Local News
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The American Samoa Chamber of Commerce announces that Shalidiloya Faavaoga of South Pacific Academy will represent American Samoa at the 2026 National Civics Bee® Championship on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, in Washington, D.C.
Shalidiloya earned second place in...
ASGERF Board members
by Asi Andrew Fa'asauandrew@samoanews.comThe Senate has decided to postpone further consideration of legislation that would convert the American Samoa Government's more than $30 million debt to the American Samoa Government Employees Retirement Fund (ASGERF) into a formal loan...
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Senate has temporarily set aside legislation that would formally establish the American Samoa Telecommunications Authority (ASTCA) in territorial law, delaying final action on the measure until a future legislative session.
The House-approved bill was scheduled for...
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — While the American Samoa Government's growing debt to the American Samoa Government Employees Retirement Fund has sparked criticism from some members of the public, government officials point out that the obligation stems from ASG's responsibility to match employee...
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — On September 13, 2026, a woman contacted the local authorities and reported that she was assaulted by a man later identified as Lopi Mani. The alleged early morning assault left the woman with serious burn injuries and facial bruising.
The suspect, was later charged...
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A resident of American Samoa is asking that in recognition of the life, distinguished service, and enduring contributions of Dr. Iotamo Saleapaga to the people of American Samoa, it is fitting that the territory honor his memory with a formal observance.
“We also honor...
Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata released the following statement yesterday on the anniversary of the 2009 devastating tsunami:
“Our people will never forget the devastating tsunami of September 29, 2009, and the tragic loss of so many of our own. Our hearts go out to all the many...
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Acting Chairman of the American Samoa Telecommunications Authority (ASTCA) Board of Directors, Saena Omar Shalhout, has stepped down from his position to concentrate on his campaign for a seat in the House of Representatives.
In a resignation letter submitted to...
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The American Samoa Legislature has completed action on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget after the Senate voted yesterday morning to approve the House version of the appropriations bill in its final reading, clearing the way for the measure to be sent to Governor Pulaali’i...
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Attorney General's Office advised the administration to halt plans for the controversial $10.1 million investment until independent verification could be conducted on the individuals and companies promoting the deal, Attorney General Gwen Tauiliili-Langkilde told the...