President of Palau and Taiwan Embassy to co-host PICRC’s 22nd Anniversary Fundraising Gala Dinner

The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) will celebrate its 22nd anniversary with a fundraising gala dinner on January 26, 2023.  

The theme for this year’s anniversary is ‘Exploring new depths’, which refers to PICRC’s new mandate to broaden its work from coral reefs and the nearshore environment to the deep ocean of Palau’s Exclusive Economic Zone, which includes the Palau National Marine Sanctuary.  Exploring new depths also refers to PICRC’s efforts to further develop and conduct more in-depth research in its existing research programs such as with the establishment of the state-of-the-art ocean acidification laboratory.  

President Surangel Whipps, Jr. and Ambassador Jessica C. Lee of the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) will co-host the event.

“PICRC has dedicated more than two decades into researching Palau’s waters from ridge to reef.  We are grateful for PICRC’s work to safeguard a long and sustainable future for marine life through its research and education both on a local and international scale.  Let us, as a united community, dedicate ourselves to balancing the protection and production of our resources to ensure a pristine paradise for the many generations to come,” President Whipps stated.

Ambassador Lee donated $15,000 toward the Anniversary Fundraising Gala. 

“Taiwan, which has established itself as one of the leaders in the field of science, research and technology, recognizes the value of research for the development of a nation.  PICRC plays a critical role by conducting ocean research and sharing the information with its outreach and education program to support stewardship of Palau’s marine environment.  We are happy to support Palau’s leading research organization in its fundraising event,” Ambassador Lee stated. 

PICRC’s annual operational costs are supported by multiple funding sources, including grants, the national budget, facility rentals and donations from supporters and partners.  The anniversary dinner gala fundraising event is PICRC’s primary platform for donations.  

The Fundraising Gala Dinner will be held on PICRC Grounds on the 26th (Thursday).  It will begin at 6pm, with cocktails, followed by dinner and entertainment. Tickets are available at $100.00 per person. It will be a formal event with a sit-down dinner, full table service and fine dining. For tickets, please contact Ms. Jenna Mersai at (680) 488-6950 ext. 222 or [email protected]. For donations, please contact Ms. Imade Tellei at (680) 488-6950 ext. 228 or [email protected].