PICRC hosts the Ocean Stories Film Festival in collaboration with the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa

On Saturday, November 9, the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) hosted the Ocean Stories Film Festival, in partnership with our sister sanctuary, the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa (NMSAS). The event brought together over 200 attendees for a night of exploration, learning, and celebration for the 9^th anniversary of the Palau National Marine Sanctuary (PNMS) and the importance of ocean conservation.

At sunset, the Palau Aquarium opened its doors for a special night viewing of its exhibits. Attendees enjoyed exploring booths on various ocean science topics, including whales, plankton, environmental DNA (eDNA), and a virtual reality dive at NMSAS, along with hands-on art activities and face painting.

PICRC was also thrilled to unveil a new exhibit dedicated to the sister sanctuary partnership between PNMS and NMSAS, where guests learned about the unique marine ecosystems of American Samoa from visiting sanctuary representatives, Nerelle Que and Lottie Haleck. This exhibit is now a permanent feature of the Palau Aquarium, offering everyone a chance to explore and connect with our sister sanctuary.

Following these activities, Asap Bukurrou, the evening’s Master of Ceremonies, introduced special guest speakers to open the film screening. PICRC Chairperson Omar Faustino first addressed the crowd, along with PICRC’s Chief Researcher Ikelau Otto, who introduced “Beyond the Reef,” a feature film documenting groundbreaking cetacean research in the Palau National Marine Sanctuary (PNMS) in collaboration with the Whaleology team. This screening marked the premiere of the film and the continued celebration of PNMS’s 9^th anniversary.

Additional remarks were shared by Megan Cook, Director of Education and Outreach for the Ocean Exploration Trust (OET), who discussed the recent conclusion of the first expedition of Lebuu’s Voyage, as well as Nerelle Que and Lottie Haleck, who shared insights on NMSAS and its new exhibit at the aquarium. A memorable moment of the evening included a presentation by the U.S. Ambassador, Joel Ehrendreich, who introduced Bligh Madris, the first Palauan to play in Major League Baseball, and Fastpitch Olympian Jessica Mendoza. Both athletes signed the Palau Pledge in support of ocean stewardship, an important conservation initiative spearheaded by our Friends of PNMS.

A highlight of the evening was celebrating the creativity of Palauan students through “Ocean Stories”, the film contest inviting youth to depict what the ocean means to them. Students from Koror Elementary School, Ngaraard Elementary School, George B. Harris Elementary School, Aimeliik Elementary School, Ibobang Elementary School, Melekeok Elementary School, Palau High School, and Palau Community College submitted a total of fourteen films, showcasing unique stories and perspectives from across Palau. These films, along with winning entries from American Samoa, were screened at the festival. PICRC congratulates all participants and winners for their inspiring storytelling and talent. A special thanks to the Civic Action Team (CAT) for providing popcorn and to the Palau Polynesian dance group for their delicious food, making the evening’s festivities even more enjoyable.

PICRC thanks everyone who joined us for the event and invites the community to return soon to see the new NMSAS exhibit now featured at the Palau Aquarium.