PICRC extends sincere thanks to supporters–$140,000 raised at Gala to support mission

The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) celebrated its 25th anniversary on Thursday, January 15, with a fundraising gala dinner held at Ngarachamayong Cultural Center. Centered on the theme “25 years of Ocean Stewardship: Rooted in Community, Grounded in Science, Empowered by Commitment” (Luich ma Eim el Rrak er a Okerreuil a Debel Belau:  Ultuil er a Rebeluu, Omesuub, ma Blak el Rreng), the event acknowledged the Center’s continued commitment to conserving Palau’s marine ecosystems for the people and strengthening local communities in the face of challenges.

In her opening remarks, PICRC’s Chief Executive Officer, Roxanne Siual Blesam gave thanks to all the Center’s supporters over the years, stating that “As we celebrate 25 years as a center of excellence, it is humbling to reflect on how far we have come. PICRC has grown into a trusted leader in marine research, education, and outreach, not only in Palau but also on the global stage. This progress would not have been possible without the long-standing support of our partners, donors, sponsors, and supporters. Your investment in PICRC is an investment in people, knowledge, and the future of Palau’s ocean.”

The sold-out event, attended by over 500 guests, was co-hosted by the Office of the President and the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in Palau. Distinguished attendees included the President of the Republic of Palau, His Excellency Surangel Whipps Jr., Vice President the Honorable Arnold Oiluch, Ministers, Senators, Delegates, Council of Chiefs, Mechesil Belau, Ambassador Toby Sharpe of the Australian Embassy in Palau, Ambassador Kasahara Kenichi of the Embassy of Japan in Palau, and Ambassador Andy K. I. Chen, Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in Palau, alongside State Governors and Legislators, Government Officials, NGO partners, community leaders, and PICRC Board Members. 

His Excellency Surangel Whipps Jr., highlighted the success of PICRC in his speech and how partnerships were a key contributor to this success. “The Center was initially started with funding from Japan and, over the years, we’ve continued to receive assistance from our friends from the Republic of China (Taiwan), from Australia, the US, the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, and many other efforts to keep our Center strong and a Center for excellence. So, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for being here tonight and for continuing to support.”

The evening’s success was made possible through the generosity of its supporters, including the Office of the President, Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan), IP&E Palau Inc., Palau Pacific Resort, IR Company, Surangel & Son’s Company, Sun’s Flower Shop, Gisela & Adam, Palau Unlimited, Inc., BILUNG Gloria G. Salii and many more. Additionally, generous in-kind contributions from SHIMBROS Inc., Parker Yobei, Belau Offshore Fisheries, Inc., Mechesil Belau, The Penthouse Hotel, The Taj, Island Paradise, Palau Vacation Hotel, The Cove, Red Rooster, Rip Tide Bar & Grill, and others ensured the event ran smoothly and created a memorable experience for all. Overall, the Gala raised $140,000, with all proceeds supporting PICRC’s research and education programs, fostering ocean stewardship across Palau. 

Meangeldil Ayla Azuma Malsol, Marine Lakes Research Assistant at the Coral Reef Research Foundation, spoke at the Gala about the opportunities she’d received at PICRC–from the chance to intern at the Center while at Palau High School to being invited onboard a deep-sea research expedition in 2024. These opportunities have shaped and broadened her career. 

The event featured a delightful three-course meal prepared by Palau Royal Resort, beverages by SHIMBROS Inc., and an outstanding performance by artists, Parker Yobei and Mariposa Ngiramengior.

The Gala Dinner also included the announcement of the recipient of the 2026 Tommy E. Remengesau, Jr. Environmental Award. The Environmental Award is presented every other year to recognize an individual who has made significant contributions to conservation and management efforts in Palau.

This year, PICRC was thrilled to announce Ms. Gerda Ucharm as the recipient of the award. Ms. Ucharm is a dedicated Research Biologist at the Coral Reef Research Foundation (CRRF), having worked at the Foundation since 2009 where she has been instrumental in advancing the monitoring and scientific understanding of Palau’s marine lakes. Additionally, she maintains the CRRF weather stations in Ngardok and Ngeanges. Ms. Ucharm is also the Pacific Islands Ocean Observing System–Palau liaison, helping to keep Palau connected in terms of ocean observation. Beyond her scientific contributions, she has led numerous outreach workshops and developed education materials for government agencies, schools, and local communities. The award acknowledges Ms. Ucharm’s commitment, technical expertise, and passion for the natural world, which have made her an invaluable contributor to marine science and conservation in Palau.

During her speech, Ms. Ucharm talked about her career, sharing anecdotes from her work and giving thanks for the support and opportunities she received along the way, including her time as a Researcher at PICRC. 

As part of the anniversary celebrations, PICRC is running an anniversary fundraising raffle with the grand prize of a Toyota Rumion, generously donated by IR Company. Consolation prizes include spending a day at sea with our researchers, getting an up-close look at their work and enjoying Palau’s stunning scenery. 

Raffle tickets can be purchased at PICRC’s Giant Clam Gift Shop for $10. The drawing will take place at 8am on Jan 20th, 2026 on Berius El Chais, 89.9PWFM. 

Next week, PICRC is hosting its annual education carnival from January 20-23. This four-day event, fully booked with 14 schools and an estimated 900 elementary school students, will feature engaging activities focused on marine protected areas, coral restoration, and deep-sea research. It will also include booths hosted by partners: Palau’s Office of Climate Change, Palau Automated Land and Resources Information System (PALARIS), and Friends of the Palau National Marine Sanctuary (PNMS) who will cover topics on coastal resilience and the Palau Pledge. 

PICRC sincerely thanks the community for their continued support in making these events possible. The gala dinner and education carnival embody the Center’s mission of fostering a resilient ocean and resilient community through research, education, collaboration, and partnerships.