According to Collin Joseph, Speaker of the Melekeok State Legislature and an active advocate of environmental projects, community members adhered to the call of the traditional leaders and took part in the village clean up. He further added that clean up was more than successful in that other individuals and non-government organizations volunteered their time to help in the clean up and in addition, made generous contributions that enhanced the clean up effort.
Time was allotted for Palau Conservation Society (PCS) Kim Project to present 700 clam seedlings to the people of Ngerang to replenish their marine reserve – a 7 square kilometer no-take reserve situated adjacent to the village.According to Tublai Ililau, coordinator of the Kim Project, the seedlings were acquired from the Bureau of Marine Resources/MMDC as part of the Kim Project to promote conservation of all species of giant clams in Palau. Joseph further added that prior to giving the clam seedlings, Ililau made a presentation about the Kim Project – inclusive of all the on-going programs related to it.Iuch Toribiong Mekreos and the Ngaratlilab of Ngerang – chiefs of the village – extend their sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the clean up. They are especially grateful and appreciative of Reklai Raphael B. Ngirmang, Ngirkungiil Steven Sebalt, Secharruleong Teodoro Rengulbai, Governor Lazarus Kodep, Katarina Kesolei, Lencer, Basilius, George and Cindy Rechucher, Freda Delemau, Jeffrey and Grace Erungel, Lomisang and Thelma Teruo, John Skebong, Mark and Elchesel Rudimch, and Adair Sumang for their generous contributions; and Palau Conservation Society, Melekeok State Government employees, and the Bureau of Marine Resources for their in kind contributions.Joseph said that “the people worked very hard and they were all smiles.” “One cannot put a price cost on this kind of work,” he said. “It is worth all the money in the world and more.”
