By Bernadette H. Carreon
Horizon news staff

Del. Joel Toribiong has called the attention of the Foreign Investment Board for alleged violation of laws of an employee of Palau Taekwondo Association (PTA).
In a letter to Regina Mesebeluu, FIB Chairwoman, Toribiong questioned the recent issuances of Foreign Investment Approval Certificates to a certain Purna P. Kahadka.
Toribiong said that Kahadka is in Palau as an employee of PTA and that his employment will expire on June 29,2007.
Toribiong said that Kahadka, while still employment of the PTA applied for and received an FIAC to establish Palau Island Taekwondo.
"My concern with this FIAC is twofold; Mr. Kahadka’s new business places him with direct competition with a local business and Kahadka while employed as a non-resident worker, sought a FIAC which could arguably constitute outside employment," Toribiong said.
Toribiong said that Kahadka’s business will directly compete with a local business and could be devastating to a local owner.
"Taekwondo instruction is a niche business, unlike a large grocery store or other business that could withstand healthy competition," Toribiong said.
He said Kadhaka may have also violated another law when it applied for FIAC while still under the employment of the PTA.
Toribiong said he wanted to know whether the information in Kahadka’s application were truthful.
The delegate said although the private sector will benefit from foreign investments, there should be a balance and should not hamper local businesses’ operation.
"I fear that without such consideration, local business may deteriorate while foreign investment thrives, leaving Palauan citizens with little opportunity as our country continues to grow. As Palauans and as carefully selected members of the republic, I am certain that you agree that it is necessary to protect the rights and interests of our citizens," Toribiong said.