Manu'a Cession Day holiday set for Friday

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — July 16, 2022 will mark 118 years since Tuimanu’a Elisara signed the Deed of Cession for the Manu’a islands. In observance of this occasion, the government will be celebrating Manu’a Flag Day on Friday, July 16, 2022, and that date will also be a government holiday, according to Gov. Lemanu P. S Mauga’s letter to Fono leaders yesterday.

Lemanu said that, “Lt. Gov. Talauega Eleasalo Ale and I take distinct pleasure in extending a humble invitation to join us as we commemorate the ceding of the Manu’a Islands to the United States.”

Lemanu said the presence of lawmakers will be greatly appreciated as it will be an excellent opportunity to witness infrastructure projects that have been completed such as Ofu Airport Project and the Saua, Fitiuta Road.

A dedication ceremony for the completed projects will be held on Thursday, July 15, 2022.

During House Session yesterday morning, Manu’a District #1 Representative and Vice Speaker of the House, Fetui Fetu Jr thanked government leaders for honoring the Manu’a Flag Day this week. He said the reason why Tuimanu’a signed the Deed of Cession is for his people to have a happy life.

Speaker of the House, Hon. Savali Talavou Ale echoed Fetu’s statement. He acknowledged the good work by past and current government leaders to celebrate the Manu’a Flag Day every year.