American Samoa Government Monthly Newsletter, October 2025

The Moso'oi Festival of Arts and Humanities by Agency for Better Living Endevours commenced its celebrations with the premiere of its inaugural event

The event marked the end of months of intenseLieutenant Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr.training and dedication. Families, friends, and30th Delivers Special Remarks at Grand Opening of dignitaries packed theAmerican Samoa Community Cancer Coalition's auditorium to celebrate theGovernor Pulaali'i deliveredNew Office in Tafunacadets' achievement. Among a moving speech,Public Safety Commissioner those in attendance were highlighting the role ofGovernor Pulaali'i deliveredTaagaai'afeai S. Moliga n a proud milestone for Governor Pulaali'i NikolaoThe ceremony wrapped upfamily and the values thata moving speech, highlightingthe territory, 62 cadetsopened the ceremony withDepartment of Search and Rescue breaks ground Pula and First Lady Lois define public service.with the presentation of the role of family and theofficially joined the ranks ofwelcoming remarks,for the New Marine Patrol Headquarters inPula, Lieutenant Governorcertificates, special awards,"Bravery is not the absence values that define publicfollowed by hymns sung byAmerican Samoa's lawLee Auditorium, October 3, 2025- PoliceGovernor Pulaalii and LieutenantPulumataala Ae Ae Jr., of fear, but action in the and rank recognitions.service. "Bravery is not thethe cadets. Reverend Elderenforcement communityFagatogo American Samoa Commemorates the 30thGovernment in ActionGovernment in ActionGovernor Pulamataala stand firmSenate President TuaoloAcademyface of fear," he said. "True Applause and cheersabsence of fear, but action induring the 30th PoliceFaataa Eleasaro led thein pride and support as each cadet Police Academy Graduation Ceremony Manaia Fruean, Speaker of courage comes from echoed through the the face of fear," he said.Academy Graduationinvocation, and Chief Oct 2025 | ISSUE 005of the 30th Police Academy THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE AMERICAN SAMOA GOVERNMENTAmerican Samoa Strengthens Pacific Tourism Ties:the House Savali Talavouauditorium as each cadet choosing to act with"True courage comes fromCeremony, held the morningAssociate Judge Mameareceives their recognition during

the graduation ceremony,Ale, Samoan Consulstepped forward, ready to integrity, discipline, andchoosing to act with integrity,Salā administered the oathof October 3 at the ASVB Director Attends Key SPTO Meetings in Vavaʻu, honoring their commitment,General Fata Brian Kaio, commitment, even when begin their journey indiscipline, and commitment,Governor Rex Leeof office, officially inducting Tongadiscipline, and service to the633-4121www.americansamoa.govand members of the Fono. challenges arise." public service.even when challenges arise."Auditorium.the cadets as officers.G R A D U A T I O Ncommunity.Fa'atamāli'i

Governor Pulaali'i delivered The premiere marks thespecial remarks during the beginning of a series ofevent, expressing heartfelt events scheduled throughoutgratitude to the Agency for the month of October,Better Living Endeavors inviting residents and visitors(ABLE) and the Moso'oi alike to participate inFestival Committee for their Moso'oi Art GALA, Missdedication in organizing the Moso'oi Scholarshipfestivities. "The Moso'oi Pageant and the finale theFestival is a celebration of Moso'oi Siva Competition.our identity as Samoans," The Governor encouragessaid Governor Pulaali'i. the entire community to join"Through music, dance, in the celebration andstorytelling, and visual arts,Governor Pulaali'i Nikolao support the artists andwe preserve the soul of ourPula joined community cultural practitioners whoculture and pass it on tomembers and cultural keep Samoan traditionsfuture generations."performers at the highly alive. For more information anticipated premiere of the about upcoming Moso'oiThe Governor emphasizedThe evening featured a2025 Moso'oi Festival of Festival events, pleasethe importance of culturalvibrant showcase ofthe Arts and Humanities by contact the Moso'oi Festivalpreservation through artisticperformances from culturalthe Agency for BetterAgency for Better Living Endeavors launches the Committee or visit theAgency for Better Living Endeavors launches theplatforms, noting that eventsgroups across the territory,Living Endeavors and the official Moso'oi festivallike the Moso'oi Festivalhighlighting the richMosooi committee, held onMoso'oi Festival of the Arts and Humanities 2025 facebook page.Moso'oi Festival of the Arts and Humanities 2025play a vital role indiversity and creative spiritOctober 4th at the Afiogastrengthening communityof American Samoa. FromTufele Li'amatua Sr., with the Mosooi Premiere with the Mosooi Premierepride and unity.traditional dances toCultural Center in contemporary musical acts,celebration of Samoan the premiere set the toneheritage and artistic for a month-longexpression. celebration of the arts. 633-4121

In his remarks, Governor Pulaali'i commended the leadership of the Pae ma le Auli Organization for their steadfast commitment to combating violence and promoting healing within the community. He also acknowledged their President, High Chief On October 8, theLeiataua Leuga A. Turner program will also includeand Vice President IpuGovernor Pulaali'i Nikolao a partnership withAvegalio Lefiti for theirPula and First Lady Lois Pula Compassion and Choices,many years of service to ourattended the opening ceremony a national organizationThe Governor alsocommunity through theirThe Tiu Lelatasi Training runsof the "Tiu Lelatasi Training" focused on access to end-emphasized the importanceorganization. "This is a veryfrom October 6-8, 2025, fromhosted by the Pae ma le Auli of-life planning resources.of compassion andimportant training and9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day.Organization. The event, held These sessions willThe multidisciplinarymindfulness, urging everyonemission as it supports andThe program is designed toin partnership with the explore motivationaltraining is funded throughto be sensitive to thoseincludes every family in ourbuild system-wide responses toAmerican Samoa Alliance interviewing andthe Criminal Justice Planningsuffering from pain andterritory," said Governordomestic violence,Against Sexual and Domestic"This project will provide the space and resources ourDirector Utumoe Alefosio extended his appreciation toculturally responsive waysAgency (CJPA) under thetrauma, particularly families,Pulaali'i. "It is often ourstrangulation, child physicalViolence, the Department ofThe ceremony was attended by lawmakers,Marine Patrol team needs to operate more efficiently and"It is essential to have a dedicated base for thesethe American Samoa Government and ARPA forto discuss end-of-lifeVAWA-STOP Grant Award,children, and women. "Werelatives that abuse, and itand sexual abuse, and humanYouth and Women's AffairsSpeaking on behalf of Governor Pulaali'icabinet members, and government officials, alleffectively in serving our people," Director Utumoe said.vital services that protect our people," saidmaking the project possible through their support and transitions with families,and aims to strengthenmust stop violence and abuseshould stop. I hope thistrafficking. In addition to Governor Pulaali'i Attends Opening of "Tiu Lelatasi Training" by Pae ma le Auli Organization(DYWA), and other civilNikolao Pula and Lieutenant Governorcelebrating this important milestone in Secretary Faiivae. "Marine Patrol plays afunding. He noted that the current headquarters isGroundbreaking Ceremony for the Newas well as how tocollaboration amongagainst women andtraining on these sensitivejustice-based topics, the trainingsociety organizations, marksPulumataala Ae Ae Jr., was the Secretary ofThe Department of Search and Rescue (DSAR)strengthening the territory's public safety andcrucial role in ensuring the safety of ourThe ceremonial groundbreaking was conducted by thesmall and houses all three branches of the Department approach these sensitivecommunity organizations,children," the Governorissues will help resolve,features sessions onanother milestone in theSamoan Affairs, HTC Faiivae Godinet,held a groundbreaking ceremony on October 15,emergency response capabilities. Reverendresidents and fishermen when out on the openesteemed guests, officially marking the start ofEmergency Medical Services (EMS), the Fire topics through the lens ofgovernment agencies, andadded. "This is not whatMarine Patrol Headquarters in Fagatogominimize, and ultimatelymotivational interviewing andongoing effort to address andexpressed heartfelt gratitude for the project,2025, marking the beginning of construction forTisega Mariner of the Fagatogo Methodistsea. We commend the leadership and staff of theconstruction for the new Marine Patrol Headquarters, a Department of Search and Rescue For more information, ContactDepartment, and Marine Patrol and that the new americansamoa.gov americansamoagovernmentart.advocates working to endGod intended for our peopleeliminate abuse in ourprevent domestic and sexualaddressing trauma andemphasizing its importance to the safety andthe new Marine Patrol Headquarters to beChurch led the invocation for this specialDepartment of Search and Rescue for this newmilestone that signifies progress, safety, and commitmentfacility will allow Marine Patrol to better carry out its

633-4121 abuse and violence.or our families."community."violence in the territory.resilience through art.beginning."to protecting lives at seaduties.well-being of the community.occasion.located behind the Fagatogo Marketplace.

Welcoming remarks wereIn a heartfelt celebration marked by delivered by Leo'o Dr. Patrickpride, unityand resilience, Leone Danielson, Principal of LeoneHigh School commemorated its High School, who reflected on the60th anniversary with a Diamond school's journey and its impact onJubilee held at the school's field on the community. The keynoteOctober 22, 2025. Despite persistent address was delivered by Maefaurain, alumni from across Dr. Mary Lauagaia Taufetee,generations gathered in full force to Director of Education, whose wisehonor the legacy and achievements and inspiring remarks honored theof their beloved alma mater. school's legacy and challenged the The ceremony opened with anext generation to carry it forward vibrant parade of proud alumni,with excellence. showcasing the enduring spirit and Entertainment continued as theThe ribbon-cutting ceremony wasThe American Samoa Communityconnection shared by formercurrent student body delivered aled by First Lady Lois Pula, whoCancer Coalition (ASCCC)students. This was followed by anmagnificent performance thathad the honor of officially openingcelebrated a major milestone withuplifting opening service led bycaptivated attendees andthe new facility. This was followedthe grand opening of its new officeReverend Maugaoao Alaifaleula,celebrated the school's vibrantby the blessing of the office spacespace at the Alofa Office Buildingwho delivered a stirring invocationfuture. The festivities were afrom Bishop Etuale, who shared ain Tafuna. Held on the morning ofand spiritual message that set thetestament to the enduring legacypoignant reflection: "While theOctober 16, the event wastone for the day's festivities. of Leone High School and thebuilding is indeed a blessing, it isdistinguished by a profound sense deep bonds shared among itsthe dedicated individuals whoof unity and renewed commitmentWelcoming remarks were deliveredstudents, past and present. serve within it, their commitmentto advancing the health and well-by Leo'o Dr. Patrick Danielson, and compassion, that trulybeing of the people of AmericanRegardless of the weather, thePrincipal of Leone High School, embody the greatest blessing toSamoa.celebration radiated warmth,who reflected on the school's The ceremony commenced with aour community."pride, and unity, hallmarks of thejourney and its impact on the word of prayer and heartfeltLeone High School spirit. Thecommunity. The keynote addressGuests were then invited to tour encouragement from BishopGovernment of American Samoawas delivered by Maefau Dr. Marythe new office space, which Kolio Tumanuvao Etuale, whoextends its heartfeltLauagaia Taufetee, Director offeatures state-of-the-art amenities reminded attendees of the powercongratulations to Leone HighEducation, whose wise andincluding exam rooms, a dedicated of faith and service in uplifting theSchool, its faculty, alumni, andinspiring remarks honored theMRI scanning room equipped community.students for this remarkableschool's legacy and challenged thewith a portable MRI machine, a Lieutenant Governorachievement and looks forward tonext generation to carry it forwardlaboratory, administrative offices, Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr. deliveredmany more years of success.with excellence.and a welcoming lounge area for special remarks, emphasizing staff. the vital role the ASCCC playsThe grand opening highlights a in providing cancer awareness,new chapter for the American prevention, and support servicesSamoa Community Cancer across the territory. HeCoalition as it continues its congratulated Executivemission to provide compassionate, Director Dr. Vaatausiliaccessible, and life-saving services Tofaeono and the entireHappy to the people of American Samoa. ASCCC team for theirLeone high school unwavering dedication and for reaching this significant milestone. In his closing message, the Lieutenant Governor encouraged all in60 YEARSLieutenant Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr.attendance to lead healthy lifestyles and avoid behaviorsDelivers Special Remarks that could compromise theirat Grand Opening of American Samoa Communitywell-being.

Alofa Office Building, Tafuna Cancer Coalition's New Office in TafunaPlease Contact ASCCC for more633-4121 Second Floor information:

A key highlight of the week was Director Tuia'sThe Tourism Board and Council of Ministers role officiating the launch of the "Pacific Regionalmeetings emphasized the importance ofFrom 18-25 October 2025, American Roadmap" and the four Country Pathways undercollaborative air-transport solutions and open-Samoa Visitors Bureau (ASVB) Directorthe Sustainable Tourism Enhancement in theskies initiatives that will better connectDirector of Health Dr. SaipaleIn a moving display of unity, faith, andTaimalelagi Minnie Tuia traveled toPacific (STEP) Project. This flagship initiative issmaller island economies such as AmericanVavaʻu, Tonga, to engage in a full suite ofFuimaono opened the service withpublic service, Lieutenant Governorfunded by the European Union through theSamoa to global visitor markets. Meanwhile,The service was further honored bystrategic regional tourism events hosted byheartfelt remarks, acknowledgingPulumataala Ae Ae Jr. joined the SWITCH-Asia Pacific Policy Supportthe Pacific Tourism Sustainability Forum the presence of distinguishedthe South Pacific Tourism Organisation the tireless efforts of theComponent and supported by the Delegation ofAmerican Samoa Department of Healthbrought together experts from across theReverend Fa'ata'a delivered a powerful(SPTO). Throughout the week, Directorguests, including President of thethe European Union to the Pacific. The launchdepartment and the importance of(ASDOH) at a special church serviceregion to address climate resilience, supportsermon that reminded all present of theevent, held at the Puataukanave Hotel in Vavaʻu,Tuia participated in the Tourism BoardSenate, Tuaolo Manaia Fruean andgrounding their work in spiritualheld Sunday morning, October 26, 2025Department of Health Begins Community Health Cliniccommunity-led tourism development, and healing power of faith and thefeatured Director Tuia unveiling the RegionalMeeting, the Council of TourismVice Speaker of the House Fetustrength. Lieutenant Governor Aeat EFKAS Faitoto'a o le Alofa Churchreinforce locally rooted supply chains,Her Royal Highness Princess Sālote Mafileʻoimportance of community. The serviceRoadmap before inviting representatives from theMinisters Meeting, the Pacific TourismAmerican Samoa Strengthens Pacific Tourism Ties: ASVBAmerican Samoa Strengthens Pacific Tourism Ties: ASVB Fetui Jr., cabinet members,ensuring that tourism benefits reach intoAe Jr. followed with specialin Petesa Tai. The event was part of thePilolevu Tuita, Princess Royal of Tonga, Week with Opening Church Servicedemonstration countries--Fiji, Kiribati, Samoa,concluded with closing remarks fromSustainability Forum, and the Cruisehouseholds and village enterprises. These management and staff. Theirattended the events as Guest of Honour.remarks that resonated deeplyDepartment's Community Health and Vanuatu--to join her on stage for aLed by Reverend Elder Eleasaro Deputy Director Vesi TalaleleiSummit, where discussions centered onDirector Tuia expressed her gratitude for thediscussions were complemented by the Cruise attendance reflected the broadLet us continue to uphold ourwith attendees. He expressedCenters Church Service Program, aptlycommemorative photograph marking a united Director Attends Key SPTO Meetings in Vavaʻu, Tonga Director Attends Key SPTO Meetings in Vavaʻu, TongaFa'ata'a, the service was madeFautanu, who thanked everyone forstrengthening sustainable tourismopportunity to represent American Samoa inSummit, where leaders examined evolvingcommitment to sustainable and inclusive tourismresponsibilities with humility and sincere gratitude to the support for the Department'stitled "Boots on the Ground, Hearts inespecially meaningful by the activetheir participation and reaffirmed thepractices, enhancing tourism financing andthese vital conversations, reaffirming thecruise-visitor trends, port infrastructureinvestment across the region. The STEP Roadmapfaith," the Lieutenant GovernorDepartment for its unwaveringthe Work", which celebrates the mission and the importance ofparticipation of Department of Health Territory's dedication to regionalDepartment's commitment to serviceinvestment, improving regional air-travelreadiness, and the shared goal of dispersing and Country Pathways are expected to guidecollaboration that uplifts Pacific people, OCT 2025| ISSUE 005urged. "When we look to the Lorddedication to the health and well-dedication of health professionalsstaff, who offered prayers and scripturefaith-based community engagement for our community.connectivity, advancing career pathways economic benefits across communities rather coordinated policy action and unlock newFor more information, pleaseprotects natural and cultural resources, andand remain grounded in His word,serving communities across thebeing of American Samoa'sreadings throughout the program. across all levels of leadership.within the tourism sector, and growing thethan concentrating them solely in capitalopportunities for environmentally responsiblecontact the American Samoaensures tourism remains a force for resilient633-4121 everything we do will prosper."territory. residents. Pacific's cruise tourism economy ports. destination development throughout the Pacific. Visitor's Bureau : and inclusive development.

community highlightscommunity highlights

OCT 2025| ISSUE 005 633-4121

upcoming eventsVeterans Day Memorial Celebration &Mosooi Festival of the Arts & Humanitiesupcoming eventsThanksgiving Holiday Festivities Office of the Governor Fagatogo, American SamoaFestivities 2025 Grand FinaleShould you wish to have any forthcoming events considered forShould you wish to have any forthcoming events considered forinclusion in our newsletter, please contact us.oct 2025 | ISSUE 005inclusion in our newsletter, please contact us.633-4121