Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — “Our elders are the pillars upon which our island stands,” Gov. Pulaali'i Tuiteleleapaga Nikolao Pula declared as he and Lt. Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr. and the American Samoa Government hosted the annual TAOA Christmas Celebration, on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 — a gathering dedicated to honoring the wisdom, prayers, and enduring leadership of American Samoa’s senior citizens.

“Their wisdom lights the path for future generations, and their prayers sustain the strength of our people.”

The celebration began with an invocation and spiritual guidance from Penaia Faali’i, whose words carried the weight of faith and tradition, reminding all present that the elders are the living vessels of prayer and strength who we all seek as a community.

Governor Pulaali’i, in his opening remarks, commended the elders for their devotion, recognizing them as the very leaders whom the government and people alike seek for guidance. “Our elders are the pillars upon which our island stands,” he declared. “Their wisdom lights the path for future generations, and their prayers sustain the strength of our people.”

Distinguished guests included President of the Senate Tuaolo Manaia Fruean and his wife, and Speaker of the House Savali Talavou Ale and his wife, who joined in honoring the elders.

Adding to the event were beautiful hymns performed by the Department of Human and Social Services. Cabinet members joined the Governor and Lt. Governor in serving the festive meal.

Closing remarks were delivered by the Lt. Governor who thanked the elders for their continued devotion to families, villages, and churches, reminding all that their presence is both a gift and a guiding light.

Special recognition was given to elders aged 90 to 101 years old, with a highlight on Mrs. Pouiva Reid, the oldest elder in American Samoa, celebrated for reaching a remarkable milestone.

Pouiva Tauoa Reid- 101 years old

Solialofi Vaili- 94 years old

Pisavale Tialavea Tauai- 92 years old

Pagofie Aloe- 90 years old

Teuaililo Bird- 90 years old

Senator Si’i Noaese- 90 years old

Shang Shung- 90 years old

As the event drew to a close, the Governor, Lt. Governor, and cabinet members presented each elder with a gift, a heartfelt gesture of gratitude that echoed the important value that honoring our elders is honoring the very foundation of our island.