Taman wants ticket to Palau

by Marianas Variety

Candido B. Taman yesterday asked Speaker Oscar Babauta to provide him with a government-paid ticket to Palau so he can personally deliver a House resolution commending President Tommy Remengesau for being recognized as one of Time Magazine’s “Heroes of the Environment.”

Taman, R-Saipan, sponsored House Resolution 15-217. He did not seek reelection.

The Palau president was named one of Time Magazine’s Heroes of the Environment for his role in promoting the Micronesian Challenge, which sets a goal of protecting 30 percent of the near shore marine resources and 20 percent of land resources in Micronesia through active conservation programs by 2020.

“Each year, Time International produces a double issue that celebrates the year’s heroes, those who have made a difference in our lives and this year’s theme is Heroes of the Environment; and as a result of his efforts to protect the natural environment and his conservation challenge to neighboring Pacific island nations, the Honorable Tommy E. Remengesau Jr., was named one of Time Magazine’s Heroes of the Environment,” H.R. 15-217 stated.

Now 51 years old, Remengesau was the youngest senator ever elected to the Palau national legislature in 1984 at age 28.

He also holds the distinction of being the youngest Palauan ever elected vice president.

In 2001, he was elected Palau’s president.

Taman said Remengesau’s proven leadership, hard work and dedication to the people of Palau has helped create awareness about the island-nation during recent years.

Remengesau and Palau first lady Debbie Mineich have four children and two grandchildren.

The couple visited Saipan last month to attend a groundbreaking ceremony for the Palauan community’s abai, or meeting house, and the Micronesian Chief Executives Summit.