Author: Einstein Roby

Weno, Chuuk FSM — September 29 to October 3, 2025 — The Vice President of FSM, The Honorable Aren B. Palik recognized women’s resilience and essential role in shaping the nation’s progress. ‘FSM is ongoing committed to advancing gender equality,’ he stated in his keynote address. He also highlighted the need to dismantle systemic barriers, challenge social norms, and create opportunities for women and girls.

The Federated States of Micronesia successfully convened its 10th National Women’s Conference from September 29 – October 3. The Conference theme is ‘Kieki,’ a Chuukese word meaning “woven mat,” symbolizing the strength, unity, and interconnected efforts of women across FSM and beyond. The Conference is held every two years and is a platform for dialogue between women, civil society organizations, and national and state governments.

About 500 mostly women and men from all four states gathered to celebrate achievements, exchange ideas, and chart a path toward gender equality and community resilience to improve the lives and wellbeing of families and communities in FSM. Development partners and diplomatic representatives were also at the event.

In his opening remarks, Chuuk Governor Honorable Alexander Narruhn praised Chuuk’s contributions to gender equality and socio-economic development, and thanked the FSM Women’s Council, delegates, and government for selecting Chuuk as the host, highlighting its rich culture and hospitality. He also called for support regarding the oil spill from WWII wrecks, which has led to a declared State of Emergency.

Senator Dr. Perpetua Sappa Konman, Chair of the FSM Congress Committee on Health and Social Affairs, emphasized the cultural importance of “Kieki” as a call for unity, love, and respect. She paid tribute to pioneering women leaders, including the late Kiki Bill Stinnet and Shinobu Mailo Paul.

On the sides of the Conference, the Vice President Palik, the Second Lady, Congresswoman Dr. Abello Alfonso and conference participants visited Xavier High School students. The Vice President encouraged the students to take their education seriously as a foundation for their future, and the Congresswoman shared her inspiring journey from Xavier High School to her career as a physician and politician, motivating students to pursue their ambitions.

The Conference ended on a high with Heads of State Delegations signing an Outcomes Document with recommendations on empowering women through culture, women’s economic empowerment, education, and leadership, women’s health and gender-based violence (GBV), and women and climate change. A resolution of appreciation was also signed.

The FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs will serve as the conference secretariat, supporting the implementation of these commitments and preparations for the next national women’s conference scheduled in 2027. Pohnpei State will host the next Conference in 2027.

Weno, Chuuk — Immediately following the successful conclusion of the 10th FSM Women’s Conference, the FSM National Communicable Diseases (CD) Unit convened its 6th Program Collaboration and Service Integration (PCSI) Meeting October 6-10, 2025 at the L5 Conference Room in Chuuk.

The week-long meeting brought together National and State-level staff from the Tuberculosis (TB), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Sexually Transmitted Infection (HIV/STI) Programs, and Viral Hepatitis, including program coordinators, laboratory managers, data clerks, and nurses from all four FSM states. Representatives from the Pacific Islands Health Officers Association (PIHOA) and fellows of the Pacific Public Health Fellowship Program (PPHFP) were also in attendance—underscoring the importance of partnership, mentorship, and capacity-building for FSM’s next generation of public health professionals.

Since the first PCSI meeting, FSM’s CD programs have achieved significant progress in improving data collection and reporting. Although Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are yet to be fully developed or updated, the programs have made notable strides toward digital transformation, standardizing reporting templates, improving data accuracy, and strengthening inter-program collaboration.

Throughout the week, both National and State programs presented updates highlighting key accomplishments, challenges, and action steps. Accomplishments included the completion of refresher trainings, expansion of public awareness activities, increased screening and treatment coverage, and stronger cross-program collaboration. However, persistent challenges remain—among them, shortages of program-dedicated physicians, confidentiality issues in managing TB/HIV/STI clients, weak contact tracing, and inaccurate inventory reporting. Moving forward, participants agreed on the need to develop unified SOPs and data systems between National and State levels, and to initiate regular capacity-building webinars to sustain staff development and program quality.

A major highlight of this year’s PCSI meeting was the active participation of laboratory personnel, including managers and technicians, who presented outcomes from their breakout sessions. Their inclusion—a first in PCSI history—marked a milestone in bridging long-standing data gaps between laboratory and program teams, reinforcing the “service integration” spirit of the meeting.

Another first for this year’s PCSI was the awarding of Participation and Completion Certificates to all attendees, recognizing their active involvement, dedication, and contribution to FSM’s

ongoing efforts to strengthen communicable disease programs nationwide. This new initiative not only celebrates individual achievement but also encourages continued engagement and excellence across all levels of public health service delivery.

Representatives from PIHOA and PPHFP also presented ongoing collaborative projects being implemented by fellows across the FSM, ranging from laboratory strengthening to disease surveillance and program support. PIHOA encouraged the health sector to consider hiring fellows upon completion of their fellowship, noting that they will be well-trained and ready to serve. National and State program teams commended the fellows for their commitment to advancing healthcare in their respective states.

To address delays in report submissions, a full session was dedicated to reviewing and clarifying program indicators and reporting definitions. National CD representatives presented the national indicators and standardized reporting templates used for departmental submissions, helping State program staff better understand reporting timelines, expectations, and the connection between their reports and national-level data.

The meeting concluded with a reception at Rachel’s Beach, celebrating the programs’ collective achievements and continued collaboration, followed by a team-building retreat at Pisiwi Island, which further strengthened inter-program relationships and morale.

The National Communicable Diseases Unit extends its sincere appreciation to the Chuuk Department of Health Services for their warm hospitality and logistical support. Participants closed the week with renewed commitment to applying lessons learned, strengthening systems, and continuing the shared mission of delivering quality health services for all the people of the FSM.

MANILA, Philippines – October 10, 2025 – Further to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Department of Health and Social Affairs and the Republic of the Philippines Department of Health signed in November 2024 by their respective Secretaries, another commitment has been formalized that will deploy a Philippine medical team to Pohnpei State Hospital and expand cooperation across the FSM’s four states.

The Philippine medical team from Quirino Memorial Medical Center (QMMC) will deploy to Pohnpei State Hospital in November, following the successful two-week OB-GYN mission to Chuuk State in 2024. The Pohnpei deployment will include ENT specialists, internal medicine doctors, and specialized nursing staff to enhance medical services at the facility.

Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Medical Center that sent a team last year will also return to Chuuk this year. “Our previous collaboration with the Philippine OB-GYN team in Chuuk State was so successful that we are expanding this model to serve more of our communities across the FSM. This partnership represents a new chapter in FSM healthcare cooperation,” said FSM Secretary Marcus Samo

The cooperation reflects the Philippines’ growing commitment to international medical diplomacy and regional healthcare leadership. The formalized partnership creates sustainable pathways for ongoing medical support and professional development between the two nations. Philippine Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership: “The Philippine healthcare professionals have always been at the forefront of international medical cooperation. This formalized partnership with FSM creates a sustainable model that strengthens healthcare delivery across Micronesian communities and demonstrates our commitment to our Pacific neighbors.”

Dr. Evelyn Victoria E. Reside, QMMC Medical Center Chief, noted: “We’re not just providing specialize medical services – we’re building lasting relationships and transferring knowledge that will strengthen healthcare systems across the FSM for years to come.”

The partnership includes plans for additional missions to Kosrae and Yap states to address the specific healthcare needs of each state hospital. The November deployments mark the beginning of what officials describe as a transformative approach to FSM healthcare cooperation, combining immediate medical intervention with sustainable capacity building.

Joining Secretary Samo on the trip were Dr. Nick Santiago, staff physician from Pohnpei State Hospital, and Mr. Kevin Tugruwfaimaw, Public Health Improvement Grant Evaluator.

On September 24, 2025, WHO Representative (WR) Dr. Roderico Ofrin paid a courtesy call on the Honorable Secretary Marcus Samo. The WR was accompanied by Mr. Wajid Shahid, WHO Partnerships & External Relations Support Officer. As his first official visit, Dr. Ofrin discussed ongoing collaborations and the continuing support provided by WHO to the FSM. Dr. Ofrin shared that he was very pleased with the timing of his arrival in the FSM, as it allowed him to participate in the 1st Pohnpei Health Symposium. He noted that the event gave him valuable insights into the health issues and priorities of Pohnpei State and the way forward in addressing them.

In their discussion on future collaboration in technical health matters, Secretary Samo shared with the WHO Representative the oil spill issue in Chuuk and its potential impact on health and requested WHO for technical guidance and information. In addition to his prior experience with WHO management, Dr. Ofrin is also an Emergency Room Physician and expressed his readiness to support the FSM by providing training opportunities for EMTs and other frontline health workers. Dr. Ofrin is serving as the WHO Representative for the Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands based in Pohnpei, FSM.

The FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs extends a warm welcome to Dr. Roderico Ofrin in his new post and looks forward to continued collaboration with WHO in advancing the nation’s health priorities.

From 15–19 September 2025, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), hosted a five-day national workshop aimed at strengthening the country’s preparedness for health emergencies. The event included a three-day exercise to develop FSM’s national emergency risk profile, a one-day session focused on mapping and strengthening the emergency surge workforce, and a one-day training for national facilitators to lead future preparedness activities.

Over 25 participants—representing multi-sectoral agencies—worked to identify hazards facing the country, prioritize actions to mitigate risks and strengthen emergency workforce capacities. This multisectoral collaboration reflects the need for integrated action to better prepare for future emergencies that lie at the intersection of human, animal and environmental health.

 The workshop also emphasized the One Health approach, which recognizes that the health of people is closely connected to the health of animals and the environment. This focus directly responds to a priority identified by the FSM Government. Through group exercises and discussions, the workshop provided a valuable opportunity for FSM’s One Health coordination body to come together, share perspectives, and agree on practical next steps to strengthen collaboration across sectors. Participants worked together to identify health hazards specific to FSM’s unique contexts, laying the groundwork for a risk-informed national emergency plan.

To further drive home the importance of multi-hazard, multisectoral approaches to emergency preparedness, the workshop included analysis of the national emergency surge workforce to better understand enablers and constraints to scaling up a response.  Experts from health, disaster management, logistics, and security sectors came together to explore how their agencies can work more effectively together during complex emergencies. These cross-sector discussions clarified roles, strengthened partnerships, and identified practical ways to improve coordination, forming the foundation for a more unified and agile national response.

“This workshop was a vital step in strengthening FSM’s emergency preparedness,” said Mr. Sean Casey, Officer-in-Charge (OIC), WHO Country Office for Northern Micronesia “It introduced the Strategic Toolkit for Assessing Risks (STAR), a practical tool that helps countries identify, prioritize, and plan for hazards. By applying the STAR methodology in a collaborative setting, participants from across sectors were able to assess risks, clarify roles, and explore ways to improve coordination. This kind of structured, multisectoral engagement is essential for building a resilient response system that can act swiftly and effectively when emergencies arise.”

 “In FSM, our communities are spread across many islands, which can make emergency coordination challenging,” said Marcus Samo, Secretary of the Department of Health and Social Affairs. “That’s why bringing together voices from across sectors is so important. This workshop helped us connect, plan together, and build a stronger foundation for responding to future emergencies as one.”

This work was enabled with support from the Gates Foundation and the Institute of Philanthropy.

Advancing Digital Health Technology to Transform Health Outcome

Yap, FSM – In its effort to improve access to and better health outcome, the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs held its 4^th Annual digital health conference in the State of Yap from September 1-5, 2025.  This is a significant milestone in its journey toward a digital health environment.  The weeklong event brought together key national and state stakeholders, global partners, and technical experts to align efforts, share challenges, and build actionable strategies around FSM’s digital health transformation.

Building on the themes of strategic alignment, infrastructure development, cybersecurity, capacity building, and action planning, this conference emphasized intergovernmental collaboration, capacity development, and the responsible advancement of digital health tools and policies.

Day 1: Opening & Strategic Alignment

The conference opened with a prayer by Fr. Rich McAuliff, SJ, followed by welcoming remarks from Director Theo Thinnifel, setting an optimistic tone grounded in Yapese hospitality and FSM’s vision for a modern and equitable health system.  Secretary Marcus Samo delivered the keynote address, articulating the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs vision on digital health, which boils down to making the health work environment digitally user-friendly, modern, secure, and robust that advances access to health and better health outcome for all.  This vision is premised on an interoperable and resilient health system. This was complemented by a presentation from WHO Consultant Mr. Mugagga Malimbo, who introduced the WHO Digital Health Strategic Plan, showcasing its alignment with FSM’s national goals. Health Planner Joey Wichep outlined FSM’s health KPIs within the broader Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework, stressing the importance of data-driven planning. Les De Wit, from the BES program, presented an overview of the Tamanu Electronic Medical Records System, detailing its phased implementation across FSM.  The afternoon featured state-level presentations from Kosrae, Chuuk, Yap, and Pohnpei, where IT and data teams candidly shared their unique challenges and opportunities, from workforce shortages to infrastructure gaps and data governance issues.

Day 2: Infrastructure & Network Upgrades

With a focus on building a digital health foundation, Day 2 began with a virtual session led by Nathan Bonnice from National ICT & Caedeus, mapping out the current network capacity across FSM. Assistant Secretary Edward Albert (TC&I) discussed the FSM Digital Project, addressing infrastructure goals to support evolving health services. A critical panel facilitated by SPC’s Dr. Rumanusina Maua and Dr Jeff Montgomery explored the intersection of Health Information Systems (HIS), Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS), climate change, and public health. The day closed with WHO Consultant Dr. Mugagga Malimbo leading a forward-looking discussion on vision alignment and goal setting, culminating in a multi-stakeholder panel with representatives from all FSM states reaffirming their commitment to a unified digital health future.

Day 3: Cybersecurity in Health Systems

As digital tools scale, FSM recognizes that trust and data security are foundational. Alex Wheatley (ASTHO) opened the day with a session on Data Quality and Modernization, covering policy standards and federal alignment.

Assistant Secretary Minoru Stephen and Security Specialist David Loyola from the Division of Cyber Security introduced cybersecurity essentials, highlighting threat mitigation and protection strategies tailored to FSM’s context.

In the afternoon, state IT managers presented real-life cybersecurity incidents, walked participants through risk assessments, and shared recovery frameworks—underscoring the urgent need for robust, localized security protocols.

Day 4: Consensus Building & Capacity Development

Dedicated to workforce development and collaboration, the fourth day opened with a virtual session led by Ms. Ursula Phoenix Weir (PHIG Branch Chief), who shared PHIG’s commitment to advance implementation and accomplishments in capacity building across FSM’s four states and the Pacific Region. Augustus Elias, FSM Health ICT Administrator, led a Skills Gap Analysis Workshop, identifying critical talent shortages, training needs, and potential partnerships to support FSM’s digital health workforce. The afternoon session, led by Mae Balderrama, focused on the FSM Health Lab’s HCLAB system, detailing SOPs, implementation updates, and the essential role of quality assurance in laboratory systems.

To provide first-hand experience of the challenges and success the health assistants are facing, a site visit to Ulithi and Fais was arranged for the FSM Secretary of Health & Social Affairs, Mr. Marcus Samo; the Yap Director Health Services, Mr. Theo Thinnifel; Consultant and former Director of Health Service in Chuuk, Dr. Bosco Buliche; and Chief Financial Officer of the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs, Mr. Scott Mori. It was evident that the dispensaries on these islands need  renovation, water catchment system, reliable power supply, and communication system. With reliable Internet, medical consultation with doctors at Yap hospital will be possible, let alone regular training and access to online resources for continuing medical education.

Day 5: Action Planning & Closing

The final day brought the week’s work together in an engaging review of key themes and takeaways. Participants engaged in drafting state-level action plans with short-term goals and realistic timelines. Each state presented their tailored roadmap, reflecting local realities while aligned with the national framework.

The conference closed with remarks from the Secretary of the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs, Mr. Marcus Samo, reminding participants that “Everyone in this room has a role in the digital health technology space; we are all stewards of applying health systems technology to improve health of the FSM people”.  Mr. Secretary highlighted a simple use of technology for telepathology to improve diagnostics in real-time between FSM and Japan.  Mr. Augustus Elias expressed gratitude to all participants for their continued collaboration and announced preparations for next year’s gathering.

Signifying the importance of Internet connectivity for health, the FSM Department of Health had the opportunity to handover 5 Starlink units to the Yap Director of Health of Services to be used for the dispensaries that have power (electricity or solar).  The other states will also receive some Starlink units.

The conference celebrations culminated in a cultural reception hosted at Pine Bar, featuring an opening prayer by Fr. Rich McAuliff, SJ, and farewell remarks by Theo Thinnifel. FSM Secretary Marcus Samo offered special remarks, applauding the week’s progress and reaffirming national support for digital transformation. The evening featured traditional dances from Gagil (Ladies) and Rumung (Men), gift presentations, and an open remarks session where consultants and state delegations reflected on the week’s achievements over dinner.

KOSRAE, FSM – The 14th Biennial National Food Safety and Health Certification Training was held from August 22nd to 28th, 2025. This session included the A+ Food Safety Verification Services Consultant, Mr. Hans A. Buik, The National Environmental Health staff, state Sanitation and EPA representatives, as well as kitchen staff from Chuuk State Hospital. This event focused on enhancing food safety knowledge among food inspectors at both national and state levels across all four states. Participants gained valuable insights into the government’s role in regulatory controls and the importance of maintaining safe food practices.

During the training, inspectors learned to distinguish between safe and unsafe foods, the consequences of foodborne illnesses, and the risks associated with various food types and businesses. A risk-based approach to food safety was emphasized, alongside the introduction of the World Health Organization’s 5 Keys to Food Safety. The training also covered the seven principles of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) and its prerequisite programs.

Furthermore, attendees explored the monitoring of food safety controls, the understanding of food safety legislation, and the significance of planning and conducting risk-based inspections. They learned about the requirements for becoming a verifier of HACCP plans, the importance of documentation in audits, and the proper use of thermometers for inspection purposes. This comprehensive approach ensured a thorough understanding of food safety standards and practices.

At the conclusion of the training, an examination was administered to assess the knowledge and understanding of the participants. The results demonstrated the training’s effectiveness, as 21 out of 30 participants passed the examination. The training was both successful and rewarding, as everyone returned home with more knowledge and friendships formed.

FSM Department of Health – July 18, 2025 – Public Health workers including health assistants in Pohnpei and Chuuk States are gaining new skills to better connect with families and improve immunization coverage, thanks to a series of Interpersonal Communication (IPC) Skills workshops organized by the FSM National Department of Health and Social Affairs in collaboration with the Pohnpei and Chuuk State Departments of Health, with technical support from UNICEF and the FSM National Immunization Program Manager, Mr. Carter Apaisam.

The most recent workshop, held in Chuuk State from July 8 – 9, brought together nurses, immunization officers and health assistants for two days of hands-on and interactive training. The sessions were facilitated by Pius Attandoh, UNICEF Social Behavior Change Specialist, and focused on active listening, empathetic engagement, and respectful communication to help address vaccine hesitancy and improve caregiver trust.

Earlier this year, a similar IPC workshop was conducted in Pohnpei State for 15 health and public health workers. Both workshops were graced by the presence of the Chiefs of Public Health, Mr. Semenson Ehpel (Pohnpei State) and Dr. Dorina Fred (Chuuk State)-  who emphasized the importance of strong communication in delivering quality health services and increasing vaccine uptake.

The workshops highlighted that the main goal of IPC in immunization is to ensure children receive their vaccinations on schedule by fostering respectful, trust-based relationships between frontline health workers (FLWs) and caregivers. Participants learned how to tailor their communication to caregivers’ beliefs, knowledge levels, and concerns—especially in communities where cultural, religious, or political influences may affect vaccine acceptance.

“This training gave me the confidence to talk to caregivers in a more respectful and effective way,” said one participant. “I now understand how empathy can change conversations.”

The sessions also emphasized the importance of adapting communication strategies depending on whether a caregiver is bringing a child for the first dose or for follow-up vaccinations. While vaccine hesitancy and access issues often affect the former, the quality of service and communication plays a greater role in ensuring return visits.

“I used to struggle with how to respond to vaccine-hesitant parents,” shared another attendee. “After this training, I feel prepared and ready to engage them with facts and compassion.”

Interactive role-plays, videos, and group discussions helped participants reflect on how tone, body language, and cultural sensitivity can influence caregiver decisions.

“The role-plays and videos really opened my eyes. I now realize how much my tone and body language affect communication with caregivers,” said one health worker.

“I am so excited about the new IPC techniques we learned, especially how to build trust and listen better,” added another. “I can’t wait to apply them in my outreach work.”

With strengthened IPC skills, Pohnpei and Chuuk frontline health workers are now better equipped to reduce vaccine hesitancy, improve caregiver experiences, and ensure more children complete their vaccination schedules, contributing to healthier communities across the nation. The next stop is Yap and Kosrae States.