Dr Filimon Manoni appointed as the new Commissioner of the Office of the OPOC in Palau, highlighted the importance of unity and action in preserving the profound relationship between Pacific people and the ocean
The Office of the Pacific Oceans Commissioner (OPOC) in Palau has marked a new chapter with the appointment of Dr Filimon Manoni as its Commissioner, hailing from the Republic of the Marshall Islands.
Dr Manoni, a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience, recently took up the mantle of Pacific Ocean Commissioner, stepping into the role just three weeks ago. His assumption of this position follows the decisive move by the Forum Secretariat and OPOC, a decision that carries significance for the oceanic community.
Reflecting on OPOC’s instrumental role, Dr Manoni acknowledged, “In the recent past, I have witnessed the value of OPOC as an enabler of constructive engagement and coordination across sectors – and I point to it as an example.”
Expressing gratitude for those who paved the way, he extended warm appreciation to his predecessors, Henry Puna, Secretary General of the Forum and an esteemed oceans advocate, as well as Dame Meg Taylor, with whom he had the privilege of collaborating. He recognised their pivotal contributions in shaping and steering OPOC to its present state.
He also paid homage to Neroni Slade, whose efforts materialised in the creation of OPOC. Dr Manoni acknowledged the formidable task ahead of him as he takes the helm, likening it to steering the Pacific Va’a – a symbolically weighty responsibility. However, he expressed his optimism and eagerness to embark on this transformative journey with the unwavering support of the oceanic community.
Underscoring the profound relationship between Pacific people and the ocean, Dr Manoni invoked the words of Epeli Hau’ofa, highlighting that “we are the ocean, and the ocean is us”.
He also cautioned against the potential of ocean waters, which have historically united Oceania’s subregions, becoming a divisive factor in future relationships between countries.
Calling for unity and action, Dr Manoni urged, “Let us step up and do the hard work that is necessary to make sure this does not come to pass, but that our ocean continues to be the motivation that unites us.”
Dr Manoni’s extensive experience spans both national and regional levels, including his role as a Legal Adviser at the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA). Over the past eight years, he has navigated the Pacific region in various capacities, amassing a wealth of knowledge and insights.
Throughout his distinguished career journey as a legal adviser at the FFA, Attorney General of the Marshall Islands, and subsequently as a legal adviser and Deputy Secretary General at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, Dr Manoni has been steadfast in underscoring the imperative for robust regional coordination to effectively realise the priorities set forth by leaders.
His academic accolades include a Bachelor of Laws Degree (LLB) from the University of Papua New Guinea, a Masters in Law (LLM) in International Maritime Law from the International Maritime Law Institute at the University of Malta, and a Doctorate in Ocean Resources & Security from the Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security (ANCORS) at the University of Wollongong in NSW, Australia.
In his capacity as Pacific Ocean Commissioner, Dr Manoni’s mandate is to collaborate with regional and global leaders, international organizations, the private sector, and civil society to strengthen ocean governance, enhance understanding of regional challenges and opportunities, support sustainable ocean development, foster coordination and collaboration among ocean stakeholders, and evaluate progress against ocean-related policies, including the Framework for Pacific Oceanscape.
Ezra Toara was a participant of the Media Masterclass On Ocean Governance organised by the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner, EJN and PINA.
