The Antenna

Here is a list of areas where classes are suspended for Monday, August 17, 2026, due to the southwest monsoon

Four provinces in Northern Luzon and one in Central Luzon are seeing moderate to heavy rain from Sunday afternoon, August 16, to Monday afternoon, August 17

Taipei, Aug. 16 (CNA) Judicial caning, one of three referendum proposals approved by the Legislature, violates international human rights standards enshrined in Taiwan's legal system, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) said Saturday.

Taipei, Aug. 16 (CNA) More than 200 migrant workers attended a free health check event staffed by medical personnel and volunteers from the Tzu Chi International Medical Association at Taipei Main Station on Sunday.

Kaohsiung, Aug. 16 (CNA) Taiwan's Marine Corps held a media tour at a base in Kaohsiung late last month for its newly issued quick-release-equipped tactical vest, designed to save precious seconds in emergencies.

Taipei, Aug. 16 (CNA) A Starlux Airbus A350-1000 featuring livery by renowned Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama arrived at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport on Sunday, ahead of its commercial debut on the Taiwan-based carrier's Taipei-Tokyo route later this week.

When the police chief learned what workers had found, sealed inside a small brick cellar as they drilled below a defunct brewery, he was sure someone had interrupted his Tuesday meeting with a prank.

The post $10 million in gold found buried under former brewery in Belgium appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

American Airlines flight 2482 was attempting to land from Chicago very early on Friday at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. At the same time, to the dismay of an air traffic controller, another American Airlines flight — also with the call sign 2482 — was departing.

The post 2 planes with same call sign in Phoenix could have been ‘disastrous’ appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

JAKARTA — At least 47 people were killed after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake and dozens of aftershocks struck off eastern Indonesia on Saturday, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) said in its latest statement.

The post At least 47 dead in eastern Indonesia after magnitude 7.7 quake appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — About a month after President Donald Trump sharply reduced the size of two national monuments in Utah, at least nine mining claims have been staked on land that is no longer protected from development, public records show.

The post Mining claims staked on land that Trump cut from monuments appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Ocean swells are constantly beating on the ocean floor. This nonstop drumming creates continuous signals that travel through the Earth and are recorded on seismometers. Changes in the speed of these ocean noise signals can give us clues about volcanic activity.

The post Volcano Watch: Using ocean noise to monitor for volcanic eruptions appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Heat waves are becoming the new summertime normal across Europe — and while Europe is doing its best to adapt, travelers need to as well. With the following advice in mind, you can enjoy a cool trip despite hot temps.

The post Steves: Tips for beating the heat in Europe appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Taipei, Aug. 16 (CNA) Taiwan's Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) has developed a noninvasive in-ear vagus nerve stimulator that it said is Taiwan's first digital therapeutic technology for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

You know what’s the hard part? Read along.

Taipei, Aug. 16 (CNA) The Central Weather Administration (CWA) on Sunday issued heavy rain advisories for most of Taiwan, excluding Keelung City and the outlying Penghu, Kinmen, and Lienchiang counties.

From the outset, the environment was structured and disciplined. Staff moved with a purpose, each step governed by established procedures designed to protect accuracy and fairness. The chain‑of‑custody protocols were followed with precision.

Taipei, Aug. 16 (CNA) Taiwan's average annual personal income rose to a record NT$763,000 (US$23,856) in 2025, with earnings increasing across all age groups on the back of strong economic growth, the Directorate General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics (DGBAS) said Friday.

The breakout Bisaya artist shows why her voice, lyrics, and overall craft are here to stay

HII announced today that its Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division has successfully completed acceptance sea trials of John F. Kennedy (CVN 79), the second Gerald R. Ford-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. HII press release Kennedy returned to NNS after further testing and evaluation of important ship systems and components at sea. Earlier this year, Kennedy underwent successful ...

The post HII Completes Successful Acceptance Sea Trials of John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) appeared first on Naval News.

Taipei, Aug. 16 (CNA) Taiwan's four-member team won one gold medal, two silver medals and an honorable mention at the International Olympiad in Informatics, an annual programming competition for school students, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Education (MOE) said Sunday.

In case you haven't heard of the hottest retirement savings program, PERA offers you a way to start investing for your retirement while getting tax advantages

Serving on the NY State Bar Association’s Committee on AI and Emerging Technologies, Karlo Dizon believes AI can widen access to the law, reshape legal education, and eventually help the government with legislation

Taipei, Aug. 16 (CNA) The lead stories in major Taiwan dailies on Sunday are as follows:

Pyongyang and Moscow have grown closer since the reclusive state began deploying troops and weapons to support Russia's war against Ukraine

Party lays out its strategy, asking supporters for candidate votes to "bring this government to its knees".

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

UPDATED 1 p.m.

The post UPDATE: Weather conditions intensify, thousands without power as Hurricane Lala nears appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Taipei, Aug. 15 (CNA) A magnitude 5.2 earthquake struck off the coast of northeastern Taiwan at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, according to the Central Weather Administration (CWA).

Kaohsiung, Aug. 15 (CNA) Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp. (THSRC) Chairman Shih Che (史哲) said Saturday the company will review fares after new trains begin service in July 2027, potentially ending a 20-year freeze on ticket prices.

Taipei, Aug. 15 (CNA) State-owned oil supplier CPC Corp., Taiwan said Saturday it will keep domestic gasoline and diesel prices unchanged next week.

After decades in Japan where he helped shape its thriving women’s basketball scene, Burke "BT" Toews hopes to do the same in the Philippines, convinced that Gilas Women have what it takes to reach new heights

As Tropical Storm Lala approached the Big Island on Friday, residents and visitors in Hilo were busy preparing for the heavy rains and strong winds that are expected to be felt across the county.

The post East Hawaii residents prepare for cyclone’s arrival appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln’s supply problems began soon after the first day of the war, as Iranian missiles and attack drones fell on a Navy base in Bahrain.

The post Navy carrier’s problems are tied to attacks on US base early in war appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — As the White House expands its “war on fraud,” the Justice Department announced criminal charges in recent days against a new symbol of that battle — a food truck in Santa Ana, California.

The post Little thefts, big charges: Trump’s Justice Dept. targets lesser fraud appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

NEW YORK — The family of a teenage tourist killed after a carriage horse bolted in Central Park asserted in legal filings on Friday that stray electrical current had contributed to his death.

The post Stray voltage played role in deadly horse carriage runaway, family says appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The city of New Haven, Connecticut, agreed on Tuesday that it would pay $30.5 million to settle federal lawsuits filed by two men who were wrongfully convicted of murder more than 25 years ago.

The post New Haven to pay $30.5 million to 2 men wrongfully convicted of murder appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

NEW YORK — All of the pieces of the brazen assassination on a Manhattan sidewalk that riveted the nation one early morning in December 2024 fell into place Friday in a federal courtroom.

The post Mangione admits shooting healthcare executive as he pleads guilty in federal court appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

CALI, Colombia — For 40 days they labored in Venezuela, rescuing survivors from the wreckage and later recovering bodies from La Guaira, the coastal region that was the nexus of death and destruction triggered by back-to-back earthquakes.

The post They spent 40 days in Venezuela, then rushed to another disaster appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Warm days have caused our gardens to flourish, but this can mean too much of a good thing. Did you ever feel like giving up on your lawn and paving the whole thing? Of course you have. But let’s face it, it is not practical. Your neighbors would probably tar and feather you.

The post Tropical Gardening: Consider low-maintenance gardens and walkways appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The New York Times identified dozens of areas throughout the newly installed liner of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool that showed signs of bubbles, tears or peeling.

The post Visual analysis finds dozens of defects in reflecting pool renovation appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

With the race for governor seemingly tightening in New York, President Donald Trump appeared on Long Island on Friday to headline a coordinated Republican effort to bolster the hopes of the party’s candidate, Bruce Blakeman.

The post Trump wades into NY governor’s race by attacking Hochul on crime appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Taipei, Aug. 15 (CNA) Authorities said Saturday they had located two hikers killed in a hornet attack in Kenting National Park, Pingtung County, that left a third person with severe kidney damage.

Taipei, Aug. 15 (CNA) Parliamentary staffers from 12 European countries are visiting Taiwan to exchange views on democratic governance, resilience and digital government as part of a Taiwan-organized exchange program, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Saturday.

'Our interpretation is that everyone wants emotional closeness, but that people pay more attention to that desire when they’re feeling less satisfied with their friendships,' a researcher says

Taipei, Aug. 15 (CNA) Taiwan's university freshman population is projected to decline by an average of 3,400 students a year over the next 16 academic years, falling from 205,000 now to 151,000 by 2041-42, according to the Ministry of Education (MOE).

Even as this year’s youngest Cinemalaya main competition director, Vahn Pascual proves with ‘Status: Rejected’ that a modestly scaled debut can be boldly cinematic

The U.S. Navy completed a 1,000 nautical mile transit with the service’s Orca XLUUV uncrewed submarine in July, a first for the service. The U.S. Navy, working with teams from the Program Executive Office for Unmanned Small Combatants (PEO USC), completed the service’s first long-range mission with a Boeing and Huntington Ingalls-built Orca Extra Large ...

The post U.S. Navy Orca XLUUV Completes 1,000-Mile Pacific Transit appeared first on Naval News.

Taipei, Aug. 15 (CNA) Main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) caucus leader Fu Kun-chi (傅崐萁)has said a 1.689 percent reduction to the 2026 central government budget should be seen as a gesture of "great goodwill," despite the Cabinet describing the opposition-controlled Legislature's cuts as "irrational."

Will lawmakers again push for a higher amount for the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations program?

Six woven pieces made through a collaboration with NZMACI's National Weaving School will feature in Shona Tāwhiao's The House of Harakeke collection.

As malls complete their glow-up, Ayala Land hopes it can ‘bring in the concepts to kind of match the new physical experience’

Jakarta, Aug. 15 (CNA) Taiwan is showcasing its cuisine and culture at a three-day tourism expo that opened Friday in Jakarta as part of efforts to attract more Indonesian visitors, according to the Tourism Administration (TA).

Taipei, Aug. 15 (CNA) SEMICON Taiwan's CEO Summit & Ecosystem Executive Summit will be expanded into a full-day event for the first time on Sept. 2, with discussions covering the technologies needed to deploy artificial intelligence at scale.

A recap of news, sports, lifestyle, entertainment, and human interest images from the Philippines and around the globe

'Signature of the Pax Silica Declaration is not merely a membership subscription, but a commitment,' a leaked draft letter from the US State Department says, urging countries to 'choose deliberately' on AI

Iran urges the US to accept defeat as Trump warns of high fuel prices amid ongoing conflict, with peace talks stalled and Strait of Hormuz traffic severely impacted

Record rainfall — the highest over a 24-hour period since October 2013 — strands thousands at Narita airport, causing flooding and power outages in Chiba

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung advocates for peaceful coexistence with North Korea, urging dialogue to replace the armistice with a 'peace regime'

Tainan, Aug. 15 (CNA) Vietnamese budget carrier VietJet Air is scheduled to launch direct flights between Tainan and Hanoi, starting Oct. 25, according to Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che (黃偉哲).

Taipei, Aug. 15 (CNA) A woman injured in a hornet attack in Pingtung County's Kenting National Park was taken to a hospital early Saturday, while the search continues for two other men who were also attacked, according to the county's Bureau of Fire and Emergency Services.

Taipei, Aug. 15 (CNA) Heavy rain is expected in southern Taiwan Saturday due to moisture brought by a southeasterly wind system, according to the Central Weather Administration (CWA).

Taipei, Aug. 15 (CNA) The lead stories in major Taiwan dailies on Saturday are as follows:

This story has been updated to include Benfold was towed to Subic Bay. Guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG-65) spent four days in the South China Sea without power after an engineering failure, USNI News has learned. Benfold suffered the engineering casualty resulting in a loss of power last month, Cmdr. Matthew Comer, spokesperson with U.S. 7th Fleet, told USNI News in a statement. “On July 24, 2026, while conducting routine operations in the Indo-Pacific, Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) reported an engineering casualty involving its generators, causing a loss of power,” reads the statement. “There were

The ʻImiHoʻōla program welcomed 12 students preparing for medical school and service to Hawaiʻi communities.

The post New medical students continue ʻImi Hoʻōla’s mission to serve Hawaiʻi first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

UH Mānoa student journalists earned all 24 student awards at the statewide SPJ Excellence in Journalism competition.

The post UH Mānoa student journalists swept top statewide honors first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Perhaps it’s not the worst offense; reporting by predetermined formula and sloppy investigating are far worse, but it does rank high on my list of journalistic sins.

Pacific governments have asked New Zealand for advice on handling the H5 avian influenza, or bird flu, according to the Ministry of Primary and Industries.

The Pacific Music Awards marked its 22nd year this week but organisers say the event is struggling financially

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

A fire that broke out at the Manu’a Store in Tafuna around 5 p.m. yesterday continued smoldering into this  morning, with smoke still visible and fire crews still on scene as of 5 a.m. All employees escaped

Bluesky and South Seas Broadcasting representatives gathered with the American Red Cross at Bluesky headquarters in Laufou Shopping Center this week to distribute the monetary portion of the July fire relief campaign, handing out $14,000 in checks

 The following is a summary of major ship movements and exercises in the Western Pacific over the last week.  In the Strait of Malacca The George Washington Carrier Strike Group transited the Malacca Strait to enter the Andaman Sea on Thursday, USNI News reported. The strike group includes aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73) with embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, cruiser USS Robert Smalls (CG-62), and destroyers USS Shoup (DDG-86) The George Washington CSG conducted a change of command on Wednesday with Rear Adm. Eric Anduze turning over command of Carrier Strike Group 5 and Task Force 70

American Samoa stunned the defending five-time world champion United States 38-32 in Group A play at the 2026 Men’s Flag Football World Championships in Düsseldorf, Germany, Friday, handing the U.S. its first loss at a world championship

Scattered across the Pacific Ocean are beautiful islands that were once home to thriving communities. In these islands, archaeologists have discovered the remains of stone houses, ancient tools, ceremonial sites and abandoned settlements.

A round-up of news from around the region, including a figure for how many political parties are registered to contest Fiji's upcoming general elections.

There's a call for Fiji Boxing chair to resign, after a Melbourne fiasco involving Fijian boxer James Singh

The Pacific Music Awards marked it 22nd year this week but organisers say the event is struggling financially

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Empowering Pacific Island Communities, Inc. (EPIC) is pleased to announce that its AmeriCorps VISTA application for federal assistance has been approved, authorizing three AmeriCorps VISTA members to strengthen organizational and community capacity and expand economic opportunity for low-income individuals and families throughout American Samoa.

The approved project, Empowering Pacific Island Communities, will operate from August 23, 2026 through August 7, 2027 under Project Grant #26VSIAS001.The initiative supports EPIC’s Comprehensive Economic Self- Sufficiency Model by strengthening workforce development, education, caregiver workforce development, community partnerships, outreach, data systems, and long-term organizational sustainability.

EPIC is also pleased to announce the selection of Gina Coffin as its Community Outreach & Public Communication VISTA. Gina brings a background in Health Communications and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Health from New Mexico Highlands University. She will strengthen EPIC’s outreach and communication systems, develop culturally responsive awareness materials and campaigns, enhance social media and stakeholder communications, and expand awareness of workforce, education, caregiver training, and economic self- sufficiency opportunities throughout American Samoa.

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UPDATED 6 p.m.

The post UPDATE: Lala still forecast to make landfall on Big Island as a hurricane appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The Trump administration is focused on delivering military capabilities to the Indo-Pacific to strengthen deterrence, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby said Thursday during his week-long tour of the region. “Everybody knows our position on those issues,” Colby said on Thursday to reporters, referring to the need to deliver military capability to the region. “They’ve been repeated many times in private and public, so we don’t feel the need to tub thump every day. We think that what is unique and different about our approach is that it focuses on results in the military domain, not only for

Tropical Storm Lala strengthened in the Central Pacific Hurricane Center on Thursday and forecasters predict the storm will become a hurricane Saturday as it nears Hawaii Island, bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall and high surf to the islands.

The post Tropical Storm Lala is expected to become a hurricane Saturday appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Taiwan concluded its annual Han Kuang military exercises Friday, with Defense Minister Wellington Koo (顧立雄) praising troops and urging officers to address issues identified during the drills to further strengthen combat readiness.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Taiwan's Legislature passed the central government's 2026 budget Friday, approving NT$2.9869 trillion (US$93 billion) in spending -- including NT$63.4 billion in drone-related spending -- after a record 266-day delay.

Sen. Shawn Gumataotao came to the defense of Guam’s military contractors, who are being taxed at a higher rate than other local businesses.

This is the third biggest proposed allocation in the 2027 National Expenditure Program, but it is lower than the P448-billion budget that the health sector received for 2026

'And I can see the distinct possibility that there will be such joint explorations,' says President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

New Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Traffic restrictions will be imposed around Tamsui Fisherman's Wharf and the Danjiang Bridge during fireworks displays on the next three Sundays, the New Taipei Transportation Department said Friday.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) The government on Friday expressed optimism about expanding Taiwan's share of the U.S. unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) market after Washington imposed new tariffs that include a 15 percent duty on drones and drone components imported from Taiwan.

Because of the new U.S. Customs and Border Protection rules, mailing a package to your brother in Boise through the U.S. Postal Service now requires you to pay a private company to precertify that the item you are sending is exempt from tariff payments or customs duties.

'If you don't want it, let's stop the discussion now,' proponent Daniel Robertsen says during a public consultation on the proposed 50-megawatt facility in Oton, Iloilo

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) The Directorate General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics (DGBAS) on Friday raised its forecast for Taiwan's gross domestic product (GDP) growth in 2026 to 11.05 percent -- a 39-year high -- citing robust global demand for artificial intelligence (AI) applications.

The launch includes a 380-square-meter DTI center that houses co-working spaces, training rooms, startup areas, tech showcases, and more

Approximately 70 members of GUNG are joining the Central Command's Operation Inherent Resolve and the Southern Command's Operation Southern Spear.

During the U.S. Navy’s Lanternfish 2026 exercise, Ultra Maritime demonstrated an integrated passive-active sonar architecture combining its Sea Spear passive array and SSQ-125B active sonobuoy to detect and track UUVs.

The post Ultra Maritime Tests Integrated ASW and Counter-UUV Sonar System During US Navy Exercise appeared first on Naval News.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) The annual tax-deductible allowance for basic living expenses could be raised to NT$220,000 (US$6,870) per person for tax filers in 2027, according to the Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics (DGBAS) on Friday.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Taiwan's Tourism Administration said Friday it had received no reports of Taiwanese tour groups being affected after torrential rain in Japan's Chiba Prefecture caused widespread flooding and major transportation disruptions the previous day.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Taiwan's Legislature on Friday approved three of four referendum proposals put forward by the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) and Taiwan People's Party (TPP), paving the way for the referendums to potentially be held alongside the Nov. 28 local elections.

The Lopez family now has two separate reasons to be careful about how its internal fight ends

Why does Maya still charge P10 for transfers when traditional banks have gone free? The answer is at the core of how the emerging fintech does business.

The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission says it served the warrants against the Davao Mighty Steel Corporation in Barangay Ilang, Bunawan, Davao City, and rescued 174 Filipino workers from the area

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Taiwan on Friday launched a pilot inpatient rehabilitation program for stroke patients, providing up to 180 days of intensive daily care to aid their recovery.

WASHINGTON — The Justice Department let long-standing restrictions on owning short-barreled guns and suppressors lapse Thursday, bowing to pressure from Republicans and gun advocates.

The post Trump administration lets key gun law lapse following court ruling appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that Darryl Oliveira, former fire chief and Civil Defense administrator, will serve as interim basis on a volunteer basis until a new administrator is hired. The Tribune-Herald regrets the error.

The post Civil Defense seeks a new administrator amidst storm appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — Starting last fall, the Department of Homeland Security spent $464 million on a no-bid contract to buy 10 used airplanes from a firm in northern Virginia.

The post Homeland Security paid $464 million for airplanes. Then it parked them. appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A 64-year-old Arkansas man accused of raping a 37-year-old woman twice while on vacation in West Hawaii has posted $355,000 bail and will be allowed to remain in Arkansas as his case progresses.

The post Arkansas man posts $355K bail in sex assault case appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The board of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts voted Thursday to inscribe President Donald Trump’s name on the building beneath the main signage, according to two people with direct knowledge of the proceedings, aggressively testing a federal judge’s order.

The post Kennedy Center board decides to inscribe Trump’s name on building appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A judge in Seattle has barred Kalshi from most operations in Washington state, the latest legal blow to prediction markets as states enforce existing gambling laws.

The post Kalshi ordered to cease most operations in Washington state appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

An oil spill from a Russian shadow fleet tanker that ran aground two months ago has spread its long, black tongue across a remote, ecologically sensitive swath of the Arabian Sea, according to satellite data and statements from Oman’s government.

The post Arabian sea bird and turtle habitat threatened by oil from grounded tanker appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

CALI/PEREIRA, Colombia — Hopes of finding more survivors of the powerful earthquake that rocked Colombia early this week were fading on Thursday as rescue workers narrowed their searches, while families in the worst-hit areas waited for news of missing relatives.

The post Hundreds still missing in Colombia as desperation grips earthquake rescue effort appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

OKLAHOMA CITY — Along the old path of Route 66, the drive-ins and lunch joints of Oklahoma City look a bit different from the picture postcards in nearby souvenir shops.

The post The golden age of Mexican food is here. And it’s complicated. appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

NEW YORK — Luigi Mangione is expected to plead guilty Friday in federal court in Manhattan, where he faces charges of stalking resulting in the death of a health insurance executive in 2024, according to two people with knowledge of the matter.

The post Luigi Mangione, facing stalking charges in federal court, is expected to plead guilty appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

HOUSTON — A bitter confrontation over surrogacy, abortion and parental rights that stretched across three states culminated Wednesday with the birth of the baby at the center of the conflict at a Dallas hospital.

The post A fight over abortion and surrogacy ends with a baby born in Texas appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Millennials are also the unhappiest generation with their pay, with their salary happiness rate at 54%, lower than Gen Z at 61% and Gen X at 60%

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Shares in Taiwan closed lower on profit taking ahead of the nearest technical resistance around 46,000 points as contract chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) gave up its earlier gains, dealers said.

Because who can say no to good fried chicken?

'When the government invests in our youth, we get more platforms for civic participation,' says PasigLaban executive director Mark Alcazar

Responding to rising demand for eco-friendly destinations, the Guam Visitors Bureau is shifting its focus to Sella Bay, one of the island's southern attractions, which the agency plans to develop into an accessible hiking site.

By: L.N. Reklai NGATPANG, Palau – (August 12, 2026) – Ngatpang State has conveyed 404,369 square meters of reclaimed land, along with the immediate waters in front of its port known as Raelkelat, to the Palau Public Lands Authority for use by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Environment to develop fisheries and tourism infrastructure, […]

The post Ngatpang Conveys 404,369 Square Meters to National Government for Multipurpose Port appeared first on Island Times News.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Search and rescue teams were attempting Friday to reach three hikers in Kenting National Park after they were attacked by hornets, with two men reported in critical condition and a woman injured, according to the park's headquarters.

By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (August 13, 2026) – Palau is facing a high risk of unusually dry conditions beginning in September, with a strong El Niño expected to intensify and persist into early 2027, according to the latest Early Action Rainfall Watch. The rainfall outlook gives Palau a very high chance of very dry […]

The post Palau Faces Very Dry Months as Strong El Niño Strengthens appeared first on Island Times News.

KOROR, Palau — Women entrepreneurs, farmers, aspiring business owners and community members across Palau are gaining practical tools to strengthen their businesses as the Palau Small Business Development Center expands community-based training on financial management and artificial intelligence. From July through August, Palau SBDC conducted a series of trainings for participants from Airai, Aimeliik, Ngiwal […]

The post Palau Entrepreneurs Gain New Business Skills Through AI, Community Partnerships appeared first on Island Times News.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Taiwan's top envoy in Geneva has been ordered to return home next Monday to respond to allegations of workplace bullying, misuse of public funds and other misconduct, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) said Friday.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) The U.S. dollar fell sharply against the Taiwan dollar Friday, shedding NT$0.122 to close at NT$32.046.

By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang Koror, Palau (August 13, 2026)  -The Ministry of Health & Human Services, through its Division of Environmental Health (DEH), has ordered an immediate recall of water products from Palau Ralm Company namely two bottled water brands – Ralm Bottled Water and Palm Spring Bottled Water – until further notice, following failed […]

The post Ralm and Palm Spring Bottled Water Recalled Until Further Notice appeared first on Island Times News.

German naval shipbuilder TKMS has indicated that it would, in principle, be open to involving suppliers from the halted F126 frigate program in the construction of a second batch of MEKO A-200-class ships for the German Navy. By Lars Hoffmann / hartpunkt TKMS CEO Oliver Burkhard announced that a supplier day will be held to ...

The post F128: TKMS open to Rheinmetall’s participation in the 2nd lot of MEKO A-200 appeared first on Naval News.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) The number of foreign graduates who have obtained permission to extend their stay in Taiwan to seek employment has surged since a new policy took effect in January, reaching 3,239 as of the end of July, the National Development Council (NDC) said Friday.

KOROR, Palau (August 13, 2026) — About 40 representatives of the Republic of Palau National Government, its component units and a nonprofit organization took part in a training session focused on federal compliance requirements and governmental accounting standards. Ernst & Young (EY) Palau hosted the OMB Uniform Guidance (UG) and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) […]

The post Palau Government Auditees Receive EY Training on Federal Compliance, GASB Updates appeared first on Island Times News.

By: Laurel Marewibuel NGARAARD, Palau — Efforts to understand and restore sea urchin resources in Ngaraard State have moved into a new phase with the completion of an experimental cage culture trial. Ngaraard was once home to abundant sea urchin populations, which have long served as an important local marine resource. In recent years, however, […]

The post Ngaraard Begins Experimental Sea Urchin Cage Culture Trial appeared first on Island Times News.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Taiwan-based Teco Electric & Machinery Co. said Friday that it will assess the feasibility of producing drone components in the United States after U.S. President Donald Trump announced overnight that Washington will impose up to 100 percent tariffs on unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imports.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Regent Taipei has received government approval to hire 37 Indonesian workers to help address labor shortages in Taiwan's hospitality industry, the Ministry of Labor (MOL) said Friday.

The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) relies on the continued support of its partners and donors to advance scientific research, conservation, and public awareness of Palau’s marine ecosystems. In appreciation of their valuable contributions and to provide a closer look at the impact of their support, the Center recently hosted a snorkeling tour where […]

The post PICRC Invites Major Donors to Visit Its Marine Research Sites appeared first on Island Times News.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) The Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF) on Friday launched a book tracing its evolution from a traditional foreign aid agency into a platform linking Taiwan's technology and expertise with global development needs.

On August 12, 2026, Ms. Auryn Uriik Benhart gave a presentation at the Embassy of Japan about her experience as a participant in the APIC Pacific Islands and West Indies Student Invitational’s Summer Session in East Asian Studies in Japan. APIC, or the Association for the Promotion of International Cooperation, hosts a variety of programs […]

The post Ms. Auryn Benhart’s APIC Program Experience appeared first on Island Times News.

Friday, August 14, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - According to AccuWeather, the weather forecast for tomorrow is mostly sunny with isolated showers. Temperatures are expected to be as high as 87 degrees and as low as 78 degrees. The rainfall percentage is expected to be 55%. According to the Yap Weather Services Office, Tomorrow's tide schedule is as follows: the first high tide will be at 9:07 AM, reaching approximately 6.38 feet. This will be followed by a low tide at 3:04 PM, with a height of...

Friday, August 14, 2026/// DYCA PIO Yap FM - A delegation from Yap State participated in the 2026 Micronesian Ministers for Women Conference (MMWC), held August 3–5 in Palikir, Pohnpei. The Yap delegation included Ms. Linda M. Teteth of the Yap Women’s Association, Ms. Melliana Lemwaiushib of the Neighboring Islands Women’s Association, Ms. Patricia Gureb, and Mr. John W.K. Fillmed of the Department of Youth and Civic Affairs The MMWC provides a regional platform for Micronesian countries and...

Friday, August 14, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - Yesterday, August 13th, the Division of Youth Services, in collaboration with the U.S Army and COM-CRE, continued its 2026 Youth Summit with its second day of activities at the Small Business Development Center Conference Room. The full-day event ran from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and brought together more than 80 young people. The day began with participant registration, followed by light morning refreshments as attendees gathered and prepared for...

KOROR, Palau — The Financial Institutions Commission has strengthened its bank supervision capabilities through a three-day training focused on bank examination, off-site monitoring and risk-based on-site examinations. The Bank Examination Training was held June 29 and July 1-2 at the FIC Conference Room in Koror. Participants included Executive Commissioner Valorie Tikei Sbal and bank examiners […]

The post FIC strengthens bank supervision through three-day examination training appeared first on Island Times News.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Taiwan's Navy and Coast Guard have completed their first-ever joint anti-blockade drill that involved escorting a merchant ship carrying essential supplies to ports in eastern Taiwan and ensuring the safety of the cargo after it was transferred inland.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Global index provider MSCI Inc. has raised Taiwan's weighting in its three key indexes after a regular index review, which gave Taiwan's stock market a small boost Thursday.

KOROR, Palau — Coral reef scientists and conservation experts from across the Indo-Pacific gathered in Taiwan in June to share advances in reef research and strengthen collaboration to address growing threats to coral ecosystems. Representatives of the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) joined the 3rd Taiwan International Symposium on Coral Reefs, held June 6-7 […]

The post PICRC shares coral restoration work at Taiwan international symposium appeared first on Island Times News.

By: Ngeldei Tulop KOROR, Palau (August 13, 2026) — Palau is preparing to host Pacific leaders later this month as the region faces a series of political, security and economic questions that could test the Pacific Islands Forum’s ability to maintain consensus. The 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting is scheduled for Aug. 30 to […]

The post PIF 2026: Palau prepares for a Pacific meeting shaped by regional divisions appeared first on Island Times News.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) The Taipei District Prosecutors' Office has indicted three additional suspects in a case involving the leak of military information spearheaded by former television producer Lee Neng-chien (李能謙), the office said Friday.

The Fiji High Court has ruled that the Commission of Inquiry report into the appointment of Barbara Malimali as FICAC Commissioner, in its entirety is null and void.

Palau’s men’s national volleyball team has secured a place at the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti after competing in the Oceania Zonal Volleyball Championship in Guam. The qualification marks a significant achievement for the Palau Volleyball Federation and the athletes who spent nearly a year preparing for the regional competition while balancing work, school, family […]

The post Palau Men’s Volleyball Team Qualifies for Tahiti 2027 Pacific Games appeared first on Island Times News.

By: Ngeldei Tulop KOROR, Palau — Palau’s national basketball teams are set to compete in the 2026 FIBA Micronesian Cups this week as teams from across the region gather in Guam for three days of competition. The men’s and women’s Micronesian Cups are scheduled for Aug. 14-16 in Guam, with Palau joining host Guam and […]

The post Palau returns to Micronesian Cup as regional basketball competition begins appeared first on Island Times News.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Taiwan shares ended down 210.47 points, or 0.46 percent, at 45,811.01 Friday on turnover of NT$1.06 trillion (US$33.14 billion).

Domingo I-Kwei Yang  SUVA/TAIPEI, 12 AUGUST 2026 (THE DIPLOMAT) —Ahead of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), scheduled to take place 30 August 30 to 04 September in Palau, Pacific Island leaders failed to reach consensus on a joint statement criticising China’s submarine-based ballistic missile testing in the Pacific. The split reflects intensifying great-power competition […]

The post Why the Pacific Islands Forum should watch Taiwan’s East Coast appeared first on Island Times News.

By foreign affairs reporter Stephen Dziedzic In short:  (ABC-Australia) Taiwan has condemned China’s plan to hold a “navigation exercise” with an Indonesian warship off the island’s east coast. It said it has requested Indonesia “provide further details” after China’s defence ministry announced it would hold the exercise with an Indonesian warship in mid-August. Beijing has […]

The post Taiwan condemns planned Chinese and Indonesian military exercise off its coast appeared first on Island Times News.

By Sanjeshni Kumar  SUVA, 13 AUGUST 2026 (PACNEWS)—A landmark treaty to protect biodiversity on the high seas has entered into force, but scientists warn that much of the deep-sea life it seeks to conserve remains unknown.  The Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, which entered into force earlier this year after being ratified by more […]

The post High Seas Treaty faces biodiversity knowledge gap as most deep-sea species remain unnamed appeared first on Island Times News.

SUVA, 12 AUGUST 2206 (PACNEWS)—Pacific foreign ministers have endorsed a new regional peace and security action plan as the region faces an increasingly complex security environment, including illicit drugs, transnational crime, humanitarian emergencies and emerging non-traditional threats.  The 2026 Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting recognised the need for a more cohesive regional security architecture supported by […]

The post Pacific Foreign Ministers back regional security plan as threats grow more complex appeared first on Island Times News.

By: Ngeldei Tulop KOROR, Palau — Pacific governments are heading toward a major regional leaders meeting in Palau with differences over how to respond to China’s recent missile test exposing challenges to the Forum’s goal of maintaining regional unity. Foreign ministers and senior officials from Pacific Islands Forum members met in Suva, Fiji, earlier this […]

The post Pacific unity faces test ahead of Palau’s PIF meeting appeared first on Island Times News.

CANBERRA/WASHINGTON, 12 AUGUST 2026 (AAP)—Australia has joined a US-led push for nations to provide advance notice of missile launches, in a direct rebuke of China’s test firing in the South Pacific.  Within hours of Australia’s signing of a mutual-defence pact with Fiji in July, China confirmed a nuclear-capable missile had been launched from a submarine […]

The post Australia joins U.S-led rebuke of Chinese missile launch appeared first on Island Times News.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) The U.S. dollar was traded at NT$32.006 at 12 p.m. Friday on the Taipei Foreign Exchange, down NT$0.162 from the previous close.

Water Plant The Yap State Public Service Corporation (YSPSC) is now taking in applications for interested and qualified individuals to fill one position at the water and wastewater plant division as the "Assistant Division Manager". Employment application forms can be obtained from YSPSC's main office during normal working hours. For more information call telephone number 350-4427 during normal working hours.

Gov. Lou Leon-Guerrero, who has vigorously defended the 5 percent business privilege tax over the last seven years since assuming office, is now facing criticism from her fellow Democrats in the legislature for taking the Republican position of cutting the levy.

The findings and recommendations of the review are still before Ministers more than a year after the review was first announced.

Colonia Middle School (CMS) The registration for Colonia Middle School (CMS) for the upcoming school year 2026 and 2027 is on August 11, 12, 13, 2026. The time to register for all the Three days is from 9:00 AM in the morning to 3:00 PM in the afternoon. The registration’s process are as follows; Tuesday 7/11/26 & Wednesday 7/12/2026 is for the returning students’ and the 4th graders from Gaanelay who plans to enroll at Colonia Middle School this school year. Thursday 7/13/2026 is for the...

Power Plant The Yap State Public Service Corporation (YSPSC) is now taking in applications for interested and qualified individuals to fill two (2) positions at the power plant division to work as power plant operators. Employment application forms can be obtained from YSPSC’s main office during normal working hours. For more information call the telephone number 350-4487 or 350-4427 during normal working hours.

Registration Schedule: Wednesday, August 15 Grade 1 Registration Parents/guardians must bring the following: Child’s Birth Certificate Child’s Immunization Card (Yellow Card) Thursday, August 16 Registration for Returning Students Grade 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 Friday, August 17 Registration for Transferring Students Please note that transferring students will be accepted based on the availability of spaces in the grade they will be entering. Parents/guardians of transferring students are requested...

The Yap International Christian School (YICS) in Gaanelay, Rull is pleased to inform you that registration for SY2026-2027 is now open until the 21st of August 2026 from 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday. Registration is open to all transfer-in, new, and continuing students who wish to join the YICS family this coming school year. For transfer and new students, please bring with you the following documents during registration: Birth certificate Yellow Card Academic Records from last school attended...

New funding will prepare local students for urgent tech protection roles.

The post UH Maui College receives $660K to enhance AI, cybersecurity education first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) The lead stories in major Taiwan dailies on Friday are as follows:

Here is the report on the Number of individuals who have filed for public office seeking votes this upcoming November Yap State elections. Be patient with us as we are still in the vetting process and will announce and share all names once everything is completed. Thank you all for your patience. Gubernatorial - 3 tickets filed Senatorial Election District 1 - 10 individuals filed Senatorial Election District 2 - 3 individuals filed Senatorial Election District 3 - 1 individual filed...

UH researcher Joshua Burkhart helped create the largest known atlas of RNA viruses found in urban environments worldwide.

The post UH researcher helps create atlas of global viruses first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

The Rainbow Wahine soccer team pays their respects to the Lahaina community.

The post Culture and Community: Maui Trip Shapes ’Bows’ Perspective first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) The Taiwan Stock Exchange's main index opened up 82.33 points at 46,103.81 Friday on turnover of NT$10.51 billion (US$327.06 million).

UH Athletics introduce three hospitality areas to enhance fans’ game day experience.

The post Elevate game day: Fans find premium football experiences first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Samoa's Leader of the Opposition, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, has been arrested and charged with defamation towards Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt

Robinson is leaving the program after leading Hawaiʻi to back-to-back Big West titles.

The post Rainbow Wahine begin search for new water polo head coach first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

The Governor’s nominee for Commissioner of Public Safety Lauti Tautalasoo Moliga did not garner enough votes for confirmation in the Senate, Thursday. Nine senators voted in support of the nomination while 5 voted against. Ten votes are

This post has been updated with a statement from the Shipbuilders Council of America. President Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon to consider foreign-built warships and auxiliary vessels for the U.S. Navy, in addition to other proposed changes to shipbuilding, in a sweeping presidential memo released on Thursday. Citing a lack of capacity in the U.S. naval shipbuilding base and cost growth, Trump is instead calling for more foreign investment in U.S. shipbuilding and the use of foreign ship designs that would initially get constructed abroad. “An atrophied shipbuilding industrial base, coupled with diminished adjacent supplier bases, has expanded delays

Treasury announced that tax refund checks for taxpayers who filed their returns on April 23, would be released Thursday, August 13. The notice from Treasury that was issued Thursday morning said the refund checks will be available

New Zealand's spy agency says it is increasingly coming across espionage activity in the Pacific.

National fellowship supports intergenerational disaster resilience project in Hawaiʻi

The post New intergenerational project earns gerontologist national fellowship first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

WENO, CHUUK — August 12, 2026 — His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia, together with the Honorable Aren B. Palik, Vice President of the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Honorable Governors of the four states, convened in Chuuk State for the 5th Chief Executive Council Meeting. The opening […]

PALIKIR, Pohnpei—August 13, 2026—His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), received the Honorable Iwao Horii, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, during a courtesy visit to the Office of the President on August 10, 2026. Discussions centered on bilateral relations, the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), and the […]

The following is President Donald Trump’s presidential memorandum, Rebuilding the United States Navy and America’s Shipbuilding Industrial Base, signed Aug. 13, 2026. From the Memorandum MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF WAR THE DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET THE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT FOR NATIONAL SECURITY AFFAIRS SUBJECT: Rebuilding the United States Navy and America’s Shipbuilding Industrial Base By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 301 of title 3, United States Code, I hereby direct: Section 1. Purpose. The United States Navy has

The team also posted a combined 3.53 GPA, which earned a Top Academic Team designation.

The post 15 Rainbow Wahine softball players earn national academic honors first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

The NZ government has been accused of trying to squeeze out the Pacific vote, after changing enrolment rules.

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

Journal 8/12/1983 P1 Nitijela asks questions of MIATLP lawyerIn a long Nitijela committee meeting, citizens listened to Marshall Islands Atomic Testing Litigation Project lawyer Richard Gerry being questioned for over five hours as Nitijela members asked questions ranging from the 177 Section to the MIATLP case to his and his staff salaries. Gerry answered questions […]

The post RMI book makes history appeared first on The Marshall Islands Journal.

The Senate is continuing to put pressure on the Department of Public works to either remove newly installed raised crosswalks or ensure that they are built to the approved specifications. The raised crosswalks was the subject of

Empowering Pacific Island Communities, Inc. (EPIC) announces that its AmeriCorps VISTA application for federal assistance has been approved. This authorizes three AmeriCorps VISTA members to strengthen organizational and community capacity and expand economic opportunity for low income

Private Aiden Craig, a Marine Corps recruit, died last week, the Marine Corps announced Wednesday. Craig, of Wylie, Texas, died on Aug. 5 after collapsing during a physical fitness test on Aug. 1, according to a Marine Corps release. While the release did not provide additional details, a podcast on Wylie High School’s football team, on which Craig played, said that he experienced a sudden cardiac arrest. At the time of his death, Craig was part of Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion. He enlisted in the service on June 1. He collapsed 47 days into his training, according to

The Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) Program in the Office of the Governor announces a NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) 101 Workshop hosted by the Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).

The Micronesia I came to know wasn't defined by military strategy or geopolitical competition. It was defined by teachers trying to improve their schools, nurses caring for patients, fishermen watching the weather, legislators debating budgets, entrepreneurs opening small businesses and families helping one another through both celebrations and hardships.

Former Samoa Prime Minister and opposition Human Rights Protection Party leader Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi was Thursday arrested and charged with defamation. Media reports say the charges relate to allegations made by Tuilaepa during a televised press conference

by Elianna Genevieve here’s savannah bay, the apple-pink mooring ball, the great bear spinning above us eleven-hundred miles to the woman in the panhandle house your steadfast wife and her arrow of a heart there’s a half-hitch bind us merry … Continue reading →

This story has been updated to correct the participating Indonesian Navy ship.  TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Chinese and Indonesian warships held a joint drill on Wednesday in waters to Taipei’s east amid Beijing’s increased efforts to solidify its presence east of Taiwan. The People’s Liberation Army Navy Type 054A-class guided-missile frigate Honghe (523) and Indonesian Navy frigate KRI I Gusti Ngurah Rai (332) held a passing exercise, according to a news release from China’s military media. The two warships practiced communication and resupply at-sea drills. “The exercise aimed to improve interoperability between the two navies, deepen bilateral cooperation and maintain regional peace

The Center for Oral History is launching a series of Maui-based projects focused on recovery, cultural continuity and environmental history.

The post Preserving Maui’s stories: UH Center for Oral History lands $538K in new funding first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

A number of Pacific Islands countries have joined the United States in effectively accusing China of skirting the rules after Beijing's recent nuclear-capable missile test in the Pacific.

Papua New Guinea Rugby is worried about losing more ground to rugby league, as it remains suspension from World Rugby.

By

Asi Andrew Fa'asau

andrew@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The House of Representatives has once more declined to confirm Brett Butler to the Board of Directors of the American Samoa Economic Development Authority (ASEDA), marking the second unsuccessful vote on his appointment in just over a year.

In July of last year, Butler’s nomination fell short when only ten representatives voted in support while seven opposed. House rules require eleven votes for confirmation, leaving Butler one vote shy.

A motion for reconsideration, introduced by Rep. Luaitaua Gene Pan, was approved the same day. The reconsideration vote was held Tuesday, but the outcome remained unchanged — this time, with ten votes against confirmation and eight votes in support.

Butler’s nomination has drawn attention largely because of his extensive background in both the private sector and government finance.

He is a veteran executive with more than 30 years of experience in operations and financial management. Butler was the first local General Manager of StarKist Samoa, serving nine years in the Territory’s largest private‑sector employer. He later joined Bumble Bee Foods, rising through several senior leadership roles, including Vice President of Loining Operations, Vice President & General Manager of the Santa Fe Springs branch, and Vice President of Finance Operations.

After returning to American Samoa, Butler served as Executive Advisor for Finance in the Governor’s Office before being appointed Acting Treasurer in September 2025. His tenure included efforts to modernize ASG’s outdated financial systems, strengthen internal controls, and improve fiscal transparency.

During his confirmation hearing for his appointment as Government Treasurer, legislators described him as a model of local leadership returning home to serve the Territory. Senate Budget Chairman Utu Sila Poasa highlighted Butler’s career trajectory as an example of the kind of expertise American Samoa needs in its financial institutions.

He was unanimously approved by the Senate but fell short of confirmation in the House, a pattern that has been repeated in his nomination to ASEDA Board of Directors.

Supporters had described him as a seasoned executive bringing global industry experience back to the Territory. His nomination to ASEDA was seen as aligning with the authority’s mission of overseeing major financing mechanisms for development projects.

The Senate had previously endorsed Butler’s appointment in March of last year with a unanimous 17 – 0 vote, signaling strong support in the upper chamber. However, ASEDA board appointments require concurrence from both chambers, and the House’s repeated rejection effectively blocks Butler from taking the seat.

With the House denying confirmation for a second time, the administration may submit a new nominee for the ASEDA board seat, attempt another reconsideration if procedurally allowed, or withdraw the nomination entirely.

ASEDA plays a central role in financing major infrastructure and development initiatives, making board appointments closely watched within government and business circles.

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The forward-deployed George Washington Carrier Strike Group was in the Strait of Malacca on Thursday, USNI News has learned. Flagship USS George Washington (CVN-73), as well as cruiser USS Robert Smalls (CG-62) and destroyer USS Shoup (DDG-86), were in the Strait of Malacca after making a westbound transit through the Singapore Strait, a Navy official confirmed to USNI News. The Japan-based group is conducting their first patrol of 2026, having departed Yokosuka in May. The George Washington Carrier Strike Group’s transit of the Strait of Malacca comes as the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group’s deployment to continue its extended Middle

UPDATED 2:33 p.m.

The post UPDATE: Big Isle public schools will remain open Friday as storm approaches, DOE says appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Why push a stroller when you can tie a tow line to it and pull it over rocks, holes, bumps, mud and other obstacles? Definitely more fun this way. This team was spotted outside the ICC last Friday making slow but steady progress through the obstacle course that purports to be a roadway between the […]

The post Strolling in Majuro town appeared first on The Marshall Islands Journal.

The following is the Aug. 10, 2026, Congressional Research Service defense primer on the U.S. Space Force. From the Report The U.S. Space Force, established by Congress in 2019 (P.L. 116-92, §952), is one of the six branches of the Armed Forces. According to Title 10, Section 9081, of the U.S. Code, “The Space Force shall be organized, trained, and equipped to—(1) provide freedom of operation for the United States in, from, and to space; (2) conduct space operations; and (3) protect the interests of the United States in space.” Since the creation of the Space Force, space has become

Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero has requested President Trump to declare a major disaster for Guam, aiming to secure additional federal assistance for the island's recovery from Super Typhoon Bavi.

China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs earlier said over 100 Filipino nationals were 'taken in accordance with the law' over alleged migration law violations

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) A New Taipei hospital held a medical capacity reduction drill Thursday on the last day of nationwide civil defense drills, while Taipei and other parts of northern Taiwan simulated degraded internet environments for the first time.

PRESS RELEASE: The PRC announces that 1,362 out of 3,686 passed the Mechanical Engineers Licensure Examination and 109 out of 142 passed the Certified Plant Mechanics Computer-Based Licensure Examination

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) The New Taipei District Prosecutors' Office on Monday indicted a former senior engineer at Nanya Technology Corp. for secretly filming confidential company information in an alleged effort to secure a high-paying job in China, the office said Thursday.

Here is a list of areas where classes are suspended for Friday, August 14, 2026, due to the southwest monsoon

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) Taiwan's central government will not penalize Taitung County Magistrate Yao Ching-ling (饒慶鈴) over her prerecorded appearance at China's Straits Forum after determining she did not violate the Cross-Strait Act, the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) said Thursday.

The Military Sealift Command in Virginia has awarded a $249 million contract to Cayuse Native Hawaiian Veterans for general ship repair on Guam.

PRESS RELEASE: The Professional Regulation Commission announces that 574 passed the oral examination/technical evaluation

Don't miss Gracenote perform tracks from their latest album 'Walang Makakapigil' at the Rappler HQ!

Commercial satellite imagery confirms Ukrainian drone and missile strikes damaged at least four Russian Black Sea Fleet warships in Novorossiysk, including two Admiral Grigorovich-class frigates.

The post Ukrainian Drone Strike Damages Russian Frigates in Novorossiysk appeared first on Naval News.

The source declines to say where the intelligence came from but says officials had little time to prepare and had to devise the plans at the last minute

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) Taiwan's military on Thursday conducted an exercise in Yilan County to simulate the blocking of Hsuehshan Tunnel and prevent Chinese forces from using it to advance on Taipei, as part of the annual Han Kuang exercises.

Zambales, Bataan, and Occidental Mindoro are still expected to have moderate to heavy rain due to the southwest monsoon until Friday afternoon, August 14

In an organization, monitoring and evaluation is vital to measure impact. Knowing the baseline data, doing needs assessment sessions, crafting

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) Starlux Airlines began selling tickets on its new Taichung-Nagoya route on Thursday, with the maiden flight scheduled for Oct. 25.

Ube jams, the ube ‘aesthetic’, ube in cocktails, and the future for ube

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) Ugandan immigration officers withheld the passports of three Taiwanese travelers and demanded that they produce Chinese passports, citing the country's "One China principle," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Thursday.

The proposed Department of Education budget is 13.55% of the P7.2-trillion national budget that the Marcos administration is seeking for 2027

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 13 August 2026: Former Prime Minister and leader of the Opposition, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi was arrested today and charged for allegedly breaching court orders. The Acting Police Commissioner Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga confirmed that Tuilaepa was brought into the police headquarters in Apia where he was charged and released this […]

The post Tuilaepa arrested for breaching court orders appeared first on Talamua Online.

Inflation continued to ease last month from its war-driven surge earlier in the year, but prices still remain at a high level as constrained fuel supplies have increased the cost of living.

The post Inflation eased slightly in July, but prices remain elevated as war drags on appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The University of Hawaii College for Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience recently announced a partnership with Nani Mau Gardens to create a new Water and Plants Education Center, bringing more educational opportunities about sustainability to the Hilo area.

The post UH, Nani Mau Gardens form educational partnership appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration plans to spend millions of dollars equipping immigration officers with gloves that can deliver electric shocks.

The post ICE plans to give officers gloves that can deliver electric shocks appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

El Nino is the planet’s naturally recurring chaos agent, scrambling weather patterns, spiking global temperatures and typically reaching full strength by December.

The post This year’s El Nino is huge and already changing the world appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A retirement that allows you to choose how you live as you age requires thought and planning. That’s why AARP Hawaii is offering a free “Get on Track for Retirement” seminar Saturday, Aug. 22, at The Church of the Holy Cross in Hilo.

The post AARP hosts retirement-planning seminar appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Waikoloa Village residents and visitors will have another chance to practice their community’s emergency evacuation route at the next Hulu Street Evacuation Drill, held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday.

The post Waikoloa Village evacuation drill set for Saturday appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The East Hawaii Soil and Water Conservation District, together with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, invites the public to attend its annual Local Working Group meeting in Hilo.

The post USDA invites public to shape conservation at meeting in Hilo appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul of Thailand announced a suspension of new gun permits Tuesday, one of several firearm control measures presented by the government in response to the deadly mass shooting at a high school last week.

The post Thailand halts new gun permits days after mass shooting at a school appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A lawsuit filed Wednesday in federal court in New York challenges a plan to sell early access to President Donald Trump’s posts on Truth Social for up to $100,000 a month, arguing the First Amendment “guarantees equal access to the President’s public announcements.”

The post Suit challenges plan to sell early access to Trump’s Truth Social posts appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

MADRID/REYKJAVIK — Spectators across Spain watched in wonder, some whipping off their protective glasses and rising to their feet in unison, as a rare total solar eclipse swept across the north of the country on Wednesday evening, plunging it into darkness.

The post Total darkness, then sunset as full eclipse wows spectators in Spain appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The threat to Air Force One was seen as so dire that they sneaked President Donald Trump off the jet in a catering container to keep him safe. But the same dire threat did not stop them from then sending Air Force One into the skies anyway with a plane full of senior officials, government employees, reporters and military personnel serving as decoys, some unwittingly.

The post After Trump fled, Air Force One became a decoy carrying dozens appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

BROCKVILLE, Ontario — At Northern Cables, the machinery that churns out steel-clad cable runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The push isn’t driven by a flood of new orders. It’s driven by fear.

The post Trump’s tariffs force some Canadian companies to consider moving south appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

High in the mountains of northern Chile, the MOTHRA telescope may still be under construction, but it is already offering a new look at some of the universe’s most difficult-to-photograph processes. The telescope produced an image of the Helix Nebula, a striking example of the end of a star’s life cycle.

The post Tests of a new telescope captured the faint aftermath of a star’s death appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The fastest driver on Earth has set another record.

The post Driver sets record for hydrogen-powered vehicle at more than 406 mph appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) The Executive Yuan on Thursday passed draft amendments to the Money Laundering Control Act aimed at strengthening oversight of cryptocurrency-related activities and stablecoins and preventing them from being used for money laundering.

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) Prosecutors have indicted a former Winter Olympian and 13 others for allegedly operating a cross-border heroin trafficking network, with the 70-year-old man accused of directing the group's operations by cellphone while bedridden with a serious illness.

Japan Embassy staff gave great meaning to the word “grassroots” in their Grassroots Grant Program by traveling to Namo Atoll to deliver a new boat to the local government. A handover ceremony for “The Project for the Improvement of Maritime Transportation in Namo Atoll” was held with local government officials on Namo. Through Japan’s Grant […]

The post Japan delivers Namo boat appeared first on The Marshall Islands Journal.

On 10 August 2026, Vietnam held a ceremony to initiate construction of a brand new type of indigenously designed, multipurpose frigate for the Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN). The chosen shipbuilder of this anti-submarine warfare (ASW) frigate is Song Thu Corporation. It is unclear how many vessels will be eventually produced, but the first is now ...

The post Vietnam Begins Construction on First Indigenous Multipurpose Frigate appeared first on Naval News.

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) The U.S. dollar fell against the Taiwan dollar Thursday, shedding NT$0.078 to close at NT$32.168.

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) McDonald's Taiwan on Thursday suspended the sale of its newly launched "Sea Flavor Shrimp Cutlet Burger" and "Sea Flavor Double-Layered Shrimp Cutlet Burger" after residue from banned antibiotics was detected in the shrimp cutlets.

Thirteen seats are needed for a majority to form a government.

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) Overseas hackers used artificial intelligence agents to target Taiwan government agencies in a July cyberattack, the Ministry of Digital Affairs (MODA) said Thursday, following a Financial Times report on the incident.

Administration officials defended the governor’s proposal to place the Guam Department of Education under the accounting purview of the Department of Administration, assuring senators that the education agency supports the transfer of fiscal control.

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) Mobile internet services slowed in northern Taiwan on Thursday as an urban resilience drill is being held from 2:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. to test emergency responses and public preparedness for potential disruptions.

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) Severely obese women who undergo bariatric surgery early may have a 20 percent lower risk of developing breast cancer than those who do not undergo the weight-loss procedure, according to a study led by physicians at Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital.

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) Taiwan's military held a defensive blockade drill in Taipei's Wanhua District in the early hours of Thursday to prevent enemy armored units from advancing further into the heart of the capital as part of the annual Han Kuang exercises.

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) Taiwan shares ended up 503.41 points, or 1.11 percent, at 46,021.48 Thursday on turnover of NT$1.05 trillion (US$32.60 billion).

The University of Guam officially opened its new $9 million Margaret Perez Hattori-Uchima School of Health Nursing Hub during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m.

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) The Central Weather Administration (CWA) on Thursday issued heat, heavy rain and strong wind alerts for parts of Taiwan, while a meteorologist warned that unstable weather is likely to bring severe conditions beginning this weekend.

By Pacific Island Times News Staff The new flagship Cost.U.Less store in Hagåtña will officially open on Aug. 28, while the Tamuning branch will shut down on Aug. 27 as part of the North West Company's strategic realignment. “This is an exciting milestone for Cost.U.Less and for our customers in Guam,” said Kevin Proctor, president of Cost.U.Less. “Our new Hagåtña store reflects our commitment to investing in the future of the island and delivering an even better shopping experience." The...

Broadway musical takes the stage at UOG Calvo Field House World Theater Productions and the Guam Philharmonic Foundation, Incorporated are excited to present the Guam premiere of Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical from September 4–6, 2026, at the University of Guam Calvo Field House in Mangilao. For the first time in forever, the magic of Arendelle is coming to Guam. This spectacular production brings the world-renowned musical phenomenon to our island, featuring the Academy Award-winning...

Washington, Aug. 12 (CNA) The United States on Wednesday urged Beijing to end its "military pressure against Taiwan" after China claimed to have conducted naval exercises with an Indonesian warship in waters east of Taiwan.

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) The lead stories in major Taiwan dailies on Thursday are as follows:

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) The U.S. dollar was traded at NT$32.165 at 10 a.m. Thursday on the Taipei Foreign Exchange, down NT$0.081 from the previous close.

Thursday, August 13, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - According to AccuWeather, the weather forecast for tomorrow is partly sunny with isolated showers. Temperatures are expected to be as high as 89 degrees and as low as 78 degrees. The rainfall percentage is expected to be 57%. According to the Yap Weather Services Office, Tomorrow's tide schedule is as follows: the first high tide will be at 8:21 AM, reaching approximately 6.53 feet. This will be followed by a low tide at 2:52 PM, with a height...

Thursday, August 13, 2026/// DYCA PIO Yap FM - Yap residents are being urged to conserve water and take precautions against wildfires as strengthening El Niño conditions are expected to bring increasingly dry conditions to the state beginning later this year. The Yap State Disaster Coordination Office, Yap State Public Service Corporation, Yap Environmental Protection Agency, and the Maap, Southern Yap, and Gagil-Tomil Water Authorities issued a joint advisory encouraging residents,...

An incredible concert capped off a week of celebrations in Majuro for Pacific International Inc.’s 50th anniversary. The August 8 concert at Delap Park saw over a thousand music fans of all ages flock to watch big music stars rock the stage. Six9Too Productions and its Power 103.5FM radio station organized the event with sponsorship […]

The post Delap Park rocked for PII 50th appeared first on The Marshall Islands Journal.

Thursday, August 13, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - Yesterday, August 12, the Division of Youth Services opened the first day of its Annual Youth Summit at the Yap Living History Museum from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with more than 70 young people in attendance. The summit also coincided with International Youth Day, an annual observance that recognizes the contributions of young people while highlighting challenges they face in areas such as education, employment, health, and civic participation....

College in Hawaiʻi can be affordable, and local help is available to help families navigate this process.

The post Free post-high school planning events for Hawaiʻi students, families first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) The Taiwan Stock Exchange's main index opened up 158.47 points at 45,676.54 Thursday on turnover of NT$15.49 billion (US$480.90 million).

The Pacific Games Council chief executive said all facilities should be ready by the end of the first quarter of 2027.

The Forum Fisheries Agency is shifting its focus to value retention and economic development for its members.

The Department of Education no longer has an Athletics Office. Director of Education Maefau Dr Mary Taufetee testified at a hearing of the House Education Committee that sports programs are now under the Secondary Division and overseen

More than 60 members of the American Samoa Army Reserve departed the territory Tuesday night for training exercises in Indonesia. The aircraft that they traveled in was a 747-400 and it was the first time since 2018

By Ron Rocky Coloma The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council is preparing to work with Northern Islands officials on possible regulatory changes following the federal government’s move to reopen parts of the Marianas Trench Marine National Monument to commercial fishing. At an Aug. 8 meeting of the council’s Guam Advisory Panel, council staff said the next phase will focus on the monument’s Islands Unit, where commercial fishing prohibitions have applied around the northernmost...

Th MV Manu’atele is back in service and is set to make her first trip to Manu’a Thursday, August 13. Director of Port Administration Barney Sene said the US Coast Guard issued the vessel’s Certificate of Inspection

Drought is also being reported in parts of the Pacific.

Māori and Pacific people have a lower stigma towards people with mental illness than Europeans and Asians, according to a University of Otago study.

The Tonga United Church, which owns a historic abandoned building in central Auckland, have been in talks about the possibility of demolishing it.

The Environmental Health Services Division of the Department of Health  closed McDonald’s on Tuesday after an inspection found several health safety violations. Manager Aileen Solaita said members of the public had complained about flies in the eating

NEW TAIPEI CITY, TAIWAN – Taiwanese forces mobilized mechanized units, engineering troops and mines across a river estuary crucial for the defense of the island’s capital city during the opening days of Han Kuang 42. Among the paths for a potential Chinese invasion of the island’s capital, the approach from the Tamsui River will be critical for both attacker and defender. Within a few dozen miles of the estuary is Taiwan’s largest airport, a deepwater port, several military facilities, a beach suitable for an invasion force with a straight shot via the river to downtown Taipei. For Chinese forces, the

Where can the sea take you? That’s what the Navy’s 2026 commercial, the latest in the Forged By The Sea campaign, asked young Americans. It was a challenge, the head of Navy Recruiting Command told USNI News. “The marketing theme is challenging them to say, ‘Are you good enough to join this elite world class organization?’” Rear Adm. James Waters said. The Forged By the Sea commercials are part of a modernization of Navy marketing meant to help the sea service meet its recruiting goals. And it appears to be working. The Navy met its Fiscal Year 2026 recruiting mission

A big celebration for “a job well-done for our teachers to celebrate the School Year 2025-26, and a kick-off for the SY26-27,” was held at the ECC gym last Friday with hundreds of Public School System staff and teachers participating in games, awards and a raffle. Teachers of the Year and Principals/Head Teachers of the […]

The post PSS celebrates teachers, principals appeared first on The Marshall Islands Journal.

The second Ford-class aircraft carrier — John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) — left Wednesday afternoon for acceptance trials after years of delays and Navy and congressionally mandated equipment changes to the ship. “John F. Kennedy departed our Newport News Shipbuilding division to begin acceptance sea trials. These trials will test and evaluate important ship systems and components at sea,” reads a Wednesday social media statement from HII. “This milestone is thanks to the dedication and commitment of our incredible shipbuilders, suppliers, ship’s force crew and U.S. Navy teammates. We wish them a safe and successful time at sea.” The departure from

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

11,000 registered voters will elect their leaders for the next four years.

For the past two weeks, the Department of Education’s Tautua Wellness Program has seen staff from all divisions of the department, with help from other departments and businesses, busy getting classrooms and campuses ready for the start

The American Samoa Veterans Team, Toa o Samoa, has made history by bringing home nine medal from the National Golden Age Games held in Tampa Florida this summer. Representing American Samoa for the first time in the

The second half of our summer was all about educator training! Teachers from Oʻahu and Hawaiʻi Island joined us for hands-on classes in Animation, Video Podcasting, and Creative Media. Educators explored new tools, developed their creative skills, and discovered fresh ways to bring digital storytelling into the classroom. https://olelo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/other-film-1.movhttps://olelo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/shorter-goodbye-1.movhttps://olelo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Untitled_Artwork-4-1.mp4

The post Animation for Educators appeared first on Olelo Community Media.

The wife, family and friends of Maui Police Lieutenant Michael Vaituulala flew in from Maui to attend his detention hearing. However, a federal judge denied his request for release. KITV News reports the US Attorney alleges Vaituulala

The Shoji Society recognizes individuals and organizations making significant commitments to UH Athletics and the success of its student-athletes.

The post ‘Shoji Society’ launches to honor legendary coach, strengthen future of UH Athletics first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

This week's images are from Nancy Marker, Kimberly Serratos and Tobias Friedrich.

The post Images of the Week: Many Manu-o-kū first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Integrating Māori and Pacific attitudes towards mental illness into health campaigns could result in a less judgemental country, according to a new study.

A round-up of news from around the region, including a Fiji military commander calling for stronger military ties with Australia.

DPW says they are part of federally funded Islandwide Safety Project

By

Asi Andrew Fa'asau

andrew@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Senators were informed last Friday that the so‑called “speed bumps,” that are drawing widespread complaints from motorists and lawmakers, are not speed bumps at all, but raised crosswalks — a federally funded safety feature installed as part of the Islandwide Safety Project.

The clarification came during a Senate Public Works Committee hearing, where Deputy Director of Public Works Falava‘i Ta‘ase explained that the raised crosswalks recently constructed in front of Manumalo Academy, SPICC, and Matafao Elementary School were approved and funded by the U.S. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

Ta‘ase told senators that FHWA’s push for raised crosswalks is based on national research. A 2016 nationwide study documented a significant rise in pedestrian‑related traffic accidents occurring at traditional painted crosswalks. A follow‑up study in 2023 found a 45% reduction in crosswalk‑related accidents in areas where raised crosswalks were installed.

He said FHWA formally advised Public Works in 2023 to begin evaluating raised crosswalks for American Samoa. The department initially held back, conducting its own assessment of local traffic patterns and crash data. But with traffic accidents increasing last year and again this year, Public Works determined it was time to begin installing raised crosswalks to improve pedestrian safety and reduce vehicle speeds in high‑risk zones.

Ta‘ase explained that the federal criteria for raised crosswalk placement include a speed limit that must be under 30 mph, the traffic volume must be at least 9,000 vehicles, and the roadway must have no more than three lanes.

He said the locations selected so far meet these requirements, particularly school zones where pedestrian traffic is heavy, and vehicle speeds are often higher than posted limits.

Two additional raised crosswalks are scheduled for installation in front of Samoana High School and Marist Saint Francis School in Lepua.

Ta‘ase noted that construction had begun on a raised crosswalk in front of Laufou, but the department halted the project after extended traffic delays created significant congestion. Public Works has decided not to proceed with that location.

Ta‘ase told senators the project was publicly bid, and Paramount Construction was awarded the contract. He estimated the cost of each raised crosswalk at approximately $11,000.

Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean told the Public Works officials that in all his travels across the U.S. mainland, he has never seen road bumps like the ones recently installed. He questioned whether such structures were appropriate for primary roads and asked directly whether the raised crosswalks could be removed.

Deputy Director Ta‘ase confirmed that removal was possible. Tuaolo then advised that they be taken out to put an end to the steady stream of complaints from motorists and community members.

“It’s been nearly 50 years since American Samoa voted for their own governor,” he said. “The question that comes to mind is why now? Why wasn’t this done in all these years? This is very suspicious.”

Senator Magalei Logovii pressed Public Works officials on whether the Department of Public Safety (DPS) had been consulted before the raised crosswalks were installed. He noted that DPS typically provides assessments for any road project, including whether a proposed design might create a traffic hazard or pose risks to pedestrians and motorists.

Magalei repeatedly asked Ta‘ase whether the FHWA had formally approved the raised crosswalks. He requested written documentation from the federal agency confirming its authorization.

Senator Muagututi‘a Tauoa raised additional concerns, warning that the newly installed raised crosswalks could slow or obstruct emergency response vehicles, including EMS ambulances, police units, and the Fire Division. He said any roadway feature that delays emergency response times poses a serious public‑safety risk.

Muagututi‘a also questioned the cost of the installations, noting that at $11,000 per raised crosswalk, the price is “a lot of money” for a project that has already generated significant public frustration. He recommended leaving the three already constructed in place, but urged Public Works not to install any more until the Senate receives clearer justification and documentation from federal authorities.

He also recommended painting the raised crosswalks at Fatu‑ma‑Futi and Matafao to ensure drivers can clearly see them from a distance and recognize when they are approaching a pedestrian zone.

Muagututi‘a added that proper striping and visibility markings — similar to the treatment already applied to the raised crosswalk in front of Manumalo Academy — are essential for driver awareness and pedestrian safety. He said clear paint markings would help motorists recognize the crosswalks earlier and reduce confusion, especially given the complaints the installations have already generated.

Senator Ma‘o Faauma Gogo, however, sided with Senate President Tuaolo’s recommendation to remove the three raised crosswalks, arguing that traditional street‑sign warnings are sufficient to alert drivers to slow down near schools. He said clear signage has long been effective in school zones and questioned the need for additional roadway structures that have already caused confusion and frustration among motorists.

Ma’o also noted that teachers and students routinely assist with traffic control in front of their schools during morning drop‑off and afternoon pick‑up. He said this long‑standing practice has helped maintain safety without the need for raised crosswalks, and that the community’s involvement demonstrates that simpler, less disruptive measures can work.

Senator Leatualevao Asifoa, who requested the hearing with Public Works, said that based on the photos presented to lawmakers, there appeared to be very little difference between the raised crosswalks and traditional speed bumps. He questioned whether the installations met the design standards described by Public Works.

Senator Togiola T.A. Tulafono echoed those concerns, pointing out that the FHWA design photos showed raised crosswalks with a flat pedestrian surface, whereas the three already constructed in the Territory did not match that profile. He said the discrepancy raised questions about whether the installations were built to federal specifications.

Ta‘ase responded that additional work is planned to bring the crosswalks into compliance. He said the surfaces will be flattened to meet FHWA design requirements and will also be painted to improve visibility and pedestrian safety.

Editor’s Note: Samoa News notes that raised crosswalks are common in other countries, especially in school zones. They are clearly marked, sometimes with special lights (large yellow round bulbs) on each side of the walkway, with the walkway itself characteristically raised and flat, with the traditional stripes defining its width and length.

The ‘raised’ feature of the crosswalk is to make certain that a vehicle will slow down before proceeding.

Signage include those designating the speed limit as well as warning of approaching crosswalk, and are usually posted on both sides of the road as the raised crosswalk is approached.

There is also sometimes a small planted flower plot area on each side, enhancing the look of the raised crosswalk as a community beautification project.

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Auckland based RnB singer Sam V has topped the table at this year's Pacific Music Awards.

UPDATED 11:44 a.m.

The post UPDATE: Weather disturbance east of Hilo strengthens and is expected to become a tropical storm on Thursday appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Taoyuan, Aug. 12 (CNA) Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Corp. called on passengers traveling on flights Thursday afternoon to arrive early and prepare their boarding documents and payment methods in advance, as an urban resilience and air defense drill will be held in northern Taiwan.

The following is the Aug. 12, 2026, Congressional Research Service report, MQ-25 Stingray: Background and Issues for Congress. From the Report The U.S. Navy is developing a carrier-based uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) to perform aerial refueling and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. The MQ-25 Stingray, if the system is fielded as planned, would be the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DOD’s) first uncrewed tanker and the Navy’s first carrier-based uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV, or drone). (DOD is “using a secondary Department of War designation,” under Executive Order 14347 dated September 5, 2025.) Congress has expressed an interest in the Navy’s

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) Uber Eats said Wednesday it will modify its payment formula for multi-order deliveries and adjust its reward structure for couriers, with the changes expected to raise pay by NT$4 (US$0.12) to NT$6 per order.

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Wednesday it has asked Indonesia to clarify a joint naval exercise east of Taiwan announced by China, while Jakarta described its planned naval activities as "Passing Exercises" that are "not war-fighting in nature."

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) Taiwan and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) marked the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations at a reception in Taipei on Wednesday, where leaders of the two countries pledged to deepen cooperation in the years ahead.

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) Taiwan's military said Wednesday that it had conducted separate drills simulating the repulse of an amphibious landing and stay-behind operations involving sabotage and ambushes behind enemy lines as part of the live-fire Han Kuang exercises.

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) Hualien and Taitung counties in eastern Taiwan held urban resilience air defense drills Wednesday, practicing evacuation and sheltering procedures without conducting a simulated mobile network slowdown as implemented in central Taiwan earlier this week.

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) Formosa Plastics Corp. announced Wednesday that it is partnering with Japanese chemical company Daicel Corp. to establish a 50-50 joint venture to produce electronic-grade photoresist thinner, as demand for semiconductor materials grows amid the artificial intelligence (AI) boom.

Bookmark this page for Rappler's comprehensive coverage of Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial at the Senate

To justify the regularity of its confidential funds spending in 2022, the Office of the Vice President cited its mounted events which took place before it was authorized to disburse the funds

The defense also points out that the Commission on Audit did not mind that the funds were spent in different places on the same day

He helped push the reforms that transformed China from a beleaguered holdout against the collapse of Soviet-style Communism in the early 1990s to an emerging superpower with economic growth rates envied by other governments

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) Taiwan-based Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. said Wednesday that its capital expenditure for 2026 will focus on AI production expansion, while the company will allocate funds to strengthen global R&D and production, especially in the United States.

The U.S. and Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis reported separate attacks on shipping on Tuesday as prospects for ending the Iran war appeared to dim, with Tehran saying the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed unless Washington accepts its conditions.

The post New attacks on shipping as Iran war talks hit fresh impasse appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A 25-year-old Hilo man who pleaded not guilty Friday to second-degree murder and firearms offenses for the Feb. 19, 2025, shooting death of 36-year-old Brandon Castillias in Waiakea Uka was already sitting in jail when indicted last week, unable to make $1.06 million bail for a separate but apparently unrelated attempted murder charge.

The post Hilo man accused of murder, attempted murder in apparently unrelated cases appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A 53-year-old Hilo man shot numerous times in the early morning of Aug. 4 in Mountain View identified the suspect, 35-year-old Kawika Ah Nee of Mountain View, as the trigger man, according to court documents filed by police.

The post Bail maintained in Mountain View attempted murder appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Top administration officials engaged in an elaborate deception to spirit President Donald Trump out of Turkey during the NATO summit there last month, transporting him in a catering container to a military jet because of a threat against him and Air Force One from Iran, two senior U.S. officials said Monday.

The post Trump said to have secretly used military jet to leave Turkey amid threats appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The state Public Utilities Commission has approved another round of utility-­scale renewable energy project additions to island power grids through competitive bids.

The post PUC allows Hawaiian Electric to seek renewable energy project proposals appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Presentacion “Presy” Eslava Aguirre, 79, of Hilo died July 31 at a private care home. Born in Baguio City, Philippines, she was a retired social worker and member of Kinoole Baptist Church. Celebration of life services 9- 11 a.m. Saturday (Aug. 15) at Haili Tent in Panaewa. Internment on September 29 at Hawaii State Veteran Cemetery on Oahu. Online condolences: www.homelanimemorialpark.com. Survived by son, Gilbert (Christine) Aguirre II of Everett, Wash.; daughter, Nuuana (Delson) Maikui of Hilo; five grandchildren. Arrangements by Homelani Memorial Park.

The post Obituaries for August 12 appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — Two Democratic senators are demanding answers from two Belgian firms about an 18-carat gold ring encrusted with 321 diamonds that was given to U.S. President Donald Trump weeks before the U.S. exempted Europe’s diamond industry from new tariffs.

The post Democratic senators question Belgian diamond industry about ring given to Trump appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

GENEVA — The World Health Organization on Tuesday defended the science-based process used to determine childhood immunization schedules after President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at reducing the number of recommended childhood vaccinations in the United States.

The post WHO defends immunization schedules after Trump orders fewer childhood shots appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Polls closed on Tuesday in U.S. gubernatorial primaries in Minnesota and Wisconsin featuring two candidates at the far end of their parties’ ideological spectrums.

The post In Upper Midwest primaries, a test of progressive energy and Trump’s influence appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The ACLU and other groups asked a federal judge to block U.S. President Donald Trump from enforcing new executive orders to limit the number of people eligible for birthright citizenship. In a Tuesday court filing, the groups called Trump’s orders an improper attempt to evade the U.S. Supreme Court’s June 30 rejection of his effort to end birthright citizenship for children whose parents were not American citizens or legal permanent residents, known as green card holders.

The post ACLU, others urge judge to block Trump’s latest birthright citizenship orders appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

PARIS/KABUL — The Taliban have barred an estimated 2.4 million Afghan girls from secondary education since they regained power in Afghanistan in 2021, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization said on Tuesday.

The post Taliban have barred 2.4 million Afghan girls from school since 2021, UNESCO says appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Lindsey Graham’s sister Darline Graham on Tuesday advanced to a run-off to be the Republican Party’s nominee for the South Carolina U.S. Senate seat in November’s election following her brother’s death, according to U.S. media projections.

The post South Carolina Republican vote in Lindsey Graham’s seat heads to run-off appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

PEREIRA/CALI, Colombia — Rescue crews on Tuesday dug through mountains of rubble in western Colombia, shouting for quiet so they could listen for survivors still trapped under the buildings that collapsed in a powerful earthquake estimated to have killed at least 250 people.

The post Colombia quake death toll tops 250 as rescuers race to find survivors appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

President Donald Trump had harsh words on Tuesday for New York, portraying a planned surcharge on luxury second homes in the city he once called home as a “dangerous” leftist experiment that the federal government could challenge.

The post Trump floats possible legal challenge to New York tax on luxury second homes appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Russia releases former American Marine after 4 years in prison

The post News in brief for August 12 appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A federal judge on Tuesday blocked the U.S. Postal Service from implementing part of President Donald Trump’s executive order that aims to tighten rules for mail-in voting ahead of November elections that will decide control of Congress.

The post Judge blocks US Postal Service from restricting mail-in voting appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Prosecutor Kapunan makes a comment against defense lawyer Ferrer, while lead defense counsel Sheila Sison calls out prosecutor Amando Virgil Ligutan over a social media post

If you are a brand, the last thing you want is to be forgotten by the world like Peter Parker - you need to resonate with this generation and dig deeper into their motivations

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 12 August 2026 – The Cabinet has issued instruction to the Ministry of Public Enterprises (MPE) to review its governance framework and law, in order to lift the services of Government Corporations to the people of Samoa. This was revealed by the Deputy Prime Minister, Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molioo […]

The post Cabinet instructs Ministry of Public Enterprise to review its Governance Framework appeared first on Talamua Online.

Türkiye’s future National Fast Attack Craft (FAC) broke cover during the naming and launching ceremony of the Royal Malaysian Navy’s third LMS Batch 2 vessel on August 9, 2026. The ceremony for the Tunku Osman Jewa (143) took place at Istanbul Shipyard. Photo and video coverage from the event showed the hull and superstructure of ...

The post Turkish Navy’s Future FAC Takes Shape at Istanbul Shipyard appeared first on Naval News.

By lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 12 August 2026: The Deputy President of the Lands and Titles Court, Siliga Lauano Diana Roma was sworn-in today as an Acting Judge for the Supreme Court to fill in the shortage of Supreme Court Judges. The brief ceremony was conducted before the Head of State, Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi 11 […]

The post LTC Deputy President sworn-in as Acting Supreme Court Judge appeared first on Talamua Online.

'In this case, the SC found no constitutional or legal obligation for the committee to release an unfinished draft report,' the High Court says

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) Taiwan-based manufacturing giant Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. reported its highest-ever net profit for the second quarter on Wednesday, with cloud and networking devices accounting for more than 50 percent of its revenue during the current AI boom.

The service credits that teachers earn for their duties during elections will no longer expire

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) The 2026 Dadaocheng Summer Festival will conclude Saturday evening with a 20-minute show featuring an eight-minute fireworks display and a Spider-Man-themed drone light show, the Taipei City Department of Information and Tourism said Wednesday.

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) Taoyuan will expand its free milk program to include junior high school students beginning with the 2026 school year that commences on Aug. 31, the Taoyuan City government announced Wednesday.

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) A drunk foreign national was removed from a China Airlines (CAL) flight bound for Amsterdam early Wednesday after he harassed a female passenger seated next to him while the plane was preparing to take off, according to the Aviation Police Bureau (APB).

Coast Guard spokesman for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Jay Tristan Tarriela and PMA Superintendent Michael Logico warn about disinformation increasingly shaping public understanding of the maritime dispute

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) Shares in Taiwan closed higher Wednesday led by AI-related stocks, while turnover was limited ahead of U.S. consumer price index (CPI) data due later in the day, dealers said.

The Aquarium of Guam has appointed an aquarium industry veteran as its new general manager as the Tumon attraction moves through a major redevelopment ahead of its reopening.

Denmark has selected Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH to equip its Absalon-class and Iver Huitfeldt-class frigates with the Multi-Ammunition Softkill System (MASS). The contract includes five decoy protection systems, training, and a 20-year framework agreement for ammunition and maintenance.

The post Danish frigates to receive MASS decoy launchers from Rheinmetall appeared first on Naval News.

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) The lead stories in major Taiwan dailies on Wednesday are as follows:

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) The U.S. dollar fell against the Taiwan dollar Wednesday, shedding NT$0.032 to close at NT$32.246.

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) The Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) has ordered the recall of 87,360 tablets of the antihypertensive drug Beniel F.C. Tablets 8 mg manufactured by Synmosa Biopharma Corp. over concerns that the medication may not work as intended, the agency said Wednesday.

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) A group of Taiwanese youths selected for a government-funded annual ambassadorship program, including unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operators for the first time, is set to visit Taiwan's South Pacific and Caribbean allies later this month to promote people-to-people exchanges, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) said Wednesday.

Wednesday, August 12, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - According to AccuWeather, the weather forecast for tomorrow is mostly sunny with isolated showers. Temperatures are expected to be as high as 87 degrees and as low as 78 degrees. The rainfall percentage is expected to be 25%. According to the Yap Weather Services Office, Tomorrow's tide schedule is as follows: the first high tide will be at 7:33 AM, reaching approximately 6.53 feet. This will be followed by a low tide at 2:13 PM, with a height...

Wednesday, August 12, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - Yesterday, August 11th, the FSM Adaptation Fund Project shared key highlights on its continuing outreach efforts in Woleai, Yap State, with a focus on strengthening access to clean drinking water and improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices among vulnerable community members. As part of the ongoing initiative, the project is distributing WASH kits containing essential items such as soap and water kettles to community members....

Yap State Department of Health Services - Tuberculosis (TB) Screening Announcement The Yap State Department of Health Services is inviting all members of the public, as well as employees of government offices and private business, to come to Yap Memorial Hospital for a FREE Tuberculosis, or TB, screening. Please come for screening if you have had a cough that lasts two weeks or longer, or if you have any of these symptoms: Night sweats while sleeping Unexplained weight loss Fever Feeling...

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) The Central Weather Administration (CWA) warned on Wednesday of temperatures reaching 36 degrees Celsius in parts of Taiwan, while the southwestern part of the island faces the threat of heavy rain as unstable weather persists through the week.

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) Taiwan shares ended up 397.35 points, or 0.88 percent, at 45,518.07 Wednesday on turnover of NT$858.73 billion (US$26.66 billion).

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) Defense Minister Wellington Koo (顧立雄) has underscored the importance of employing 3D-printing equipment for the urgent resupply of drones on the battlefield as part of Taiwan's efforts to strengthen combat resilience.

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) Siliconware Precision Industries Co. (SPIL) on Tuesday broke ground on a NT$100 billion (US$3.11 billion) Chip-on-Wafer-on-Substrate (CoWoS) plant in Yunlin County to package and test and artificial intelligence (AI) chips.

This is to inform all motorists of a scheduled road cutting and crossing at the Gaanelay intersection. This road cutting will take place on Saturday August 15, 2026 at 8:30 am and will go on until the work is completed. The road cutting is part of the work currently being done for the underground fiber network throughout the Island. The road will be cut in two halves meaning that one half of the road will remain open throughout the cutting and laying process. We ask that all motorists in that...

Most island nations mum on China's missile tests By Mar-Vic Cagurangan Palau and the Marshall Islands have joined dozens of nations in seeking to regulate missile tests by demanding a 24-hour notice before the launch. "Conducting nuclear-capable ballistic missile tests without sufficient advance notice and detail is dangerous and disrupts the peace and security of relevant nations in proximity to these tests," reads a U.S.-led joint statement issued by 39 countries. The statement came on the...

[Editor's Note: This is part two of a two-part series on a university department in Taiwan dedicated to Southeast Asian languages and regional studies, and the people behind it.]

[Editor's Note: This is part one of a two-part series about a university department in Taiwan dedicated to Southeast Asian languages and regional studies, and the people behind it.]

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) Taiwan's top agency on China has "strongly condemned" Beijing's plan to hold a naval exercise with Indonesia in waters east of Taiwan, calling it a "military provocation" that infringes on Taiwan's sovereignty and threatens regional security.

The University of Guam officially opened its new $9 million Margaret Perez Hattori-Uchima School of Health Nursing Hub during a ribbon-cutting ceremony today, marking a major investment in healthcare education and Guam’s future nursing workforce.

Environmental groups are pleased with the U.S. Navy's recently issued record of decision, which restricts live-fire training exercises on Tinian and leaves Pagan out of the picture.

“We welcome the Navy’s decision to listen to our voices and to spare our island from highly destructive training. We will remain vigilant to ensure the Navy follows through on its new plan,” said Juanita Mendiola of Tinian Women Association.

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) The Taiwan Stock Exchange's main index opened up 54.98 points at 45,175.7 Wednesday on turnover of NT$10.40 billion (US$322.85 million).

Launch your bright future with debt-free learning opportunities at UH Community Colleges statewide.

The post UH Community Colleges Rank No. 11 nationally, you still have time to apply! first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Biologist Jennifer Sims will help combat pollution in the Mediterranean.

The post Hawaiʻi CC professor awarded Fulbright for marine science research first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

By Jeannie Penehuro/ Apia, SAMOA – 12 August 2026 – The Government has responded to recent public concerns regarding withdrawals from the District Development Programme (DDP) accounts that allege misuse of funds. A government statement also refutes claims that the recent IMF Article IV consultation found corruption in DDP funds. The Government emphasizes that it […]

The post IMF commended Samoa’s low public debt & financial stability appeared first on Talamua Online.

Spending by the American Samoa Telecommunications Authority during the 250th Independence Day celebrations will come under the scrutiny of the Senate Government Operations Committee. Committee Chairman Senator Togiola Tulafono is requesting that the ASTCA CEO provide a

The administration’s appropriations bill of $744,000 to supplement the Fiscal Year 2026 budget was killed by the House of Representatives during second reading Tuesday. The House Budget and Appropriations Committee heard testimony from the Acting Treasurer Carri-Lee

The event was structured to help the university transition from isolated, individual AI experimentation to coordinated, systemwide innovation.

The post AI Institute Day helps shape future of tech, workforce development first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Tributes have flowed in for the renowned Solomon Islands journalist who has died.

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 12 August 2026: The Samoa mission statement at the Western & Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) Scientific session in progress in Samoa, is monitoring and management of fish stocks. Samoa’s representative at the meeting is the Assistant Chief Executive Officer (ACEO) of Fisheries Roseti Imo. He said there are […]

The post Samoa prioritizes monitoring, management of fish stocks & E-Zones at WCPFC meeting appeared first on Talamua Online.

This summer, UH Mānoa faculty and staff helped elementary students bring Kailua’s story to life.

The post UH Mānoa helps Enchanted Lake students turn Kailua stories into art first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

The American Samoa Environmental Protection Agency (AS-EPA) hosted an intensive six-hour training last Friday led by Dr. Julie Song, Senior Permit Specialist from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 9. Key regulatory and industry partners, including representatives

“This award strengthens the University of Hawaiʻi’s role in national space weather research and infrastructure.”

The post UH-led cosmic ray network receives nearly $1MNSF award for space weather research first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

UH Mānoa football player Micah Kaonohi-Kaihenui was named to the 2026 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List.

The post UH football player named to Wuerffel Trophy watch list first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

One of seven Fiji corrections officers alleged to have been involved in the assault of an Australian citizen at the Lautoka Remand Centre has been charged.

Researchers are developing new ways to predict which lung cancer patients will respond to immunotherapy.

The post $3.26M grant advances lung cancer immunotherapy research first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Banned former Manu Samoa rugby captain Chris Vui is seeking funding support to help complete the production of a documentary that will tell his story.

For two weeks in November the remote Tokelauan atoll of Fakaofo will become a global communications hub.

HII and MetalCraft Marine successfully complete DIU prototype testing for the Watcher, an autonomous USV powered by HII’s Odyssey control system. HII press release HII announced that the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has officially recognized the successful completion of the company’s Production-Ready, Inexpensive, Maritime Expeditionary (PRIME) prototype project, featuring the Watcher small Unmanned Surface ...

The post HII Watcher Autonomous USV Passes Critical DIU Performance Tests appeared first on Naval News.

Kanesa Duncan Seraphin, host and producer of Voice of the Sea, raced to a first place victory in the 2026 Molokaʻi 2 Oʻahu Paddleboard World Championships.

The post Professor, TV host wins 9th Molokaʻi 2 Oʻahu Paddleboard World Championships first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

Cost of living, water tariffs, and mining are on Cook Islanders' minds ahead of this week's election.

People in the Marianas affected by Super Typhoon Bavi now have until February for a range of tax deadlines.

Kauaʻi internship blends heritage with science to protect nature.

The post Kauaʻi CC students cultivate culture through conservation internship first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

The report presents findings from the Maui Recovery Survey, an ongoing survey of people who lived, worked, or owned a business in West Maui or Kula at the time of the disaster.

The post 3 years after Maui wildfires: housing recovery advances while jobs and incomes lag first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Destroyers USS Thomas Hudner (DDG-116) and USS Pinckney (DDG-91) returned this week to their homeports following more than eight-month-long deployments, the U.S. Navy announced. Thomas Hudner returned Sunday to Naval Station Mayport, Fla. The destroyer’s deployment took the crew to the U.S. 4th, 5th and 6th fleets – seeing it sail the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Red seas. The destroyer left on Dec. 1 for the U.S. 4th Fleet, USNI News previously reported. As of Feb. 23, five days before the U.S. and Israel launched an offensive against Iran, Thomas Hudner was in the Mediterranean. On April 6, Thomas Hudner was

By

Samoa News staff

reporters@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Natalie Tuālemoso Ah Soon, a proud native of Faleasao, Manu‘a, carries the strength of her roots into a life of service and leadership in public health.

As Director of Community Engagement & Government Relations for RAMS, Inc. in San Francisco, Natalie works at the intersection of community, health and public policy.

She is also Co-Founder of the Regional Pacific Islander Health Task Force, where she currently serves as Interim Director — helping ensure Pacific Islander voices, experiences and needs are represented where critical health decisions are made.

She is the daughter of the late Tuālemoso & Katerina Ah Soon.

Section:

Local News

Tags:

Pacific Islander Health Task Force

(Excerpts from an article originally written and published by the National Samoan Chiefs Council – Nuʻu o Matai as part of its Samoan Heritage Celebration City Hall Highlights series. Story reprinted with photo from the original feature that was posted on the Manu'atele Community Worldwide website. The Samoa News web editor apologizes for crediting the article to Samoa News staff.)

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Natalie Tuālemoso Ah Soon, a proud native of Faleasao, Manu‘a, carries the strength of her roots into a life of service and leadership in public health.

As Director of Community Engagement & Government Relations for RAMS, Inc. in San Francisco, Natalie works at the intersection of community, health and public policy.

She is also Co-Founder of the Regional Pacific Islander Health Task Force, where she currently serves as Interim Director — helping ensure Pacific Islander voices, experiences and needs are represented where critical health decisions are made.

She is the daughter of the late Tuālemoso & Katerina Ah Soon.

Section:

Local News

Tags:

Pacific Islander Health Task Force

Russian activity around the U.K. and in the North Atlantic has risen 25 percent in the first half of the year compared to the same time frame in 2025, according to the Royal Navy. The year-on-year data was included in a Saturday news release, with the Royal Navy attributing the increase to Russian Navy warships escorting sanctioned ships in the region. The data fell within Jan. 1-July 31, 2026, and was compared with Jan. 1-July 31, 2025. In the month of July alone, RN frigate HMS Somerset (F82) and offshore patrol vessels HMS Tyne (P281), HMS Severn (P282) and HMS

Saronic announced it has expanded its operations to Gulfport, Mississippi, establishing an initial site for on-water testing of the company’s Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel (MUSV), Marauder, at the Port of Gulfport. Saronic press release As production of Saronic’s Marauder platform continues to scale, the site will support testing and commissioning of the company’s 180 ft. ...

The post Saronic Expands to Mississippi, Selects Port of Gulfport for Marauder On-Water Testing appeared first on Naval News.

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 12 August 2026: Muriel Lui, counsel for Safata 2 Member of Parliament, Tuia Paepae Pua Letoa is challenging the evidence provided by the Petitioner Leleua Suataga Aso as hearsay evidence. Leleua has filed an election petition against Tuia alleging the distribution of compensation money for the Manawanui sinking was […]

The post Respondent in Safata 2 petition challenges admissibility of hearsay evidence appeared first on Talamua Online.

The following is the Aug. 5, 2026, Congressional Research Service report, Taiwan: Background and U.S. Relations. From the Report Taiwan, which also calls itself the Republic of China (ROC) and was once known as Formosa, is a self-governing East Asian democracy located across the Taiwan Strait from mainland China. Taiwan’s popularly elected leaders govern 23.3 million people on the main island of Taiwan; the archipelagoes of Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu; and other outlying islands. Taiwan is a semiconductor manufacturing powerhouse and, in 2025, was a top-five United States merchandise trading partner. Since 1979, when the United States broke diplomatic relations

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) said Tuesday that the MRT Sanying Line will begin operating its full daily schedule, from 6 a.m. to midnight, on Aug. 16, while continuing to offer free rides during the trial period.

Hanwha Defense USA has submitted a non-binding proposal of up to $1.2 billion to acquire Austal’s U.S. operations. The bid comes as Austal USA announced an expected FY2026 EBIT loss of $(175) million due to non-cash accounting provisions on legacy surface ship contracts.

The post Hanwha Defense USA Bids up to $1.2B for Austal USA Amid Shipbuilder Loss appeared first on Naval News.

Today’s headlines: Sara Duterte impeachment, DOJ, DPWH flood control

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) Financial technology (FinTech), including stablecoins, could help accelerate the movement of funds across global semiconductor and AI supply chains, allowing manufacturers to operate more efficiently, industry leaders said Tuesday.

Manila, Aug. 11 (CNA) Taiwan's representative office in the Philippines, officially known as the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO), unveiled a larger consular hall in Makati City, Metro Manila, on Tuesday after relocating its consular services to accommodate growing demand amid increasing exchanges between the two countries.

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) Influenza is expected to peak in mid-September after flu-related outpatient and emergency room visits accounted for 10.5 percent of all visits last week, the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) said Tuesday.

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) Visiting Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) Prime Minister Godwin Friday pledged Tuesday that his new administration is ready to usher in a "next chapter" in the two countries' 45-year diplomatic relationship, while calling for increased Taiwanese investment to further strengthen bilateral ties.

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) Taiwan's military on Tuesday conducted anti-airdrop drills in Taipei and Miaoli as part of the ongoing Han Kuang live-fire exercises, simulating efforts to repel enemy airborne forces and prevent infiltrating troops from breaching defensive lines.

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) Students should learn not only how to use artificial intelligence (AI), but also how to use it responsibly and think independently, Education Minister Cheng Ying-yao (鄭英耀) said on Monday.

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) announced Tuesday that it will form a joint venture with Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corp. to develop next-generation image sensors.

New Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) China-born spouse Xu Chunying (徐春鶯) was sentenced to seven years in prison Tuesday after being convicted of campaigning for the Taiwan People's Party's (TPP) 2024 presidential ticket under instructions from Beijing, among other offenses.

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) Taiwan recorded 14 COVID-19 deaths and 72 cases involving severe complications between Aug. 4 and 10, the highest weekly total during the current domestic COVID-19 wave, the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) said Tuesday.

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) has approved a capital budget of about US$29.44 billion for expansion amid the ongoing AI boom.

If the acknowledgment receipts were truthful, how could Vice President Sara Duterte's special disbursing officer have handed out confidential funds in different parts of the Philippines on a single day?

Eligible beneficiaries of the UPLIFT program are identified based on government databases. Having a national ID does not make one automatically eligible to receive the cash aid.

COA state auditor Xylene del Campo confirms that the Commission on Audit has cleared the Department of Education over its P75 million in confidential funds during the 14th day of Duterte's impeachment trial

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) The chief of the Coast Guard Administration (CGA) was forced to apologize Tuesday for failures in the agency's handling of the illegal entry of two Chinese nationals after their rubber dinghy was found near Taipei Port by a member of the public.

By Dwayne Mahimkar The University of the South Pacific highlighted Samoan and Fijian excellence in two full-house recitals of SINA on 7th and 8th August at the Japan ICT Centre. The Oceania Centre for Arts, Culture, and Pacific Studies (OCACPS) put together a large-scale theatre production that celebrates Pacific culture, and storytelling. They have held […]

The post Cultural excellence at full display during OCACPS new production: SINA appeared first on Talamua Online.

The digital guide's Philippine release comes amid a US appeals court's ruling allowing thousands of lawsuits to move forward against Meta Platforms, Alphabet’s Google, ByteDance’s TikTok, and Snap Inc’s Snapchat over claims they designed their products to be addictive to young users

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) Shares in Taiwan closed slightly higher Tuesday after recouping earlier losses, as bargain hunters picked up select electronic component stocks despite continued military tensions in the Middle East, dealers said.

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Monday responded to Iran’s conditions for a peace deal with his own demands that Iran pay compensation for people killed in wars, attacks and protests, in a rhetorical escalation likely to complicate efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

The post Hopes for Hormuz deal fade as Trump demands Iranian reparations appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate rose in June for the third consecutive month in what could be a sign that the state’s economy may be slowing.

The post State jobless rate rises for third straight month appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON— President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday calling for fewer childhood vaccinations by limiting the inoculation schedule to 11 immunizations, which he said would give U.S. children “gold-standard” protection and align the country with peer nations that recommend fewer shots.

The post Trump order reduces US vaccine schedule, seeks to split MMR shot appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

In what’s been a relatively busy hurricane season in the Pacific, forecasters are keeping an eye on two weather disturbances, including one developing in the Central Pacific.

The post Two weather disturbances are likely to become cyclones appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A Hawaii County Council committee last week supported two measures aimed at addressing fentanyl-related overdoses across the island.

The post Measures to combat fentanyl advance appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The El Nino cycle brings numerous threats to Hawaii — drought, higher risk of hurricanes, and warmer sea surface temperatures that potentially could lead to coral bleaching.

The post El Nino not expected to bring more shark activity to Hawaii appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Editor’s note: Councilwoman Jenn Kagiwada was reelected Saturday after receiving more than 50% of the vote. A previous version of this story erroneously stated she did not get enough votes to avoid a runoff election on Nov. 3. The Tribune-Herald apologizes for the error.

The post General election matchups are set, but multiple candidates won their seats outright Saturday appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — When she’s not trekking across Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District to meet voters, Democratic congressional challenger Rebecca Cooke is still on her feet, waiting tables at two restaurants around Eau Claire, a city of about 73,000 people surrounded by rolling farmland.

The post In rural Wisconsin, frustrations over Trump ag policies heat up House race appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A friend recently returned from a trip to Sicily and raved about the region’s incredible pistachios. I decided to use them as a crunchy crust for salmon fillets.

The post Quick fix: Pistachio Crusted Salmon appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

I know, I am like a nagging mother, I am an advocate of eating healthy and I think of food as medicine.

The post Let’s Talk Food: Elements of a healthy diet appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Many evacuees among the tens of thousands forced to flee a cluster of wildfires near Spokane, Washington, were allowed back to their homes on Sunday as firefighters stepped up efforts to extinguish the remaining hot spots.

The post Wildfires near Spokane, Washington, wind down as evacuees begin to return appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

An Arkansas man has been charged with sex assault after an investigation into two incidents involving an adult female victim in West Hawaii.

The post Arkansas man accused of two sex assaults in West Hawaii appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A U.S. appeals court on Monday allowed thousands of lawsuits to move forward against Meta Platforms, Alphabet’s Google, ByteDance’s TikTok and Snap Inc’s Snapchat over claims they designed their products to be addictive to young users.

The post US court rules Meta, other tech firms must face thousands of lawsuits over social media addiction appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

President Donald Trump has extended for 90 days a waiver allowing foreign-flagged ships to transport oil and other commodities between U.S. ports, but imposed new limits after shipbuilders and their allies in Congress argued the policy was undermining the domestic maritime industry, the White House said.

The post Trump extends Jones Act waiver for 90 days, narrows scope appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The U.S. State Department said on Monday it has revoked more than 175,000 visas from foreign nationals under President Donald Trump’s administration, as it continues a sweeping immigration crackdown that has stripped travel and immigration privileges from tens of thousands more people.

The post Trump administration has revoked more than 175,000 visas, State Department says appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

BOGOTA — At least 111 people were killed after a powerful earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, toppling buildings across several cities, damaging hospitals and infrastructure and trapping people beneath the rubble in what authorities called the country’s strongest earthquake of the century.

The post More than 100 killed after strongest quake this century hits western Colombia appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON (Reuters) — A coalition of U.S. House Democrats is calling on Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman to explain how their AI systems escaped containment during a security test, adding that Congress should hold hearings about the incidents, according to letters the lawmakers sent to the companies on Monday.

The post US House Democrats press Anthropic, OpenAI about rogue AI agents appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

'We’re looking at the impact of removal of system loss, whether total or phased in, whether just the nontechnical, whether there’s a lowering of the cap,' says ERC chair Francis Juan

A reverse image search did not show any credible video of ICC Judge Joanna Korner making the statement

The UA allocation for 2027 is 'the lowest amount nominally of the UAs since 2019 and only accounts for 1.5% of the total expenditure program — the lowest ratio since 1991,' says DBM Acting Secretary Kim Robert de Leon

Every 12th of August, organizations parade brilliant young minds across articles for International Youth Day. The youth are handed microphones,

Apia, Samoa – 11 August 2026 – The Asia and Pacific Portfolio Manager for the United Nations Trust Fund to End Violence Against Women, witness firsthand the grassroots work being carried out by SVSG to support women, children and survivors of Gender-Based Violence during her two-day monitoring visit to Samoa on Monday 3 and Tuesday […]

The post UN Trust Fund Portfolio Manager Witnesses SVSG’s Grassroots Work Firsthand appeared first on Talamua Online.

By: L.N. Reklai NGARAARD, Palau (August 10, 2026) — Ngaraard State’s traditional leaders and elected officials are calling for an urgent meeting with the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and Industries and the Environmental Quality Protection Board after heavy rains triggered mudslides and runoff near the TACMOR project, raising concerns about impacts on mangroves, seagrass beds […]

The post Ngaraard Leaders Demand Answers on TACMOR Project Environmental Impacts appeared first on Island Times News.

KOROR, Palau — Palau is looking to strengthen how it organizes and manages climate and development financing after a six-member delegation traveled to Vanuatu for a peer learning exchange focused on turning national priorities into projects that benefit communities and strengthen resilience. The delegation visited Port Vila from Aug. 4-6 to learn how Vanuatu coordinates […]

The post Palau Looks to Vanuatu for Lessons on Better Climate, Development Financing appeared first on Island Times News.

By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang Koror, Palau (August 10, 2026) – A bill had been introduced in the Olbiil Era Kelulau (OEK) would increase the borrowing authority of state governments from $2 million to $5 million. Senate Bill No. 12-75, introduced by Senator Lentcer Basilius on Aug. 4, 2026, was listed for first reading during the […]

The post Bill Seeks to Raise State Borrowing Limit appeared first on Island Times News.

Kaohsiung, Aug. 11 (CNA) President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Tuesday presided over the launch ceremony for two new marine survey vessels, reiterating the government's resolve to uphold maritime governance and national security through surveys of Taiwan's surrounding waters.

By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (August 10, 2026) — Palau has drawn $45.8 million in funding from the Compact Review Agreement and Compact Trust Fund during the first three quarters of fiscal year 2026, according to the Ministry of Finance’s quarterly report to the Olbiil Era Kelulau. The amount represents about 81.5% of the $56.2 […]

The post Palau Draws $45.8M in CRA, Compact Trust Funds Through Third Quarter of FY 2026 appeared first on Island Times News.

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) The U.S. dollar rose against the Taiwan dollar Tuesday, gaining NT$0.047 to close at NT$32.278.

KOROR, Palau — Palau is mourning the loss of a master of a dying art. President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. has issued a presidential proclamation honoring Grand Master Navigator Sesario Sewralur, whose death leaves a void in the ranks of the few people alive who could still read the stars, swells and winds to cross […]

The post Whipps Proclaims National Tribute to Late Navigator Sesario Sewralur appeared first on Island Times News.

Tuesday, August 11, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - According to AccuWeather, the weather forecast for tomorrow is mostly sunny with isolated showers. Temperatures are expected to be as high as 87 degrees and as low as 78 degrees. The rainfall percentage is expected to be 5%. According to the Yap Weather Services Office, Tomorrow's tide schedule is as follows: the first high tide will be at 6:42 AM, reaching approximately 6.40 feet. This will be followed by a low tide at 1:31 PM, with a height of...

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) Overtime hours at Taiwan's electronics companies reached a record high for June since records began in 1980 as the artificial intelligence (AI) boom continued to drive global demand, according to data released Monday by the Directorate General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics (DGBAS).

Tuesday, August 11, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - According to AccuWeather, the weather forecast for tomorrow is mostly sunny with isolated showers. Temperatures are expected to be as high as 87 degrees and as low as 78 degrees. The rainfall percentage is expected to be 5%. According to the Yap Weather Services Office, Tomorrow's tide schedule is as follows: the first high tide will be at 6:42 AM, reaching approximately 6.40 feet. This will be followed by a low tide at 1:31 PM, with a height of...

Tuesday, August 11, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - Earlier today, August 11th, the container vessel Kota Raja arrived in Yap at 7:00 am from Guam and will be departing tomorrow, August 12th, at 7:00 am heading to Koror, Palau. During its visit, the container vessel discharged a total of 34 containers intended to supply local supply chains and commercial activity. The shipment included 3 containers of assorted groceries and general merchandise from Philippines, 5 containers of drinking water,...

South Korea’s MND has issued a legislative notice for a special act establishing the legal framework, acquisition process, and nuclear-safety standards for the Jangbogo-N nuclear-powered attack submarine program.

The post South Korea Issues Draft Law to Advance Jangbogo-N Nuclear Submarine Program appeared first on Naval News.

CANBERRA, Australia — Palau’s diplomatic presence in Australia has entered a new chapter with the formal presentation of credentials by Ambassador Roland Merar, the country’s first resident ambassador to Australia since the two nations established diplomatic relations in 1994. Merar presented his Letter of Credence to Australia’s Governor-General, Sam Mostyn, on Wednesday, Aug. 5, formally […]

The post Merar Begins Mission as Palau’s First Resident Ambassador to Australia appeared first on Island Times News.

Helsingborg, Aug. 11 (CNA) Taiwanese teams won one gold medal, one silver medal, and five gold diplomas at the 14th World Choir Games in Helsingborg, Sweden, during the first phase of the competition, which ended Monday.

AIRAI, Palau — Rough seas tested anglers at the 2026 Lmall ra Belias Fishing Derby on Aug. 8, but Team SO powered through the conditions to claim the Barracuda Category title with a 33-pound catch. The Palau Sport Fishing Association partnered with Airai State to host the derby at the Airai Marina, drawing anglers and […]

The post Airai Hosts 2026 Lmall ra Belias Fishing Derby appeared first on Island Times News.

Washington, Aug. 11 (CNA) The U.S. State Department on Monday expressed Washington's opposition to China's announcement last week that it would impose traffic control measures on vessels in the Taiwan Strait during the approach of Typhoon Dolphin.

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) A Taiwanese lawyer has been indicted for allegedly fabricating information to help Chinese nationals enter Taiwan under false pretenses, the Taipei District Prosecutors Office said Tuesday, citing potential threats to national security.

KOROR, 10 AUGUST 2026 (THE BORGEN PROJECT) —Palau has set ambitious renewable energy goals, aiming for 100 percent of energy to come from renewable sources by 2050. The nation has already established multiple solar farms and is exploring wind and other modalities.  Reducing Dependence on Imported Fuel  Palau is a small island chain of 340 […]

The post Palau’s Renewable Energy appeared first on Island Times News.

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) Taiwan shares ended up 191.96 points, or 0.43 percent, at 45,120.72 Tuesday on turnover of NT$869.02 billion (US$26.96 billion).

CANBERRA, 10 AUGUST 2026 (AAP) — Australia is unlikely ever to have a true partnership with China due to a mismatch of world views, rendering it pointless to pursue that goal, the nation’s former top diplomat to Beijing says.  But in an analysis for the Lowy Institute, Australia’s former ambassador to China Graham Fletcher noted […]

The post World-view ‘gulf’ leaves closer China ties out of reach appeared first on Island Times News.

By Middle East correspondent Matthew Doran In short: Israeli Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu says Hamas’s proposed plan for disarming is “unacceptable”, rejecting the Trump administration’s plans to end fighting in the Palestinian territory. Announcing the deal last week, US President Donald Trump claimed Israel was “very happy” about it. But the deal has been sharply […]

The post Israeli government rejects Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan appeared first on Island Times News.

WELLINGTON, 10 AUGUST 2026 (PMN) — For Pacific families already feeling the squeeze from higher power, petrol and grocery prices, New Zealand’s energy debate is becoming a choice between doubling down on fossil fuels or moving faster towards locally generated renewable power.  With less than 100 days until the election, New Zealand First is backing […]

The post Pacific families are caught between fossil fuel gamble and push for clean energy appeared first on Island Times News.

SUVA, 10 AUGUST 2026 (AFP)—– Taiwan will attend an annual gathering of Pacific Island leaders in Palau in August, the regional bloc said, overcoming protests from China that saw Taipei barred from the event in 2025.  China and Taiwan were important partners to the region, a Pacific Islands Forum official told reporters late Friday, after […]

The post Taiwan to attend Pacific leaders meet: Pacific official appeared first on Island Times News.

SUVA, 10 AUGUST 2026N (TVNZ)—Deep divisions are threatening to destabilise the Pacific Islands Forum after foreign ministers walked away unable to come to any agreement on action against China’s ballistic missile test.  Last month the missile landed close to Tuvalu’s exclusive economic zone, resulting in harsh criticism from most of the Pacific.  But New Zealand […]

The post Divisions on China missile test threaten to destabilise Pacific Islands Forum appeared first on Island Times News.

Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero's revised budget proposal, which raises revenue projections for fiscal 2027 and incorporates policy reforms, may face headwinds at the Guam legislature.

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) The U.S. dollar was traded at NT$32.245 at 11 a.m. Tuesday on the Taipei Foreign Exchange, up NT$0.014 from the previous close.

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) A passenger's power bank began smoking on a Taipei Metro train on the Bannan Blue Line on Tuesday, prompting Taipei Rapid Transit Corp. (TRTC) to transfer about 1,200 passengers to another train, the company said.

South Korean Shipbuilder Hanwha has made a $1 billion bid for the U.S. subsidiary of Australian shipbuilder Austal, Austal disclosed in a regulatory filing on Tuesday morning Australian time. Austal also revised its previous guidance from an estimated $77.6 million (AUD 110 million) in profits to a loss of $79.73 million (AUD 113 million) based on an accounting event around the Mobile, Ala., yard’s contract setbacks with the Navy’s Navajo-class tow, salvage and rescue ships (T-ATS), the Auxiliary Floating Dry Dock Medium (AFDM) and the Landing Craft Utility 1700 program, according to a statement the company posted to the Australian

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) The lead stories in major Taiwan dailies on Tuesday are as follows:

Taipei, Aug. 11 (CNA) The Taiwan Stock Exchange's main index opened down 44.86 points at 44,883.90 Tuesday on turnover of NT$11.75 billion (US$364.59 million).

It comes after the resignations of two of the most senior government ministers who were "unseated" by the Tongan Legislative Assembly earlier this month.

The Extension Master Food Volunteers program is filling a void in community food education by training volunteers to deliver practical, research-based food education.

The post New program teaches cooking, healthy eating on Hawaiʻi Island first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

U.S. military contractors in Palau have resumed work at the defense project site in Ngaraard State after it paused due to mudslides triggered by heavy rains.

The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands' 2026 general election is off to the races.

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has sought further dialogue with the United States over its new visa bond policy.

New Honolulu CC administrator brings decades of experience to lead educational initiatives.

The post Honolulu CC names Sara M. Butler vice chancellor of academic affairs first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Northern Marianas tennis player Carol Lee won the Warsaw T-Mobile Polish Open in Warsaw, Poland, on Saturday.

Running back, return specialist Barfield selected to Paul Hornung Award watch list.

The post Barfield added to Paul Hornung Award watch list first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Acting Treasurer Carri-Lee Magalei-Tulafono told a hearing of the House Budget and Appropriation Committee Monday she does not know where the funding for the administration’s supplemental appropriations of $744,000 will come from. She also said that the

The College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Nani Mau Gardens to expand agricultural education and more.

The post Historic Hilo gardens to serve as outdoor UH classroom first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Vulcans men’s and women’s soccer were recognized after both programs posted team GPAs of 3.0 or higher.

The post UH Hilo soccer teams earn national academic honors first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Ishmael Toroama says if Papua New Guinea's national parliament refuses to back the 2019 referendum result it will undermine the peace process.

The findings will help establish engineering design values needed for commercial construction and could lay the groundwork for future engineered wood products made in Hawaiʻi.

The post Could Hawaiʻi’s eucalyptus forests become a new source of building materials? first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Jennifer D. Small Griswold was honored with the Edward N. Lorenz Teaching Excellence Award by the American Meteorological Society.

The post Atmospheric sciences professor honored with national teaching award first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

A special compilation show of past HIKI NŌ stories that focus on Hawaiian culture.

The post Focus on Hawaiian Culture HIKI NŌ appeared first on PBS Hawai‘i.

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says federal investigators are currently building cases to be prosecuted in relation to the spending of the $36 million by the former administration. KHJ News understands that the probe also covers ARPA funded

September 1st is the deadline for candidates running for American Samoa’s seat in the US Congress and the local House of Representatives to submit their nomination petitions with the required signatures. As of last Friday four of

The Senate approved in final reading Friday, the administration bill which would impose a 12-month moratorium on the special provision in immigration law. The vote was 14-0. The special provision gives the Immigration Board the authority to

One of Samoa’s most influential bands, Tiama’a, is calling for stronger protection of original Samoan music after artificial intelligence (AI) was used to reproduce its songs without permission. The Samoa Observer reports that the band from Toamua,

The dual-hatted Naval Sea Systems Command and Portfolio Acquisition Executive Industrial Operations Vice Adm. Jim Downey retired last week, the Navy announced. Downey, who took charge of NAVSEA in early 2024, retired from both roles in a Thursday ceremony at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. “What we do and how we treat people matters,” Downey said in a statement. “This legacy strengthens the Navy and all of us who ready the ships that our warfighters take to sea.” Downey commissioned into the Navy in 1987 after graduating from the State University of New York. He’s a career surface

Raytheon announced that a new Missile Defense Agency contract supports the production and sustainment of Standard Missile-3 Block IIA (SM‑3 IIA) interceptors, building on Raytheon’s investments to expand capacity and accelerate delivery. Raytheon press release Raytheon, has received a $745 million contract from the Missile Defense Agency for the production and sustainment of Standard Missile-3 ...

The post Raytheon awarded $745 million contract for SM-3 IIA interceptors appeared first on Naval News.

By Lagi Keresoma/ “Ensuring the long-term sustainability of highly migratory fish stock in the region through science-based management and international cooperation.” – Western & Central Pacific Fisheries Commission. Apia, SAMOA – 11 August 2026: The Prime Minister and Cabinet welcomed delegates from 26 countries participating in the Western & Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) Scientific […]

The post Samoa welcomes Western & Central Pacific Fisheries Commission appeared first on Talamua Online.

The People’s Liberation Army Ground Force trained last week to use armed drones against unmanned surface vessels, according to state media. A Chinese military media post on Thursday highlighted the armed KVD002 unmanned combat aerial vehicles engaging fast moving drone boats with missiles. The footage depicted at least 13 of the drones attached to the PLA’s ground force unit. In recent years, UCAVs have been deployed by the U.S. and Ukraine to strike small craft, fast boats and drones in the Caribbean, Black Sea and the Middle East. Since the start of the U.S-Iran conflict on Feb. 28, American Reaper

These are the approximate positions of the U.S. Navy’s deployed carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups throughout the world as of August 10, 2026, based on Navy and public data. In cases in which a CSG or ARG is conducting disaggregated operations, the chart reflects the location of the capital ship. Total Battle Force Deployed Underway 289  (USS 231, USNS 58) 96  (USS 66, USNS 30) (39 FDNF, 57 Rotational) 63 (49 Deployed, 14 Local) In Sasebo, Japan USS Tripoli (LHA-7) is in port in Sasebo, Japan. Tripoli was the flagship of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group, which also

Marines are learning how to 3D print raiding craft and attack drones while in theater as part of recent exercises in Hawaii, Japan and South Korea. During Exercise Valiant Shield, U.S. Marines with Intermediate Repair Company, 3rd Maintenance Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, worked with engineers from Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock on a demonstration known as Manufacturing Attritable Systems at Scale, or MASS, an initiative focused on rapidly producing low-cost maritime platforms using deployable manufacturing equipment and commercially available materials, according to a release. The exercise ran from June 22-July 1 in the Northern Marianas, Guam and Japan. The

The earthquake is felt in the capital Bogota and as far away as Venezuela

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) The National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall will screen eight Taiwanese Hokkien (Tâi-gí) films as part of its annual human rights program, which also aims to promote the language, with free admission, the memorial hall's management said Monday.

Here is a list of areas where classes are suspended for Tuesday, August 11, 2026, due to the southwest monsoon

Raytheon and CET demonstrated the Hadalus low-cost, long-endurance UUV in a U.S. Navy test, proving submerged launch and autonomous mission capabilities. Raytheon press release Raytheon, an RTX business, and Composite Energy Technologies (CET) have successfully demonstrated the undersea launch capabilities of Hadalus, a new, low-cost, long-endurance unmanned undersea vehicle (UUV). During a recent U.S. Navy ...

The post Raytheon and CET Successfully Test New Low-Cost Hadalus UUV for U.S. Navy appeared first on Naval News.

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) Central Taiwan held an urban resilience air defense drill Monday that, for the first time, included the deliberate slowing of mobile internet services to simulate communications disruptions during a wartime emergency.

PAGASA says moderate to intense rain may persist in more than a dozen areas from Monday afternoon, August 10, to Tuesday afternoon, August 11

'If I have the opportunity, and if it was up to me, I would have been playing in the Philippines for years now,' says Filipino-American guard Remy Martin, who has long been on Gilas Pilipinas' radar

The UP College of Law notes 'a considerable decline in the quality of reasoning and argumentation coinciding with the regular use of AI by students for case briefing, answering simple queries during class, and research'

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) Inflation-adjusted average monthly regular wages in Taiwan's industrial and service sectors posted the strongest growth for the first half of the year in six years, the Directorate General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics (DGBAS) said Monday.

Mitsubishi is also betting that its decades-old brand loyalty and established customer base can hold their own against newer rivals such as BYD, as it targets a 20% market share this year

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) Taiwan's armed forces tested their ability to mobilize transportation resources overnight from Sunday to Monday by using commercial flatbed trucks to transport tanks during a cross-regional reinforcement exercise in eastern Taiwan.

Catch the Bisaya rundown of the highlights of the Sara Duterte impeachment trial days from July 29 to August 5

The Court of Appeals says the Quezon City Regional Trial Court 'did not act with grave abuse of discretion in denying' Chao Tiao Yumol's motion to quash the carnapping charge

In his last full year as president, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is seeking a P7.2-trillion national budget for 2027, the year before the 2028 elections

TAIPEI, Taiwan — To repel any future Chinese invasion, Taiwan is building fleets of flying drones and unmanned attack boats.

The post Taiwan bets on drone ‘hellscape’ to deter possible Chinese invasion appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

President Donald Trump announced Sunday that Will Scharf, his staff secretary and a deeply conservative lawyer, would replace David Warrington as White House counsel, one of the few major changes in West Wing personnel since Trump returned to Washington.

The post Trump names Will Scharf as White House counsel appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — It was hardly the first time that someone on social media called someone else fat. But it may have been the first time that a vice president of the United States did so.

The post Insults, expletives and fat-shaming: Vance trolls critics on the right and left appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Trails across Hawaii Island will soon get an upgrade as the state Department of Land and Natural Resources is partnering with nonprofit Kupu to start work this fall to make improvements at several sites.

The post DLNR hires nonprofit for help on best practices for maintenance, improvements appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Ukraine and Russia accused each other of lethal attacks on Sunday, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Moscow was targeting global food security by striking Odesa’s seaport.

The post Ukraine, Russia accuse each other of lethal attacks, Odesa port damaged appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

DUBAI/WASHINGTON/CAIRO — Iran said it was nearing a final pact with Oman defining new shipping lanes between them through the Strait of Hormuz but repeated that the U.S. must meet other conditions, including compensation and an end to sanctions and military threats, before the strategic waterway is reopened. A U.S. official told Reuters on Friday that Iran and Oman were close to a deal that could pave the way for restoring safe passage through the strait, a major conduit for oil and gas shipping before Iran blocked Hormuz in response to U.S. and Israeli attacks on Tehran that began in late February. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Sunday an agreement with Oman on the strait was in its “final stages” but reiterated comments made on Saturday that Tehran would not reopen the channel unless the U.S. met certain demands made by Tehran.

The post Iran ties Hormuz reopening to US concessions on several demands appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

PLEASANT HILL, Ore. — Among the rolling hills outside Eugene, Oregon, down a winding gravel path and inside a big barn sits a school bus built in 1939. Its once-blazing colors have faded. Its roof is crumbling. Its windows are cracked. The only regular occupants these days are insects.

The post The ‘Rosetta stone’ of San Francisco’s counterculture revolution comes home appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — Some Taylor Swift songs have been removed from social media videos posted by President Donald Trump’s campaign and the White House, which has used two of the American superstar’s songs over the past week.

The post Taylor Swift songs removed from White House, Trump campaign posts appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

BEIJING — Typhoon Dolphin, the most powerful tropical cyclone to hit China this year, made landfall on the country’s eastern coast on Sunday, bringing torrential rain and strong winds and triggering warnings of flooding and landslides. The typhoon has already swept through Japan’s southern Okinawa prefecture, injuring six people and cutting power to more than 50,000 buildings.

The post Typhoon Dolphin hits China’s east coast, over 1 million evacuated appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

JERUSALEM/CAIRO — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu restated his rejection of Donald Trump’s latest Gaza plan in televised remarks to his right-wing government on Sunday, even as Israel’s military has effectively halted attacks in the territory under pressure from the U.S. President.

The post Netanyahu says Trump’s new Gaza plan is unacceptable appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The Pentagon’s No. 2 official asked major U.S. defense companies to accelerate efforts to produce and deliver key weapons systems amid new concerns about shortages and gaps exacerbated by the Iran war.

The post Pentagon asks defense firms to boost production of key systems appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York posted a series of video clips on social media Saturday saying she would freeze her eggs despite what she called a “political risk” for sharing her decision.

The post Ocasio-Cortez says she is freezing her eggs and still mulling a presidential run appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

DETROIT — Dr. Abdul El-Sayed spoke by phone with former President Barack Obama on Friday, days after winning the Democratic primary race for Senate in Michigan, according to their representatives.

The post Obama and El-Sayed spoke to discuss unity after ugly Michigan primary appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — A bipartisan majority of Americans support more government rules for how social media companies conduct business, including a requirement of age-verification tools to keep younger children off social media, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll. The poll, which was conducted over the six days ending August 3, comes as companies like Meta Platforms and Google’s YouTube face mounting legal pressure over their treatment of young users.

The post Three in five Americans favor stronger oversight of social media companies, Reuters/Ipsos poll finds appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Canada’s wildfire crisis has shifted westward in August, with fast-moving blazes triggering evacuations and a provincial state of emergency in British Columbia just weeks after smoke from fires in Ontario choked cities to the south.

The post Canada wildfires: What to know appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Mother, daughter die after boat overturns in New York Harbor

The post News in brief for August 10 appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) A delivery worker alliance and labor union have filed criminal complaints against Uber Technologies Inc. and Uber Eats Taiwan executives, accusing them of underpaying workers handling multiple deliveries under Taiwan's new delivery worker protection law.

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) Shares in Taiwan rose by over 700 points Monday as buying was fueled by a U.S. rally after weaker-than-expected job data eased concerns about a Federal Reserve rate hike, dealers said.

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) The U.S. dollar fell against the Taiwan dollar Monday, shedding NT$0.057 to close at NT$32.231.

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) on Monday reported record sales for July, up more than 44 percent from a year earlier, with analysts attributing the growth to strong global demand for the chipmaker's advanced chipmaking processes amid the AI boom.

Keeping fixed-wing naval aviation alive will force Spain to choose between paying the price of continuity, and accepting that the retirement of the Harrier will leave the Spanish Navy without carrier-based fighters for a generation. By Jorge Estévez-Bujez / Defensa y Seguridad There are debates that begin with discussions about aircraft and end up debating ...

The post Spain’s Naval Aviation Crossroads: The F-35B, the Harrier, and a Capability Gap appeared first on Naval News.

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand (MMNZ) said Monday it will introduce a new battery electric vehicle (BEV) in the fourth quarter of this year, a model co-developed with Taiwan's Foxtron Vehicle Technologies Co.

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) The overseas exposure of Taiwan's financial holding companies hit a new high at the end of the second quarter, with growth in exposure to Japan the highest among those institutions' 10 top debtor countries, according to the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC).

Monday, August 10, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - According to AccuWeather, the weather forecast for tomorrow is Partly Sunny with Partly Cloudy Skies in the afternoon. Temperatures are expected to be as high as 88 degrees and as low as 79 degrees. The rainfall percentage is expected to be partially. According to the Yap Weather Services Office, Tomorrow's tide schedule is as follows: the first high tide will be at 5:42 AM, reaching approximately 6.1 feet. This will be followed by a low tide at...

Monday, August 10, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - The Committee on Resources, Education and Development (RED) of the Eleventh Legislature of the State of Yap held a public hearing Friday, August 7, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at the Yap Legislature Chamber on legislation that proposed reducing the capital requirement for certain foreign investments in the state. The hearing focused on Bill No. 11-162, which sought to amend Title 22 of the Yap State Code by revising Sections 303, 305, and 307 concerning...

Monday, August 10, 2026 /// DYCA PIO YAP FM - The Federated States of Micronesia Telecommunications Cable Corporation (FSMTCC) continued its ongoing fiber infrastructure work in Tomil on Saturday, August 8, as crews carried out road cutting and fiber duct burial along the roadway between the road entry to Dabach and the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) School. The work began at approximately 8:30 a.m. and forms part of the broader fiber build-out project currently taking place across the island....

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) Taiwan shares ended up 702.85 points, or 1.59 percent, at 44,928.76 Monday on turnover of NT$847.37 billion (US$26.33 billion).

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) Taiwan's military on Sunday conducted a nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) decontamination drill in eastern Taiwan as part of the ongoing live-fire segment of the country's annual Han Kuang military exercises.

Funding activity asks how much money was appropriated, how many employees were hired, or how many programs were created. Funding results ask whether children are learning, patients are receiving better care, neighborhoods are safer, permits are issued faster, infrastructure is working, and local businesses are creating jobs.

While the pageant in Hawai’i is meant to showcase true representation, it is also a statement of values. And as I considered other Pacific island pageants, like Miss Heilala, I can’t help but think it’s time for pageant committees to use their platform to support local communities in the ways they need it most.

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) Godwin Friday, the prime minister of Taiwan's Caribbean ally Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), will visit Taiwan on Tuesday to mark 45 years of diplomatic relations.

Māori, Pacific peoples, disabled people and renters remain the most affected by persistent housing inequality, a new report has found.

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) Typhoon Dolphin has moved away from Taiwan and the Central Weather Administration (CWA) has lifted its sea warning for the storm, but southwesterly winds are still forecast to bring heavy rain to central and southern Taiwan in the coming days.

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has launched an investigation into Taiwan's top envoy in Geneva, Greg Lee (李冠德), after receiving a petition from some of his subordinates accusing him of workplace bullying and other misconduct.

Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba Mara says when Fijians can travel to Australia just like an Australian travels to Fiji, "then vuvale (family) will mean the same thing" for both countries.

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) The U.S. dollar was traded at NT$32.225 at 10 a.m. Monday on the Taipei Foreign Exchange, down NT$0.063 from the previous close.

Tonga Rugby says the clash will be the second game for the First Nations and Pasifika XV, following their match against the British and Irish Lions in 2025.

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) The lead stories in major Taiwan dailies on Monday are as follows:

Fa'alogo Aganoa Jacoba Matapo, the world's first Pacific ECE professor, wants Aotearoa to become the region's education hub.

Taipei, Aug. 10 (CNA) The Taiwan Stock Exchange's main index opened up 314.8 points at 44,540.71 Monday on turnover of NT$14.96 billion (US$464.98 million).

The Solomon Islands prime minister has announced that a review of his country's security agreement with China has begun.

The nomination of candidates for the Tongatapu 2 and Niua seats will take place on 2 and 3 September, the country's electoral office says.

Fijiana XV and Fijian Drua women flyhalf Salanieta Kinita ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament while playing for the national team at the Oceania Women's Rugby Championship in April.

The South Africans completely dominated their hosts, scoring nine tries at the HFC Banks Stadium in Suva.

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

By Michael Clement Reading Dr. Robert Underwood’s July article suggesting an anthem for Micronesia reminded me of a question I had to answer for my master's exam in Micronesian studies: “Is Micronesia a culture area?” It was such a difficult question that the class had been given nine months to work on its answers. I decided that it was not a culture area. My argument began with the difference between high islands and atolls and their impact on people's beliefs and ways of life. Next, not all...

A Rota resident looks over the ruins left by Typhoon Bavi. Photo by Brian Manabat By Bryan Manabat Songsong, Rota—When Aubry Hocog became the first woman—and the youngest—to serve as mayor in Rota’s history, she understood the weight of breaking two barriers at once. But nothing in her tenure, nor in the island’s recent memory, compared to the force of Super Typhoon Bavi, the most shattering storm to hit Rota in more than two decades. In the tense days before the storm barreled toward the...

The unity of Pacific island countries and territories is frequently called into question when Pacific Ocean-wide issues are raised. In fact, Pacific island territories' legitimacy to participate in the Pacific Islands Forum's high-level conversations has been challenged. French “territories” are included, but U.S. territories are peripheral participants. They have been invited to the party but sit at the children’s table.

The six people had left Namuka Island for Fulaga in the Lau Group in Fiji on Thursday morning but failed to reach their destination.

The new model allows supporters to direct their gifts to the teams, programs and student-athlete initiatives they care about most while earning benefits and recognition through a single, streamlined system.

The post UH Athletics launches ’Bows Athletics Club, creating new opportunities to support student-athletes first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

The Royal Malaysian Navy’s third and final Littoral Mission Ship Batch II (LMSB2) corvette, TUNKU OSMAN JEWA (143), was launched at Istanbul Shipyard in Türkiye on 9 August. The naming and launch ceremony completed the launch sequence for Malaysia’s three-ship LMS Batch II program. The first vessel, TUNKU LAKSAMANA ABDUL JALIL (141), was launched on ...

The post Malaysia’s Third LMS Batch II Corvette Launched in Türkiye appeared first on Naval News.

The Department of the Air Force is mandated to follow the National Environmental Protection Act, according to four House Democrats who argue in support of Prutehi Guahan's bid to stop open burning and open detonation at Andersen Air Force Base.

Here is a list of areas where classes are suspended for Monday, August 10, 2026, due to the southwest monsoon

Taipei, Aug. 9 (CNA) After spending much of her 22 years plowing fields on Green Island off eastern Taiwan, an aging water buffalo has been given a chance to rest at a retirement center in Yunlin County after being bought and relocated by an animal lover.

The southwest monsoon will still trigger significant rainfall in the next few days, PAGASA warns the public on Sunday afternoon, August 9

Taipei, Aug. 9 (CNA) The sea warning for Typhoon Dolphin is likely to be lifted early Monday as it weakens into a tropical storm and moves northwestward toward China's Zhejiang Province, the Central Weather Administration (CWA) said Sunday.

Amid ongoing efforts to regulate short-term vacation rentals on Hawaii Island, the Hawaii County Council Committee on Finance considered a proposal last week to create a new tax class for certain hosted short-term rentals.

The post Council members split on bed and breakfast bill appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Saturday was primary election day in Hawaii, with those voters who didn’t vote earlier by mail casting their ballots in person.

The post Primary election results from Saturday night appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump’s war against Iran has depleted U.S. weapons stockpiles to troubling levels, siphoning supplies from Asia and Europe, according to senior officials.

The post The US is burning through weapons in Iran. Russia and China are taking note. appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — For the third time this election season, Sen. Chuck Schumer this past week had to approach a newly minted Democratic nominee for Senate who had openly opposed keeping him as party leader and try to make common cause for a tough race ahead.

The post A spurned Schumer reaches out to the left appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A community-led effort is underway to recognize and mark the traditional ahupua‘a land divisions of Hawaii Island.

The post Community group hopes efforts to install signs designating ahupua‘a will catch on appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Rep. Max Miller, the Ohio Republican accused of physically abusing his ex-wife and young daughter, has defied calls from his own party to drop out and plans to stay in the race to keep his seat in Congress, according to his spokesperson.

The post Max Miller, Republican accused of abuse, won’t drop out, spokesperson says appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Marie Lehua Yuriko Ah Yee, 81, of Naalehu died June 25 at home. Born in Pahala, she retired as a machine operator with Mac Farms Of Hawai’i after many years of service. Visitation from 9-10 a.m. on Saturday (Aug. 15). Funeral service at 10 a.m. at Kauaha‘ao Congregational Church, 95-1642 Pinao Street, Naalehu. Reception to follow. Aloha or casual attire requested. Survived by daughter, Stalma (John Self) Ah Yee of Naalehu; brother, Allen Yoshida of Maryland; grandchildren, great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Arrangements by Dodo Mortuary, Inc.

The post Obituaries for August 9 appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senate Republicans on Saturday narrowly confirmed Todd Blanche to be President Donald Trump’s attorney general, capping one of the most contentious cabinet fights of Trump’s second term after bipartisan concerns over Blanche’s independence nearly derailed the nomination. Blanche won confirmation in a 50-49 vote, with Republican Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski opposing him. Senator Bill Cassidy was the deciding vote after announcing Friday he thought Blanche was the best option Trump would put forward.

The post Senate Republicans narrowly confirm Todd Blanche as attorney general appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Former President Joe Biden’s prostate cancer has spread to other parts of his body, leaving him in pain, his son Hunter Biden said in an interview broadcast Friday.

The post Hunter Biden says his father’s cancer is worsening appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A report commissioned by the guide company that was leading a backcountry ski party near Lake Tahoe in February when an avalanche killed nine skiers attributed no direct blame to the company.

The post Internal report on avalanche that killed 9 skiers assigns no blame appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A top Iranian national security official delivered a sweeping set of demands Saturday that he said the United States must meet before the Strait of Hormuz can reopen to maritime traffic, throwing the fate of the critical trade waterway into question.

The post Iran issues list of demands, complicating efforts to reopen strait appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Kilauea’s current summit eruption started on Dec. 23, 2024. Fifty-two episodes of lava fountains have happened on average every 11 days, and we still have many questions about this eruptive behavior. Here, we look at lava fountain heights with magma chemistry to better understand what might be controlling the variability in fountain heights.

The post Volcano Watch: Will Kilauea summit lava fountains get taller? Time and chemistry will tell appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

I’ve been traveling to Venice for more than 40 years. On a recent trip to update my guidebook, I had to admit: The city felt different. While still one of Europe’s most romantic and distinctive destinations, globalization and modern life are changing Venice — for better and for worse.

The post Steves: Despite changes, Venice still charms appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Taipei, Aug. 9 (CNA) Taiwan will experience its second annual period of exceptionally high astronomical tides from Tuesday to Saturday, increasing the risk of localized flooding and seawater inundation in low-lying coastal areas, the Central Weather Administration (CWA) said Sunday.

Taipei, Aug. 9 (CNA) Despite pouring rain brought by Typhoon Dolphin, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) inspected troops stationed in northern Taoyuan during the ongoing live-fire segment of the Han Kuang series of exercises on Sunday, as the largest annual drill entered its fifth day.

Kaohsiung, Aug. 9 (CNA) Three Malaysian nationals and one individual from Hong Kong were recently arrested in Kaohsiung after allegedly entering Taiwan as tourists to work as money mules for scam gangs, the Kaohsiung City Police Department's Zuoying Precinct said Sunday.

The Japanese brand that has become well-loved among Filipinos partners with creative director Wilson Limon to introduce handmade patches by Itneg, Panay Bukidnon, and T'boli artisans

Thai police say the boy had used social media to learn how to use a firearm

Taipei, Aug. 9 (CNA) Luke de Pulford, the founder of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), has said the organization is not "anti-China" but instead seeks to help democratic governments develop more realistic policies toward China.

From small gigs across Panay to representing the Philippines in Germany, Sentient Void brings its heavy metal to the Wacken Metal Battle

Tokyo, Aug. 9 (CNA) Taiwan's representative to Japan, Lee Yi-yang (李逸洋), said Sunday that he decided not to attend an annual atomic bombing memorial ceremony in the Japanese city of Nagasaki earlier in the day to protest the labeling of his delegation as an "international nongovernmental organization."

Taipei, Aug. 9 (CNA) The recent introduction of an "embedded reporter" mechanism to Taiwan's largest annual war games is part of ongoing efforts by the Ministry of National Defense (MND) to strike a balance between press freedom and operational security, a defense scholar said Sunday.

Taipei, Aug. 9 (CNA) Typhoon Dolphin is expected to weaken into a strong tropical storm later Sunday as it approaches Taiwan's Matsu Islands, but heavy rainfall will continue to affect northern Taiwan before easing later in the day, the Central Weather Administration (CWA) said.

Taipei, Aug. 9 (CNA) Typhoon Dolphin brought strong winds and heavy rain to northern Taiwan on Sunday, causing hundreds of incidents including fallen trees, damaged structures and power disruptions, while no major disasters were reported.

Sports is never just about sports

Taipei, Aug. 9 (CNA) The lead stories in major Taiwan dailies on Sunday are as follows:

A short comedy filmed across Guam is finding audiences on the festival circuit while its director says the project was shaped as much by the island's creative community as by his own vision.

A former steel worker, Jorge Messi managed his son Lionel Messi's career

(1st UPDATE) Ralph Novero, a music scorer from Pangasinan, mixes cooking and music with a mission not to blend artificial intelligence in songwriting

Government reports also say the heavy rain has left at least 20 road sections cut off and forced hundreds of residents from their homes

PALIKIR, Pohnpei — August 9, 2026 — His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia, administered the oath of office to Vincent M. Tafileluw as Yap State’s representative on the FSM Social Security Board during a ceremony held at the Office of the President on August 4, 2026. Mr. Tafileluw’s swearing-in […]

Career Tech High Academy Charter School has received broad community support for its bid to continue its operations, with plans to further grow its student enrollment.

For the adventurous traveller, finding somewhere genuinely undiscovered has become almost impossible.

About two years ago, the then-governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands predicted that the local economy would finally improve around this time, thanks to his policies. Instead, the economy got worse — much worse.

The expedition, led by National Geographic Pristine Seas in partnership with Samoa’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, will examine marine life in reef, open-ocean and deepwater habitats. Researchers also plan to study areas outside the protected zones to understand how marine ecosystems are connected.

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

That Part 1 of this epic dessert story ended with me at the dinner table on the first evening of my second Greenbrier visit in the '90s as a participant in an executive retreat sponsored by Adventist Healthcare Mid-Atlantic, where I was promoted to vice president.

Taipei, Aug. 8 (CNA) Typhoon Dolphin's outer bands swept across northern Taiwan Saturday, toppling trees and collapsing scaffolding in Taipei and New Taipei, with a woman slightly injured by a fallen fence at a construction site, local authorities said.

Taipei, Aug. 8 (CNA) Typhoon Dolphin is disrupting air and sea transportation, with 81 ferry services on 10 routes suspended Sunday and airlines adjusting or canceling flights, authorities and carriers said Saturday.

The multitalented artist talks about her decision to step into her new persona as Leanne, her work as an actress, and what else she has in store for her fans

Taipei, Aug. 8 (CNA) The Directorate General of Highways (DGH) will close the pedestrian, bicycle and motorcycle lanes of Danjiang Bridge from 9 p.m. Saturday as Typhoon Dolphin approaches Taiwan, with strong winds expected along the northwestern coast early Sunday.

As lofty as the MLB dream may be for Filipinos, 13-year-old Ateneo high school baseball standout Aiden Lazaro looks to be on the right path

Gov. Josh Green announced Thursday that the One ‘Ohana Fund has offered the full $175 million available through the compensation program to families of those who died and people who suffered serious physical injuries in the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires.

The post One ‘Ohana Fund reaches $175M in offers to Maui wildfire victims appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Thousands of Southeast Asians, many of them long spared from deportation since the end of the Vietnam War, are being sent back as part of a Trump administration push.

The post Fled to America at 11. Stole at 18. Deported to Vietnam at 44. appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The labor market posted a modest loss in July, as businesses shed jobs in the face of renewed tariffs and higher costs driven by war in the Middle East.

The post Labor market shifts into reverse as employers balk at hiring appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump cannot continue building the ballroom he planned as a replacement to the East Wing of the White House without explicit approval from Congress, a federal appeals court panel ruled Friday.

The post Appeals court upholds block on Trump ballroom construction appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Senate passed a sweeping new package of sanctions targeting Russia and Iran on Friday, approving a measure aimed at supporting Ukraine in its fight against President Vladimir Putin’s war of aggression.

The post Senate passes sanctions bill targeting Russia and Iran appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

SEOUL, South Korea — Another month, another trade surplus of more than $100 billion for China.

The post China’s export boom rolls on despite trade backlash appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The Trump administration in recent days deported a group of Mexican nationals who had been barred from removal to their home country after proving to an immigration court that they would likely face torture, according to two people with knowledge of the move.

The post Trump officials deport group of Mexicans despite torture risk appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The bodies of more than 50 people were found decomposing in an unrefrigerated area of a Chicago funeral home run by a couple who previously operated a crematory that was shut down over similar allegations, authorities said.

The post More than 50 decomposing bodies are found in a Chicago funeral home appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Flying in a P-38 Lightning fighter plane, eventually named “Marge” after his sweetheart back home, Maj. Richard Bong shot down more planes than any other American in World War II.

The post Piece of plane flown by World War II flying ace finally comes home appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — Across Puerto Rico, residents are being forced to forgo showers and housecleaning.

The post Puerto Rico will begin rationing water amid fresh crisis appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

BANGKOK — The boy brandished a handgun on his Instagram account around Songkran, the Thai New Year, which is celebrated every April.

The post Boy kills grandparents and then five teachers, Thai authorities say appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

If you were stranded on a small tropical island and you could only have one specie of tree, what would you choose?

The post Tropical Gardening: Why are coconut palms important? appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Taipei, Aug. 8 (CNA) State-owned oil supplier CPC Corp., Taiwan, announced Saturday that it will leave domestic retail gasoline and diesel prices unchanged next week.

Jollibee’s North American boom shows how Filipino food and culture are finding a bigger audience beyond the diaspora

Eligible Singapore Airlines customers, and KrisFlyer or Mastercard users get special dining deals

Taipei, Aug. 8 (CNA) Typhoon Dolphin is expected to move closest to Taiwan Saturday afternoon through Sunday before continuing west toward China, with the likelihood of a land warning for Taiwan proper now ruled out, the Central Weather Administration (CWA) said Saturday.

Taipei, Aug. 8 (CNA) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) on Saturday said it is negotiating with Uganda after reports that two Taiwanese nationals faced separate entry and passport issues in the East African country.

Taipei, Aug. 8 (CNA) Amid optimism over long-term AI development, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) has forecast that the current momentum seen in Taiwan's exports will continue into the second half of this year, with the total value expected to surpass US$850 billion in 2026.

Kaohsiung, Aug. 8 (CNA) President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Saturday boarded a domestically developed missile boat as he inspected a coastal defense exercise simulating efforts to repel an incursion by Chinese warships.

New Delhi, Aug. 7 (CNA) Taiwan has sent 10 search-and-rescue personnel to Turkey to participate in joint field exercises on swift-water rescue and drone operations at the invitation of the country's Search and Rescue Association (AKUT).

Unflinching and raw, this Bicol theater festival uses culinary metaphors to expose bitter realities in some of the region’s provinces

Taipei, Aug. 8 (CNA) The lead stories in major Taiwan dailies on Saturday are as follows:

In a 2024 study, roughly 1 in 100 taxi and ambulance drivers died of Alzheimer’s, compared with 1 in 60 people overall. The probable reason? The continuous real-time mental navigation the drivers experience.

Taipei, Aug. 8 (CNA) Taiwan's Solomon Technology Corp. is expanding its artificial intelligence-powered systems for humanoid robots, with chairman Johnny Chen (陳政隆) saying the company aims to address one of the biggest hurdles to wider adoption -- machine perception.

A recap of news, sports, lifestyle, entertainment, and human interest images from the Philippines and around the globe

Taipei, Aug. 8 (CNA) Starlux Airlines said Saturday it had canceled all flights between Taiwan and Okinawa for the day due to Typhoon Dolphin.

The conference featured strategic sessions focused on leadership development, student success, institutional effectiveness and emerging challenges in higher education.

The post New UH Mānoa leaders share vision at Leading with Excellence conference first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Taipei, Aug. 8 (CNA) Typhoon Dolphin is expected to move closest to Taiwan Saturday night or Sunday, according to the Central Weather Administration (CWA).

In July, Google and Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori (the Māori Language Commission) launched a model to help Google Maps correctly pronounce te reo Māori place names.

Qualifying kapa haka representing 13 different regions have been allocated slots across four performance pools.

Decorated alumna QiongJie (Huang) Drew rejoins UH’s swimming and diving program.

The post UH athletics great returns as men’s and women’s diving coach first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Deputy Director of Public Works Falava’i Taase told a Senate hearing Friday that what people are calling speed bumps, installed in front of Manumalo Academy, SPICC and Matafao Elementary are not speed bumps but raised crosswalks. And

The Pacific Center for Human Security’s inclusive-Emergency Management (iEM) Cohort recently embarked on a three-week immersive educational experience in Hawaiʻi, designed to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities that bridge classroom instruction with real-world emergency management practice.

The Vulcans earned the award after completing more than 637 hours of community service.

The post UH Hilo women’s soccer earns PacWest community award first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

A former member of the House of Representatives, Mrs Fialupe Felila Fiaui-Lutu passed away at the LBJ Hospital Thursday. She was elected in 2017 as the faipule for District No 5. Sua #1 in a special election,

President Trump has issued a new executive order targeting birthright citizenship, which, among other things, focuses on the question of citizenship for anyone “born in a territory … of the United States.” It specifically targets anyone born

The United States is continuing to support Samoa’s efforts to strengthen tsunami preparedness, helping coastal communities improve their ability to respond to future tsunami threats. Experts from the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) International Tsunami

When people look at the map of the Pacific Ocean, they see isolation. Tiny islands appear as scattered dots separated by thousands of miles of open water. It’s easy to imagine that ancient Pacific Islanders lived in small, disconnected communities with little contact beyond their own shores.

Journalists and analysts look ahead to the General Election once votes in the Primary are counted.

The post 2026 General Election Preview INSIGHTS on PBS HAWAIʻI appeared first on PBS Hawai‘i.

At least 70 ships remain trapped in the Persian Gulf nearly six months into the Iran-U.S. conflict with more ships now being stalled after the ceasefire between the countries broke down. The memorandum of understanding implemented from June 18 to July 8 between Tehran and Washington created the opportunity for many of the stranded ships to finally exit the Persian Gulf after being stuck for months, Bridget Diakun, maritime intelligence and research director with London-based Lloyd’s List Intelligence, said during a Thursday webinar. However, not all were able to escape before the ceasefire was called off. Of the approximately 70

 The following is a summary of major ship movements and exercises in the Western Pacific over the last week. In the South China Sea Aircraft Carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73) is back in the South China Sea following a port visit to Da Nang, Vietnam, according to a post on the carrier’s social media page. The George Washington Carrier Strike Group includes George Washington and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, cruiser USS Robert Smalls (CG-62) and destroyers USS Shoup (DDG-86) and USS Benfold (DDG-65). Benfold did not accompany the CSG when it pulled into Da Nang on July

By

Samoa News staff

reporters@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — "Don't Mine the Moana" is a powerful rallying cry and peaceful protest movement led by Indigenous Pacific Islanders, environmental groups like Greenpeace, and organizations such as Finafinau.

They are fighting against commercial deep-sea mining across the Pacific Ocean ("moana").

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By

Samoa News staff

reporters@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Last month a local student and teacher pair —  Jaceyline Foketi Siliva and Ms. Grace Alesana from Manumalo Academy — represented American Samoa as one of 27 teams from across the US and the world to participate in the third annual Young People's Continental Congress, a joint program during National History Day (NHD).  The event appropriately took place in Philadelphia from July 19 to 25, at Carpenters’ Hall, the home of the nation’s First Continental Congress in 1774.

The Young People’s Continental Congress brought together 27 student-teacher teams from across the country in a study of America’s founding era and democratic ideals and to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. This year’s delegates represent diverse communities across the United States, including American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and Department of Defense (DoDEA) schools in the Netherlands and Puerto Rico.

In preparation for the summer institute, student-teacher teams completed online learning modules throughout spring 2026 on the First Continental Congress and how our founding ideals evolved throughout U.S. history. Once in Philadelphia, teams experienced a week of special programming, including field learning opportunities at Carpenters’ Hall, Independence National Historical Park, the National Constitution Center, the Museum of the American Revolution, and the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. During sessions with lead historians and museum professionals, students and teachers participated in discussions about how the ideals of the founding era have continued to be debated and refined over the last 250 years.

Delegates then co-created and signed a joint declaration of their aspirations for American democracy, just as their historical counterparts issued the Declaration of Colonial Rights and the Declaration of Independence.

“Programs like the Young People’s Continental Congress are fundamental to fostering intergenerational dialogue and much-needed discussions of democratic aspirations from diverse perspectives,” said NHD Executive Director, Dr. Cathy Gorn. “This fantastic group of students and teachers is a reminder of hope for the future, that the next generation is eager to learn about our revolutionary history, reflect on its legacy, and become thoughtful, engaged citizens in the process.”

“It’s so inspiring to watch our young delegates step up to embrace their role as citizens and find their voices,” said Carpenters’ Hall Executive Director, Michael Norris. “This Declaration of Aspirations is also a powerful way for us to remind policymakers and elected officials that young people care deeply about this country and want to be involved in strengthening our democracy.”

Congratulations to all the students and teacher teams who participated in the 2026 Young People’s Continental Congress.

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NATIONAL HISTORY DAY

The OCCAR-EA Director, the Chief Executive Officer of EUROSAM GIE, and the Chief Executive Officer of NAVIRIS have signed Amendment No. 2 to the Horizon Mid-Life-Upgrade (MLU) contract. OCCAR press release This amendment incorporates the contractual, technical and commercial updates required to support the next phase of the Horizon MLU Programme and to ensure the ...

The post OCCAR signs Horizon Mid-Life-Upgrade Contract Amendment No. 2 appeared first on Naval News.

The following is the Aug. 5, 2026, “Warrior Ethos” message to the fleet from the Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao. From the Report CLASSIFICATION: UNCLASSIFIED/ FM SECNAV WASHINGTON DC ALNAV 047/26 MSGID/GENADMIN/SECNAV WASHINGTON DC/-/AUG// SUBJ/WARRIOR ETHOS// RMKS/1. The bedrock of the Navy and Marine Corps is our Warrior Ethos, and its direct relationship to good order and discipline forge these principles into the foundation of our lethality as a naval force. We must recognize the urgency for an immediate re-evaluation of our attention to basic military standards, appearance, and professionalism across the Department. **************************************** The Services must prioritize

Taipei, Aug. 7 (CNA) Japanese film director Hiroyuki Tanaka, known professionally as Sabu, said Friday he was deeply touched that the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) had selected his Taiwan-Japan co-production Arrested Memory (狂忘警探) for this year's event.

Taipei, Aug. 7 (CNA) A Taiwanese national living and teaching in China has been detained since May, possibly for religious reasons, Luo Wen‑jia (羅文嘉), secretary‑general of the semi‑official Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF), said Friday.

Today’s headlines: Legarda & Leviste, Bong Revilla, Alex Eala

Hsinchu, Aug. 7 (CNA) Hsinchu Air Force Base on Friday carried out comprehensive drills involving Mirage 2000 fighter jets, simulating the sequence from an enemy airstrike to a counteroffensive.

Taipei, Aug. 7 (CNA) New U.S. trade measures covering imports of polysilicon and related products are expected to have only a limited impact on Taiwan's solar manufacturers, according to industry representatives.

Taipei, Aug. 7 (CNA) Robust demand for AI applications boosted Taiwan's exports by almost 33 percent from a year earlier in July as electronic component sales hit a fresh high, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) said Friday.

Taipei, Aug. 7 (CNA) Minister of Culture Li Yuan (李遠) said Friday that he will recommend that President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) issue a posthumous citation honoring publishing pioneer Charles Kao (高希均), who died Thursday at the age of 90.

Samsung’s latest foldables are out, our first impressions are in

SEC Chair Francis Lim tells Rappler that the regulator has no intention of retreating

Pacific Islands Forum foreign ministers failed to agree on a unified statement against China after it fired a nuclear-capable missile into Pacific waters.

Taipei, Aug. 7 (CNA) The Ministry of the Interior (MOI) petitioned the Constitutional Court on Friday to dissolve the pro-China Chinese Unification Promotion Party (CUPP), citing alleged threats to national security and Taiwan's democratic constitutional order.

Taipei, Aug. 7 (CNA) Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) inspected an urban resilience drill in Kaohsiung Friday, saying the exercise was designed to test Taiwan's ability to maintain essential operations and coordinate resources during high-pressure situations.

A 25-year-old Hilo man has been indicted by a grand jury in connection with a Feb. 19, 2025, homicide in Hilo.

The post Hilo man indicted, charged with second-degree murder appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Two months into the Atlantic hurricane season, the United States has largely been spared, with only two storms, Arthur and Bertha, having grown strong enough to merit official names. That’s about what meteorologists expected when they said this year’s hurricane season would probably see fewer storms than most other seasons.

The post In a hurricane-season twist, the West Coast may be the one to watch appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

President Donald Trump signed two executive orders on Thursday in a new but narrower attempt to curtail birthright citizenship, once again challenging a provision of the U.S. Constitution even though the Supreme Court rejected his previous effort.

The post Trump signs orders to limit US birthright citizenship, despite Supreme Court ruling appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is reviewing FEMA-­funded COVID-19 work that has been tied to the public corruption indictment of Hawaii Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and four others, and the agency said it may seek repayment or other enforcement actions if it finds improper spending.

The post FEMA reviews Hawaii’s COVID funding after Sylvia Luke indictment appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The inaugural flight of Southwest Airline’s new direct route between Las Vegas and Hilo touched down Thursday at the Hilo International Airport.

The post Southwest Airlines kicks off new nonstop flight between Hilo and the ‘Ninth Island’ appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Erlinda Ganal Alejandro, 77, of Kapaau died July 20 at home. Born in Barangay No.6, Sarrat, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, she was a retired pantry worker at Waikoloa Beach Marriott. All-night vigil at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 21, at 53-3980 S. Kahiwa Pl. in Kapaau. Visitation at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 22, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hawi, with Mass at 10 a.m. Burial to follow at the church cemetery. Casual attire. Flowers welcome. Survived by her daughter, Joycelyn (Joseph) Antonio of Kohala; sons, Jordan (Ronalyn) Alejandro of Kohala and Brian Alejandro of Kohala; stepdaughters, Andrea (Patrick) Brannigan of Kohala and Loretta (Moises) Alejandro of Naples, Fla.; sister, Imelda Hermano of Kohala; grandchildren, great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Arrangements by Dodo Mortuary, Inc. – Kona.

The post Obituaries for August 7 appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Puerto Rico to begin water rationing due to intense drought

The post News in brief for August 7 appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — With President Donald Trump’s war against Iran now in its sixth month, this week’s flurry of threats and diplomacy has underscored the ever-tighter bind he finds himself in as he tries to extricate the U.S. from an unpopular conflict he originally claimed would last just weeks.

The post Trump’s Iran dilemma: He’s stuck in war with no exit in sight appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — In one courtroom after another, federal judges have accused President Donald Trump’s Justice Department of an extraordinary spate of misconduct, including making false statements, failing to comply with court orders and improperly using the legal system to harass political opponents.

The post At Trump’s DOJ, watchdogs gutted as misconduct complaints soar appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — A former U.S. Marine jailed in Russia since 2022 and allegedly tortured and injected with mind-altering drugs, slipped into a stupor in June and may be close to death, according to two hostage advocacy groups and his sister.

The post Jailed ex-US Marine may be near death in Russia, sister, advocacy groups say appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — The White House on Thursday imposed a series of price floors and a 15% tariff on products made from polysilicon, the raw material used in semiconductors and solar panels that is primarily produced by China.

The post Trump unveils trade actions to compete with China on solar and chips appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Toxic air from dozens of wildfires burning in the Pacific Northwest gave skies over the region an orange hue in recent days and made going outside a miserable and potentially dangerous experience. Across Oregon and Washington, people closed their windows tightly to prevent wildfire smoke from entering their homes, donned masks for exercise and yardwork and hit refresh on air quality apps.

The post ‘Our new reality’: Wildfire smoke fills skies over the Pacific Northwest appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Police Department’s Hilo Community Policing Section and the Hawaii Police Activities League, or HI-PAL, would like to congratulate the winners and participants of the annual Blue Light Fishing Tournament held on Tuesday, July 14, at the Kealoha Beach Park (“Four Mile”) in Hilo.

The post HPD’s keiki fishing tournament deemed a success appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The Senate Homeland Security Committee voted along party lines Thursday to hold Dr. Anthony Fauci in contempt of Congress for his refusal to answer questions at a hearing last week, clearing the way for the committee to ask the Justice Department to prosecute him.

The post Senate panel votes to hold Fauci in contempt of Congress appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Between 1878 and 1911, nearly 16,000 Portuguese immigrants — mainly from the Madeira and Azore islands — arrived in Hawaii to work the sugarcane fields, with the settlers described as “sober, honest, industrious and peaceable.”

The post Public invited to staged historical reading about Portuguese appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County will be holding free Household Hazardous Waste collection events between 7:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on the following dates and locations:

The post County hosts free Household Hazardous Waste events appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

KAWAIHAE — The Pu‘ukohola Heiau National Historic Site on Saturday, Aug. 15, and Sunday, Aug. 16, will celebrate its 54th anniversary as a unit of the National Park Service with Ho‘oku‘ikahi i Pu‘ukohola, the park’s annual Establishment Day Hawaiian Cultural Festival.

The post Hawaiian cultural festival set for Kawaihae appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Brussels, Aug. 7 (CNA) A retrospective film festival featuring all but one of the films in the catalogue of award-winning Taiwanese director Edward Yang (楊德昌) will open in Brussels on Aug. 13 and run for three weeks until Sept. 3.

There is no statement or interview on record where Sotto urged the Senate to disregard impeachment trial rules to have Duterte convicted immediately

By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (August 6, 2026)— Citizens and residents of Palau are turning out in large numbers at the Palau Civic Center in Koror to take advantage of free dental services provided by U.S. Marine Corps dentists participating in Exercise Koa Moana 26. The Dental Civic Action Program, or DENCAP, is offering free […]

The post Community turnout surges for free dental services during Koa Moana 26 appeared first on Island Times News.

By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang  Koror, Palau (August 6, 2026) – The Office of the President has recommended Airai as the site for the new Belau National Hospital, a decision that members of Congress are contesting. The site-selection study was conducted by Hawaii Architects Ltd., a Honolulu-based multidisciplinary design firm, with funding from the U.S. Trade […]

The post Office of President recommends Airai for new Belau National Hospital appeared first on Island Times News.

By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang KOROR, Palau (August 6, 2026)— Three assistant attorneys general are currently engaged in private legal practice while working for the government, under contracts that allow them to do so, Attorney General Ernestine Rengiil said Wednesday. Rengiil’s comments came after the issue was raised during the Senate’s fourth day of its seventh […]

The post Attorney General Confirms Three AAGs Hold Private Legal Practices Under Contracts appeared first on Island Times News.

By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (August 6, 2026)— The Office of Capital Infrastructure Projects, which oversees the implementation of public infrastructure projects, has clarified information published in the July 31, 2026, edition of Island Times regarding a damaged sewage pipeline in Malakal. The CIP said the article, titled “Broken Sewage Pipeline Beneath Minatobashi Bridge Prompts […]

The post CIP clarifies damaged sewage pipeline in Malakal appeared first on Island Times News.

Taipei, Aug. 7 (CNA) Shares in Taiwan closed lower Friday as the market fell into consolidation mode after a recent wild swing amid concerns over massive spending on AI infrastructure, dealers said.

By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang Koror, Palau (August 6, 2026) — The Office of the Attorney General is preparing to provide the public with on-site access to Palau’s sex offender registry, marking the first step in implementing a law enacted more than a decade ago. Attorney General Ernestine Rengiil said the office has purchased a computer […]

The post AG’s Office moves to open public access to Palau sex offender registry appeared first on Island Times News.

By Laurel Marewibuel KOROR, Palau — President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. called for greater protection of the deep ocean and renewed Palau’s push for a moratorium and precautionary pause on deep-sea mining during an address to the International Seabed Authority in Jamaica on July 30. “The deep ocean is our common heritage, not a new […]

The post Whipps urges deep-sea mining pause at ISA meeting in Jamaica appeared first on Island Times News.

By: L.N. Reklai GUAM — Palau’s men’s and women’s national volleyball teams are off to a strong start at the 2026 Oceania Volleyball Championships, with the women’s team winning both of its opening matches and the men’s team securing its first victory Wednesday. Palau’s women defeated the Cook Islands 3-0 on Wednesday, Aug. 5, following […]

The post Palau Men’s and Women’s Volleyball Teams Earn Four Wins at 2026 Oceania Championships in Guam appeared first on Island Times News.

July 31, 2026 – On Friday, Dr. Kristen Decina, the Veterinarian from the Osebelel a Charm Animal Care and Learning Center, donated a DATAMARS microchip scanner to the Division of Biosecurity. The scanner will assist Biosecurity Officers in verifying the identification and health information of dogs and cats, including vaccination and immunization records. The donation […]

The post Osebelel a Charm Animal Care and Learning Center Donates Microchip Scanner to the Division of Biosecurity appeared first on Island Times News.

Taipei, Aug. 7 (CNA) Trading in shares of contract chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) during the latest market intervention helped Taiwan's National Financial Stabilization Fund earn about NT$7.7 billion (US$239 million), according to figures released by the fund Thursday.

In a landmark trilateral collaboration, the Taiwan Technical Mission (TTM), in partnership with the Palau Community Action Agency (PCAA) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), hosted the nation’s first-ever “School Chef Cooking Competition” on July 28, 2026. The event aimed to elevate the quality of school meals and promote the integration of locally grown […]

The post Taiwan Technical Mission, PCAA, and JICA Join Forces for Historic School Chef Cooking Competition appeared first on Island Times News.

Indonesia officially began the physical construction of its first Scorpène Evolved submarine on 7 August, with a first steel-cutting ceremony at PT PAL Indonesia’s shipyard in Surabaya City, East Java. The submarine is expected to be delivered in 2032. The ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Indonesian Navy, PT PAL, Naval Group, and ...

The post PT PAL Cuts First Steel for Indonesia’s Scorpène Evolved Submarine appeared first on Naval News.

KUALA LUMPUR, 04 AUGUST 2026 (AP) — The head of U.S Pacific Command said Monday that coercive actions by China and other actors are challenging regional stability, warning the United States will not allow any nation to dominate the Indo-Pacific.  Admiral Samuel Paparo said some actors were using “false claims of legitimacy” to justify intimidation […]

The post Top U.S admiral warns against coercion, says no nation will dominate Indo-Pacific appeared first on Island Times News.

SUVA, 05 AUGUST 2026 (PACNEWS/PIFS)—The Pre-Forum Officials Committee (FOC) Meeting has begun, bringing together senior government officials to discuss key governance issues for the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat and review progress on regional priorities under the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.  The meeting is being chaired by the newly appointed FOC Chair and […]

The post Pacific preparations underway ahead of Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau appeared first on Island Times News.

WELLINGTON, 06 AUGUST 2026 (PMN) — Opposition parties say Winston Peters can no longer serve as New Zealand’s Foreign Minister after telling Green MP Lawrence Xu-Nan to “go back to your own country”.  The opposition warns the remarks risk damaging relations with one of New Zealand’s biggest trading partners and a key Pacific partner.  The […]

The post Calls growing to sack Winston Peters after his ‘go back to your own country’ remarks to NZ MP appeared first on Island Times News.

GENEVA, 05 AUGUST 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) —Disruption in the Strait of Hormuz has exposed the vulnerability of global trade to a single maritime chokepoint, with early data showing sharp falls in exports of energy, fertilisers and industrial products.   Exports of natural gas dropped by a staggering 95 percent.    The finding comes in analysis published […]

The post Strait of Hormuz disruption hits energy, fertiliser and industrial trade appeared first on Island Times News.

TAIPEI, 06 AUGUST 2026 (AFP)—Taiwan’s largest military drills of the year began Wednesday as the island democracy attempts to prepare its population for a potential Chinese invasion.  The annual “Han Kuang” exercise, which runs from 05-14 August, stages combat scenarios for troops and reservists to practise responding to an attack on the island, defence officials […]

The post Taiwan launches annual war games as pressure from China grows appeared first on Island Times News.

By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang NGARDMAU, Palau (August 4, 2026) — A chief’s move to block access to the popular Ngardmau Waterfall on July 25 has reignited a long-running land dispute between the Ngedilingel clan and the state government, temporarily disrupting tourist access to the site known locally as Taki. Uormersai Johnny Tudong, chief of the […]

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Taipei, Aug. 7 (CNA) The U.S. dollar rose against the Taiwan dollar Friday, gaining NT$0.027 to close at NT$32.288.

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A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

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By

Asi Andrew Fa'asau

andrew@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Many residents of Manu‘a are only now learning that they are collectively entitled to benefit from lease payments generated by businesses operating on the trust land in Atu‘u — property formally placed under a 1911 indenture by Paramount Chief Mauga Moimoi of Pago Pago.

In a meeting held last Friday the Manu‘a community discussed what steps they will need to take to make sure the oversight of the Atu‘u trust land and future lease payments are handled transparently and in accordance with the 1911 indenture.

The parcel of land in question is located directly across from Samoa Packing and it belongs to the Paramount Chief Mauga of Pago Pago. Records from the Registrar’s Office confirm that an indenture — a formal, legally binding agreement — was executed in 1911 by PC Mauga Moimoi, his wife Faapio, and then Manu‘a District Governor Tufele of Si‘ufaga, Manu‘a.

The indenture designates Tufele "as Trustee for the People of Manu‘a, (receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged) do by those presents grant, bargain, sell, convey and confirm unto the said party of the second part, as Trustee for the People of Manua, and to his successors and assigns forever, all that part or parcel of land situated in the village of Pago Pago, Tutuila, and known as the land Atu‘u… To have and to hold, all and singular, the above‑mentioned and described premises, together with the appurtenances, unto the said party of the second part, his successors or assigns IN TRUST, for the USE and BENEFIT of the People of Manu‘a.”

According to Land Commission Chairman Taesali Matagi, the indenture was originally executed by PC Mauga Moimoi to ensure that people from Manu‘a had land to reside on in Tutuila while working and supporting their families back home.

Over time, however, some Manu‘a residents who were assigned parcels under the trust arrangement began leasing those lands to foreign‑owned businesses and receiving monetary payments as lessors directly. This is a practice that continues to raise questions about who is the lessor and who is the lessee, and whether such private leasing aligns with the original intent of the 1911 trust agreement.

Taesali, who also serves as the Eastern District Governor’s representative on the Zoning Board, told Samoa News that the matter surfaced during a recent ZB meeting, where members reviewed several applications for commercial land lease variances bearing signatures of individuals other than the designated Trust Administrator. According to Taesali, board members questioned whether such private leasing aligns with the 1911 indenture that placed the land “in trust, for the use and benefit of the People of Manu‘a.”

The disclosure prompted board members to question how long private lease arrangements have been occurring, who authorized them, and whether the revenue has been flowing to the rightful beneficiaries under the trust.

Taesali said the permit review quickly evolved into a broader inquiry into the administration of trust land, leading to last Friday’s meeting where Manu‘a District Governor Poumele Apisa Galea'i, matai and residents scrutinized the implications of the indenture and the responsibilities of those occupying or managing parcels today.

Taesali, who convened the discussion, said the revelations surrounding private lease arrangements on trust land have prompted a wave of questions from residents who were never informed of their collective entitlement. The meeting, he noted, marked the first time many Manu‘a families had been formally briefed on the indenture’s terms and the trustee structure that governs the land today.

“Several people thanked me for raising this important issue and enlightening them about their entitlement,” he revealed, noting that many did not know the specific terms of the 1911 indenture or the communal rights it established. “They told me they were completely unaware of the trust language and what it meant for them as beneficiaries.”

He added that the lack of awareness may not have been accidental. “I suspect the people who were benefitting from lease payments knew,” he said, “but didn’t want to disclose those details. Others may have known but didn't want to rock the boat because of family ties, or they were receiving some sort of compensation on the side.”

Taesali noted that it has now been 115 years since the indenture — a formal, legally binding agreement — was executed in 1911 and established a communal ownership structure intended to protect Manu‘a families working and residing in Tutuila.

Yet despite the clarity of the trust language, Taesali said the leasing of Atu‘u trust land to foreign businesses began in the 1970s, creating a half‑century pattern in which individuals — not the Manu‘a community as a whole — received lease payments.

“That’s fifty years of people benefiting privately from land that was supposed to be held in trust for everyone in Manu‘a,” he said, adding that the long‑standing practice has diverted revenue away from the beneficiaries the indenture was designed to protect.

The timeline, he emphasized, shows how far the administration of the trust has drifted from its original intent, and why a full review of the trust’s management is now urgently needed.

Taesali told participants at last Friday’s meeting that the Manu‘a community must take immediate steps to reclaim oversight of the Atu‘u trust land and ensure that future lease payments are handled transparently and in accordance with the 1911 indenture.

He advised the group to establish a committee dedicated to monitoring and managing a trust fund sourced from Atu‘u lease revenues. The committee, he said, should include representatives from every Manu‘a village and be chaired by the Manu‘a District Governor, who would serve as the Trustee — or Lessor — of the Atu‘u trust land.

Taesali explained that this structure is both practical and historically consistent, noting that the Tufele title has remained vacant since the passing of Tufele Li‘amatua Tufele, leaving the District Governor as the most appropriate figure to assume trustee responsibilities under the indenture.

Taesali said he also urged the group to retain an attorney to handle the legal aspects of reorganizing the trust’s administration. He reminded attendees that Manu‘a has sons and daughters who are certified lawyers and suggested former Lt. Governor La‘apui E.V. Ale, who is also a matai from Manu‘a. His recommendation, however, was met with resistance. Former Police Commissioner Ta‘aga Saite Moliga objected, arguing that La‘apui was currently at odds with their village council and was not officially recognized.

Taesali said he clarified the matter by reminding the group that the Atu‘u trust land does not belong to any single village — it belongs to all the people of Manu‘a. “This is not a village issue,” he told them. “This is a Manu‘a issue.”

(Of note, La‘apui arrived at the meeting only moments later — just as the discussion had shifted to the second major issue under scrutiny that morning: the potential impacts of deep‑sea mining on the islands and residents of Manu‘a.)

Regarding the Atu‘u land trust, Taesali reiterated that the issue is fundamentally a moral failure — one that has persisted for decades because no one was willing to confront it or expose what was happening. He said that during a recent Zoning Board review of an application to renew a commercial land‑lease variance, one of the applicants disclosed that the current lease rate was $3,000 a month.

“That’s $36,000 a year,” Taesali calculated. “And this has been going on for decades. It is clear the people of Manu‘a are missing out on a significant amount of money owed to them because of selfish individuals who are pocketing funds that do not belong to them, and spineless people who refuse to speak up because of personal connections.”

Taesali said that as a member of the Zoning Board, he will formally advise the board in writing to defer any decision on the commercial land‑leasing application involving the Atu‘u trust land until the matter is properly reviewed and the trust’s beneficiaries are protected.

Taesali, whose father is from Faleasao, said the issue carries personal weight for him. He told Samoa News that the people of Manu‘a have been denied benefits they are rightfully entitled to for far too long, and he intends to “do the right thing” by ensuring the trust is finally administered as intended.

“This land was set aside for our people,” he said, “and the benefits were meant to support all of Manu‘a, not just a few individuals.”

Manu‘a District Governor Poumele Apisa Galea‘i echoed Taesali’s sentiments, stressing that the Atu‘u trust arrangement is not simply a historical artifact but a legally binding agreement that continues to dictate how the land must be administered today.

Poumele announced that the issue will be formally discussed — with hopes of reaching a consensus on the next plan of action — at a meeting scheduled for August 14, 2026.

He said the upcoming session will bring Manu‘a leadership together to determine how the Atu‘u trust should be administered moving forward and how lease revenues should be safeguarded for the rightful beneficiaries.

BACKGROUND

Samoa News should point out that a court case in 1988, concerning the scope of the authority vested in the Trustee as per the 1911 Warranty Deed, made several key findings:

1 — The deed from Mauga Moimoi to “Tufele and his successors or assigns” created a valid trust for the use and benefit of the people of Manu‘a; and,

2 — Trusteeship follows the matai title — The trusteeship automatically devolves to each successive holder of the Tufele matai title, not to the heirs or estate of any individual titleholder.

As noted, the Tufele title has remained vacant since the passing of Tufele Li‘amatua Tufele. Whether the Atu’u trusteeship can now be assigned to another ‘authority’ is in question.

Section:

Local News

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Atu’u trust land

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U.S. health authorities have widened their probe into a cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce from central Mexico after detecting cases in six additional states, raising the total to 15 states, according to a source familiar with the matter.

The post US cyclosporiasis probe linked to lettuce widens to 15 states, source says appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A military helicopter carrying President Donald Trump came within less than a mile of a passenger jet above Washington on Tuesday after garbled communications between his crew and air traffic controllers in Ronald Reagan National Airport’s tower delayed the controllers from clearing nearby air traffic, according to two people familiar with federal officials’ initial assessment.

The post Helicopter carrying Trump flies near passenger jet in Washington airspace appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — The U.S. is pressing ahead with talks on allowing Ukraine to make Patriot interceptor missiles, which Kyiv urgently wants to defend against Russian attacks, even after President Donald Trump cast doubt on such a deal, four sources familiar with the discussions said.

The post US presses on with Ukraine Patriot missile talks, sources say, despite Trump’s doubts appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Across system loss, rooftop solar, nuclear power, and renewable energy auctions, many hard questions remain — especially about who pays and whether government can turn policy into action

Comelec clarified that the P50 million donation from the Dasmariñas City government is intended to provide additional funds for the conduct of the special election for Cavite's 4th District representative

Boeing and Northrop Grumman achieved manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) between the P-8A Poseidon and MQ-4C Triton to advance maritime patrol capabilities. Boeing press release Boeing and Northrop Grumman successfully simulated teaming between a manned P-8A Poseidon and unmanned MQ-4C Triton, demonstrating how the platforms can share intelligence, mission planning and execution. This jointly funded technology collaboration ...

The post Boeing and Northrop Grumman Successfully Simulate P-8A Poseidon and MQ-4C Triton Teaming appeared first on Naval News.

The two-week Climate Art Seminar: Loss and Damage ended last Friday with a Showcase Night. The seminar and the closing program were sponsored by the youth NGO Jo-Jikum. During the event, the youth participants shared their artwork and performances about climate change, adaptation, and Marshallese culture. Families, partners, stakeholders, and community members came to support […]

The post Creative climate action appeared first on The Marshall Islands Journal.

Taipei, Aug. 6 (CNA) The U.S. dollar fell against the Taiwan dollar Thursday, shedding NT$0.054 to close at NT$32.261.

Taipei, Aug. 6 (CNA) The Cabinet on Thursday passed draft amendments to a law that would add tsunamis and barrier lake breaches to the list of legally defined natural disasters and designate the central government agencies responsible for handling them.

North Korea has supplied Russia with millions of artillery and mortar rounds, ballistic missiles, long-range artillery and multiple-launch rocket systems, according to Ukrainian and independent assessments

Thursday, August 06, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - According to AccuWeather, the weather forecast for tomorrow is partly cloudy with isolated showers. Temperatures are expected to be as high as 87 degrees and as low as 78 degrees. The rainfall percentage is expected to be 55%. According to the Yap Weather Services Office, Tomorrow's tide schedule is as follows: the first high tide will be at 12:56 AM, reaching approximately 6.02 feet. This will be followed by a low tide at 8:07 AM, with a height...

Tokyo, Aug. 6 (CNA) A Taiwanese delegation led by Taiwan's representative to Japan, Lee Yi-yang (李逸洋), joined representatives from 121 countries and regions at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony on Thursday.

Thursday, August 06, 2026/// DYCA PIO Yap FM - Last Wednesday, July 29, the Department of Resources and Development – Marine Resources Management Division (MRMD), in partnership with OneReef and MiCOAST partner cChange International, hosted a two-day Strategic Communications for Scaling Natural Resources Management workshop at the Small Business Development Center in Yap, beginning at 9:00 a.m. The workshop brought together stakeholders to strengthen strategic communication efforts in support...

Thursday, August 06, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - Yap Communicable Disease Report for Epidemiological Week 31, covering the period of July 27–August 02, 2026. This report presents a comprehensive overview of syndromic trends and activities from 23 sentinel sites across the state, including laboratory‑confirmed cases, public health updates, and recommendations. Total Encounters: 580 patient encounters were reported across 23 sentinel sites, with Alert on Dengue Like Illness this week. Dengue...

Taipei, Aug. 6 (CNA) A lawyer and a vaccine broker were recently indicted by the Taichung District Prosecutors' Office for defrauding Taiwan's Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation out of US$30 million by falsely claiming they could procure COVID-19 vaccines.

Long-time PSE broker directors Eddie Gobing and Vivian Yuchengco want the SEC to stop implementing a May 21 circular on term limits

Taipei, Aug. 6 (CNA) President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) took part in an anti-decapitation drill late Wednesday involving military armored vehicles in response to a simulated People's Liberation Army (PLA) strike targeting Taiwan's head of state.

If Sara Duterte cannot be trusted with hundreds of millions of pesos, on what conceivable basis should the public conclude that she can be trusted with a national treasury measured in trillions?

Taipei, Aug. 6 (CNA) Taiwan shares ended down 214.90 points, or 0.48 percent, at 44,396.70 Thursday on turnover of NT$940.39 billion (US$29.20 billion).

PALIKIR, Pohnpei — August 6, 2026 — His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), has vetoed Congressional Act No. 24-119 and Congressional Act No. 24-103, returning both measures to the Twenty-Fourth Congress with veto messages explaining the constitutional, legal, fiscal, and policy considerations underlying each decision. In his veto […]

Enrolled Māori voters wanting to switch between electoral rolls have until midnight to decide before this year's election.

The mother of one of the climbers says the boys are recovering at home - and already planning their next trip.

One professor says Māori place names have been "bastardised" for years, and AI tools may start correcting that.

The RMI Embassy in Taipei was pleased to attend the Residency Program Completion and White Coat Ceremony honoring Dr. Francis Hicking at Shuang Ho Hospital last week. Ambassador Anjanette Kattil attended the ceremony alongside the Wilbur Heine, Chairman of the Nitijela Health, Education, and Social Affairs Committee. Nitijela Member from Kwajalein Irooj Drile Kabua also […]

The post New RMI doctor appeared first on The Marshall Islands Journal.

Taipei, Aug. 6 (CNA) The U.S. dollar was traded at NT$32.210 at 10 a.m. Thursday on the Taipei Foreign Exchange, down NT$0.105 from the previous close.

Taipei, Aug. 6 (CNA) The lead stories in major Taiwan dailies on Thursday are as follows:

Crystal Cebedo of Waianae High School hosts this episode highlighting the outstanding stories in the 2012-2013 season. Teachers will share the triumphs, challenges and lessons learned while supervising their students in producing the featured stories.

The post Outstanding Stories from Fall 2012-2013 HIKI NŌ appeared first on PBS Hawai‘i.

Josefa Munoz’s research focused on the endangered Central West Pacific green turtle population.

The post Green sea turtles’ hidden journeys uncovered in award-winning dissertation first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Taipei, Aug. 6 (CNA) The Taiwan Stock Exchange's main index opened down 123.66 points at 44,487.94 Thursday on turnover of NT$14.30 billion (US$443.95 million).

Anuhea Aluli, Izzy Ayala, and Kennedy Justin join the preseason player watch list.

The post Rainbow Wahine soccer trio recognized by Mountain West first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

New Zealand's immigration minister wanted to scrap annual limits on Pacific migrant workers under the Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme, but could not get the sign-off from Cabinet.

The PNG Rugby Union was suspended in September 2024 over breaches of its tournament obligations, governance and financial non-compliance.

The Navy’s portfolio acquisition executive for robotics and autonomous systems – the first job the service created as part of a broader acquisition overhaul last year – was removed from the position on Wednesday, fewer than eight months after stepping into the role. Rebecca Gassler assumed the helm of the Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Robotic and Autonomous Systems (PAE RAS) upon its creation in December. Chris Miller, the head of PAE Maritime, will step into the PAE RAS job on an acting basis, according to a service news release. The Navy also announced the creation of a new job called

With less than a week until the Cook Islands general election, cost of living pressures, driven by rising energy costs, have emerged as a dominant issue for voters.

At present there is no numerical limit on the number of foreign workers that a business can bring into the territory under the special provision clause in the immigration law. Attorney General Gwen Tauiliili-Langkilde and Chief Immigration

Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is pleased to welcome notice of a health services grant providing maternal and child health care services. “Thank you in particular to Dr. Anaise Uso for her work on grants like this one, and

A 20-year-old young man has died and a 21 year old was injured in a shooting incident at Vaitele Fou, Samoa in the early hours of Sunday. Police confirmed a 66-year-old man has been identified as the

The Bougainville independence referendum result will be tabled in Papua New Guinea's national parliament on 27 August.

The US Shiprider Agreement signed by the new-look Solomon Islands government has been subject to fiery criticism in parliament.

GIFF JOHNSON People who attend opening ceremonies of Nitijela are used to listening to presidents deliver what might be called a “laundry list” of accomplishments and plans. Sometimes the speeches talk about plans; other times, there are a variety of completed activities to announce. Our observation as one of the people who regularly sit through […]

The post Hilda: We’re delivering appeared first on The Marshall Islands Journal.

(NAVFAC)– Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Pacific awarded a $30 million contract Aug. 3 to InSynergy Engineering Inc. of Honolulu, Hawaii for architect-engineer services for utility systems studies across the Pacific area of operations. “The award of this contract provides NAVFAC Pacific a mechanism to conduct utility system studies to sustain utility infrastructure readiness,” said Stacey Yoshida, NAVFAC Pacific Public Works utilities program management supervisor....

When the U.S. Supreme Court handed down its decision in Trump v. Barbara on June 30, it reverberated far beyond Washington, D.C.

Milakulo Tukumuli, 42, announced his cabinet line-up on Wednesday, following his election by the French Pacific territory's Congress less than a week ago.

With classes for the University of Guam’s Fanuchånan (Fall) semester beginning Aug.

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

There’s a possibility that the Senate and House will hold separate hearings on the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget for ASG. The Vice chairman of the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee Senator Magalei Logovii said there’s not

The Senate is rushing to pass a stopgap bill to keep the government funded and operating funds flowing to ASG, but without any increase for now. KHJ News Washington correspondent Matt Kaye reports… The stopgap is the

The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) deployed a one-way attack (kamikaze/suicide) unmanned surface vessel (USV) for the first time during a major inter-service exercise in Dabo Singkep, Riau Islands, on 5 August. The exercise also saw the navy launching a loitering munition from a warship and firing two C-705 anti-ship missiles. The USV features an angular ...

The post Indonesian Navy Debuts Kamikaze USV During Major Exercise appeared first on Naval News.

After nearly 50 years of living in Micronesia, I have come to appreciate something that I did not fully understand when I first arrived in the Pacific as a young Peace Corps volunteer. The most valuable historical records in our islands are not found in libraries, archives, government offices, or museums. They are found in the memories of our elders.

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 6 August 2026: The Safata 2 Member of Parliament, Tuia Paepae Pua Letoa through his lawyer Muriel Lui, has filed a strike out motion against the bribery allegations filed against him by Leleua Suataga Aso. Lui confirmed that they are not filing a counter petition but will only respond to […]

The post Safata 2 MP files a strike out motion against bribery allegations appeared first on Talamua Online.

By Staff Reporters/ Apia, SAMOA – 5 August 2026: Justice Leiataualesa Daryl Clarke has denied the application by former Manu Samoa coach Mase Mahonri Schwalgers’ application to stay his sentence until after his appeal application is heard. Schwalger was convicted on 8 sex related charges by former Senior Justice Vui Clarence Nelson in May and […]

The post Former Manu Samoa coach’s application for stay of sentence denied appeared first on Talamua Online.

Nine UH campuses extend application deadlines, giving students more time to enroll for fall classes.

The post UH extends fall application deadline to Aug. 14 first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

The first Trump-class battleship (BBG(X)) could cost about $23 billion with an overall cost for the 15-ship program to be about $275 billion, according to a new Congressional Budget Office estimate published on Wednesday. Based on the published estimate on the size and nuclear propulsion, the CBO calculated a full displacement 35,000-ton nuclear battleship would average to about $18 billion a hull over the life of the program. “If built to those specifications, the ship would be the largest surface combatant in the world and larger than any surface combatant built for the Navy since World War II,” reads the

This week's image is from KapiʻolaniCC's Maliny Soukkhasem.

The post Image of the Week: Winning experience first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

The U.S. Marine Corps’ new amphibious assault vehicles will receive jammers to defeat unmanned aerial systems through a program that is set to begin this fall. The Portfolio Acquisition Executive – Marine Corps released a solicitation on Monday identifying the service’s interest in pursuing Anduril’s Pulsar-Lite to meet an Urgent Statement of Need for a counter-unmanned aerial system. This follows an initial notice of intent announced in July for the mounting of the Anduril electronic warfare system onto the Amphibious Combat Vehicle. “The ACV platform lacks the ability to effectively execute any part of the kill-chain (detect, track, identify, or

Blue Water Autonomy, a Boston-based technology and shipbuilding company, has been selected for a multiple-award contract with the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) to provide high-resolution ocean floor mapping using long-endurance uncrewed surface vessels. Blue Water Autonomy press release Deep open-ocean survey is among the most demanding work at sea, and its value reaches well beyond ...

The post Blue Water Autonomy Selected by U.S. Navy for Autonomous Open-Ocean Survey Work appeared first on Naval News.

By

LALI STAFF

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Port Administration American Samoa (PAAS) and Samoa Airways officials have launched a coordinated response and recovery operation following a runway deviation incident that occurred at Fitiuta Airport, Manu’a Islands on Tuesday, July 28, 2026.

No fatalities or major injuries were reported. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) was promptly notified, conducted its initial review, and has officially released the aircraft back to the operator for recovery.

IMMEDIATE AIRPORT RESPONSE AND INVESTIGATION

Under the direction of PAAS Airport Manager Tevita Fuimono and PAAS Deputy Director Tumua Matu'u, airport operations immediately secured the site and initiated a factual investigation. The airport's scope is strictly focused on operational response times, personnel deployment, and runway conditions. A preliminary visual inspection of the 3,200-foot runway showed no cracks or obstacles at the deviation site.

Airport personnel have documented the scene using drone video and photographic evidence, capturing approximately 26 official records of tire tracks and the aircraft's final position. Preliminary track analysis indicates the aircraft's nose and main gears touched down before the nose track gradually deviated to the right. Airport officials emphasized that they will present only factual data and will avoid attributing a cause to the incident, leaving the final determination to transport safety authorities and Samoa Airways.

PRELIMINARY AIRCRAFT CONDITION

Initial exterior observations handled by the airport team noted the following:

1.  Nose Gear: Collapsed, with a minor visible gap in the nose section indicating potential structural concerns.

2.  Left Landing Gear: Tire is flat, and the gear is currently wedged in nearby brush.

3.  Propeller: Dented, consistent with contact with vegetation.

4.  Wings and Belly: No obvious exterior wing damage was visible; the underbelly and left wing edge conditions remain unconfirmed.

AIRCRAFT RECOVERY AND LOGISTICS PLAN

After a video conference call on Monday, August 3, 2026, with PAAS, Samoa Airways CEO Fauo'o Fatu Tielu is finalizing a recovery strategy in partnership with Unity Aviation of Canada, which is preparing to deploy a specialized 2–3 person rescue team. The airline is also engaging local civil engineering resources to secure cranes and forklifts.

The recovery will follow a strict sequential process:

1.  Relocation: Lift and move the aircraft from the brush to a designated staging corner on the airport apron.

2.  Inspection: Conduct a thorough structural assessment.

3.  Disposal/Transport: If the aircraft is deemed repairable, it will be prepared for a ferry flight. If it cannot be safely flown, it will be carefully dismantled on-site and shipped via two 40-foot cargo containers.

The recovery efforts to eventually move (fly or ship) the aircraft to Apia, Samoa may take at least 2-3 months.

SAFETY, STAGING, AND SITE COORDINATION

To protect the airfield infrastructure, PAAS Engineering Manager Natalia Palamo will oversee the aircraft's physical relocation. The airline must submit a comprehensive recovery plan—including timing, heavy equipment loads, and crane weights—prior to moving the aircraft to ensure the protection of airport pavements and airfield lighting.

The airport has cleared apron space for the aircraft and will permit a securely bolted temporary tent to shield the team from high winds during the operation. To maintain strict airfield security and prevent unauthorized access, Samoa Airways will provide a verified list of authorized personnel before they enter the site.

NEXT STEPS

PAAS has established a shared digital repository to transparently provide the airline with all official drone footage, track measurements, and the forthcoming written investigation summary. Samoa Airways technical representatives are scheduled to conduct an immediate post-meeting physical assessment of the aircraft to finalize equipment and staging requirements.

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Local News

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fitiuta airport

Japan intends to transform its military capabilities with drones and will build up its domestic defense industry, according to the 2026 Defense of Japan white paper released on Tuesday. The Japanese government is prioritizing domestic defense production to mitigate the cost of defense equipment and avoid being overly dependent on foreign manufactures, according to the defense white paper. While Japanese defense industries produce high-end items such as ships, aircraft and missiles, Japan relies on foreign manufacturers for other aircraft, missiles and weapon and radar systems for its ships. “Japan’s defense industry is facing various challenges, with some cases of companies

The following is the July 31, 2026, Congressional Research Service report, Defense Primer: The Department of Defense. From the Report The Department of Defense (DOD) was established after World War II by the 1947 National Security Act (P.L. 80-253). At the time, some policymakers, including former President Truman, took the view that the different components of the U.S. military had been insufficiently integrated to wage World War II effectively. Congress’s stated intent was to, inter alia, “provide a Department of Defense … under the direction, authority, and control of the Secretary of Defense; … provide more effective, efficient, and economical

The House prosecution panel says it hopes for a 'more cooperative and reasonable' defense team

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) held their weekly Central Standing Committee meetings in Taichung and Hsinchu County, respectively, on Wednesday as they sought to rally support for their candidates ahead of November's local elections.

On the sidelines, one of Senator Imee Marcos' staff is heard suggesting that she cite the witness — state auditor Roderick Wamil — in contempt

Here is a list of areas where classes are suspended for Thursday, August 6, 2026, due to Tropical Storm Maymay (Kujira) and the southwest monsoon

How do we make sense of the factions and partisanship that now define Philippine politics?

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) Reservists from the Taipei City Reserve Brigade on Wednesday carried out rifle and mortar drills at a Taipei high school on the first day of Taiwan's annual Han Kuang military exercises as part of a full-brigade mobilization exercise.

The implementing rules and regulations are signed over a year after Republic Act No. 12199 was enacted into law in May 2025

'But 'yan lang po talaga, na wala namang masamang nangyari doon. And, nabanggit ko na rin kahapon, that it was actually COA-ICFAO that asked for that meeting,' defense spokesperson Michael Poa says

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) Taiwan's government will work with relevant agencies to seek the removal or blocking of a Chinese platform targeting Taiwanese youths over alleged violations of the Cross-Strait Act, Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Minister Chiu Chui-cheng (邱垂正) said Wednesday.

PAGASA says Tropical Storm Maymay (Kujira) could make landfall by Wednesday evening, August 5, or early Thursday morning, August 6

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. posted record unaudited consolidated revenue of NT$946.512 billion (US$29.27 billion) in July, marking the first time the company's monthly revenue has exceeded NT$900 billion and representing a 54.19 percent increase from a year earlier, the company announced Wednesday.

NEW YORK — The Standard and Poor’s 500 and the Dow closed at record highs on Tuesday, powered by the latest batch of earnings from AI-related companies such as Caterpillar and Palantir that assuaged demand concerns, while crude prices and Treasury yields dropped on hopes for a deal in the Iran war.

The post Dow, Standard and Poor’s 500 close at record on AI-linked earnings, Mideast deal hopes appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

NEW YORK/WASHINGTON — The U.S. Army has used up much of its global stockpile of highly accurate long-range missiles during its five-month war with Iran, according to three people familiar with the data, raising concerns about the military’s readiness for future conflicts.

The post US has used ‘virtually all’ of its long-range precision missiles during Iran war, sources say appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

LONDON — A North Korean missile unit has begun deploying to western Russia and could be equipped with 120 ballistic missiles and six launchers for strikes against Ukraine, an official at Ukraine’s military intelligence agency said.

The post North Korean missile unit deploys in Russia for Ukraine war, Kyiv says appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

DUBAI/WASHINGTON — Qatar said on Tuesday mediators were making progress in efforts to end the U.S.-Iran war, driving oil prices lower, although Tehran has denied President Donald Trump’s assertion that talks are already under way.

The post Qatar says progress made toward US-Iran talks on ending war appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii residents entering, or shifting within, the local labor force over the next several years are expected to have good opportunities but not as many as previously forecast, according to a new state analysis.

The post Hawaii facing ‘sluggish’ job growth through 2034 appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A little less than a year after the Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens began charging admission fees, the county-owned and operated park has netted over half a million dollars in revenue.

The post Zoo optimistic after implementing admission fees: More than $500,000 collected appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Humanity is once again littering our nearest celestial neighbor. Early today, the discarded upper stage of a Falcon 9 rocket built by Elon Musk’s SpaceX will unintentionally slam into the moon.

The post A SpaceX rocket is headed for a crash on the moon appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

White House readies framework on security risks from advanced AI

The post News in brief for August 5 appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — A U.S. congressional ethics panel opened a probe on Tuesday into Republican Representative Max Miller, who requested the investigation saying he wanted to clear his name after his ex-wife accused him of abuse.

The post Embattled US Representative Max Miller requests ethics probe of abuse claims against him appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — Todd Blanche cleared a major hurdle on Tuesday on his path to nomination for U.S. attorney general, as Republicans voted to advance him out of committee on a party-line vote. But questions persist about a deal he said would end President Donald Trump’s “anti-weaponization” fund and narrow an agreement giving Trump immunity from audits of past tax returns.

The post Blanche clears key nomination hurdle after deal wins senators’ vote appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Democratic Senator Ron Wyden called for federal regulators to probe big banks over their handling of Jeffrey Epstein’s accounts after surfacing what Wyden said was potential evidence that the banks failed to report suspicious transactions linked to the late convicted sex offender.

The post US Senator Wyden urges regulators to probe Wall Street banks over Epstein accounts appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

SPOKANE, Wash. — A 37-year-old man appeared in court on Tuesday in Spokane, Washington after being charged with starting one of three fires that have destroyed over 700 houses and other buildings and forced 64,000 people to evacuate the city hit hardest by wildfires sweeping the drought-stricken Pacific Northwest United States.

The post Arson suspect in court as wildfires rage around Spokane, Washington appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A federal judge expressed deep regret on Tuesday as he granted a request by the Justice Department to throw out criminal charges against eight members of the far-right Oath Keepers militia who were charged with seditious conspiracy for the central role they played in the storming of the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

The post Judge pained as he grants dismissal of Jan. 6 charges against Oath Keepers appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

An appeals court on Tuesday handed a victory to a group of federal grant recipients that the Trump administration has prevented from spending billions of dollars in climate funding for over a year.

The post Appeals court says EPA cannot block billions in climate grants appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — The family of a man from El Salvador, who died in a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in New Jersey, alleged medical negligence during his custody and demanded an independent investigation into his death.

The post Family of man who died in ICE detention in New Jersey alleges medical negligence in custody appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — Liberal Democrats now make up a clear majority of their party and view universal healthcare, greater abortion access and higher taxes on the rich as essential political positions, underscoring how Democrats have moved leftward in recent years, according to a new Reuters/Ipsos poll.

The post Shifting left, Democrats see universal health care, taxing the rich as ‘essential,’ Reuters/Ipsos poll finds appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

As long as the second-highest elected official of the land believes social media is where people should get their truth, the Philippine media will continue fighting for our place under the sun

There is no release order or credible report confirming that Senators Rodante Marcoleta and Jinggoy Estrada have been released; both remain jailed over separate non-bailable plunder cases

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) EVA Air will launch nonstop flights between Taipei and Delhi on Dec. 1, with bookings now available through its website and travel agencies, the airline said Wednesday.

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) Defense officials said Wednesday they expect to launch critical systems by the end of 2027 to integrate counter-drone capabilities across the armed forces and complete an interface to coordinate military and non-military counter-drone operations.

Commonwealth Utilities Commission crew fixes a power pole knocked down by Typhoon Bavi. Photo courtesy of CUC By Pacific Island Times News Staff Saipan—President Donald J. Trump has approved the major disaster declaration for the Northern Mariana Islands, paving the way for more federal disaster assistance to boost recovery efforts in areas battered by Super Typhoon Bavi last month. The presidential declaration, which took effect on Aug. 3, unlocks the Federal Emergency Management Agency's...

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 4 August 2026: The South Media Outlet under the Nanfang Media Group in Guangdong, China this week signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Talamua Media & Publications based at Togafu’afu’a. South has initiated a Maritime Silk Road Media Innovation and Cooperation Platform committed to promoting the coordinated development of […]

The post Talamua Media & South Media sign Memorandum of Cooperation appeared first on Talamua Online.

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) The U.S. dollar fell against the Taiwan dollar Wednesday, shedding NT$0.132 to close at NT$32.315.

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) Taiwan-based carriers China Airlines and Starlux Airlines on Wednesday announced flight disruptions between Taiwan and Okinawa from Thursday through Saturday as Typhoon Dolphin approaches the region.

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) A sea warning for Typhoon Dolphin could be issued as early as Friday afternoon as the storm moves closer to Taiwan, the Central Weather Administration (CWA) said Wednesday.

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) said Wednesday that China's newly announced entry-exit regulations contain vaguely defined national security provisions and give authorities broad discretion to restrict people's movement, potentially increasing the risks faced by Taiwanese traveling there.

Wednesday, August 05, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - According to AccuWeather, the weather forecast for tomorrow is partly cloudy with isolated showers. Temperatures are expected to be as high as 87 degrees and as low as 78 degrees. The rainfall percentage is expected to be 55%. According to the Yap Weather Services Office, Tomorrow's tide schedule is as follows: the first high tide will be at 12:11 AM, reaching approximately 6.12 feet. This will be followed by a low tide at 6:58 AM, with a...

Wednesday, August 05, 2026/// DYCA PIO Yap FM - Yap Communicable Disease Report for Epidemiological Week 30, covering the period of July 20-26, 2026. This report presents a comprehensive overview of syndromic trends and activities from 23 sentinel sites across the state, including laboratory‑confirmed cases, public health updates, and recommendations. Total Encounters: 452 patient encounters were reported across 23 sentinel sites, with all reported syndrome counts below the threshold this...

Wednesday, August 05, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - In July 2026, Pacific Mission Aviation continued its mission of connecting island communities with a total of 21 flights to Ulithi, 5 flights to Fais, and 2 flights that hopped between Ulithi and Fais before making its way back to Yap. Pacific Mission Aviation also had 4 flights to Woleai, 5 flights that flew from Koror, Palau to Yap and then back to Koror, Palau, 2 flights from Yap to Palau, and 3 flights that flew to Palau and stayed...

Arman Puerto’s house in Songsong, Rota, lies in ruins after Super Typhoon Bavi’s landfall. Photo by Brian Manabat/Pacific Island Times By Brian Manabat Songsong, Rota — In the wreckage left behind by Super Typhoon Bavi, where tin roofs lay twisted like paper and wooden beams snapped under the storm’s violent winds, two neighbors in Songsong have become a quiet symbol of resilience. With little more than borrowed tools, salvaged lumber and sheer determination, Arman Puerto and MD Rafiqul Islam...

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) Taiwan shares ended up 1,250.94 points, or 2.88 percent, at 44,611.60 Wednesday on turnover of NT$1.14 trillion (US$35.36 billion).

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) Taiwan should urgently strengthen its domestic defense manufacturing capabilities to become more self-reliant in a crisis and give potential allies more time to respond, a visiting former United States defense official has said.

Te reo Māori has had to fight for recognition after generations of suppression, while English has long dominated life in Aotearoa, professor Rawinia Higgins says.

Director of Corporate Services Location: Honiara, Solomon Islands · Make the ultimate sea-change and take the next step in your career as the Director of Corporate Services for the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency · Enjoy an excellent salary package of circa USD $93,239 - $139,858 tax-free for citizens of most countries! In addition to base salary: a Location Allowance of 16.25% ; and a Cost of Living Differential Allowance of 17.5 · Great benefits available, including relocation...

The $300,000 grant will support a project in an area where there has been 'surprisingly little research.'

A round-up of news from around the region, including Tonga's elections office expecting writs for two by-elections to be issued by King Tupou VI by the end of the week.

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) The lead stories in major Taiwan dailies on Wednesday are as follows:

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) The U.S. dollar was traded at NT$32.328 at 10 a.m. Wednesday on the Taipei Foreign Exchange, down NT$0.119 from the previous close.

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) Former Slovak Foreign Minister and runner-up in Slovakia's 2024 presidential election Ivan Korčok said Tuesday that increasing defense spending is a "responsible approach" to protecting national sovereignty in the face of Russian aggression, arguing that national security must take precedence over concerns about competing budget priorities.

Figures released by Statistics NZ on Wednesday put the unemployment rate for Pacific peoples at 11.6 percent in the June 2026 quarter, or around 23,700 Pacific workers.

More than 100 student researchers showcased projects with real-world impact at UH Mānoa's 2026 Summer Undergraduate Research Experience Symposium.

The post Curiosity drives discovery at UH Mānoa’s SURE Symposium first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Taipei, Aug. 5 (CNA) The Taiwan Stock Exchange's main index opened up 449.17 points at 43,809.83 Wednesday on turnover of NT$25.52 billion (US$788.75 million).

In July 2026, the registry provided nearly 200 healthcare professionals with the most up-to-date guidance when caring for patients.

The post Red Hill Registry expands training for providers caring for fuel-exposed patients first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

The US president approved a major disaster declaration for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands following Super Typhoon Bavi.

Papua New Guinea has initiated plans to request 200 defence personnel from Timor-Leste to help supervise PNG's general election next year.

An ocean-policing deal signed between the governments of the Solomon Islands and the United States is causing consternation in Honiara.

Thirteen-year-old Vaibhavi Deo, a Fijian of Indian descent, wants to achieve her goal of becoming a top-tier World Rugby referee, including officiating All Blacks matches.

Bronwen Solyom’s legacy lives on through the collections she preserved, librarians she mentored, and scholars she inspired.

The post In memoriam: UH librarian Bronwen Solyom’s life of scholarship, cultural preservation first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

The U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) has awarded the American Samoa Criminal Justice Planning Agency (CJPA) two federal formula grants totaling $746,687. The funding will go towards strengthen services for victims

The House of Representatives has approved the Senate Concurrent Resolution which declares that the Governor’s executive order which transferred the Department of Corrections under the Department of Public Safety exceeds the Governor’s authority under the law. The

The Basic Food Index for July, rose 1.4 points over June’s BFI, an increase of .8% This was attributed to higher prices for ten food items. The biggest increase was in the price of turkey tails which

Port Administration American Samoa (PAAS) and Samoa Airways officials have launched a coordinated response and recovery operation  following a runway deviation incident that occurred at Fitiuta Airport, Manu’a last Tuesday. No fatalities or major injuries were reported.

Federal contractors hustle to fill orders, source materials and recruit workers, with project completion deadlines to beat. A surge in the Department of War’s spending authority entails more contract awards for critical infrastructure projects in the Indo-Pacific region.

Advanced fiber upgrades offer transformative potential to thousands of disconnected residents.

The post Hawaiʻi begins $150M broadband expansion for underserved communities first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Taste what students from KapiʻolaniCC and Fukuoka cook up together.

The post Cross-cultural cuisine: Kapiʻolani CC and Fukuoka students collaborate first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

The Navy has awarded Saildrone a $16.3 million extension to continue assisting the U.S. 4th Fleet in its maritime drug interdiction operations, the company announced Tuesday. Saildrone received the award on June 30, company spokesperson Jenn Virskus told USNI News. Saildrone’s Voyager unmanned surface vessels have been operating in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific since 2023, according to a Saildrone release, starting under the Biden administration. They’ve continued under the Trump administration, operating in support of Joint Interagency Task Force South and U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. Navy 4th Fleet. In support of Operation Southern Spear, Saildrone doubled the number

The Pula and Pulu administration’s request for a supplemental appropriation of $744,000 for Fiscal Year 2026 does not conform with budgetary law, according to statements by Senators Togiola Tulafono, Magalei Logovii and Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean.

A community relief distribution event at Pala Lagoon Swimming Center on Saturday served approximately ten fire-affected families representing around 80 individuals. The event was the culmination of a month-long collection and fundraising campaign organized by Bluesky Communications

Officials of the Department of Public Works will face questioning by the Senate Friday morning concerning the newly installed speed bumps in front of Manumalo Academy in Malaeimi, SPICC at Fatu ma Futi and Matafao Elementary in

Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula welcomed a delegation from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the American Samoa Department of Homeland Security (ASDHS) during a formal meet and greet in the Governor’s Office last week. The delegation

Hundreds in attendance at the premiere of Lomu, which was part of the New Zealand International Film Festival, were left with tears.

The West Papua National Liberation Army has killed five Indonesian road construction workers they claim were Indonesian spies, as more West Papuans face displacement and death from the conflict.

Since its founding in 2001, VEMBA has graduated more than 1,000 business leaders who now serve in executive roles across Vietnam and beyond.

The post UH’s Vietnam Executive MBA program marks 25 years of impact first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

The old temperature-only metric misjudges how much cooling is required in different regions, overstating demand in some places and understating it in others.

The post Researchers improve a decades-old method for estimating cooling demand first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

The European Union’s Naval Force Mediterranean intercepted a tanker on Sunday that is suspected of being part of Russia’s shadow fleet. Italian Navy multi-purpose combat ship ITS Thaon di Revel (P430), flagship of the EU’s Operation Irini, conducted a flag verification boarding of sanctioned tanker MT Toa Payoh (IMO: 9298492), according to the Italian Defense Ministry. Toa Payoh was flying a Cameroon flag at the time of the intercept and was bound for Istanbul. The tanker departed July 16 from the port of Cotonou, Benin. The tanker, which is under EU sanctions and part of Russia’s shadow fleet, was intercepted

The following is the English translation of Japan’s 2026 Defense White Paper digest, released Aug. 4, 2026.  From the Report The time has come for our annual release of our white paper, “Defense of Japan.” Each year personnel from around the Ministry of Defense (MOD), including civilians and members of the Ground, Maritime, and Air Self-Defense Forces, are brought together to form a team and prepare the white paper over the course of approximately one year. This year’s white paper outlines the security environment surrounding Japan and the initiatives undertaken by the MOD and the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF), and

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) Former Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin said Tuesday that the international community could find it "much more complicated" to respond to Chinese coercion against Taiwan than to Russia's invasion of Ukraine because of the "one China" policy.

For the prosecution, it's not just about presenting a legally and politically sound argument — it's also about making sure their narrative reaches a wider public

Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala makes history yet again, and these brands didn’t miss the shot

The veteran lawyer injects levity on days 11 and 12 of the trial. Her colleagues in the prosecution hope the narrative she's woven resonates with the public.

Here is a list of areas where classes are suspended for Wednesday, August 5, 2026, due to Tropical Depression Maymay and the southwest monsoon

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) Autonomous platforms and electronic warfare capabilities will be crucial to the development of effective unmanned systems, Taiwanese technology executives said Tuesday.

This year's theme honors young leaders who confront economic disruption, disinformation, and climate risks through concrete action

The degree to which the military is running out of Army Tactical Missile Systems and Precision Strike Missiles has not been previously reported

Filipina tennis star Alex Eala extends her winning streak against top-10 opponents, the last against world No. 3 Jessica Pegula, to lift her maiden WTA Tour trophy in the Washington Open

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to submit a US$14 billion arms package for Taiwan to Congress soon, senior Republican lawmaker Michael McCaul said Tuesday, stressing that U.S. arms sales to Taiwan would not be affected by Washington's ties with Beijing.

'Actually, umamin naman 'yong witness na hindi naman nila naging finding 'yan,' defense spokesperson Michael Poa says, referring to the Commission on Audit rule on disbursing confidential funds

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) The Taiwan Millennium Health Foundation and 7‑Eleven launched a rewards program Tuesday to encourage healthy habits such as walking, balanced diets and health monitoring, allowing participants to redeem points for food and drinks.

The low pressure area west of La Union now has a high chance of becoming a tropical cyclone, says PAGASA on Tuesday afternoon, August 4

WASHINGTON — Even as he bowed to Republican demands to pare back the extraordinary benefits the Justice Department offered to President Donald Trump and his allies this spring, the acting attorney general, Todd Blanche, would only go so far.

The post Republicans let Trump keep unparalleled benefit: IRS immunity appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

BUDAPEST/BUCHAREST — Romania blew up a rock outcrop on Monday to help redirect vital cooling water from the drought-hit Danube river to its sole working nuclear reactor,an unprecedented measure underlining the scale of an energy crunch across the region.

The post Romania blasts rocks to reroute cooling Danube water to nuclear reactor appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

SPOKANE, Wash. — Firefighters and officials on Monday struggled to describe the scope of the wildfires in Spokane County, Washington, as they worked for a third day to get a hold on the blazes that have pushed more than 65,000 people out of their homes.

The post ‘A war zone’: Spokane wildfires leave a devastating trail of destruction appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

A bill recently approved by the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee could bolster efforts to combat invasive species on Hawaii Island by expanding an existing “strike team” initiative.

The post More support for invasive species ‘strike teams’ appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — Americans picked Democrats over Republicans as better stewards of the economy for the first time in nearly a decade in a Reuters/Ipsos poll, which also found their approval of President Donald Trump’s performance falling to 35%.

The post Voters prefer Democrats over Republicans on economy for first time in a decade, Reuters/Ipsos poll finds appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

For teachers across Hawaii, classroom interruptions aren’t limited to ringing phones, student chatter or disciplinary issues. They say the biggest obstacle to learning is often the classroom itself.

The post Hawaii public school teachers say aging facilities disrupt learning appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

NEW YORK — A group of 25 Democratic-led U.S. states sued Donald Trump’s administration on Monday, arguing that the president’s latest round of tariffs on goods from 60 trading partners, like most of his earlier sweeping tariffs, exceeds his legal authority to tax imports.

The post Democratic US states sue to challenge Trump’s latest tariffs appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Several Democratic-led U.S. states and advocacy groups sued the Trump administration on Monday to block a new policy allowing federal immigration authorities to receive information about low-income families with children enrolled in a cash-assistance program.

The post States, groups sue over Trump policy of sharing benefits data with immigration authorities appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Gwendolyn Brigoli, 77, of Captain Cook died July 29 at home. Born in Pahala, she worked as manager of housekeeping at a resort. A celebration of life will be held Friday, Aug. 14, at Kona Gospel Chapel in Kealakekua with viewing at 9 a.m. and service at 10 a.m., with burial to follow at West Hawaii Veteran’s Cemetery. Online condolences may be posted at www.ballardfamilymortuaries.com. Survived by husband, Anthony L. Brigoli; sons Bo (Leimomi) Brigoli of Honolulu; Anthony L. Brigoli II of Kailua-Kona; Kalani (Michelle) Brigoli of Kealakekua; William (Tiffany Shortt) Brigoli of Kealakekua; Dillion Sumida of Los Angeles, Calif.; Elijah Sumida of Jacksonville, Fla.; daughters Kimberlynn (Brian) Pao of Henderson, Nev.; Cheryl Moana Lehua (Nathan) Lee of Honolulu; brothers Anthony Sacay of Maui; Richard (Anna) Sacay of Kealakekua; sisters Debbie Rafael of Honolulu; Veronica Brumaghim of Kailua-Kona; Mila (Rick) Brown of Kealakekua; Anna (Marty) Saxton of Kealakekua; Felicia (Brian) Butler; and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Services provided by Ballard Family Mortuary – Kona.

The post Obituaries for August 4 appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump’s bid to install Lindsey Graham’s sister as South Carolina’s next senator has met unexpected resistance from Republican voters and rivals, setting up a crowded primary that will test the limits of Trump’s political influence in one of his strongest states.

The post Trump wanted a Lindsey Graham tribute. South Carolina Republicans want a choice appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

President Donald Trump doubled down Monday on his criticism of the U.S. attorney for Washington, D.C., Jeanine Pirro, saying that she “choked” when she concluded that the damage to the Reflecting Pool was not the work of vandals, as the president had long claimed, but rather a “botched installation” from a rushed contractor.

The post Trump blasts Jeanine Pirro, says she ‘choked’ in dropping reflecting pool case appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The overall cost of containing a 2025 measles outbreak in New Mexico was nearly $5.4 million, a new study estimates.

The post A single US measles outbreak can cost millions of dollars, study estimates appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

SEOUL — North Korea accused the United States and its allies of using unfounded accusations about its cyber activities to tarnish its image and justify pressure on sovereign states, state media KCNA reported on Tuesday, citing a foreign ministry spokesperson.

The post North Korea says US-led cyber threat warnings are bid to smear its image appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON/SEATTLE — The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration gave long-awaited approval on Monday to Boeing’s 737 MAX 7, a milestone for the American planemaker that has waited years to sell the smallest version of its best-selling airplane.

The post US FAA certifies Boeing 737 MAX 7 in win for planemaker appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

WASHINGTON/DUBAI — President Donald Trump said on Monday that talks with Iran were under way, warning that it was a “last chance” for Tehran to sign a good deal to end the five-month-old war, but Iran denied that any negotiations were being held or planned.

The post Trump says talks with Iran under way but Tehran denies any planned appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

What do you do when you have a wonderful Meyer lemon tree that provides you with fruit nearly year round? That was the situation at my son Reid’s home in Santa Clarita, where many of our oranges come from.

The post Let’s Talk Food: When life gives you lemons appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Here’s a meal that will spice up your summer dinners. Tender cubes of lamb are simmered in a quick, curry sauce for an easy weeknight meal. The best lamb cut for this recipe comes from the leg, which is also ideal for kabobs. If you don’t see it in the meat case, ask your butcher to cut some for you.

The post Quick Fix: Lamb Curry appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

(NYT) — Health officials in Michigan have linked two deaths to cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the parasite cyclospora. These are the first fatalities associated with a nine-state outbreak connected to iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms, a spokesperson for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.

The post Two deaths linked to cyclosporiasis in Michigan appeared first on Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) A small shipment of pumpkin seed oil imported from Austria has been rejected at Taiwan's border after testing found excessive levels of the carcinogen benzo[a]pyrene, the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) said Tuesday.

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) Shares in Taiwan closed little changed after a big swing of more than 1,000 points Tuesday as selling emerged to erode initial gains with investors shrugging off a rally in the United States overnight, dealers said.

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul said Tuesday he hopes the U.S. and Taiwan will establish a partnership on drone production and technology that would create a "hornet's nest" capable of deterring Chinese aggression.

Weather and Tide Schedule for tomorrow, August 5th Tuesday, August 04, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - According to AccuWeather, the weather forecast for tomorrow is mostly cloudy with occasional rain and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Temperatures are expected to be as high as 88 degrees and as low as 81 degrees. The rainfall percentage is expected to be 84%. According to the Yap Weather Services Office, Tomorrow's tide schedule is as follows: the first low tide will be at 6:00 AM, reaching...

Tuesday, July 28, 2026/// DYCA PIO Yap FM - This past Saturday, August 1, the Reey Conservation Area hosted its "Back to School" Carnival at 11:00 a.m. at Malay Sunset Park. The event began with a variety of fun-filled mini games, including a candy race, dodgeball, soda hop, balloon toss, musical chairs, copra relay, basket weaving, and tug-of-war. Families, children, and community members enjoyed an afternoon of friendly competition and laughter. To wrap up the celebration, the Reey...

Tuesday, July 28, 2026 /// DYCA PIO YAP FM - Last Friday, July 31, the Division of Youth Services hosted a Movie Night at the Yap Living History Museum beginning at 6:00 p.m., attracting more than 100 participants. The event began with participant registration, followed by an exciting icebreaker game, "Footloose," which encouraged interaction and helped create a fun and welcoming atmosphere. After the game, participants gathered to watch a short cybersecurity awareness video before the...

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) The Legislative Yuan passed an amendment Tuesday that adds convictions under the Fraud Crime Hazard Prevention Act to the list of offenses that disqualify individuals from running for president or vice president in Taiwan.

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) Former Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland on Tuesday urged democratic countries to publicly oppose China's "Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law," warning that it mirrors tactics Russia used before launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) Taiwan shares ended down 25.75 points, or 0.06 percent, at 43,360.66 Tuesday on turnover of NT$1.036 trillion (US$34.5 billion).

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Tuesday called on the international community to take a unified stance against China's Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law, promulgated last month.

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) The operations of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.'s (TSMC's) fab in Kumamoto, Japan, have fully returned to normal after an earthquake hit the area, TSMC said while also pledging to donate 250 million Japanese yen in disaster relief.

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) Taiwan's eight-member team won two silver medals, four bronze medals and four honorable mentions at the 23rd International Linguistics Olympiad (IOL) in Bucharest, Romania, with every contestant receiving at least one award.

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) The Taiwan Stock Exchange (TWSE) has eased the rules governing the cooling period for "disposition stocks," effective from Aug. 10.

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) Palau has appointed Taiwanese scholar Chen Kai-siang (陳愷翔) as a special adviser to its health and human services minister, Taiwan's embassy in the Pacific island nation said Monday.

The three-time Super Rugby Aupiki-winning coach has been appointed to lead the Fijian national women's team.

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) The U.S. dollar was traded at NT$32.420 at 10 a.m. Tuesday on the Taipei Foreign Exchange, down NT$0.018 from the previous close.

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) The lead stories in major Taiwan dailies on Tuesday are as follows:

UH Mānoa's Team RoSE capped off one of its most successful years by competing at the University Rover Challenge World Finals.

The post Robot rover team caps record year with international recognition first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Faculty seek to build resilient agri-food systems through research and symposia.

The post UH West Oʻahu faculty advance global research on food system sustainability first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Local high school students gain real-world experience through Honolulu CC workshops.

The post Future career paths take shape at Honolulu CC’s Summer CTE Academy first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

The South Pacific Tuna Treaty, also known as the US Tuna Treaty, remains an important partnership for the region, the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency says.

Students bridge cultural divides while investigating native birds up north.

The post From campus to tundra: Kapiʻolani CC students follow the kōlea migration first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Taipei, Aug. 4 (CNA) The Taiwan Stock Exchange's main index opened down 293.92 points at 43,092.49 Tuesday on turnover of NT$17.54 billion (US$542.35 million).

Micah Alejado joins the watch list for outstanding player in college football.

The post QB Alejado selected to Maxwell Award watch list first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Lele Wale is an original hana keaka written and directed by UH Mānoa MFA candidate in Hawaiian theatre, Ikaika Mendez.

The post Lele Wale: UH Mānoa hana keaka brings Lahaina’s story back to its people first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Solomon Islands Police have confirmed that Keanu Isaksson, 25, and Luca Zylstra-Law, 19, were found together this morning.

For Chong, the reunion was a chance to reconnect with a professor who left a lasting impression.

The post 106-year-old fitness inspiration returns to his UH engineering roots first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Brad Mooar, a former All Blacks and Scotland assistant coach, was announced as Drua head coach last month, after spending the past two years with the Crusaders.

Honorlock has been officially selected as the comprehensive provider of online proctored exams across the UH 10 campus system.

The post UH selects official online exam proctoring tool first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

The Alaska SeaLife Center featured a captivating exhibit that bridges the worlds of microscopic marine science and fine art.

The post Exhibit showcases community plankton art for World Oceans Day first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

By Michael J. McDonald For several years, the public conversation surrounding deep-sea minerals (DSM) in the Pacific has often been portrayed as a simple choice: for or against. Today, that conversation is becoming much more sophisticated. Across

Keanu Isaksson, 25, and Luca Zylstra, 19, were on a climbing expedition to the remote volcanic mountain, Mount Popomanaseu, on the main island of Guadalcanal.

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

ABOARD AIRCRAFT CARRIER USS NIMITZ — Four hundred former USS Nimitz (CVN-68) sailors and their families streamed off buses on Pier 14 at Naval Station Norfolk, Va., and up the brow of the oldest carrier in the Navy for a final goodbye. The guest of honor was the first commander of the carrier, 94-year-old Rear Adm. Bryan Compton. An A-4E Skyhawk pilot, Compton was awarded the Navy Cross for leading a strike against a North Vietnamese power plant in 1967 while commanding the “The Saints” of Attack Squadron (VA) 163. Following his squadron command, Compton entered the carrier command pipeline,

Cmdr. Joseph Sammur was relieved as the commanding officer of USS West Virginia (SSBN-736) (Blue Crew) last week due to a loss of confidence, the Navy announced Saturday. Sammur’s relief follows an investigation into a maintenance issue, a Submarine Forces Public Affairs spokesperson told USNI News on Monday. West Virginia is currently in port for maintenance, according to the Navy’s Saturday news release. Cmdr. Luke Kelvington, Submarine Squadron 20 deputy for training, has temporarily assumed command of West Virginia’s Blue Crew. Sammur, who assumed command nearly a year ago on Aug. 14, 2025, has been temporarily reassigned to Submarine Group

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 4 August 2026: Papalii John Taimalelagi, one of three Lakapi Samoa independent board members has resigned. Papalii tendered his resignation with the Chairman of Lakapi Samoa, Namulauulu Sami Leota yesterday where he acknowledged the honour of serving as a board member and contributing his legal capacity to the governance […]

The post Lakapi Samoa Independent Board member resigns appeared first on Talamua Online.

A group of female MPs from across the Pacific came to Wellington for a three day programme focused on connection, development, and increasing the number of women in politics.

Panelists share what to know as the weather phenomenon El Niño strengthens in the Pacific.

The post El Niño: What to Know Insights on PBS Hawaiʻi appeared first on PBS Hawai‘i.

The University of Hawaiʻi celebrates August 2026 faculty and staff anniversaries.

The post August 2026 anniversaries first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

A village leader has called for police in Samoa to attend sports matches after the death of a man during a rugby league game at the weekend.

Highlight show that features some of the top stories from Fall of the 2011-2012 school year.

The post Outstanding Stories from Fall 2011-2012 HIKI NŌ appeared first on PBS Hawai‘i.

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Beijing surged an amphibious group and bombers equipped for maritime strike to Scarborough Shoal over the weekend, flexing its power projection capabilities at the disputed South China Sea maritime feature 120 nautical miles off the Philippines. Chinese forces took to the air and the water around Scarborough Shoal for a series of drills. According to a Saturday news release from the People’s Liberation Army Southern Theater Command, the drills were designed to “safeguard China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.” China attributes possession of Scarborough Shoal under its 10-Dash Line claim, which encompasses the majority of

These are the approximate positions of the U.S. Navy’s deployed carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups throughout the world as of August 3, 2026, based on Navy and public data. In cases in which a CSG or ARG is conducting disaggregated operations, the chart reflects the location of the capital ship. Total Battle Force Deployed Underway 290 (USS 232, USNS 58) 98 (USS 69, USNS 29) (39 FDNF, 59 Rotational) 67 (47 Deployed, 20 Local) In Da Nang, Vietnam Aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73) arrived Thursday in Da Nang, Vietnam for a port visit, according to ship spotters.

Taipei, Aug. 3 (CNA) Humanitarian aid from Taiwan's Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation arrived in Japan's Kumamoto Prefecture on Monday to assist people displaced by a magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck the area last Tuesday.

Following its landfall late Monday afternoon, August 3, Tropical Depression Luis may begin turning east northeast, or away from the landmass of Luzon

Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero today vetoed Substitute Bill 266-38, the Fiscal Year 2027 General Appropriations Act, saying the measure reduces government revenues without providing a responsible plan to protect essential services.

The Italian Navy’s PPA ITS Thaon di Revel has boarded the EU-sanctioned Shadow Fleet tanker Toa Payoh in the central Mediterranean during an Operation EUNAVFOR MED IRINI mission. The inspection took place on 2 August in international waters west of Pantelleria, the Italian island located between Sicily and Tunisia. According to the Italian Ministry of ...

The post Italian Navy Boards Sanctioned Shadow Fleet Tanker Under Operation IRINI appeared first on Naval News.

Taipei, Aug. 3 (CNA) Taiwanese people aged 12 and older took a record 247.61 million domestic trips in 2025, up 11.52 percent from the previous year, while spending on domestic travel reached a record NT$564.3 billion (US$17.38 billion), up 9.4 percent, according to survey results released Monday by the Tourism Administration.

Here is a list of areas where classes are suspended for Tuesday, August 4, 2026, due to Tropical Depression Luis and the southwest monsoon

Taipei, Aug. 3 (CNA) On the back of robust global demand for AI applications, Taiwan's manufacturing activity stayed in expansion mode for the 10th consecutive month in July, the Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research (CIER) said Monday.

‘We continue to believe in their innocence and hope that the Court of Appeals will carefully and fairly review the case of Frenchie and Marielle,’ the Free Tacloban 5 movement said on Monday, August 3

Taipei, Aug. 3 (CNA) The opposition Kuomintang (KMT) on Monday called for accountability in a recent soybean oil case involving excessive benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) levels, saying those responsible for any delayed reporting, withholding information or supervisory failures should be held accountable.

Pax Silica wants to become the Philippines’ Silicon Valley, but tycoon Manny Pangilinan warns the government to choose its place in the technology value chain carefully lest it remain stuck in the 'basement'

What kind of world spends more time fearing love than fixing hunger, poverty, violence, and injustice? Every day, we walk

Taipei, Aug. 3 (CNA) The U.S. dollar rose sharply against the Taiwan dollar Monday to climb past NT$32.4 due to large fund outflows, dealers said.

Taipei, Aug. 3 (CNA) Artificial intelligence is reshaping competition in the semiconductor industry, shifting the focus beyond transistor scaling to advanced packaging, materials and system-level integration, experts said at a Taiwan-Japan semiconductor forum on Monday.

As the witness reviews the documents, 74-year-old veteran lawyer Lorna Kapunan asks presiding officer Chiz Escudero for a 3-minute suspension so she could sit down