Public Speak Out as drug crisis grips Palau schools
By: Laurel Marewibuel
Palau is facing a growing drug problem among its youth, with marijuana use and distribution becoming increasingly prevalent in high schools across the nation. A high school teacher at Palau High School, in his 40s, revealed that marijuana has increasingly occupied the minds of students. He shared that he has caught several students selling marijuana on campus. When asked why they engage in this activity, the students often respond that they need money for basic needs like food and drinks.
The teacher explained, “It’s not necessarily that these students come from uncaring families. Many of their parents work hard but are unable to provide the attention and support these students need.” He expressed sadness over the situation and suggested that the problem could be mitigated by introducing engaging extracurricular programs—such as sports or agricultural initiatives—that capture students’ interests and keep them occupied. “If only we could secure grants to fund these programs, we could help students discover their passions and stay away from drugs,” he added.
A 14-year-old freshman from Palau High School also weighed in, describing the drug problem in school as “getting out of hand.” He recounted an incident on August 4, the first day of school, when a fellow freshman was caught selling marijuana on campus. The police were called, and the student was expelled. The young student urged, “The best way to stop drugs in schools is to install security cameras and increase staff presence.”
The drug crisis extends beyond the schools. A concerned woman in her 60s shared a tragic story about a relative in his 50s who recently committed suicide on August 2, 2025. She explained that he had been high on crystal meth and got into a fight with his wife before taking his own life. She pointed to the widespread availability of drugs as a serious issue, highlighting that drug dealers allegedly have connections with airport security and customs officers who facilitate smuggling.
She further revealed, “While marijuana planting is illegal in Koror, dealers get their supply through connections in Peleliu. Unfortunately, many drug traffickers are associated with high-ranking government officials, which makes it even harder to combat this problem.” She called for stronger action and said, “We need officers who will take this seriously and catch these dealers.”
The disturbing rise in drug-related incidents in Palau highlights a desperate need for community involvement, government accountability, and preventive programs aimed at protecting the youth from falling into the cycle of addiction and crime. Without immediate intervention, the drug crisis threatens the future of Palau’s younger generations.
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