Paid time off granted to ASG staffers participating in Flag Day sports
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — In a general memorandum issued by the Governor’s Office, ASG employees who are participating in the Office of Samoan Affairs' Flag Day sporting events were informed they will receive an allowance of two hours of paid time off if the games are scheduled during their normal working hours.
The memorandum was approved by Governor Pula’ali’i Nikolao Pula on March 6, 2025.
"I hereby authorize all ASG employees participating in the Office of Samoan Affairs' Flag Day sporting events to receive two hours of paid time off if the games occur during their normal working hours.
"Employees who plan to participate must coordinate with their immediate supervisors to ensure adequate coverage and maintain appropriate service levels. A list of eligible employees along with the event schedule is attached.
“The health and well-being of ASG employees are vital to good government. Have fun, be safe, and enjoy this part of our annual Flag Day celebration," the governor stated.
Samoa News has yet to receive notice from ASG about this year’s Flag Day celebration including dates and events. Flag Day April 17, falls on a Thursday this year.
BACKGROUND
In a memo issued in January 2021 — days after the Lemanu-Talauega Administration took office — the governor first announced a similar initiative, saying that a “healthy workforce is a productive workforce”.
The governor also authorized all ASG employees to implement a “Wellness Hour” every Tuesday and Thursday. Cabinet members were to develop an in-house schedule to avoid disruption of government services.
The governor’s report said that flexible hours and added workout programs to the Governor’s Health & Wellness Initiative showed an increase of 35% of participants since 2021.
“A growth in family members participating in the evening exercise programs plays a huge part in the increase of involvement,” the report said, and explained that DYWA has extended the Health & Wellness initiative time beyond the 3 pm – 4pm to allow staff members and others a flexible schedule to workout.