The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) is pleased to announce the successful installation and completion of training for newly acquired X-ray equipment to strengthen inspection and screening operations across key border facilities.
Installations began on October 6, 2025, and were completed at the Palau International Airport, to include the Non-Intrusive Inspection Facility, Arrival Area, and Cargo Section — as well as at the Post Office Customs Area. A total of three mobile scanners and four medium fixed X-ray units were installed and are now operational.
Following the installation, training sessions were conducted to familiarize officers and personnel with the proper use and operation of the equipment. The Airport training was held on October 9–10, 2025, involving Customs and Biosecurity Officers, while the Post Office training took place on October 14–15, 2025, with participation from Customs, Biosecurity, and Police Officers, as well as Post Office personnel.
The training covered the basic operation and handling of the X-ray systems, including the use of color-coded imaging to analyze parcels, packages, and baggage for inspection purposes. The equipment will aid officers in detecting prohibited, restricted, or undeclared goods more effectively – supporting BCBP’s mission to safeguard Palau’s borders while facilitating legitimate trade and travel.
For more information, please visit www.bcbp.pw or contact the Bureau at (680) 488-1985 / 6031.
In a proud and solemn ceremony today, fourteen men and women took a powerful unified step into a life of service, discipline, and sacrifice as they graduated from the 30th Police Academy. Held with full honors, this morning’s Commencement Exercise gathered family, friends, government leaders, and agency representatives to celebrate a milestone that symbolizes more than achievement — it represents a sacred oath to protect and serve.
The Honorable Minister of Justice Jennifer S. Olegeriil delivered the Welcoming Remarks, opening the ceremony with words that resonated deeply with the spirit of the occasion. “Today, you are not just earning a certificate,” she said. “You are accepting the responsibility of wearing a uniform and a shield that symbolizes honor, integrity, respect, and the kind of life that reflects those values, on and off-duty.”
Paramount Chief Reklai delivered the Keynote Address, emphasizing that when in law enforcement, we must earn the trust of the public, and strive to keep it. He reiterated that policing is not just a job, but a lifelong commitment. It is a way of life that you have pledged to. Police Director Curtis Elobt closed the ceremony with, “in front of this whole crowd, you have made a promise to the people of Palau to live by the Oath you’ve just taken. If you’re unable to keep that promise, you are not deserving of calling Palau, yours!”
The ceremony was graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries and government officials, underscoring the national significance of the event. Among those in attendance were:
• Honorable Raynold B. Oilouch, Vice President and Minister of Health and Human Services • Paramount Chief Reklai Raphael B. Ngirmang • Members of the Senate Committee on Judiciary & Governmental Affairs, 12th Olbiil Era Kelulau: – Hon. Andrew Tabelual – Hon. Secilil Eldebechel • Members of the House Committee on Judiciary & Governmental Affairs, 12th Olbiil Era Kelulau: – Hon. Yutaka Gibbons, Jr., Chairman – Hon. Nace N. Soalablai – Hon. Francesca R. Otong30th – Hon. Silverius Tellei • Members of the Diplomatic Corps: – H.E. Toby Sharpe, Ambassador of Australia – H.E. Hiroyuki Orikasa, Ambassador of Japan – Minister Counselor Franklin Chen, representing H.E. Jessica C. Lee, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) • State Government Representatives: – Hon. Eyos Rudimch, Governor of the State of Koror – Hon. Emais Roberts, Governor of the State of Peleliu
The graduating class, made up of officers from diverse agencies including the National Police, State Rangers, Customs and Border Protection, Biosecurity, and institutional security — embodies the shared responsibility of public safety across Palau. This diversity reflects the foundational belief that law enforcement is not the duty of one group alone, but a united mission shared across sectors, states, and communities.
The Academy is more than just a training ground; it is a crucible where men and women are transformed. Over the course of the program, cadets undergo rigorous training not only in tactics and law, but in the discipline of the mind, strength of character, and moral courage — the very foundation of a policing career. They are now prepared to take their place on the frontline, tasked to ensure equal protection of everyone under the law.
Today’s ceremony not only marked the culmination of this demanding journey but honored the legacy of all previous academy graduates who continue to serve across the nation — in enforcement, protection, and the quiet defense of peace that often goes unseen.
As the newest members of Palau’s law enforcement family took their Oath of Affirmation, the applause that followed was more than celebratory — it was a collective promise from the community to support them, believe in them, and hold them to the standard of service their profession requires.
𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 In recognition of outstanding performance and character, the following cadets received special awards during the ceremony:
*Perfect Attendance* – Saiske, JJ Techur, Division of Fire & Rescue, BPS *Outstanding Leadership* – Saiske, JJ Techur, Division of Fire & Rescue, BPS *Top Physical Fitness (Female)* – Ingereklii, Shenna D., Bureau of Customs & Border Protection, Ministry of Finance *Top Physical Fitness (Male)* – Derbai, Harlly, Koror State Rangers *Academic Excellence* – Ngiraiwet, Joyah K.N., Bureau of Customs & Border Protection, Ministry of Finance *High Honors* – Aulerio, Koteb M., Bureau of Customs & Border Protection, Ministry of Finance – Augustine, John A.M., Peleliu State Rangers – Ingereklii, Shenna D, Bureau of Customs & Border Protection, Ministry of Finance – Saiske, JJ Techur – Division of Fire & Rescue, Bureau of Public Safety
The Republic of Palau salutes the 30th Police Academy graduates and welcomes them into the law enforcement family.
June 9, 2025 – Koror, Palau – The Republic of Palau is honored to host a National Workshop on the Harmonized System (HS) in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO). This important initiative is designed to enhance institutional capacity in goods classification and promote efficient and standardized customs practices among Customs Officers and personnel.
Sponsored by the Customs Cooperation Fund (CCF) Japan, the four-day workshop is being held at the Civic Center in Koror and is attended by ten Palauan Customs Officers. Participants are receiving hands-on training and expert technical guidance from internationally recognized WCO specialists, including Ms. Yara Novis, Nomenclature Specialist at the WCO; Ms. Hiroko Iwasaki, WCO HS Expert for the Asia/Pacific Region; and Mr. Noa Buredua, WCO HS Pre-Accredited Expert for the Asia/Pacific Region.
The Harmonized System (HS) is a globally recognized standard for classifying goods in international trade, adopted by more than 200 countries and economies. Accurate HS classification is critical for the application of tariffs, fair customs procedures, and the generation of reliable trade statistics.
This workshop aims to strengthen the capacity of Palauan Customs Officers to accurately classify goods under the HS, deepen their understanding of tariff application principles, and promote consistency and transparency in trade practices. The training is expected to lead to greater efficiency, improved accuracy, and timely processing of customs procedures in Palau.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in Palau’s efforts to modernize its customs operations and align with international best practices. With the expertise gained through this workshop, Palau Customs is better positioned to facilitate trade, ensure compliance, and contribute to national development goals.
The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, on behalf of the Republic of Palau, extends its sincere gratitude to the World Customs Organization and the Customs Cooperation Fund Japan for their invaluable support in building customs capacity throughout the region.
Koror, Palau – On May 16, 2025, the Republic of Palau’s trading community met today to validate the national Trade Single Window Blueprint.
The Blueprint outlines the design for creating a single, digital entry point for all trade-related submissions, this will enable real-time data exchange between agencies like Customs, Immigration, Biosecurity, and others.
“Today marks a significant step in our national effort to modernize trade facilitation,” said Palau’s Minister of State Mr. Gustav Aitaro.
“This Single Window Blueprint is setting scene to building a digital gateway that will serve traders, agencies, investors, and citizens alike,” Mr. Aitaro said.
Mr. Aitaro further said, “Implementing a national electronic Single Window for international trade is, as we have seen, one of the most effective ways to enhance trade facilitation. It is also key obligation under the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement.”
Officiating the event, virtually, the Head of Delegation for the European Union to the Pacific, Her Excellency, Ms. Barbara Plinkert, highlighted Palau’s efforts toward enhancing trade facilitation and sustainable economic growth.
“This effort has already shown impressive results through setting up a standard based automated custom system, ASYCUDAWorld supported by the European Union and implemented by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
“ASYCUDAWorld has already helped ease customs procedures and increase customs revenue use already in its first year of implementation,” Ms. Plinkert said.
“In fact, the electronic single window which is being validated in today’s workshop will build on this achievement since an automated custom system such as ASYCUDAWorld is a core element for any national electronic single window.
“This project is another example which demonstrates the long-standing partnership between the European Union and Palau across many sectors, be it in the areas of climate resilience, ocean management or economic development,” Ms. Plinkert emphasized.
The Blueprint was developed with technical support from the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
The initiative is supported by the European Union-funded IMPACT Project, implemented by the UN Trade and Development.
Koror, Palau – The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection proudly announces the official swearing-in of Mr. Egan Tewid as the new Chief of Immigration under the Division of Immigration. The ceremony took place on Thursday, April 17, 2025, signifying a new chapter in leadership for Palau’s immigration services.
The Oath of Office was administered by Director of the Bureau of Public Safety, Mr. Curtis Elobt, and witnessed by Director of the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, Mr. John Tarkong Jr., Chief of Corporate Services, Mr. Robert Tarkong, along with Mr. Tewid’s family members who were present to commemorate the occasion.
Mr. Tewid holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Guam and previously worked under the Bureau of Budget and Planning, where he gained valuable experience in public sector planning and operations. His background in criminal justice and his understanding of government systems position him well to lead the Division with competence and purpose.
As Chief of Immigration, Mr. Tewid will oversee immigration operations, ensure the enforcement of immigration laws, facilitate effective inter-agency coordination, and support efforts to modernize immigration services. His leadership is expected to strengthen institutional integrity, improve operational efficiency, and enhance service to the public and travelers.
The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection welcomes Chief Tewid into this key leadership role and looks forward to his contributions in advancing the mission and goals of the Division of Immigration for the Republic of Palau.
As the holy month of Ramadan comes to a close, we wish to extend our heartfelt wishes to all who celebrate — Eid Mubarak!
To commemorate this special occasion, our UNCTAD In-Country Expert, Mr. Rizwan Khan, shared a variety of local cuisines with the BCBP team, adding a memorable touch to the celebration. It was a joyful and festive gathering that brought everyone together in the spirit of cultural exchange and appreciation.
This celebration promotes the ongoing commitment to develop a diverse and inclusive workplace. The BCBP takes pride in the rich cultural backgrounds of our team members and embraces every opportunity to learn from one another.
As we celebrate this festive moment with our colleagues, we look forward to more opportunities that promote unity, understanding, and shared traditions throughout the year.
Eid Mubarak from all of us at the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection!
The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) is pleased to welcome our regional partners from the Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP), who have accepted our request to conduct an assessment of our K9 Facility. This important visit aims to review our training program, operational standards, and standard operating procedures (SOPs), and to provide recommendations based on international standards and best practices.
This initiative was made possible through the support of the Embassy of Australia, and we are grateful for their continued partnership. With their help, the Bureau was able to request this much-needed review to enhance and strengthen our K9 capacities, while also improving cooperation and coordination among our inter-agency partners.
The ABF and AFP team will be in Palau for one week. During their stay, they will visit key agencies and locations including the Bureau of Public Safety, Post Office, Airport, Customs K9 Unit, and the Seaport. Through these site visits and observations, they will assess current practices and provide guidance on how we can better streamline our operations and strengthen our capabilities using existing resources.
The Bureau expresses its sincere appreciation to the Embassy of Australia, the Australian Border Force, and the Australian Federal Police for their support and collaboration. We look forward to a productive visit and the valuable insights they will share. This partnership marks another positive step in our ongoing efforts to enhance border security and ensure the continued safety of our nation.
EU Ambassador to the Pacific Visits Palau’s Bureau of Customs and Border Protection
Koror, Palau – The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) was honored to welcome the Ambassador of the European Union to the Pacific, Ms. Barbara Plinkert, during her recent visit to Palau. Ambassador Plinkert met with the ASYCUDA National Project team and engaged in discussions on the transformative impact of the EU-funded Improving Pacific Islands Customs and Trade (IMPACT) Project.
During her visit, Ms. Joline Spesungel, the ASYCUDA National Project Manager, highlighted the significant advancements made under the project, reinforcing Palau’s commitment to modernizing customs and trade processes.
Key Achievements of the IMPACT Project in Palau:
✅ Efficient & Timely Customs Clearance: The ASYCUDA technology has streamlined processes, reducing delays and enhancing efficiency. ✅ New Customs Bonded Warehouse: Strengthening trade support and facilitating secure storage for imports. ✅ Seamless Online Payment Systems: A more accessible and transparent system for customs and tax payments. ✅ Advanced Digital Infrastructure: A new server to enhance technological capabilities and ensure smooth operations. ✅ Electronic Trade Single Window Blueprint: A crucial step toward digitalizing trade and customs procedures. ✅ Improved Compliance from Traders: Strengthening adherence to customs regulations. ✅ Accurate Data Collection: Enhancing decision-making and enforcement capabilities. ✅ Stronger Border Security: Profiling and targeting measures bolster national security. ✅ Enhanced Trade Facilitation: Risk assessment tools improve customs efficiency and reduce unnecessary delays. ✅ Increased Revenue Collection: A direct result of improved compliance and digital advancements.
The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection extends its sincere appreciation to #EUPasifika for its continued support in strengthening customs operations, trade facilitation, and border security not just in Palau, but across the entire Pacific region.
UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Tapan Mishra, paid a visit to the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) where he met with Director John Tarkong and the ASYCUDA national project team. During the meeting, Mr. Mishra was given an overview of the IMPACT project and the progress of ASYCUDA implementation in Palau, which aims to streamline customs processes and enhance trade facilitation. The discussion highlighted the next key step—developing a single window system to further improve efficiency and transparency. Mr. Mishra reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to providing support, advice, and technical expertise. By continuing to modernize and optimize its customs operations, Palau has the potential to set a benchmark for the region and serve as a model for other small island states.
