Senator Mason Ngirchechebangel Whipps is a distinguished Palauan politician, business executive, and community leader with over two decades of experience in public service and private enterprise. He is currently serving his fourth term in the Senate of the Twelfth Olbiil Era Kelulau (OEK).
His political career began at the state level, where he was elected during the 6th Airai State General Election on March 1, 2010, and subsequently served as Speaker of the Airai State Legislature. This formative role in state governance laid the foundation for his national leadership, including his current position as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and State Matters. Over the course of his legislative tenure, Senator Whipps has chaired several key committees, including the Committee on Resources, Commerce, Trade and Development (9th OEK), the Committee on Banking and Insurance (10th OEK), and the Committee on Foreign Affairs and State Matters (11th OEK).
Senator Whipps holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Economics from Walla Walla College in Washington, USA. Upon returning to Palau, he joined his family’s business, Surangel & Sons Company, where he serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer. He is also Chairman of the Board of Directors for Eurasia Pacific Lines, Inc.
Beyond his legislative and business endeavors, Senator Whipps has served in several key leadership roles including President of the Palau Chamber of Commerce, Vice Chairman of the Financial Institutions Commission, and member of the Health Care Fund Governing Committee. In recognition of his service to state and community, he was honored with the traditional title of Rekoikai of Ngerusar in his home state of Airai in 2015.
Senator Mason Ngirchechebangel Whipps is and avid fisherman, speedboat racer and truck enthusiast. He has been married to his wife of twenty-four years, Joy Ngitlab Wong-Whipps. They are proud parents to three children: Techall, Deureng, and Elilai.
His enduring dedication to public service reflects not only a deep commitment to Palau’s development, governance, and the well-being of its people, but also the values instilled through his faith, his deep-rooted traditional upbringing, and a steadfast sense of humility, integrity, and service to community.