Biography of His Excellency Surangel S. Whipps, Jr.
President of the Republic of Palau

11th Constitutional Government , 2021

Surangel Whipps, Jr. is the 10th President of the Republic of Palau. Inspired by his father’s childhood and humbling beginnings, Whipps is a two-term senator having served in the 8th and 9th Olbiil Era Kelulau (OEK, Palau National Congress) from 2009 through 2016, when he first ran for the presidency. Whipps’ Senate report card maintains his reputable record in policy making to promote and protect the best interests of Palauans.  He conducted more than 100 oversight hearings to promote transparency and accountability in delivery of government services.  Whipps brings to the leadership role over 30 years of experience managing one of the largest growing company in Palau.

Whipps was born in Baltimore, Maryland on August 9, 1968, while his Palauan father and American mother from Maryland, were working their way through college.  At the age of four, when his parents finished their schooling, they moved to Palau and has been their home since.  Whipps married Valerie Esang Remengesau in 1999. They are proud parents of three daughters.