COLONIA, Yap — December 20, 2025 — The Honorable Aren B. Palik, Vice President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), joined Yap State leaders, traditional leaders, development partners, and community members to mark the groundbreaking of the long-awaited Ganir Bridge, a project expected to improve safety, access, and economic opportunity for Yap.
At the ceremony, Vice President Palik paid respect to Yap’s traditional and state leaders, including Chairman of the Council of Pilung, Mr. Thomas Falngin; Chairman of the Council of Tamol, Mr. Paul Marlul; Acting Governor Thomas G. Tun; Congressman Andy P. Choor; Senator-elect Andrew Yatilman; Secretary Carl D. Apis; and Secretary Rose Nakanaga. He also recognized the support of the Governor, State Senators, diplomatic representatives, and project teams.
“The Ganir Bridge has been long awaited and long envisioned,” Vice President Palik said. “Today, we are not only breaking ground on a bridge—we are opening a new chapter toward a more connected, resilient, and united Federated States of Micronesia.”
The bridge will be built higher and stronger to withstand climate impacts, widen and deepen Chamorro Bay for safer boat passage, and connect families to opportunity while supporting Yap’s economic progress. The project is part of the national effort to strengthen connectivity across land, sea, air, and digital networks.
Vice President Palik expressed appreciation to the Asian Development Bank and the Embassies of China, Japan, the United States, and Australia, as well as the contractor, Shandong Hengyue Municipal Engineering Company, supervising engineer SMEC, and all project staff.
“This bridge is being built with the people of Yap in mind,” he said. “The national government stands shoulder to shoulder with Yap State, and we thank the people of Yap for their patience as we work to deliver this project safely, on time, and on budget.”
Once completed, the Ganir Bridge is expected to enhance daily travel, maritime access, and serve generations of Yap residents. The Simina–Palik Administration reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Yap State to ensure the project is completed safely, responsibly, and for the benefit of current and future generations.
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