Handover Ceremony of Boccia Equipment to Palau Parents Empowered

On November 6, 2025, a handover ceremony was held for the donation of four sets of Boccia equipment from the Koto Rotary Club to Palau Parents Empowered – a non-profit organization for parents of children and youth with disabilities. The event was overseen by Deputy Chief of Mission Mr. Ono Shunsuke at the Embassy of Japan.

The donation aims to promote inclusive sports and support persons with disabilities in Palau through Boccia, a Paralympic sport encouraging participation and empowerment.

Ms. Francesca Morei-Misech, Executive Director of PPE, receiving the equipment on behalf of Palau Parents Empowered, expressed gratitude, noting that the Boccia sets would provide new opportunities for children and adults with disabilities to participate in recreational and competitive sports, strengthening their confidence and social engagement.

Following the handover, the Japanese instructors demonstrated basic Boccia techniques and shared training advice.

Participants included representatives from Japan and Palau:
Mr. Eiji Ueda (Japan Boccia Association), Ms. Miwako Hori (Coordinator), Mr. Hideo Numazawa (Rikkyo University), Ms. Akari Ito, Ms. Reina Ito, and Mr. Ohga Ito (Koto Rotary Club, Mugen Service), along with Ms. Stephanie Ngirchoimei (Palau National Paralympic Committee, Airai Delegate). Ms. Cesca Morei Misech (Palau Parents Empowered), Ms. Cindy Salvador (Board Member, PPE), and Ms. Sterlina Gabriel (Board Member, PPE)