Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Marist Brothers Old Pupils Association (MBOPA) kick started this year with continuing their efforts to renovate the Centennial Hall at Saint Joseph’s College (SJC) at Alafua and Marist Primary School at Mulivai. This Hall’s renovation project is a long term project given the substantial funds required to proceed with the structural rehabilitation and meet regulatory standards.

The Centennial Hall has always been more than just a building; it is the center of the Marist Old Pupils’ fraternity since it was built by them, and also houses their headquarters. 

Over the years, MBOPA assessed and discussed events to support and assist with the Hall Renovation. A Raffle was launched in American Samoa, at Lion’s Park in Tafuna on Saturday, April 18, 2026 by way of a luau. It was a successful event that was well supported by the community, including the Marist fraternity, various businesses and companies.

The MBOPA’s Executive members and members led by Vice President Tuala Magele Daniel Ah Kau travelled to American Samoa for the launch. MBOPA also used the opportunity to make history by marching for the first time at American Samoa’s Flag Day.

A special mention is also warranted of MBOPA American Samoa led by Reverend Sasa Satoa, for their unwavering support, which was highly commended for their collaborative efforts and cooperation. We also acknowledged the support and spiritual guidance of Catholic Bishop Kolio Etuale.

The successful launch in April is the tip of the iceberg since the members of the Mother-body (MBOPA Samoa) will travel to American Samoa in the beginning of July for the main events, namely Corporate Dinner, Golf Tournament and Spiritual Retreat. The Mother-body delegation to American Samoa will be led by President Tuatagaloa Aumua Ming Leung Wai.

President Tuatagaloa Aumua is calling on all members of MBOPA to come and join MBOPA on this trip. “I want our members to all go and support our fundraising events in American Samoa. It is also an opportunity to go and enjoy Tutuila and meet up with family and friends there.”

The analysis and recommendations for the need to renovate the Centennial Hall were done by Konrad Lober, a structural engineer by profession. He emphasizes the priority zones of the Hall’s refurbishment. The interior and exterior aesthetics of the newly renovated hall are entrusted to architect Johnny Ah Ching. The Hall’s schematics were derived from the collective input and priorities of MBOPA and Saint Joseph’s College.

The events are as follows:

On July 2,  2026, Thursday        Golf Tournament         $300USD per team     Ili’ili Golf Course;

on July 3, 2026, Friday              Corporate Table          $1000USD per table   DWYA Youth Center; and,

on July 4, 2026, Saturday          Raffle                          $20USD per sheet      To be confirmed

 We are profoundly grateful for the invaluable support of GIAS, SILVA Group, Western Union, the Tool Shop and the community of Pago Pago, who have generously offered to serve as official outlets or ticket booths for our Raffle and Corporate Table tickets for July 2026.

Additionally, we thank KS Mart for facilitating our April Launch, and are thrilled to have their continued support and ongoing partnership to host ticket sales locally. Grab yours today!

MBOPA also acknowledges the major sponsors of the Marist Pago Trip 2026: TAULA Beverages and SILVA Group.

The Marist Brothers Old Pupils Association humbly invites support in any form whether it is monetary or practical assistance, regardless whether it be sponsorships or voluntary contributions to assist our Hall refurbishment and enhance our learning environment.

Help us renovate our Saint Joseph’s College Hall that marks the New Dawn of our future young leaders of Samoa. Every dollar helps lay a foundation, move a brick, strengthen a pillar or paint a wall.