AGP Executive Report

Maritime & Inter-Island Travel: The U.S. Coast Guard’s USCGC Hollyhock wrapped up its first Operation Blue Pacific patrol and returned to Honolulu after 42 days and more than 7,500 nautical miles, with port calls including Pago Pago, American Samoa—where the crew serviced navigation aids and joined a beach clean-up—plus visits to Tonga and Kiribati. Infrastructure Update: Port Administration American Samoa says construction of the new Ofu Wharf Terminal Building is progressing steadily, funded through a CDBG program, with ADA-ready features and an expected completion and handover in late 2027. Environment & Community: The Department of Commerce Wetlands Program held a Wetlands Appreciation and Recognition event in Utulei, spotlighting wetlands and traditional knowledge through student performances and “Wetlands Champions” recognition. Sports & Tourism Interest: American Samoa’s first-ever national women’s softball team is taking shape with Santa Clara player Cairah Curran named to the 20-player roster, with competition scheduled at the WBSC Canada Cup Women’s International Softball Championship in July in Surrey, B.C. Safety for Travelers: After a 7.8 earthquake off Mindanao, tsunami advisories were issued across much of the Pacific, including American Samoa, with officials urging coastal communities to follow local guidance and stay out of the water. Culture & Legacy: Kalaupapa resident Meli Watanuki, originally from American Samoa, is remembered for a lifetime of faith, joy, and community spirit after her May 2026 passing.

Ofu Wharf Upgrade: Port Administration American Samoa says construction of the new Ofu Wharf Terminal Building is progressing, funded through a Community Development Block Grant, with framing and interior work underway and an on-track target for handover in late 2027—aimed at improving inter-island travel for residents and visitors with ADA-ready access, restrooms, and a secure stockroom. Coast Guard & Tourism-Friendly Ports: USCGC Hollyhock returned to Honolulu after its first Operation Blue Pacific patrol, visiting Pago Pago and servicing navigation aids in American Samoa, including a beach clean-up at Lions Park and tours for more than 170 students during port calls. Wetlands & Culture: The Department of Commerce Wetlands Program honored “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge” with a recognition event featuring village cultural performances and awards for local wetlands champions, highlighting how wetlands protect shores, wildlife, and cultural heritage. Olympic Softball Pathway: Cairah Curran was named to American Samoa’s first-ever national women’s softball team, with competition set to begin at the WBSC Canada Cup Women’s Championship in July in Surrey, B.C. Safety Reminder for Travelers: After a 7.8 earthquake off Mindanao, the U.S. Tsunami Warning Centre issued Pacific advisories listing American Samoa, urging coastal agencies to inform and instruct people at risk and to stay out of the water. Sports on Screen: A new roundup spotlights soccer films to watch as the FIFA World Cup 2026 unfolds, including Next Goal Wins, which features American Samoa’s national team story.

Maritime & Tourism Safety: A 7.8 earthquake off Mindanao triggered tsunami advisories across much of the Pacific, including American Samoa, with officials urging coastal communities to stay alert and follow local guidance. Infrastructure for Visitors: Port Administration American Samoa says construction of the new Ofu Wharf Terminal Building is progressing, funded through a Commerce CDBG, with completion and handover targeted for late 2027—adding ADA-ready access, restrooms, waiting areas, and safer pedestrian links to the main wharf. Coast Guard in the Islands: USCGC Hollyhock wrapped up its first Operation Blue Pacific patrol, returning to Honolulu after a 42-day run that included a port call in Pago Pago where the crew serviced navigation aids and joined a beach clean-up. Sports & Travel Interest: Cairah Curran was named to American Samoa’s first-ever national women’s softball team, aiming for LA28 qualification, with the team set to compete in the 2026 Canada Cup in Surrey, July 6–12. Environment & Culture: The Department of Commerce Wetlands Program honored “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge” champions at a May 29 event featuring student performances and recognition plaques.

Maritime Infrastructure: Port Administration American Samoa says crews are making steady progress on the new Ofu Wharf Terminal Building in Manu‘a, funded through the Community Development Block Grant. The single-story facility will add an open-air waiting area, public restrooms, offices, and a secure stockroom, with ADA-compliant access and a paved pedestrian path to the main wharf; after site prep and foundation work earlier this year, structural framing and interior work are advancing, with completion and handover targeted for late 2027. Sports & Tourism: Santa Clara player Cairah Curran has been named to American Samoa’s first-ever national women’s softball team as the territory targets LA28 qualification; the team will compete in the 2026 Canada Cup Women’s Championship in Surrey, July 6–12. Coast Guard & Visitor Links: USCGC Hollyhock returned to Honolulu after its first Operation Blue Pacific patrol, including a port call in Pago Pago, plus Tonga and Kiribati, with public tours and community engagement during stops. Safety for Travelers: After a 7.8 quake off Mindanao, the U.S. Tsunami Warning Center issued Pacific advisories listing American Samoa and warning coastal communities to follow local instructions and stay out of the water. Environment: The Department of Commerce Wetlands Program honored “Wetlands Champions” at a Wetlands Appreciation and Recognition event, featuring cultural performances and a focus on wetlands and traditional knowledge. Local Crime: Police report a domestic dispute case in Tafuna leading to charges against a cousin, and a school cafeteria burglary at Faasao Marist High School resulting in an arrest and felony charges. Ocean Exploration: American Samoa student Jhen Allison Paguiligan Seguiwan was selected as a 2026 Seafloor Mapping & Hydrography intern aboard E/V Nautilus for a 13-day expedition mapping seafloor between Hawai‘i and Guam.

Infrastructure Update: Port Administration American Samoa (PAAS) says construction is continuing on the new Ofu Wharf Terminal Building in Manu‘a, funded through a Community Development Block Grant via the Department of Commerce, with Paramount Builders advancing structural framing and interior work; the single-story terminal will add an open-air waiting area, public restrooms, offices, a secure stockroom, and ADA-compliant access, with completion and handover targeted for late 2027. Sports & Tourism: Santa Clara softball player Cairah Curran was named to American Samoa’s first-ever national women’s softball team as the territory targets Olympic qualification for LA28, with the team set to compete in the 2026 Canada Cup in Surrey, British Columbia (July 6–12). Maritime Safety: After a 7.8 earthquake off Mindanao, the U.S. Tsunami Warning Centre issued Pacific advisories listing American Samoa among areas where coastal agencies should inform and instruct residents and stay out of the water as conditions are monitored. Local Environment: The Department of Commerce Wetlands Program held a Wetlands Appreciation and Recognition event honoring “Wetlands Champions,” featuring traditional knowledge and student cultural performances from villages known for flourishing wetlands. Travel Interest: Ocean Exploration Trust selected American Samoa native Jhen Allison Paguiligan Seguiwan as a 2026 Seafloor Mapping & Hydrography Intern, sailing aboard E/V Nautilus for 13 days at sea between Hawai‘i and Guam.

Olympic Softball Spotlight: Cairah Curran, a Santa Clara standout, was named to American Samoa’s first-ever women’s national softball team as the territory targets LA28 qualification, with the squad set to compete in the 2026 Canada Cup in Surrey, B.C. Coast Guard & Local Ports: USCGC Hollyhock wrapped up its first Operation Blue Pacific patrol, returning to Honolulu after 42 days and more than 7,500 nautical miles that included a port call in Pago Pago. Travel Safety Alert: After a 7.8 quake off Mindanao, the U.S. Tsunami Warning Centre issued Pacific advisories affecting American Samoa, urging coastal communities to follow local guidance and stay out of the water. Nature & Culture: The Department of Commerce honored Wetlands Champions at a Wetlands Appreciation and Recognition event, spotlighting traditional knowledge and community-led conservation. Sports Development: The American Samoa National Football Federation hosted an informational dinner on building an international flag football pathway, including Olympic qualification plans. Local Public Safety: Police charged a man in a Fagatogo public disturbance case and another in a Faasao Marist High School cafeteria burglary.

Maritime & Tourism Access: The U.S. Coast Guard’s USCGC Hollyhock returned to Honolulu after its first Operation Blue Pacific patrol, covering more than 7,500 nautical miles in 42 days and making a port call in Pago Pago, American Samoa, with public tours and community engagement along the way. Travel Safety: A 7.8 earthquake off Mindanao, Philippines, triggered tsunami advisories across much of the Pacific, including American Samoa, with officials urging coastal communities to follow local guidance and stay out of the water as hazardous ocean conditions are possible. Cruise Interest: A South Pacific cruise itinerary highlights American Samoa as a stop on a Sydney-to-Seattle route via Fiji, Samoa and Hawaii—aimed at travelers who want a slower, food-focused journey. Local Visitor Economy & Culture: American Samoa’s National Football Federation hosted an informational dinner promoting international flag football development, including pathways toward regional competition and Olympic qualification. Environment for Travelers: Little Fire Ants continue spreading on Tutuila, with officials warning the invasive species threatens ecosystems and agriculture—important for anyone planning outdoor activities. Science & Education: A local student was selected as a 2026 seafloor mapping intern aboard E/V Nautilus, sailing from Hawaiʻi to Guam for 13 days of ocean exploration.

Coast Guard & Maritime Safety: The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Hollyhock returned to Honolulu Sunday after a 42-day Operation Blue Pacific patrol, covering more than 7,500 nautical miles and making port calls in American Samoa, Tonga and Kiribati, supporting buoy and navigational aid maintenance across Oceania. Travel Safety Alerts: After a 7.8 earthquake off Mindanao, the U.S. Tsunami Warning Centre issued Pacific advisories with possible small sea level changes (under 0.3m) for American Samoa and many nearby islands, with Marianas/Guam warnings for hazardous ocean conditions and strong currents—officials urged coastal communities to follow local guidance. Cruise Inspiration: Holland America’s MS Noordam announced a 29-day trans-Pacific food-and-scenery cruise from Sydney to Seattle, calling at American Samoa among other South Pacific stops. Local Tourism & Nature: A Wallis and Futuna Pocket Guide launched with Wallis and Futuna Tourisme, adding practical travel planning for the lesser-known islands. Science & Adventure: American Samoa student Jhen Allison Paguiligan Seguiwan was selected for a 2026 internship aboard E/V Nautilus to map seafloor between Hawai‘i and Guam. Community & Culture: The American Samoa National Football Federation held a dinner promoting international flag football development and a pathway toward global competition and Olympic qualification.

Tsunami Watch for American Samoa: After a 7.8 quake off Mindanao, the U.S. Tsunami Warning Centre issued advisories across much of the Pacific, including American Samoa, warning of hazardous ocean conditions and strong currents; officials urged coastal agencies to inform residents and “stay out of the water.” Cruise Route with Samoa Stop: A Holland America Line MS Noordam 29-day trans-Pacific cruise (Sydney to Seattle) includes calls at American Samoa plus Fiji and Samoa, with travelers also crossing the International Dateline and Equator. Flag Football Push: American Samoa’s National Football Federation held an informational dinner to grow an international flag football pathway, including Olympic qualification goals and business/community sponsorship opportunities. Local Sports Development: The ASNFF dinner featured leadership talks from keynote Galu Tagovailoa and outlined the program’s structure for building national teams. Travel Safety & Planning: A roundup for older travelers highlights customs tips—like duty-free rules and medication handling—aimed at preventing hassles on arrival. Environment & Visitor Appeal: The Department of Commerce honored wetlands preservation partners, spotlighting wetlands as cultural heritage and natural shoreline protection—good news for eco-minded visitors.

Tsunami Watch for American Samoa: After a 7.8 quake off Mindanao, the U.S. Tsunami Warning Centre issued advisories for American Samoa and much of the Pacific, forecasting sea level changes under 0.3 meters above tide levels and urging coastal agencies to inform and instruct people at risk; for the Marianas (CNMI and Guam), hazardous ocean conditions and strong currents are expected, with first fluctuations reaching Guam around 12:45 pm local time. Cruise Route Spotlight: Food-focused travelers are buzzing about Holland America’s 29-day MS Noordam trans-Pacific cruise (Sydney to Seattle) that includes calls at American Samoa, Fiji, and Honolulu, with stops in Noumea and Lifou highlighted for standout Pacific dining. Local Sports Development: The American Samoa National Football Federation hosted an informational dinner on building an international flag football pathway, including Olympic qualification goals and a program structure for national teams. Seafloor Mapping Opportunity: American Samoa student Jhen Allison Paguiligan Seguiwan was selected as a 2026 Seafloor Mapping & Hydrography intern for E/V Nautilus, sailing in June to map new seafloor between Hawai‘i and Guam. Environment & Tourism-Friendly Stewardship: The Department of Commerce honored wetlands preservation partners, tying wetlands to shoreline protection, wildlife, cultural heritage, and community resources. Invasive Species Update: Little fire ants continue spreading across Tutuila, with at least 26 detected sites, raising concerns for agriculture and daily life.

Travel & Tourism: Holland America’s MS Noordam is set for a 29-day trans-Pacific cruise from Sydney to Seattle (March 28, 2027) with stops including American Samoa, Fiji, Honolulu and more—plus an Equator and Dateline crossing for a “not for rush” itinerary. Safety Alert: The U.S. Tsunami Warning Centre issued Pacific advisories after a 7.8 quake off Mindanao, with forecasts under 0.3 meters for American Samoa and other islands, and officials urging people to stay out of the water and follow local instructions. Sports & Travel Interest: New Zealand secured Oceania’s direct 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification spot, with American Samoa among the OFC teams in the qualifying campaign. Local Community & Visitor Impact: A student from American Samoa was selected as a 2026 Seafloor Mapping & Hydrography intern aboard E/V Nautilus for a 13-day expedition between Hawai‘i and Guam—bringing more ocean exploration attention to the region. Environment: Little Fire Ants continue spreading across Tutuila, now detected at at least 26 sites, with officials warning that infested plants and materials can move the ants around.

Homelessness & Travel Safety: Anchorage reports a 28% drop in people living outside, but officials admit the problem isn’t solved—good news for visitors, with a reminder that conditions can still vary block to block. Local Public Safety: In Tafuna, a domestic dispute between cousins led to charges for assault and private peace disturbance; the suspect was held without bail. Tourism Disruption Watch: A burglary at Faasao Marist High School’s cafeteria in Leone ended with an arrest and multiple charges—another reminder that school-area security matters for community events. Sports & Visitor Interest: The American Samoa National Football Federation hosted a dinner to grow international flag football and map a path toward regional competition and Olympic qualification. Seafaring STEM for Locals: American Samoa student Jhen Allison Paguiligan Seguiwan was selected for a 2026 Seafloor Mapping & Hydrography internship aboard E/V Nautilus, sailing June for 13 days between Hawaiʻi and Guam. Environment & Beach Planning: Little Fire Ants continue spreading across Tutuila, with 26 detected sites—important for travelers planning outdoor activities and for anyone transporting plants or firewood. Travel Budget Reality Check: NOAA budget cuts proposed for 2027 could reduce Pacific weather, fisheries, and coral programs—potential knock-on effects for coastal tourism planning.

Homelessness & Travel Safety: Anchorage reports a 28% drop in people living outside after more year-round shelter beds, but residents remain skeptical as the “reality is more complicated,” a reminder that visitor conditions can shift even when numbers improve. Local Public Safety: In Tafuna, a woman reported being assaulted by her cousin; the suspect was arrested and charged with Assault in the Third Degree and Private Peace Disturbance. Crime & Community Impact: In Leone, a school cafeteria burglary at Faasao Marist High School led to the arrest of Patrick Tupa’i on multiple charges including stealing and burglary. Sports Tourism: The American Samoa National Football Federation held a dinner to promote international flag football and a pathway toward Olympic qualification, with leaders and business partners backing the program. Ocean & Learning: American Samoa student Jhen Allison Paguiligan Seguiwan was selected as a 2026 Seafloor Mapping & Hydrography Intern aboard E/V Nautilus for a 13-day expedition between Hawaiʻi and Guam. Nature & Visitor Experience: Little Fire Ants continue spreading across Tutuila, with 26 detected sites, raising concerns for agriculture and everyday outdoor life. Travel Tips for Older Visitors: A customs-focused guide highlights lesser-known rules and duty-free details for travelers over 60—useful for anyone planning trips through U.S. entry points.

Homelessness & Travel Safety: Anchorage reports a 28% drop in people living outside after more year-round shelter beds, but residents still question whether conditions are truly improving—good to know for travelers planning longer stays in the city. Local Crime & Community Impact: In Tafuna, a cousin dispute led to charges including assault and private peace disturbance after an early-morning call; in Leone, a school cafeteria burglary ended with an arrest tied to forced entry and stolen supplies. Sports Development: The American Samoa National Football Federation hosted a dinner outlining a flag football pathway toward international competition and Olympic qualification, with business partners invited to sponsor. Ocean & Learning: A local student from American Samoa was selected for a 2026 Seafloor Mapping & Hydrography internship aboard E/V Nautilus, mapping new seafloor between Hawaiʻi and Guam. Environment & Visitor Considerations: Little Fire Ants continue spreading across Tutuila, with officials warning that transported plants and materials can move colonies—important for anyone bringing gardening items or planning outdoor activities. Public Safety Leadership: The Governor appointed an Acting Public Safety Commissioner after a DPS commissioner resignation. Heritage & Remembrance: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata honored Henry Saaga in D-Day and the Battle of Midway commemorations.

Local Public Safety: A dispute between cousins in Tafuna turned into an arrest after a woman reported being assaulted by cousin Keneti Sionesini; police responded around 5 a.m., and the suspect was held without bail on assault and private peace disturbance charges. School Security: In Leone, a school cafeteria burglary at Faasao Marist High School led to the arrest of Patrick Tupa’i, charged with stealing, burglary, trespass, and property damage, also held without bail. Sports & Tourism Community: The American Samoa National Football Federation hosted an informational dinner on international flag football, with plans for Olympic qualification and business/community sponsorship opportunities. Marine Science & Travel Inspiration: American Samoa student Jhen Allison Paguiligan Seguiwan was selected as a 2026 seafloor mapping intern aboard E/V Nautilus, sailing in June for 13 days of mapping between Hawaiʻi and Guam. Visitor Guidance: A customs-focused roundup targets travelers over 60 with practical tips on duty-free rules and other common mistakes at the counter. Environment & Travel Risk: NOAA budget cuts proposed for 2027 could reduce Pacific weather forecasting, fisheries support, and coral/coastal conservation programs that help protect island tourism and livelihoods. Invasive Species Watch: Little fire ants continue spreading across Tutuila, with at least 26 detected sites and warnings that infested plants and materials can move the problem faster.

Seabed Mining Fight (Pacific): Guam’s governor signed a law banning seabed mining in territorial waters, but the bigger battle is expected to shift to federal lease sales and enforcement tools like port authority power to delay or deny vessels tied to unlawful extraction. NOAA Budget Watch (Travel & Weather): A proposed 2027 NOAA budget would cut more than $1 billion and end or reduce programs that support Pacific weather forecasting, fisheries, coral protection, and coastal resilience—raising concerns for island tourism and safety. Local Ocean Opportunity (Education/Adventure): An American Samoa student was selected as a 2026 Seafloor Mapping & Hydrography intern and will sail aboard E/V Nautilus for 13 days of mapping between Hawaiʻi and Guam. Visitor Safety & Rules (Travel Tips): A guide highlights what customs agents often tell travelers over 60—focused on duty-free limits, medication, and common rule mistakes that can derail trips at the counter. Tourism & Nature (Regional Guides): South Pacific Pocket Guide launched a Wallis and Futuna Pocket Guide in collaboration with local tourism officials, aiming to boost independent travel with practical on-the-ground recommendations. Environment & Community (Wetlands): The Department of Commerce honored wetlands preservation champions, spotlighting wetlands’ role in culture, wildlife, and shoreline protection.