON – U.S. Interior Assistant Secretary Insular and International Affairs Doug Domenech has authorized a payment of $853,590 in FY 2019 funding for the Prior Service Trust Fund (PSTF) Administration, which distributes benefits to former employees of the post-World War II, U.S.-administered, Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands (TTPI) in the Western Pacific 

“The United States continues to meet its commitment to 771 beneficiaries who previously served in the U.S.-administered Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands,” said Assistant Secretary Domenech. “The Prior Service beneficiaries are elderly persons who rely on these monthly checks in varying amounts from $25 to $65 to pay for medicine, food, utilities, and even telephone service.” 

Employee benefits provided through the Prior Service Trust Fund represent a responsibility assumed by the Federal Government following the dissolution of the TTPI in 1986.  The program serves beneficiaries with five years or more of prior service.  The four jurisdictions to emerge from the TTPI were the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. 

The Secretary of the Interior is responsible for coordinating federal policy with respect to the territories of the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and administering and overseeing U.S. Compact federal grants provided to the freely associated states of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. On behalf of the Secretary, the Assistant Secretary, Insular and International Affairs, executes these responsibilities through the Office of Insular Affairs.