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.
