Overview:
Palau is moving toward stronger and more climate-resilient public infrastructure after President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. signed Executive Order No. 502 directing the development of national building standards for all government-funded construction projects. The order aims to improve construction quality, safety, and disaster resilience by creating a unified building code adapted to Palau’s unique environmental conditions.
By: Laurel Marewibuel
Koror, Palau — President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. signed Executive Order No. 502 directing the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and Industries to develop consolidated building standards and a code for all government‑funded construction projects.
In absence of a national building code, the order responds to requirements and policy goals aimed at improving construction quality and climate resilience, officials said. It gives the ministry until June 30, 2028, to develop, adopt and promulgate a single set of building standards, codes and inspection regulations based on recognized international codes adapted for Palau’s climate, hazard exposure and local construction practices, for public infrastructure.
“The Minister of Public Infrastructure and Industries shall, no later than June 30, 2028, fulfill the obligations of 40 PNCA § 681(b) and 40 PNCA § 384(c) by developing, adopting, and promulgating a consolidated set of building standards, codes, and inspection regulations for all capital improvement projects and government‑funded construction within the Republic of Palau,” the order states.
The executive order cites several legal provisions that require inspection and standards for capital projects funded wholly or in part by the national treasury, and it notes that the Bureau of Public Works does not currently maintain a single, consolidated set of specifications for government projects.
It also points to national policies emphasizing climate resilience. The Palau Climate Change Policy 2025–2035 and the Palau Development Plan 2023–2026 call for climate‑resilient construction standards and integration of climate and disaster risks into permitting, the order says.
“The Republic of Palau is exposed to typhoons, storm surge, flooding and seismic hazards, and the resilience of government‑funded buildings and infrastructure is a matter of public safety and sound fiscal management,” the document says.
The order requires the ministry to submit a progress report to the President and the Olbiil Era Kelulau by June 30, 2027, detailing the status of the code development, any technical assistance used and a timeline for completion.
Under existing law cited in the order, the CIP (capital improvement projects) Office must inspect government projects during construction and adopt regulations setting standards for government construction; projects that fall below those standards can be stopped through a stop‑work order.
The ministry must adapt international building codes to Palau’s local conditions, including energy efficiency and available materials, and set inspection procedures to ensure compliance with architectural and engineering plans.
