Coral Crisis in Koror: Marine scientists confirmed a crown-of-thorns starfish outbreak in Koror’s Ngederrak Conservation Area, urging urgent monitoring and community action to protect Palau’s reefs. Reef Restoration Push: PICRC and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation hosted a week-long workshop to build local capacity, strengthen regional partnerships, and map long-term coral restoration and community engagement. Community Giant Clams: Palau opened its first community-managed satellite giant clam hatchery in Koror, aiming to supply farmers with seedlings, ease pressure on wild clams, and create new livelihoods—especially for women. Telecom Upgrade: PNCC is rolling out a major mobile network replacement and a $34.9M fiber-to-the-premises project, with a commercial launch targeted for May 2027. Forum Media Training: Journalists and media teams in Koror completed the PIF Reporter Workshop ahead of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting, focusing on governance coverage and broadcast skills. Health Outreach: Taiwan Root Medical Peace Corps wrapped a five-day mission delivering mobile consultations, basic lab work, pharmacy services, and public health education across multiple Palau states. Gender Equality in Action: Palau’s Gender Mainstreaming Committee advanced the National Gender Equality Policy and Action Plan 2026–2030, now operational under the Bureau of Domestic Affairs. Migration Shock: Palau told AFP the U.S. has started deporting migrants to Palau under a resettlement deal—though the first deportee left after about two weeks.