As of August 3, a total of 39 candidates had filed for the upcoming elections, with 31 elective positions up for grabs.
More candidates were expected to file their nominating petition on or before the Aug. 5 deadline.
According to the Palau Election Commission, there are three presidential hopefuls who have filed their nominating petitions.
Former Sen. Alan Seid filed for his candidacy accompanied by his family and other supporters.
Later the same day, former President Johnson Toribiong arrived at the election commission office with his family members and other supporters to file his candidacy.
Both candidates filed on the day of the full moon which holds great significance in Palauan culture. Palauans have used the moon as a guide when performing such tasks as building a house, fishing, or planting.
Vice President Raynold Oilouch filed his presidential candidacy on July 21.
The fourth candidate, former Sen. Surangel Whipps Jr., was expected to file his candidacy on Tuesday.
Whipps narrowly lost to his brother-in-law, Thomas Remengesau, in the 2016 presidential elections.
Remengesau is constitutionally barred from seeking a third consecutive term. He was elected president in 2000, 2004, 2012, and 2016.
