COLONIA, Yap – His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), joined the people of Yap in commemorating the 55th Yap Day, celebrating the deep roots of Yapese culture and traditions. In his keynote address, delivered in the presence of Yap’s traditional leaders, government officials, diplomatic partners, and the community, President Simina reaffirmed the national government’s commitment to supporting Yap and ensuring that its priorities remain a priority for the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM).
Reflecting on the significance of the celebration, President Simina remarked, “Yap Day isn’t just an event—it is a living testament to the strength of our culture and our people. It is a reminder that no matter how the world around us changes, our roots remain deep and strong.” He further emphasized that cultural traditions, values, and unity remain central to the strength of the nation, adding that “while unity binds us as a nation, culture binds us as a people.”
During his time in Yap, President Simina engaged in a series of activities, including a visit to St. Mary’s Elementary School and Yap Faith Christian Acade
my, where he pledged $5,000 to each school to support their students’ educational needs. He also participated in the launch ceremony of the traditional canoe that sailed into the harbor for Yap Day, joining Yap’s traditional chiefs and community members in honoring the maritime heritage that continues to be a vital part of Yapese identity.
President Simina’s visit also included a meeting with Yap State leadership, where he provided updates on key development projects being implemented by the national government to benefit the state. These discussions reaffirmed the FSM administration’s commitment to ensuring that Yap receives the necessary support to address its development needs.
President Simina delivered special remarks at the Yap Day official ceremony, where Lt. Governor Francis Itimai represented the Yap State Government alongside other state and traditional leaders. In his address, President Simina acknowledged the importance of leadership that upholds the spirit of reciprocity and unity, noting that these values have long guided FSM’s national identity. He honored the legacy of distinguished Yapese statesmen like Luke Taman, Petrus Tun, and John Mangefel, who championed the vision of a united Micronesia, ensuring that “our cultural diversity and geographic configurations would not divide us, but unite and strengthen us.”
President Simina further reflected on the remarks delivered by Governor Chieng the day prior.
“As I listened to the words of Governor Chieng yesterday, I was particularly moved by his emphasis on reciprocity—a concept deeply rooted in our Micronesian values. Reciprocity is not just about give and take; it is about the unspoken understanding that we take care of each other, that we move forward together, and that the well-being of one is linked to the well-being of all. Just like our 4 states, that make up our Federated States of Micronesia.
In that spirit, I stand before you today to affirm that Yap’s priorities are the FSM’s priorities. What affects one state affects us all. We are one nation, bound by history, by family and by the shared Micronesian cultural values that we are honoring today.”
The President and First Lady Ancelly Simina, along with their delegation, expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality of the Yapese people, and look forward to participating in more Yap Day celebrations in the future.
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