The celebration started as early as 10 a.m. at the Koror side of the Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge and lasted until 10 p.m. as members of the public enjoyed live band performances.
President Tommy Remengesau, whose second term ends on Dec. 31, said he is thankful for the opportunity given to him to lead this island nation for eight years.The Independence Day festivities included a softball tournament at the Meyuns Softball Field, a concert in Ngarchelong and bottom-line fishing led by the visiting Guam Harley Davidson Club riders.The Saga group from Japan participated in the parade while the boat race, as in the past, was one of the day’s main attractions.This year’s theme was “Palau in motion for a healthy nation.”The formal ceremony under the bridge began with a traditional chant followed by a prayer led by Father Rusk Saburo.The Law Enforcement Explorers Program volunteers then sang the national anthem as the national flag was raised.Afterward, the winner of this year’s independence essay contest read his entry.The dignitaries who attended the celebration included the diplomats of France, the Czech Republic, Thailand, the Netherlands, Indonesia, the United States, the Philippines, Taiwan and Japan.Remengesau said Independence Day is his favorite holiday.“It marks the great accomplishments of the Palauan people. Every year on Oct.1, we look back at the progress we have made and look forward to the challenges that lie ahead,” he said.The president, who is constitutionally barred from seeking re-election this year, is running for the Senate.
