The team was initially scheduled to return on the 7th of April but was delayed because of mechanical issues that plagued Atoll Way, the main mode of transportation to the south west islands. The setback initiated a level of collaboration that ensured the immediate departure of Eco Explorer to retrieve the team and the residents of Sonsorol and bring them back to Koror. PCS Chairperson Maura Gordon says that the Palau Conservation Society believes and boasts to the world that Palauans are conscientious and passionate about the protection of the environment. Mrs. Gordon also stated that the quick response of the Office of the President to assist in bringing home the team demonstrates the value we place in protecting our environment, and how important it is to take care of our conservation staff who lead us in these conservation efforts. The team has been away from their families and loved ones for a month and is happy to be home. Under the coordination of Project Leader Lukes Isechal, the pilot project was completed successfully and will eventually be duplicated in Kayangel in the future. As a designated Important Bird Area (IBA), Fanna will benefit greatly from the eradication work. Success in the activities that PCS conducts nation-wide continues to depend on the support and collaboration of many agencies, communities, individuals and especially family members of PCS employees. We appreciate your continued support for these conservation efforts that benefit us all. The Palau Conservation Society would like to thank the office of the President of the Republic of Palau and the significant role they played in bringing back everyone safely. President Toribiong says that it is a vital responsibility for any sitting president to ensure the protection and wellbeing of its citizens and is happy that all the travelers returned safely to their families and loved ones.
The Palau Conservation Society would like to thank the following:Office of the President of the Republic of PalauGovernor Damian Albis and Sonsorol State GovernmentSonsorol Lt. Governor William CarlosSonsorol Delegate Celestine YangilmauChief Nurap Nicholas AquinoTamor Mariano CarlosGovernor Thomas Patris and Hatohobei State GovernmentHatohobei Delegate Wayne AndrewNgirasibong Lucius Malsol, Paul Collins and Eco ExplorerPalau Red Cross SocietyPalau Public Utilities CorporationThe Sonsorol CommunityKayangel State GovernmentGovernor Steven Salii & Angaur State GovernmentDivision of Transportation and CommunicationBureau of Public SafetyNational Emergency Management OfficeSam’s ToursPalau Yacht ClubDivision of Marine Law EnforcementShellFirst Lady Valeria ToribiongFish and FinsPalau International Trade IncorporatedSocio International IncorporatedPalau Visitors AuthorityMinistry of HealthRichard BrungardFrank OblingerSteve Cranwell and BirdLife InternationalProject Staff and family member
