Overview:
Palau is dedicating May to children’s mental health, emergency medical services and public well-being through a series of new presidential proclamations and executive orders signed this week. Events planned across the country aim to strengthen community connections, support youth wellness and honor first responders.
Executive orders and proclamations spotlight children’s mental health, emergency medical services and community well-being across Palau.
By: L.N. Reklai
KOROR, Palau — Surangel S. Whipps Jr. signed a series of executive orders and presidential proclamations this week, setting the stage for a busy month focused on public health, children’s well-being and emergency medical services.
On May 12 and 13, Whipps signed Executive Orders 501, 502 and 503, along with Presidential Proclamations 26-427, 26-428 and 26-429. The measures center on “health, safety, support and care” for the people of Palau.
Under Proclamation 26-427, May 13 was declared Children’s Mental Health Day. Vice President and Minister of Health and Human Services Raynold Oilouch said the observance is intended to raise awareness about the mental health and overall well-being of Palauan children.
“These are our Palauan children, let’s focus on our young,” Oilouch said.
As part of the observance, organizers will host a carnival-themed event titled “Unplug to Connect” at the Airai side of the KB Bridge. The event will bring together fourth- and fifth-grade students and senior citizens at the Airai-side park to encourage face-to-face interaction, promote drug-free lifestyles and reduce screen time among children.
Another proclamation focused on children’s health, Proclamation 26-429, designates May 20 as Emergency Medical Services for Children Day. The proclamation recognizes children with special medical needs and highlights the importance of emergency medical support services for young patients.
Meanwhile, Proclamation 26-428 declares May 17-23 as Emergency Medical Services Week under the theme “Improving Outcomes, Together.”
The proclamation recognizes and honors Palau’s first responders and healthcare professionals who provide lifesaving emergency care services around the clock.
The executive orders and proclamations add to what is expected to be a full month of national observances and public health initiatives across Palau.
