Government of the Federated States of Micronesia

Kosrae Won 5th Environment Day National Speech Contest

Palikir, POHNEPI (FSM Information Service): June 6, 2008 – FSM Vice President, Hon. Alik L. Alik opened the 5th Environment DayNational Speech Contest, at the PMA Auditorium on June 5, 2008 as he led the contestants into their theme; “Climate Change: What does it mean to our small islands”, with his opening remark.

In his remark, Vice President Alik mentioned that this year’s theme is intended to make us reflect on our continuing effort to protect our livelihood on our small island nation.

Vice President Alik added that the information the contestants will provide will guide our policy makers in the formulation of national and state policies on climate change.

Judging for the speech contest were: Hon. Magdalena Walter; Senator, Pohnpei state; Mrs. Mary Figir, private sector; Mr. Kandhi Elieisar, FSM Dept of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Kun Isaac, Pohnpei Dept. of Education and Mr. Joe Konno, Board of Micronesia Conservation Trust.

The contestants for this year’s Environment Day National Speech Contest include: Ms. Karen Gootingin from Yap state, Mr. Daniel Lodge from Chuuk state, Ms. Rosemina Pablo from Pohnpei state and Ms. Heidi Sigrah from the state of Kosrae.

The contest went well and Ms. Heidi Sigrah of Kosrae won the first place. She was awarded $500.00. Mr. Daniel Lodge came in second with $400.00, Ms. Rosemina Pablo 3rd place and received $300.00 and Ms. Karen Gootingin 4th.place with $200.00.

Our MC for the 2008 Environment Day National Speech Contest is Mr. Eugene Pang linen, Deputy Director, National Oceanic Resource Management Authority..

The National Anthem was sang by the Ohmine Girls Scout, and Invocation was given by Father Francis.