PALIKIR, Pohnpei — November 20, 2025 – His Excellency, Wesley W. Simina, has announced swift and coordinated action to address the state of emergency in Uman, Chuuk State, following an oil leak from the World War II vessel Rio de Janeiro.

To safeguard public health and support affected communities, the President has authorized the allocation of $200,000 from the Disaster Relief Fund to the Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Emergency Management (DECEM). These funds will support the implementation of an emergency feeding program, providing essential supplies—including rice, clean water, and canned goods—to 520 households, representing approximately 2,554 residents.

DECEM will work in close partnership with Chuuk State authorities and Uman municipal leaders to ensure timely, fair, and effective distribution of relief assistance.

Additional information and updates will be issued as the emergency response progresses.

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