The Honorable Thomas M. Patris

Sixth Olbiil Era Kelulau

Delegate, State of Hatohobei

Delegate Thomas Mereyaro Patris, born on September 06, 1954, was the youngest member of the House of Delegates in the 2nd OEK in his first bid for public office. He ran consecutively and was elected by his constituents to the House of Delegates of the 3rd, 4th, 5th and currently the Sixth Olbiil Era Kelulau. Delegate Patris represents the smallest and one of the most beautiful states of the republicthe State of Hatohobei, formerly known as Tobi.

Delegate Patris defeated a long-time veteran politician in becoming the second representative of the State of Hatohobei to the House of Delegates in 1984. In the 2nd OEK, he was Vice-Chair of the Committee on Health & Social Welfare. His 2nd term, and because of his interest in education, saw him appointed Chairman of the Education & Youth Committee. When Palau became an official member of the Western Legislative Council WLC), the Council of State Governments comprising of Alaska, Washington, California, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Arizona, Hawaii, American Samoa, Guam and Saipan, the House Speaker of the Fourth Olbiil Era Kelulau appointed Delegate Patris as member of the Ocean Resources Committee of the WLC.

In his third term in office, Delegate Patris Chaired the Committee on Maritime & Fisheries. A man of low profile, Delegate Patris has literally catapulted the State of Hatohobei out of the past and into the present. Hatohobei, located 382 miles south of Koror, is a sparsely populated village structured much the same as in the old days. The extensive and as yet untouched atoll life makes the island a natural sanctuary for many species of turtles and various seabirds. Although not officially recognized yet, a part of Hatohobei known as Helens Reef was proclaimed by a Green Peace expedition team as one of the best and greatest diving spots in Palau.

Having proven his proficiency at handling matters related to one of our most important and limited resource, Delegate Patris once again Chairs the vital Committee on Maritime and Fisheries in the 6th OEK. He is a diligent an active member of various other committees of the House of Delegates as well. His hobbies include trolling, spear-fishing, water skiing, baseball and volleyball. With all elected seats come great responsibilities and he enjoys his hobbies when time permits.