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American Samoa Government - PR001-09222025
Posted: September 22, 2025
American Samoa Visitor’s Bureau Launches Paogo Cultural Week
UTULEI, American Samoa - This morning, In a solemn and uplifting ceremony, the American Samoa Visitors Bureau officially commenced Paogo Cultural Week with a sunrise service at Su’iga’ula o le Atuvasa, held within the Tufele Liamatua Sr. Tufele Cultural Center. The event marked the beginning of a week-long celebration dedicated to honoring Samoan heritage, unity, and the symbolic significance of the paogo flower.
The service was led by ASVB Board Member Poe Mageo, who welcomed the attendees and introduced the week’s celebration. Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula and First Lady Lois Pula, joined the service reflecting the administration’s support for cultural preservation and community engagement.
A spiritual invocation and message were delivered by Reverend Elder Ioane Evagelia of the EFKAS Utulei, offering reflections on faith, tradition, and the importance of cultural continuity. The EFKAS Utulei choir provided hymns that enriched the ceremony with reverent harmony and spiritual depth.
Governor Pulaali’i delivered special remarks, highlighting the historical significance of the village of Utulei and the enduring cultural value of the paogo flower, a symbol of resilience and unity in Samoan tradition. He emphasized the importance of cultural representation and collective identity during Paogo Cultural Week, and commended the American Samoa Visitor’s Bureau Director Taimalelagi Minnie Tuia and her dedicated staff for their tireless efforts in organizing the celebration.
The Governor’s message highlighted the role of Paogo Cultural Week in fostering unity across the islands and reaffirming the shared values that bind the Samoan people. The festival will feature a variety of cultural events and activities throughout the week, inviting residents and visitors alike to participate in the celebrations at Su’iga’ula o le Atuvasa.
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