Honoring the Pacific Games Council flag bearers at the 2025 Palau Pacific Mini Games

July 2, 2025
ONOC
[7/2/25, 7:45:41 AM] Michelle Singh: Caption 1 - the distinguished flag bearers representing the strength, commitment and unity of the host nation- [7/2/25, 7:47:25 AM] Michelle Singh: Representing Traditional Leadership: Chief Beouch of Ngardmau State, Elected Leadership: Hon. Rebecca S. Ngirmechaet, Faith-Based Communities: Pastor Mesikt Idechong, representing Family: Ms. Tiana Borja, and Education: Principal Smyth Rdang. | Photo: ANOC / Annice Lyn

As the sun set over the newly refurbished Palau National Track and Field Stadium, a powerful and unifying moment unfolded at the Opening Ceremony of the 2025 Pacific Mini Games. In a moving tribute to Palau’s cultural heritage and collective identity, the official Pacific Games Council Flag was proudly carried into the stadium by six distinguished individuals each representing a vital pillar of Palauan society.

This symbolic moment, held during the Flag Raising Ceremony, highlighted not only the official opening of the Games but also the theme of Empowering Unity  bringing together the diverse threads of tradition, leadership, faith, family, education, and youth.

The Pacific Games Council flag bearers were:

Chief Beouch of Ngardmau State – Representing Traditional Leadership

Hon. Rebecca S. Ngirmechaet, Delegate of Ngchesar State – Representing Elected Leadership

Pastor Mesikt Idechong, Seventh-day Adventist Church – Representing Faith-Based Communities

Ms. Tiana Borja, PTA President – Representing Family

Principal Smyth Rdang, Palau High School – Representing Education

Ms. Bibbie Kumangai, youth leader and environmental advocate – Representing Youth

The Pacific Games Flag was proudly hoisted above the stadium, marking the official commencement of competition while honouring the collaborative spirit that defined Palauan heritage and Pacific unity. | Photo: ANOC / Annice Lyn

Together, these six individuals carried the Pacific Games Council flag across the stadium in a solemn and inspiring procession. Their presence symbolised the collective spirit of Palau and the broader Pacific community  grounded in respect for heritage, empowered by knowledge and leadership, and uplifted by the voices of youth and faith.

Following their entry, the Koror State Rangers hoisted the Pacific Games Flag high above the stadium -  a declaration that the Games had officially begun and that the host nation, Palau, stood ready to welcome the Pacific’s athletes with open arms.

This moment was more than ceremonial  it was a call to unity, purpose, and celebration for all Pacific peoples. The 2025 Pacific Mini Games are now in full motion, and the flag bearers’ tribute will remain one of the most heartfelt memories of this historic Opening Ceremony.

-

For more information about the 2025 Pacific Mini Games, visit;

###

About ONOC 
Established in 1981, the Oceania National Olympic Committees (ONOC) is one of five Continental Associations. It looks after the interests of 17 member nations in the Oceania Region, including Australia and New Zealand as well as seven associate members. 

###

For more information, please contact;

Sitiveni Tawakevou
Chief Communications Officer (Acting)
sitiveni@oceanianoc.org

###

Digital Channels
For up-to-the-minute information on ONOC and regular updates, please follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram LinkedIn and YouTube.