Overview:
Koror State has entered a traditional mourning period, or taor, following the death of Chief Ngiraikelau Francisco Gibbons, the state’s second-ranking chief. The House of Traditional Leaders says loud noise and unnecessary movement are banned overnight until the mourning period is lifted.
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
KOROR, Palau (July 28, 2026) — A traditional mourning period, known as a “taor,” began Sunday in Koror State to honor Chief Ngiraikelau Francisco Gibbons, who died last Wednesday.
Koror mourns the passing of its 2nd high chief Ngiraikelau Francisco Gibbons and taor is in effect in Koror.
The Koror State House of Traditional Leaders, which includes the Ngaramaketii and the Rubekul Kldeu, issued the taor. Ngiraikelau was Koror State’s second-ranking chief.
Under Palauan custom, a chief’s death triggers a taor, during which unnecessary loud noise and movement without a clear purpose are to stop until traditional chiefs lift the mourning period.
In a news release issued by High Chief Ibedul, the House of Traditional Leaders said loud noises and unnecessary movement within Koror are banned from midnight to 5 a.m.
The release said anyone who violates the taor will face punishment under Palauan custom.
“Koror State will be in a state of taor in order to show its respect to this chief and his family,” the announcement said.
