Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Governor Lolo Matalasi Moliga submitted to the Fono for confirmation last week two director appointees as well as members for the Territorial Bank of American Samoa (TBAS) Board of Directors.

The two director appointees are Alfonso Pete Galea’i as the new Director of the Department of Homeland Security, while Mitzie Jessop Ta’ase’s nomination as Attorney General is being resubmitted to the Fono.

Lolo said that Galea’i has the necessary experience and leadership skills to guide this important department through the remainder of the administration.

Galea’i, who has been acting Homeland Security Director since the resignation of Samana Semo Ve’ave’a, has been Director of the Office of Disaster Assistance and Petroleum Management for the last seven years.

Lolo noted that in that role Galea’i had been deeply involved with EOC operations and worked closely with the Department of Homeland Security.

“His experience will be all the more valuable as we navigate the current emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic…” Lolo said.

In resubmitting Jessop Ta’ase’s nomination to the Fono, Lolo said that she has faithfully served the territory for many years and has most recently capably served as Acting AG during these trying times

“This is in addition to the great contributions she has made working as legal counsel in two branches of the government.”

He added that as a deputy attorney general Jessop Taase prosecuted many important cases and was key in developing and implementing programs like the local sex offender registry

According to the Governor, Jessop Taase’s experience and leadership are vital to ensuring ASG meets the challenges facing our territory through the rest of this administration.

He urged the Fono leaders and members to review and confirm her as attorney general.

 In the last Fono session the Senate confirmed Jessop Taase, but the House voted twice to reject her nomination.

TERRITORIAL BANK NOMINEES

Salaia Gabbard and Papalii Laulii Alofa are being re-nominated to the Territorial Bank of American Samoa Board of Directors, while Iulogologo Joseph Pereira is being nominated for a first term on the board.

Lolo said Ms Gabbard and Papalii have contributed greatly to the early development of the “People’s Bank” and their input will be valuable for its continued success.

Iuloglogo ‘s appointment is to fill the vacancy created by the passing of Steve Watson.

“Iulogologo has an extensive history of service in American Samoa, particularly as a member of various boards,” said Lolo.

“ As the current chairman of the boards of ASTCA and LBJ and a member of the Board of ASEDA, he is well-versed in the role of the board in guiding the direction of an organization. This experience, combined with his background in economics, make him an ideal candidate to serve in this post.”

The governor urged the Fono leaders and members to review the appointments and confirm the three to the TBAS board.

“As TBAS continues to grow, it is necessary to maintain a stable foundation particularly with individuals such as these with proven track records of accomplishment,” he stated.