Wellington Water chair Nick Leggett resigns over Moa Point sewage disaster

Nick Leggett said the failure of the treatment plant was deeply serious and had affected the environment, public health and the community.

Retail crime group rented expensive Symonds Street space against advice

The group is paying $119,000 for the 2025/26 year.

Two-year ban on taking shellfish and seaweed from rockpools north of Auckland

The ban is for all of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula, and further north at Kawau Bay and Ōmaha Bay.

Weather: Heavy rain and damaging gales set to lash eastern and southern North Island

MetService has issued multiple orange heavy rain and strong wind warnings from Sunday morning through to Monday evening.

Adolescence writer Jack Thorne on his new TV adaptation of castaway novel Lord of the Flies

The feelings of cruelty and shame that fed into Adolescence are there in Lord of the Flies, the award-winning British writer says.

'The girl from Tahiti': Pacific Islands in the Epstein files

Analysis - The latest files released by the US Department of Justice on the late financier and convicted child sex offender identifies several notable appearances of Pacific Island countries.

Person dies after being thrown from vehicle in Northland crash

Three other people were taken to hospital with minor injuries.

Pacific Winds 20260215

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Pacific Winds 20260215

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

'Never seen anything like' weather that hit Waipā - Waikato man

Ryan Vickers says he had never seen damage like the scenes on his parent's Waipā farm following Friday's intense rain.

Christchurch supermarket shelves stripped of bottled water after boil water notice issued

A public health alert was issued on Saturday afternoon for around 14,000 households in Christchurch.

Reviving the art of Niuean barkcloth: 'I'll hustle for my people'

As she explores her Māori-Niuean identity, Auckland artist Cora Allen is helping to bring back the creative practice of hiapo.

Rain, high winds to move south after floods hit Waikato

The South Waikato region took a particular beating from thunderstorms overnight, but the bad weather is making its way south over the next couple of days.

State of Emergency declared in Ōtorohanga

A State of Emergency is in force for the area, after heavy rain triggered widespread flooding, slips and rising water overnight.

Champions in love: How Dalph Panopio, Kaizen dela Serna inspire each other

Basketball player Dalph Panopio and obstacle course racer Kaizen dela Serna share the same enthusiasm to excel and represent the country — the two being champions in their respective sports

Top 5 News This Week: Robin says youth are ‘weak’; the ‘Tsinators’; Bato, Bong Go are ‘co-perpetrators’

Also, Kiko Pangilinan questions senators defending China's interests, and the high court countenances same-sex couples' rights

Micronesian veterans are finally getting attention … but we’ll wait and see 

Micronesian Basket By Alex Rhouwiniong U.S. war veterans from Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia and the Marshall Islands, who were honorably discharged from service, are one step closer to finding some relief for the literal and figurative pains they constantly experience. Thanks to bipartisan legislation that would address the veterans’ frustrations. The bill, titled “Caring for Veterans and Strengthening National Security Act," would authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to...

‘This is it’: Chris Paul retires from NBA after 21 seasons

Chris Paul, 40, ends his decorated NBA career ranked second in assists and steals, trailing only Basketball Hall of Famer John Stockton in both categories

Chamorro, Chamoru, CHamoru: A history of spelling confusion and disagreement

By Michael Lujan Bevacqua  (First of a two-part series) Sen. Shelly Calvo has introduced Bill 218-38, which would mandate all government of Guam agencies to use the spelling “CHamoru” in all official documents, government publications and public educational materials. Bill 218-38 is a proposed addendum to Public Law 33-236, enacted in 2017, which re-established Kumisión i Fino' CHamoru, also known as the CHamoru Language Commission. For those familiar with the history of the CHamoru language,...

Retro romance: Reclaiming the ’80s at Albay’s queer speed dating night

Despite the prevailing prejudice against the LGBTQ+ people, 'so many continue to embrace who they are and support one another,' says Kapihan's Mida Casulla. 'We want to champion that kind of love and courage.'

New hope after a bad year

I've had a few bad years in my life. Of course, we all have bad years when we lose a parent, a close loved one, or a friend. When organizations I care deeply about have a bad year, it naturally affects me too.

After three years of increasing success in the NFL, my beloved Detroit Lions just had a bad year. They finished their 2025/2026 season with nine wins and eight losses, missing the playoffs.

Miss Philippines Earth 2013 runner-up Lullete Jane Ramilo shot dead

The former beauty queen represented San Manuel, Isabela, in the 2013 edition of Miss Philippines Earth

Lobbyist at center of ‘paper bag’ case under federal investigation

The 66-year-old lobbyist who donated \(10,000 to Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke during a January 2022 dinner is a target of a federal investigation into possible public corruption and an alleged \)7 million COVID-19 funding fraud, sources told the Hono­lulu Star-Advertiser.

Kennedy allies target states to overturn vaccine mandates for schoolchildren

Longtime allies of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the nation’s health secretary, have launched a new effort to repeal laws that for decades have required children to be vaccinated against measles, polio and other diseases before they enter day care or kindergarten.

Hawaii attorney general says subpoenas issued in criminal public corruption case

The Hawaii Department of the Attorney General has issued “multiple subpoenas and completed several interviews” as part of its ongoing public corruption investigation, which arose from the federal bribery case that sent two former state lawmakers to prison.

Beyond the big cities, ICE is rattling small-town and exurban America

President Donald Trump may be ending the surge of immigration agents in the Twin Cities, but his mass deportation effort has already extended well past large, liberal cities like Minneapolis, to small communities where the national spotlight does not exist but the impact can be at least as acute.

As diplomats talk, Pentagon prepares for possible war with Iran

WASHINGTON — When President Donald Trump threatened last month to strike Iran if its government did not agree to a deal to curb its nuclear program, the Pentagon was in a poor position to back him up.

German officials needle Trump at Munich security conference

MUNICH — Friedrich Merz, the chancellor of Germany, rarely rebukes President Donald Trump. He has invested heavily in building a friendship with the president, in hopes of influencing him on Ukraine and other security issues.

Tips flood in, prompted by video of suspect in Guthrie kidnapping

It was an affecting plea from a face familiar to millions of American households: “We are at an hour of desperation, and we need your help.”

Homeland Security wants social media sites to expose anti-ICE accounts

SAN FRANCISCO — The Department of Homeland Security is expanding its efforts to identify Americans who oppose Immigration and Customs Enforcement by sending tech companies legal requests for the names, email addresses, telephone numbers and other identifying data behind social media accounts that track or criticize the agency.

Measles outbreak hits Florida college

More than 40 measles cases have been reported at Ave Maria University in southwest Florida, the largest outbreak on a college campus in recent history.

Can’t buy love? Kenya bans bouquets made of cash.

NAIROBI, Kenya — Ahead of Valentine’s Day, the Central Bank of Kenya has delivered bad news for lovers and lovers of cash alike. It has made it illegal to make elaborate bouquets of flowers out of bank notes.

Stream these documentaries on the Winter Olympics going back a century

Most of us experience the Olympics as a TV event that lasts several weeks and — depending on your level of investment in, say, figure skating — can ruin your sleep schedule for a while. But since 1912 — long before the Olympics were televised — the International Olympic Committee has commissioned a more bite-size version of nearly every edition of the Games: an official documentary that captures the highlights and celebrates the athletic achievements.

Rappler Talk: What the world can learn from Philippine seas

Bookmark and watch this episode on February 14 at 6 pm

How Filipinos’ views about marriage and weddings have changed over 20 years

Fewer Filipinos are marrying, and they are doing it later in life and increasingly outside traditional church ceremonies, based on data from the Philippine Statistics Authority

The week in photos: February 7-13, 2026

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

Love in the shadow of goodbye

Erlyn and Evaristo Lucero's love for each other prevails over everything — even cancer

Concerns weather could push raw sewage towards Wellington's shoreline

Wellington Water is concerned that the weather could increase the likelihood of raw sewage being pushed towards the shoreline.

Christchurch City Council issues boil water notice for eastern suburbs

A public health alert has been issued for peple living in New Brighton, Burwood, Wainoni, Aranui and Southshore.

Ōtorohanga mum helped sound the alarm of neighbourhood flooding

Trish Osterman said the rain had eased on Friday night when she went to bed, and she didn't expect that things would pick up again in the morning.

The NRL Indigenous All Stars vs Māori match is much more than a novelty

First staged in 2010, the season-opening fixture was conceived as a deliberate exercise in showcasing indigenous excellence and its contribution to the competition.

Moana Pasifika win their opening Super Rugby match, three in a row against Drua

Six tries against the Fijian Drua's four meant a total of 10 tries were scored in the game.

From hole-in-the-wall to global dimsum star: How joining the Jollibee Group changed Tim Ho Wan

Tim Ho Wan's global CEO Yeong Sheng Lee says the dimsum chain wants to expand globally without compromising quality and authenticity

Nestlé Milo bars recalled for possibly containing rubber

A recall has been issued for imported Nestlé-brand Milo Dipped Snack Bars.

Recap: Super Rugby: Fijian Drua v Moana Pasifika

Follow all the Super Rugby Pacific action as the Fijian Drua take on Moana Pasifika at Churchill Park, Lautoka.

Earth Tongue get a taste for analogue on new release

With US retro-rock musician Ty Segall on the dials, the Kiwi duo found themselves listening to takes of Dungeon Vision in Segall's trusty mixing van.

Ōtorohanga flooding in pictures: Residents wake to waist-deep water

A local state of emergency has been declared after the district was lashed by heavy rains overnight.

Violence against prison healthcare workers flying under the radar, union says

Many prison nurses didn't report assaults and considered violence part of their job the Union said.

New faculty-led Hōpoe Award honors UH Mānoa programs

Degree programs are recognized for using assessment to strengthen curriculum and enhance student learning.

The post New faculty-led Hōpoe Award honors UH Mānoa programs first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Man dies after car submerged in floodwaters in Waikato

The car was submerged on State Highway 39.

Is a Valentine's Day wedding a good idea?

Thinking of saying "I do" on 14 February? A celebrant warns the most romantic day of the year may not be the cheapest.

Ōtorohanga resident describes dramatic rescue from floodwaters

Local Colin Payne said waters close to three metres high had come through his property overnight.

These Gen Z love stories show that Valentine’s isn’t just about grand gestures

For many young couples, there's much more to do and experience beyond the usual romantic restaurant dinners

Live: State of Emergency declared in Ōtorohanga

A State of Emergency is in force for the area, after heavy rain triggered widespread flooding, slips and rising water overnight.

New music professor reimagines Hawaiian music, UH Hilo band

Ocean Akaka is on a mission to rebuild the band program at UH Hilo and help revitalize Hawaiian music.

The post New music professor reimagines Hawaiian music, UH Hilo band first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Baseball ‘Bow Ickes emerges as one of Hawai‘i’s next top MLB prospects

Drafted in 2023, Elijah Ickes chose UH Mānoa over going pro, becoming the one of the state’s top prospects.

The post Baseball ‘Bow Ickes emerges as one of Hawai‘i’s next top MLB prospects first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

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Pacific Winds 20260214

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

Faipule requests reinstatement of free tax filing service

Fagatogo Representative Malaeoletalu Melesio Gurr is requesting the reinstatement of the free tax filing services that the Tax Office has been providing for decades for low income earners. He made the request in a letter to the

Green cancels D.C. trip to avoid having Sylvia Luke fill in as governor

Gov. Josh Green has canceled his upcoming plans to travel to Washington, D.C., for the annual National Governors Association’s Winter Meeting to avoid having Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke fill in for him as acting governor after she acknowledged Monday that she may be the “influential state legislator” who is being investigated for allegedly accepted $35,000 in a bag in 2022.

Miss Am. Samoa rocks the house as DJ Stofo

Miss American Samoa Tofoipupu Unutoa had the audience on their feet in her talent performance at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant in Nadi, Fiji last night. She rocked the house as DJ Stofo. Play Audio Tofoi played

$4.6M coral reef restoration project in American Samoa to begin in early 2026

A new $4.6M multi-institute project to help grow coral restoration capacity in American Samoa will begin in early 2026, leveraging more than two decades of coral heat tolerance studies to inform a restoration with resilience approach. The

1 for you, 1 for me: UH flower event spreads love to those in need

Participants followed a “one-for-me, one-for-you” model; one bouquet was kept by the creator, while the second was donated to people and families in need of a seasonal lift.

The post 1 for you, 1 for me: UH flower event spreads love to those in need first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

What's with the AI caricatures taking over social media feeds?

The caricatures are meant to be a culmination of everything ChatGPT knows about a person, but they have also brought up questions around privacy and personal information.

'It's hard to get healthy kai when you don't have healthy whenua'

A new study has linked food insecurity experienced by Māori to the ongoing consequence of colonisation rather than the result of individual choice or lifestyle.

The Rose Atoll Marine National Monument

Talofa Lava, I write not only as the head of the Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources and a Fishery Council Member, but as a son of American Samoa who was born and raised in the villages

Ōtorohanga under week-long state of emergency, more rain on the way

Orange heavy rain warnings remain in place for several regions, and some households have been without power overnight.

Love, lies, and prime-time pressure

What started as an experiment has become a global phenomenon. MAFS is a ratings powerhouse and one of the world's most argued-about shows.

Ōtorohanga Museum's precious taonga wrecked by floodwaters

Almost two dozen members of the community rallied to save what they could from the sodden Ōtorohanga Museum, but the full extent of the damage is still unknown.

27% of Filipinos experienced cheating | The wRap

Today’s headlines: Cheating, Donald Trump, Donny Pangilinan

Live weather: Warnings across North Island

The State of Emergency declaration took effect at 1am on Saturday and lasts for seven days.

As it happened: Warnings across North Island

The State of Emergency declaration took effect at 1am on Saturday and lasts for seven days.

DepEd eyes trimester system for school year 2026-2027

The Department of Education says the proposed system will meet the 201 school days for the next academic year

Portion of shoreline closed after sewage spill at Papaikou Treatment Plant

A sewage spill at the Papaikou Treatment Plant has resulted in a shoreline closure.

Trump revokes basis of US climate regulation, ends vehicle emission standards

WASHINGTON — The administration of President Donald Trump on Thursday announced the repeal of a scientific finding that greenhouse gas emissions endanger human health, and eliminated federal tailpipe emissions standards for cars and trucks.

In State of the County address, Alameda focuses on affordability, housing, homelessness

In his second State of the County address, Mayor Kimo Alameda on Thursday focused on issues that contribute to housing shortages and homelessness on the Big Island.

Gambling bills struggle to remain alive amid Hawaii’s prohibition on wagering

A bill that would allow cruise ship gambling — even while ships are docked in Hawaii ports — stalled in a House committee Wednesday while another bill that would allow sports betting squeaked through as the state Legislature continues to debate whether to end Hawaii’s prohibition on gambling.

News in brief for February 13

Protester held by ICE says she was chained to bed after seizure

Homeland Security shutdown draws nearer as Democrats block funding

WASHINGTON — Members of Congress were set to depart Washington on Thursday without funding the Department of Homeland Security, putting it on a near-certain path to a shutdown this weekend amid a deep partisan divide over Democrats’ demands to place new restrictions on federal immigration agents.

Yamaguchi’s nonprofit helps keiki at five island schools

As the Winter Olympics once again capture national attention, Olympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi is being celebrated for the impact she continues to make in Hawaii Island communities through her nonprofit organization, Kristi Yamaguchi’s Always Dream.

The musical ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ opens in Hilo

The Hilo Education Arts Repertory Theatre, or HEART, will present the acclaimed musical “Dear Evan Hansen” tonight through March 1 at the East Hawaii Cultural Center in Hilo

Public invited to free Gospel Heritage Concert in Kona

The Kona Choral Society provides an opportunity to honor the rich legacy and influence of African-American music at its 8th Annual Gospel Heritage Concert, “Guide My Feet.”

US FDA approves labeling changes to menopause hormone therapies

(Reuters) — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said on Thursday it has approved labeling changes to six menopause hormone therapies to remove references to risks of cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, and probable dementia.

Guthrie doorbell video delayed by difficult data recovery, but privacy advocates still worry

Finding security camera footage in the high-profile abduction of Nancy Guthrie may have been delayed because it probably was stored as unorganized data on Google’s servers, experts told Reuters. But the fact that the data existed at all despite her not having a subscription to its doorbell camera service has some privacy advocates worried.

US senators sharply question Trump officials about Pretti shooting, use of force

The top Republican and Democrat on a U.S. Senate committee played video showing the lead-up to the shooting of U.S. citizen Alex Pretti to Trump immigration officials at a hearing on Thursday, sharply questioning whether the use of force was appropriate. The committee’s Republican chairman, U.S. Senator Rand Paul, said the video clearly showed Pretti was backing away when a border officer doused him with pepper spray at close range during the January encounter, which sparked nationwide scrutiny of Trump administration immigration tactics.

Norwegian police search homes of ex-PM Jagland in Epstein probe

OSLO — Norwegian police searched the homes of former prime minister Thorbjorn Jagland on Thursday, his lawyer and police said, as part of an ongoing investigation into ties between prominent Norwegians and late U.S. sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Obituaries for February 13

Antoinette “Toni” Amii, 72, of Hilo died Nov. 29 in the Puueo Poi Factory apartments fire in Hilo. Born in Honolulu, she was a waitress and was known for making tamales. Celebration of life noon Saturday, March 7, at 12:00 p.m. at Kolekole Beach Park. Online condolences: homelanimemorialpark.com. Survived by daughters, Rachelle Benevides, Cheryl Garma and Jessica Alvarez; son, Christopher Alvarez; brothers, Donald Gonsalves and Antoinette Gonsalves; sisters, Olinda DeRego and Verlann Gonsalves; 11 grandchildren and three great‑grandchildren; nieces and nephews. Arrangements by Homelani Memorial Park.

Judge temporarily blocks Hegseth from punishing Kelly for video

WASHINGTON — A federal judge Thursday temporarily blocked Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth from punishing Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., for participating in a video that warned active-duty service members not to follow illegal orders.

Senior US health official Oz invited Epstein to Valentine’s Day party, documents show

WASHINGTON (Reuters) — Dr. Mehmet Oz, President Donald Trump’s administrator of the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, emailed an invitation to a Valentine’s Day party in 2016 to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, U.S. Justice Department documents show.

County, former department head exonerated in trial

Following a civil jury trial presided over by Hilo Circuit Judge Henry Nakamoto, the county and Douglass Adams — former director of the Department of Research and Development — have been found legally not liable of all allegations in a lawsuit regarding the county’s hiring processes.

BLS: Guam posts 800 workplace injuries and illnesses in 2024

By Jayvee Vallejera   Private employers on Guam reported 800 nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2024, with companies in the leisure and hospitality industry posting the highest number, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics on Wednesday. This resulted in a “total recordable cases” incidence rate of 1.9 cases per 100 full-time equivalent workers in Guam, according to a BLS news release. The national case rate in 2024 was 2.3. The findings from the 2024 Survey of...

Sports Tourism in Hawaiʻi INSIGHTS ON PBS HAWAI‘I

What will it take for Hawaiʻi to become a viable and profitable destination for sports tourism?

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Lawsuit seeks emergency halt to plan to accept U.S. deportees in Palau

By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (Feb. 13, 2026) — The Palau Senate and two private citizens have asked the Supreme Court to immediately halt a government plan to accept up to 75 deportees from the United States, arguing the arrangement violates the Constitution, immigration laws and the authority of the national legislature. The plaintiffs filed […]

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Philippine Airlines Expands Palau Access With Twice-Weekly Manila Flights Starting March 29

By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (Feb. 12, 2026) — Philippine Airlines will begin twice-weekly service between Palau and Manila starting March 29, expanding international access and strengthening travel links for residents, visitors and the Palauan diaspora. The flights will operate on a scheduled basis and will be available for online booking, according to Efren Adrian […]

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Thousands Eligible for PGST Refunds as Government Announces February Payout

By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau — About 4,600 Palauans are eligible to receive tax refunds later this month, according to Bureau of Revenue and Taxation Director Elway Ikeda. Refund distribution is scheduled for Feb. 24–25 at the Palau Community College (PCC) cafeteria. The refunds are mandated under the Palau Goods and Services Tax (PGST) Act […]

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New Entry Rules: Visitors From 12 Nations Must Get Approval Before Traveling to Palau

By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (Feb. 12, 2026) — Travelers from 12 countries will be required to obtain advance clearance or a visa before boarding flights to Palau under a new executive order strengthening border controls. Executive Order No. 499, which takes effect March 30, 2026, eliminates visa-on-arrival privileges for nationals of designated “Excluded Countries.” […]

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Community Invited to Send Off Alingano Maisu on 6,200-Mile Pacific Voyage

KOROR, Palau (Feb. 12, 2026)— The Micronesian Voyaging Society is inviting the public to attend the launch of the traditional sailing canoe Alingano Maisu as it begins its 20th voyage, a 6,200-mile journey across the Pacific. The launch ceremony will be held Sunday, Feb. 15, from noon to 2 p.m. at NECO Marine in Koror […]

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Palau Lawmakers Urge Return of Public Lands to States to Expand Agriculture

By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang NGERULMUD, Palau (Feb. 12, 2026)— A House joint resolution introduced during the House of Delegates’ Fifth Regular Session is calling on President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. to direct the Palau Public Lands Authority (PPLA) to designate portions of public land for agricultural use and to accelerate the return of excess public […]

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Palau Launches National Anti-Drug Task Force for 2026 “Just Say No” Campaign

By: Summer Kennard KOROR, Palau (Feb. 12, 2026) — President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. has issued Executive Order No. 498 establishing a National Working Group on the Fight Against Illegal Drugs, launching a coordinated national response for 2026, declared the Year to “Just Say No” to Illegal Drugs. The order identifies illegal drugs as a […]

The post Palau Launches National Anti-Drug Task Force for 2026 “Just Say No” Campaign appeared first on Island Times News.

Maria Ressa warns Trump’s narrative warfare is more insidious than Duterte’s

‘The biggest change from 2016 to today is the fusion of State with Big Tech,’ says Nobel laureate Maria Ressa

Ngchesar Inaugurates 12th Government, Sets Priorities on Roads, Housing, Education and Tourism

By: Laurel Marewibuel KOROR, Palau (Feb. 12, 2026) — Ngchesar State officially inaugurated its 12th government Thursday, with newly elected leaders pledging to focus on infrastructure, housing, education and tourism development for the community. Governor Jackson Doktok, Floor Leader Feliciano Watanabe and all newly elected members of the Ngchesar State Legislature took their oaths of […]

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Palau Women train in giant clam farming to boost sustainability and local economies

By: Laurel Marewibuel KOROR, Palau — Women from Melekeok and Aimeliik states are building new pathways to financial independence and environmental stewardship through giant clam farming, launching a training program this January in Melekeok focused on sustainable aquaculture and small-business development. The Giant Clam Aquaculture Farming initiative equips women gleaners and fishers with practical skills […]

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Japan donates motorcycles, equipment to strengthen Palau emergency response

By: Laurel Marewibuel KOROR, Palau — The Government of Japan on Tuesday donated six motorcycles, 30 tactical flashlights and five professional-grade binoculars to Palau’s Ministry of Justice to support emergency and public safety operations. The equipment, valued at approximately 6 million Japanese yen (about $40,000), was provided through Japan’s Economic and Social Development Grant Program. […]

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Airai Sets March 2 General Election as Governor’s Race and 23 Legislative Candidates Take the Field

By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang KOROR, Palau (Feb. 12, 2026) — Airai State will hold its 10th general election on March 2, with voters set to choose a governor and members of the 15-seat state legislature amid a growing voter base and early interest in absentee voting. Incumbent Gov. Norman Ngiratecheboet is seeking re-election and faces […]

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JOY Bouquets spark online buzz as Jollibee trends for Valentine’s Joy Day

This Valentine's season, local stars get surprised by Jollibee's JOY Bouquets that combine real flowers with menu favorites

​​[In This Economy] ‘What has happened to the School?’: Winnie Monsod’s wake-up call

Ma’am Winnie’s remarks last week are a much-needed wake-up call for the UP School of Economics, which should be producing young, promising economists who are not just technically savvy but also possess strong moral fiber to speak out truth to power

Immersive Collaboration Brings Promotions to Life at Hackathon 3.0

A day-long seminar and hackathon at National University – Dasmarinas turned a regular gymnasium into a live practical advertising synergy where students learned from industry creative directors in the morning and built lasting networks displaying campaign insights under time pressure in the afternoon.

Palau Junior Tennis Team Qualifies for Pacific Oceania Championships

Koror, Palau (Feb. 12, 2026) — Eight junior tennis players from Palau represented the nation at the International Tennis Federation (ITF) North Pacific Regional Championships (NPRC), held Feb. 2–6 in Guam, competing against athletes from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), Guam, the Federated States of Micronesia and Nauru. The regional tournament featured […]

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Order in the Court: Same-sex couples can now be property co-owners

This is a major development for the LGBTQ+ community because another aspect of their rights is now protected by the law

New league opens pathway opportunities for emerging Pacific basketballers

AUCKLAND, 12 FEBRUARY 2026 (PMN)—A new initiative aims to bridge the gap between amateur competition and professional opportunities for Pacific basketball players. The Pasefika Basketball League (PBL) will launch this month with a Pro Showcase Trial to be held on 15 February at the Alan Brewster Leisure Centre in Papatoetoe, Auckland. PBL co-founder and director, […]

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Marshallese deported by ICE ‘having the hardest time’

MAJURO, 10 FEBRUARY 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — People deported to the Marshall Islands from the United States face a tough road to survival, experiencing difficulties being accepted by locals and often lacking the basics of life. Marshallese are one of the main groups of Pacific peoples caught up in the immigration crackdown in the US. […]

The post Marshallese deported by ICE ‘having the hardest time’ appeared first on Island Times News.

CNMI’s hotel group appeals for U.S federal support amid possible shutdown of Korea-Saipan route

SAIPAN, 12 FEBRUARY 2026 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — The Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands is pushing for U.S federal policy changes to help stabilise the commonwealth’s fragile tourism amid another setback posed by the possible shutdown of Korean carriers’ Saipan route. The hotel group has joined a call for the U.S Department of […]

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Australian dollar reaches ’40-year high’ against Japan’s yen, as cheap holidays fuel tourism surge

By Doug Dingwall In short: (ABC-Australia) The Australian dollar reached a 40-year high against the yen on Monday, making Japan even cheaper for tourists to visit, analysts said. A record number of Australians visited Japan in 2025, exceeding one million for the first time, according to Japan’s tourism agency. What’s next? Analysts expect the Australian dollar […]

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Innovative citizenship programme is already benefiting nation: Nauru President

YAREN, 12 FEBRUARY 2026 (NAURU GOVT) — Nauru President David Adeang says the Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Programme, established last year, is already generating funds to address Nauru’s most pressing needs. He said the programme was one of many bold initiatives implemented by the government in the last term to help establish long […]

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The issues surrounding the hit-and-run that killed Cebuano Kingston Ralph Cheng

An intoxicated 21-year-old kills a loved 23-year-old entrepreneur while drunk driving in Cebu City, causing debates over road safety and law enforcement

Heartbreak nation? 27% of Filipinos experienced, witnessed cheating

Filipinos who experienced this kind of romantic betrayal identified seven types of cheating — some of which might even surprise you. Are you willing to forgive and forget?

ByteDance’s new AI video model goes viral as China looks for second DeepSeek moment

The Seedance 2.0 launch comes as China and investors around the world are on the lookout for a successor to DeepSeek's R1 and V3 models

American Bar Association backing Pacific territories’ fight against deep-sea mining

HAGATNA, 12 FEBRUARY 2026 (GUAM DAILY POST) — The American Bar Association threw its weight behind Pacific Island opposition to deep-sea mining Monday, passing a resolution that brings more than 400,000 lawyers into the fight against federal leasing plans. The resolution, submitted by the Guam Bar Association and approved by the ABA’s House of Delegates […]

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Tonga Customs intercept firearms, ammunition and restricted goods in latest border seizures

NUKU’ALOFA, 12 FEBRUARY 2026 (TALANOAOTONGA) — Tonga Customs officers have intercepted multiple consignments containing undeclared firearms, ammunition, alcohol and fireworks during inspections between December 2025 and January 2026, authorities say. The items, arriving from countries including New Zealand and the United States, were detected through x-ray scanning and physical examination as part of strengthened border […]

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Businesses face hard times in months following Tongariro fire

Tourism-dependent businesses in the central North Island town of Waimarino have faced hard times since November's fire in Tongariro National Park.

More than 30 kittens available for adoption at south Auckland animal shelter

The SPCA has more than 30 kittens available for adoption at its Māngere Centre, where it says the 40-year-old building is crumbling and part of the cattery floods when it rains.

The significance of Traditional Sounds of the Past

By Esther Yvonne Atonio/ Apia, SAMOA – 13 February 2026 – “A common factor in the Pacific is that people connect through language, but Samoan ancestors in the olden days connected with the divine by sounds using traditional instruments.” This is according to Tau’ili’ili Alpha Maiava who led a seminar at the National University of Samoa, Center of […]

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Christchurch terrorist made almost 700 complaints about life in prison

Mosque killer's claims of torturous prison conditions are exaggerated, a court has heard.

District court judges give evidence at conduct hearing for fellow judge Ema Aitken

Judge Ema Aitken is before the panel accused of yelling at Winston Peters during an event at Auckland's Northern Club in 2024, calling him a liar.

Head of State receives Pakistan’s Envoy to Samoa

Apia, SAMOA – 13 February 2026 – The Head of State, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II received His Excellency Dr. Faisal Aziz Ahmed’s Letter of Credence in a credentials ceremony at the Government House, Vailele this morning, accrediting His Excellency as the High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Samoa. Samoa and Pakistan […]

The post Head of State receives Pakistan’s Envoy to Samoa appeared first on Talamua Online.

Four children escape as bus goes up in flames at Leigh

"It's fortunate that no one has been hurt," police say.

Wet weather may force use of outfall pipe near Wellington beaches

Wellington Water says it is monitoring wet weather forecast for the capital this weekend as its Moa Point plant continues to leak raw sewage.

UH part of statewide push to keep residents home through good jobs, wages

Hawaiʻi leaders are advancing a bold goal to ensure residents have living-wage jobs.

The post UH part of statewide push to keep residents home through good jobs, wages first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

'It's appalling' - the Auckland academic who appears in the Epstein files

Although there's no suggestion Brian Boyd was involved in any wrongdoing, in 2012 he received an offer from Jeffrey Epstein to fund a book about the 1955 novel Lolita.

Christchurch terrorist had 'certainty of conviction' regardless of plea, Crown says

A Crown solicitor has told the Court of Appeal the terrorist is where he was always going to end up.

Firefighters take 30 minutes to respond to callout amid strike action

Two fire trucks arrived 30 minutes after a report of smoke coming from Auckland's downtown ferry terminal on Friday.

Population decline in FSM and RMI

The urge to survive is a powerful one, for both an individual and a country. Nauru, whose population was decimated by infectious disease as a result of colonialism, still celebrates Angam Day on Oct. 26 every year. This was the day in 1932 when the birth of a baby brought Nauru's population up to 1,500, a minimum number thought necessary at the time to guarantee the future survival of the Nauruan people.

Timing critical as Kiwi wasp bait tech trialled on Auckland's hornet invaders

After proving highly effective against wasps, Vespex is to be trailed on the yellow-legged hornet population.

Nauru president proposes changing country's name to Naoero

The Nauru government says the island's name "was changed not by our choice, but for convenience" and the proposed changes aims to honour the nation's heritage, language, and identity.

25 UH football players earn conference academic honors

The Rainbow Warrior student-athletes were named to the Mountain West Academic All-Conference team.

The post 25 UH football players earn conference academic honors first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

DoH records 782 confirmed cases of dengue fever

Dengue fever continues to spread in the territory and residents are being urged to take preventive measures to protect themselves from mosquitoes which carry the virus. The Department of Health officially declared a dengue fever outbreak in

Am. Samoa represented at 2026 Island Invasives Conference

Staff from the Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources, the ASCC Land Grant Program and Swains Representative Su’a Alex Jennings represented American Samoa at the 2026 Island Invasives Conference that concluded Thursday in Auckland, New Zealand. The

Live: Warning issued as severe thunderstorms arrive over Northland

Warnings are in place for the most the island and a campground is being evacuated.

'They gave me the chance': William Havili reflects on his upcoming 50th match for Moana Pasifika

William 'Willi' Havili reflects on his upcoming 50th match and becoming the most-capped player for the club in Super Rugby Pacific.

Opposition finds change to school lunch scheme's name hard to swallow

A free school lunches programme rebrand has dropped the reo Māori name Ka Ora Ka Ako, a move David Seymour says is "delivering real value".

Chocolate recipes to show yourself some love

Seven sweet recipes for people more lovey-dovey about chocolate than Valentine's Day.

Researcher working on Samoan medicinal knowledge and virology

An Auckland University researcher is bringing Samoan medicinal knowledge into virology.

'Devastated': Hawke's Bay campground being evacuated due to landslide risk

Residents are "shocked and devastated", but the council warns the order to leave "cannot be ignored".

Police praise bravery of Auckland slaver's victims

Moeaia Tuai promised two people a better life, but instead kept them as slaves for several years, police said following his sentencing.

Multiple people trapped after crash in north Canterbury

One person is critically injured, others seriously, as ambulances and a helicopter race to State Highway 7, north of Waikari.

Pacific Winds 20260213

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Pacific Winds 20260213

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

Person shot during fight in Auckland's Mission Bay

An investigation was underway to track down those responsible.

Presidents Day 2026 celebrates heritage spanning 47 Presidents

Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is highlighting Presidents’ Day: “Happy Presidents Day! This year’s federal holiday is during America’s 250th year and honors a heritage spanning 47 U.S. presidents. Under federal law, the holiday is officially designated George Washington’s

LBJ Hospital terminates contract with Willis Construction

The LBJ Hospital is having to look for a company to build an ARPA funded project after it terminated the construction contract with the original contractor. The Talatala le Taui Show reports that the hospital served a

Vessel arrives to carry out survey to map waters off AS

The vessel that is carrying out a new hydrographic survey to map and characterize more than 30,000 square nautical miles of federal waters off American Samoa is now in the territory. The Ocean Guardian is being used

Matai jailed for 16+ years in enslavement case in NZ

A Samoan matai found guilty of enslaving two people in Auckland, New Zealand, has been sentenced to more than 16 years in prison. Moeaia Tuai was found guilty by a jury last year of numerous charges related

BOG opens Ebeye branch

Journal 2/11/1983 P1 Bank of Guam opening on EbeyeThe Bank of Guam will open its Ebeye branch on February 13. Bank of Guam President Jesus Leon Guerrero is coming to Majuro this weekend and then will go to Ebeye for the opening. P3 Entertainment center to openChuji Chutaro’s new Likrok Restaurant and Entertainment Center isn’t […]

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Investigation underway into suspicious Auckland factory fire

Up to eight crews were called to the two-storey building.

House, Senate committees advance bills to establish NIL framework for UH student-athletes

Several coaches and student-athletes delivered passionate testimony at the house hearing.

The post House, Senate committees advance bills to establish NIL framework for UH student-athletes first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Frank Pritchard, former New Zealand and Samoa rugby league star, is new Fetu Samoa coach

Rugby League Samoa says Frank Pritchard will replace Jamie Soward, who resigned last month.

Spooky 'grim reaper' image shows up on medical scan of car crash victim

The person was unharmed, but the New Zealand Medical Journal has highlighted the case an an example of pareidolia.

US Marines establish forward refueling site on Tinian amid Indo-Pacific tensions

Tinian's proximity to Andersen Air Force Base in Guam allows aircraft to refuel and receive logistical support quickly, making the island a strategic training ground for forward-based operations.

Vanuatu prepares draft UN resolution to endorse ICJ climate opinion

Vanuatu's climate minister said in September the country was drafting a UN resolution to turn the opinion from words into "political action".

Weather: Fears of another landslide as North Island-wide rain settles in

Rain is on the way for almost all of the North Island, including areas badly battered last month.

The band that works together while thousands of miles apart

From the harmonica to Nokia ringtones, the band let funny ideas, rock influences and hard-hitting lyrics lead the way, finding a new centre of gravity for their new album.

FENZ denies union's claim no aerial ladder trucks available in four cities

The Professional Firefighters' Union says the high-reach ladder trucks in four cities are broken and communities face hours of waiting if backup is needed.

'Hundreds of thousands' of files to be reviewed in council-led Mt Maunganui inquiry

The council has named retired High Court judge Paul Davison KC to help the external review, which is separate to a government inquiry.

The Rain Song

by Ace Boggess I walk among droplets, unconcerned, soothed by scents of damp earth & wood masking my smoky breath the way the smell of baking bread hides, however briefly, the decay of a marriage. I’m happy at a time of many fingers caressing my neck— I lean back into them, stare up at gray … … Continue reading →

Vape stores within stores allowing retailers to get around flavour restrictions

A new study has found these vape shops which could be within places like dairies or service stations are far more common in low socio-economic areas.

Growing numbers of Pākehā seeking to understand Te Tiriti o Waitangi

More Pākehā are enrolling in Treaty education workshops and seeking out information about Te Tiriti o Waitangi, according to long-standing Treaty educators.

Kathy follows mother’s footsteps

Kathy Jetñil-Kijiner received her PhD in Australia last week, adding to the small number of Marshallese who have achieved this advanced degree. Her PhD is in Pacific Studies from the Australian National University in Canberra. Her mother, President Hilda Heine, was the first Marshallese to achieve the advanced degree when she received her Doctor of […]

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Bounty for Atong Ang’s arrest now at P20-M | The wRap

Today's headlies: Atong Ang, TikTok, Britney Spears

Rappler Live Jam: VXON

VXON returns to the Rappler HQ fresh off the release of their sophomore album 'Pasakalye'!

Donny Pangilinan aids cause for children education through golf tournament

In celebration of his 28th birthday, Donny Pangilinan leads the successful staging of the Donato Cup, an invitational golf tournament that raises P500,000 for a nonprofit organization

What the Makati–Infradev settlement means for the city’s subway plan

Under the settlement, Makati City government will pay Infradev in exchange for full ownership of the Makati Subway Project and all its related assets, effectively taking control of the venture

Worsening floods? Stop Manila Bay reclamations, say groups

Over the years, the Manila Bay question has evolved from a focus on trash to the reclamations lining the bay

Senate, House seek probes into alleged Philippine-based operations in Epstein files

The Senate and the House of Representatives seek probes into the Epstein files to find links between the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and Philippine-based online image cleaning operations

Reward for Atong Ang’s arrest now at P20 million

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla says the bounty comes from the confidential funds of the Philippine National Police and the DILG

House passes strict voter ID bill, amplifying Trump’s claims of fraud

WASHINGTON — The House on Wednesday passed a strict voter identification measure that would require proof of American citizenship to vote and allow the Department of Homeland Security to seize voter rolls in any state, as Republicans muscled through a measure that is doomed in the Senate but that amplifies President Donald Trump’s groundless charges of rigged elections.

Commission to investigate Luke campaign contributions

The Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission will investigate whether Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke violated state law when she failed to report \(16,000 in campaign contributions, including \)10,000 tied to a businessman involved in a high-profile bankruptcy.

Bondi faces anger from lawmakers over handling of Epstein files

WASHINGTON — Attorney General Pam Bondi refused to apologize to survivors of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein who were seated in the House Judiciary Committee room Wednesday — and instead demanded that Democrats apologize to President Donald Trump.

$33 million well spent? Resolution seeking audit of county homeless fund spending passes

The Hawaii County Council on Feb. 4 voted 8-0 to approve a resolution requesting the county auditor conduct a performance audit of the Office of Housing and Community Development’s Homeless and Housing Fund, a five-year program established by the council in 2022 to combat homelessness.

House votes to cancel Trump’s Canada tariffs

WASHINGTON — The House voted Wednesday to rescind tariffs that President Donald Trump imposed on Canada last year, delivering a largely symbolic but politically consequential rebuke that Republicans had fought for a year to prevent.

Obituaries for February 12

Kathleen Puanani Branco, 61, of Mountain View died Jan. 26 at Hilo Benioff Medical Center. Born in Hilo, she was a homemaker. Visitation 8:30-9:30 a.m. Tuesday (Feb. 17) at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hilo. Memorial Mass 9:30 a.m. Survived by husband, Paul Duane Branco; sons, Duane Paul (Brandy) Branco and Joseph Paul (Brandy) Branco; brothers, Wayne (Katrina) Jardin and Joseph Jardin; four grandchildren and a great-grandchild; nieces, nephews and cousins. Arrangements by Dodo Mortuary.

Military’s use of anti-drone technology said to cause El Paso airspace closure

WASHINGTON — Federal Aviation Administration officials were forced to close the airspace over El Paso, Texas, late Tuesday after the Defense Department decided to use new anti-drone technology without giving aviation officials ample time to assess the risks to commercial airlines, according to four people briefed on the situation.

Employers hired swiftly in january after a dismal 2025

The U.S. economy put in a strong showing at the start of 2026, following a year of disruptions that depressed both the demand for labor and its supply.

Instagram chief says social media is not ‘clinically addictive’ in landmark trial

Instagram’s chief executive said Wednesday that social media was not “clinically addictive,” refuting claims that the platform prioritized making money over the mental health of young users in a landmark tech addiction case.

Agents scour hills near Guthrie home after a man is questioned and let go

Authorities in Arizona are searching for Nancy Guthrie, 84, the mother of “Today” show anchor Savannah Guthrie, who has been missing since Feb. 1. Her disappearance, which has gripped the nation, is being investigated as a kidnapping.

Canadian school shooter identified as 18-year-old woman with mental health issues

OTTAWA — Canadian police on Wednesday identified the person who carried out a deadly school shooting as an 18-year-old woman with mental health issues but did not give a motive for one of the worst mass killings in Canada’s history.

News in brief for February 12

‘Dawson’s Creek’ actor James Van Der Beek dies at 48

State Board of Education adopts new policy on student cellphone use; implementation begins next school year

The state Board of Education has adopted a statewide policy establishing new rules for student cellphone use in public schools.

Portion of shoreline closed after sewage spill at Papaikou Treatment Plant

A sewage spill at the Papaikou Treatment Plant has resulted in a shoreline closure.

Sinking of M/V Trisha Kerstin 3: ‘Negligence of duty, operational lapses’

An official from the Philippine Coast Guard says none of the rolling cargoes were weighed before being allowed to board the ill-fated M/V Trisha Kerstin 3

[Pastilan] How many Filipinos learned to love China’s puppet show

This explains why certain senators parade their pro-China loyalties with brazen shamelessness. They are not bold out of principle, but because they are already calculating that the next president will be China-backed again.

Canoe culture keeps developing

KAREN EARNSHAW The evolution of Marshall Islands canoes this week reached yet another milestone thanks to a small group of people “learning from the past for the present and the future.” This philosophy is a motivating factor for Germany’s Henrik Richter-Alten, who first stepped through the doors of Waan Aelon in Majel in January, 2018. […]

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The quiet exodus: Brain drain in Guam and the compensation crisis that is driving talent away

When traditional employment disappoints, entrepreneurship is the classic American alternative. On Guam, that path is significantly harder to walk.

Guam’s business privilege tax is levied on gross receipts—not profits—at rates of 3 to 5 percent. A business pays tax before it knows whether it has turned a profit.

Trend Intel: Will you spend $50,000 on a Trader Joe’s tote bag?

Trader Joe’s totes – a side quest product turned status symbol

Maritime NZ investigates sinking of Fiordland Jet commercial jetboat on Waiau River

The Fiordland Jet jetboat sank on the Waiau River on Tuesday afternoon.

Weather and Tide Schedule for tomorrow, February 13th

Thursday, February 12, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - According to Accuweather, the weather forecast for tomorrow is expected to be partly sunny. Temperatures are expected to be 87 degrees high and 78 degrees low. The percentage of rainfall is expected to be 25%. Also, according to the Yap Weather Services Office, Tomorrow's tide schedule is as follows: the first high tide will be at 6:47 AM, reaching approximately (1.14 meters ) 3.7 feet. This will be followed by a low tide at 11:27 AM (0.92...

The FSM National Adaptation Plan Coordination Team held a workshop at the Yap Early Childhood Education Centre Conference Room

Thursday, February 12, 2026, /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - Yesterday, the FSM National Adaptation Plan Coordination Team held a two-day workshop at the Yap Early Childhood Education Centre Conference Room regarding the National Adaptation Plan for Yap State. The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) is actively working on a National Adaptation Plan (NAP) to address the impacts of climate change. The NAP aims to guide adaptation planning at the state and national levels, with a focus on strengthening...

Container Vessel Kota Ratu arrived in Yap

Thursday, February 12, 2026, /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - This past Monday, February 9th, the container vessel Kota Ratu arrived in Yap at 7:00 am from Guam and departed the next day, February 10th, at 7:00 pm heading to Koror, Palau. During its visit, the container vessel discharged a total of 18 containers intended to supply local supply chains and commercial. The shipment included 2 containers of rice and store items from Vietnam, 5 containers of general merchandise from China, 1 container of...

Taupō school fire: Students to keep studying from home next week

The demolition of the classroom block that went up in flames is expected to take some time.

How accessible are nangs? An RNZ investigation found out

A Checkpoint investigation has revealed how accessible are potentially dangerous nitrous oxide or nangs in large quantities from dairies, vape stores and convenience stores.

Baby killed in Wairoa school bus crash

Two others are fighting for their lives.

Concerns for seafarers on retired Interislander ferry

The former Aratere is anchored in Tasman Bay, pending consent to enter India.

Slavery victims tell of their years-long ordeal

Former prison officer Moeaia Tuai has been jailed for more than 16 years after being found guilty on two charges of slavery, two counts of rape and a string of other sexual assaults.

'Ongoing concerns' immigration requirements for bus drivers too tough

A residency pathway for bus drivers requires English language to the level of a post-graduate international student, after two years on a working visa.

Mt Maunganui business owner says revenue down by half after landslide

The owner of a Mount Maunganui pizzeria which has only just reopened after the deadly Mauao landslide says revenue is half what it would usually be in summer.

Health NZ drops plan to charge market rates for hospital car parking

A Nurses Organisation delegate says it was an "embarrassing U-turn for Te Whatu Ora", but heartening to see they had listened to members.

Judge Ema Aitken must have known who she was yelling at, NZ First MP Casey Costello says

Judge Ema Aitken is accused of disrupting an event, yelling at Winston Peters and calling him a liar.

Mt Maunganui landslide: Retired judge Paul Davison, KC appointed to lead external review

Paul Davison, KC, has been appointed to lead the review into the events leading up to the deadly landslide at Mount Maunganui.

Christchurch man due in court after stealing vehicle he hit, attempting to steal three others

A man has been arrested after he crashed into two cars, then stole one of the vehicles, police say.

SAS rules 'tightened' since death of soldier Nicholas Kahotea in training accident

Nicholas Kahotea died after falling several storeys while training to step from a hovering helicopter onto a building.

Stronger? Republicans don't think so

The governor’s election-year state of the island address is a self-assessment of her performance in office and a pitch for the retention of the Democratic Party’s rule. For the Republican Party, the governor’s report card is a comparative reference for its own campaign.

Car of Tekanimaeu Arobati, swept away in Mahurangi River, found

Tekanimaeu Arobati's body was found on January 24 - three days after he disappeared.

Supreme’s review multiple disputes

The Marshall Islands Supreme Court had a busy two-day session last week, with seven appeals on the table for review by the three-judge panel. Chief Justice Daniel Cadra was joined by two Associate Justices J. Michael Seabright and Richard Seeborg. Two appeals related to Iroojlaplap Mike Kabua’s case before the High Court challenging Council of […]

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UH Mānoa, Hawaiʻi contractors team up to build future engineers

GCA has supported the College of Engineering since the 1970s.

The post UH Mānoa, Hawaiʻi contractors team up to build future engineers first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Police want to hear from anyone with information about disgraced ex-priest

Rowan Donoghue is awaiting sentencing for sexual offending involving teenage boys.

Government Discontinue Faasaleleaga 2 District Development Project

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 12 February 2026 – The Fa’asaleleaga 2 district will not receive funds under the District Development Project after they failed to honour the agreement with the Government. The agreement was for the district to meet with the Government again after they sort out their internal differences regarding the District […]

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Customs Intercepts Prohibited Drugs and Paraphernalia at Faleolo Airport

Apia, SAMOA – 12 February 2026 – The Ministry of Customs seized 90grams of marijuana and drug paraphernalia from a passenger who arrived at Faleolo International Airport on a Fiji Airways flight yesterday. Customs officers intercepted a 43-year-old male passenger, during routine border clearance processes. The passenger is a Samoan national, who holds a New […]

The post Customs Intercepts Prohibited Drugs and Paraphernalia at Faleolo Airport appeared first on Talamua Online.

Nominations Open for Samoa’s Honours Awards 2026

By Jeannie Penehuro/ Apia, SAMOA – 12 February 2026 – The Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (MPMC) has opened applications and nominations for Samoa’s prestigious Awards and Honours, in line with the Awards and Honours Act 1999. These awards are intended to recognize and celebrate individuals who have made significant and outstanding contributions to the development and progress […]

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Super Rugby Pacific: Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika ready to 'start hard, strong, fast'

The match will be the second time in Super Rugby history that the two sides will clash in the opening round.

New analysis confirms 2025 ranks among hottest years for Western Pacific region

As a result, communities throughout the Pacific region have been struggling to come to grips with these changes on water supplies, food security and public health.

Pasifika Sipoti in brief for 12 February

A round-up of sports news from around the region, including a Samoan NRL star switching teams.

Christchurch terrorist suffered 'complete destruction of his identity' in prison, his lawyers say

The man's lawyers say he was living in "oppressive" environment which eroded his mental health.

I was not prepared for how deeply disturbing this film was

Despite understanding the terrain the film would traverse, Madeleine Hakaraia de Young was not ready.

Advanced manufacturing at Honolulu CC spotlighted in high-level federal tour

The assistant secretary’s visit highlighted advanced manufacturing at Honolulu CC.

The post Advanced manufacturing at Honolulu CC spotlighted in high-level federal tour first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi

February is Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, a time to honor and celebrate the Hawaiian language and the generations who have worked to preserve it. For many years, ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi was nearly silenced. Through resilience and deep love for culture and identity, it lives and thrives today. Every word spoken is an act of continuation and every […]

The post Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi first appeared on Olelo Community Media.

High school land case to trial

A dispute involving land at Laura High School is moving toward a possible trial later this year. At a hearing Monday this week in the High Court, Judge Anne Bodley set out a schedule for preparations for a trial over the next two months with a hearing to address motions filed by either or both […]

The post High school land case to trial appeared first on The Marshall Islands Journal.

Moa Point: Wellington mayor makes first move towards inquiry

Wellington Mayor Andrew Little said he'd given Local Government Minister Simon Watts his proposal for a terms of reference for any inquiry.

Government launches inquiry into deadly Mount Maunganui landslide

Six people died after a portion of the maunga collapsed onto a section of a campground on 22 January.

Miss Am Samoa presents on Education with focus on digital literacy

At the pre pageant interviews for the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant in Fiji, Miss American Samoa Tofoipupu Unutoa presented on education. She incorporated the theme of the pageant, “One Pacific One Voice-Standing Together for online safety” into

President Simina Administers Oath of Office to Yap State Appointees

COLONIA, Yap — February 11, 2026 — His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), administered the Oath of Office to two presidential appointees representing the State of Yap during a ceremony held at the Yap State Governor’s Office in Colonia on February 10, 2026. The appointees sworn in were […]

New FSM Funded Woleiai Airport Officially Opened and Dedicated to Late President Urusemal

WOLEAI, Yap State — February 10, 2026 — His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), officially opened and formally turned over the completed Woleai Airport Runway Project to the Yap State Government and the people of Woleai on February 9, 2026. The Woleai Airport project is a national initiative […]

President Simina Encourages People-Centered Planning During Visit to Defense Site Working Group in Yap

COLONIA, Yap — February 11, 2026 — While in Yap State, His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), visited the joint U.S., FSM, and Yap State Defense Site Working Group meeting to express appreciation for the team’s ongoing work and coordination efforts. The Defense Site Working Group was established […]

Inquest into death of Nicholas Kahotea, soldier who fell from helicopter during training

Lance Corporal Nicholas Kahotea fell to his death in May of 2019 while training to dismount from a Blackhawk helicopter onto the edge of a building.

Weekend weather: Warning for Bay of Plenty with muggy downpours on the way

You may need to keep your raincoats handy as the warm weather may take a turn this weekend.

Pest cull at Auckland's Western Springs Lake using electrocurrents

Hundreds of goldfish, turtles and other pests are being pulled from a popular park's lake to be euthanised.

SHOOTS Summit Hawaiʻi 2026: FoʻReals! HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawaiʻi

On this episode of HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawaiʻi, viewers will be immersed in Hawaiʻi’s annual youth media conference: SHOOTS Summit Hawai‘i, which celebrated its fourth year with the theme “Fo’Reals!” Students from elementary through high school participate in the three-day event, which combines educational sessions with nearly two dozen contests—several of whose winning entries […]

The post SHOOTS Summit Hawaiʻi 2026: FoʻReals! HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawaiʻi appeared first on PBS Hawai‘i.

Speed limit increases on Transmission Gully

The government said it was designed and built to support higher-speed travel.

Samoa authorities detain NZ passport holder following marijuana seizure at Faleolo International Airport

The Samoan national, 43, who resides in Australia, arrived on a Fiji Airways flight on Thursday and was allegedly found in possession of six bottles containing marijuana and other drug paraphernalia.

Op-Ed: Puipui Measina a Amerika Samoa Unites to Uphold Protections for Muliava (Rose Atoll)

By Puipui Measina a Amerika Samoa Efforts to maintain longstanding protections for Muliava (Nu’u o Manu, Le Oneone Sa o Tuimanu’a, Rose Atoll) have advanced considerably, with widespread support emerging from across Amerika Samoa for the preservation

Name suppression continues for teen charged with murder of elderly woman in Burnham

The woman's body was found at a home in Burnham, rural Canterbury last month.

How many children have to die for safety regulations for corded window blinds, mother asks

Three-year-old Tilly was found by her then-five-year-old sister. Her mother wants to know when the law is changing.

Exercise can be as effective as medication for depression, anxiety – study

Compared to being inactive, aerobic exercise has an especially powerful impact on the symptoms of depression.

Pacific Winds 20260212

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The post Pacific Winds 20260212 appeared first on Hafa Adai.

Pacific Winds 20260212

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

Governor appoints new Acting Treasurer

Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula has appointed a long serving employee of the Department of Treasury, Mrs Carrie–Lee Magalei -Tulafono as Acting Treasurer. “Carri-Lee is a veteran of the Treasury Department with a wealth of knowledge and experience

Election failings factor for PNG, Solomons in latest corruption rankings

Electoral "deterioration" is letting Papua New Guiena and the Solomons down in the fight against corruption, according to Transprency International.

Settlement agreement reached between LBJ Hospital and former CFO

The LBJ Tropical Medical Center is to pay $100,000 to former Chief Financial Officer of LBJ Sefanaia Kaumaitotya as part of a negotiated settlement agreement relating to a complaint that Kaumaitotoya filed with the US Equal Employment

Review finds Teaching Council's penalties too light, incompetent teachers going under radar

The review also recommended the council investigate whether schools are failing to report incompetent teachers.

Second fire in Apia in 2 days

A warehouse in Fugalei went up in flames late Wednesday night. Samoa Observer newspaper reports the Moatoga Warehouse, located behind the SMI Hardware building near the Fugalei Market area, was engulfed in flames after 10 p.m. The

Schools accused of giving illegal scholarships to foreign students

School sport leaders say they do not believe the cases are symptomatic of a wider problem.

The 2026 HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawaiʻi Winter Challenge: Living Through Change HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawaiʻi

On this episode of HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawaiʻi, our host reveals the winning entries of the HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawaiʻi 2026 Winter Challenge. For this Challenge, the prompt was “LIVING THROUGH CHANGE.” Usually students have weeks to work on projects for HIKI NŌ and lots of help from teachers and professional industry mentors, […]

The post The 2026 HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawaiʻi Winter Challenge: Living Through Change HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawaiʻi appeared first on PBS Hawai‘i.

New Zealand's Sunergise acquires Todd’s Pacific Solar operations

By Pacific Island Times News Staff Sunergize, New Zealand’s leading commercial rooftop solar provider, has acquired Todd’s Pacific operations, making it the largest privately-owned commercial and industrial solar company in the Pacific. The acquisition completes Sunergise’s buyback of the solar companies it sold to Todd in 2018 and reinforces the company’s long-term vision, according to Paul Makumbe, the company's founder and CEO. Last year, Sunergise acquired Vector’s PowerSmart and brought...

Cause of Frankie Hypermarket fire yet to be confirmed

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 12 February 2026: The cause of the Frankie Hypermarket fire at Vaitele on Monday can only be identified after all information and evidence are assessed and analysed. The Commissioner of the Samoa Fire & Services Authority (SFESA) Tanuvasa Petone Mauga said the normal process for the investigation of such […]

The post Cause of Frankie Hypermarket fire yet to be confirmed appeared first on Talamua Online.

Fiji health survey finds very high rate of NCD risk factors in most adults

A health survey says almost all adults in Fiji aged between 18 and 69 have at least one risk factor for non-communicable diseases.

The easiest way to clean your microwave and a common mistake

Is your microwave getting a little crusty? Here are some quick and easy tips.

Image of the Week: Rainbow

This week’s image is from UH Mānoa's Jessica Khin.

The post Image of the Week: Rainbow first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Governor-General visits Tokelau on centenary, conveys King's message

Dame Cindy Kiro has shared a message from the King Charles to Tokelau on the 100th anniversary of the constitutional relationship with New Zealand.

New 'cheeky and playful' take on Swan Lake

The tales of two birds "emerging into identity" are melded in a new circus production coming to the Auckland Arts Festival next month.

Health experts call on Pharmac to fund female-specific testosterone

An endocrinologist says more than half the women she sees on testosterone for low libido are taking too high a dose of a product that's designed for men.

'Stop the supply': NZ needs to stop seeing smoking as an individual problem, expert says

Tobacco control advocate Anaru Waa says getting the country back on track towards its smokefree target will require a policy shift towards whole system change.

Raw sewage still pouring into Wellington waters raises questions, and anger

Decades ago Ray Ahipene-Mercer fought to stop the dumping of raw sewage into Wellington's sea. Now it's happening again.

Discayas’ Rolls Royce sold for P29-M | The wRap

Discayas, China’s ban, same-sex couples | The wRap

RESULTS: February 2026 Respiratory Therapists Computer-Based Licensure Examination

PRESS RELEASE: The Professional Regulation Commission announces that 776 out of 1,046 passed the examination

Britney Spears sells rights to music catalogue

Reports say the deal, signed on December 30, is 'in the ballpark' of Canadian singer Justin Bieber's reported $200-million agreement to sell his music rights to Hipgnosis in 2023

'Stronger today than seven years ago:' Guam governor says she kept her promises and stabilized government finances

By Mar-Vic Cagurangan Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero delivered her last state of the island address on Wednesday, claiming that Guam is unquestionably “stronger today than seven years ago” and touting what she called a fulfilled promise to put government finances in order. “Our annual debt service is down from \(92 million to \)65 million. We turned an \(83 million deficit into a cumulative \)297 million surplus without borrowing from the bond market, and we have a Rainy Day Fund backed by nearly $60...

Is the tote bag the most democratic bag? We asked Rappler staff about their picks

The monobloc chair of fashion: yes or no?

Church groups, civil society launch third Trillion Peso March for EDSA 40

Organizers shift the focus to active protests against corruption and dynasties to remember the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution

Philippine authorities alerted of alleged illegal US e-waste shipments

Despite the alerts, the Bureau of Customs has its hands tied because a court ruling upheld that Subic Special Economic Zone should be operated as a separate customs territory

In the Public Square: Sandro’s anti-fake news trap

What is shaping up to be the main version in the House, HB 2697, authored by Majority Leader Sandro Marcos, may turn out to be a trap — for free speech advocates, journalists, content creators

Why Philtranco, Philippines’ oldest bus operator, is shutting down

Philtranco’s story began in 1914, when it was founded as the Albert Louis Ammen Transportation Company or ALATCO by American soldier A.L. Ammen

Ayala Vermosa now home to national motorsports training base

MEDIA RELEASE: Ride for Solidarity, the National Motorcycle Sports & Safety Association, and Ayala Vermosa also unveil the 2026 National Race Season Schedule

Cambodia says it has closed almost 200 scam centers in fraud crackdown

Chhay Sinarith, senior minister and chair of Cambodia's Commission for Combating Online Scams, says 173 senior crime figures linked to the centers had been arrested and 11,000 workers deported

Man killed in ATV rollover in Honokaa

Police are investigating an all-terrain vehicle rollover that claimed the life of a man late Saturday night in Honokaa.

Former police chief said Trump told him ‘everyone’ knew of Epstein’s actions

WASHINGTON — After it became known that Jeffrey Epstein was under investigation in the 2000s, one of the first calls the Palm Beach police received was from Donald Trump, the local police chief at the time told the FBI more than a decade later.

Another Big Island man sentenced for affordable housing scam

A 65-year-old Big Island businessman who prosecutors said “played a central role in the conspiracy and scheme” to earn millions of dollars illegally using Hawaii County affordable housing credits was sentenced Friday in Honolulu to 7 1/2 years in federal prison.

Sylvia Luke says she didn’t take $35k but might be lawmaker behind months-long mystery

Hawaii Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke acknowledges that she may be the lawmaker at the heart of a months-long mystery regarding a legislator who allegedly accepted $35,000 in a paper bag in 2022, but she insists that she did nothing wrong.

Trump allies near ‘total victory’ in wiping out US climate regulation

WASHINGTON — In the summer of 2022, Democrats in Congress were racing to pass the biggest climate law in the country’s history and President Joe Biden was declaring that global warming posed a “clear and present danger” to the United States.

Appeals court lets Trump revoke deportation protections for 60,000 more migrants

WASHINGTON — A federal appeals court allowed President Donald Trump on Monday to move forward with ending deportation protections for more than 60,000 migrants from Nepal, Honduras and Nicaragua, a victory for his administration’s push to curtail a program for migrants fleeing crisis at home.

Governors to skip Trump meeting after White House invited only Republicans, source says

WASHINGTON — The National Governors Association canceled a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump later this month after the White House excluded Democratic governors, chairman Kevin Stitt told members on Monday, according to a source familiar with the matter.

Obituaries for February 11

Guy “Guyzo” Duke Astrande, 59, of Hilo, formerly of Anchorage, Alaska, died Dec. 23 at Life Care Center of Hilo. Born in Hilo, he was an equipment operator for Anchorage Golf Course. No services. Survived by wife, Emily Astrande of Hilo; sons, Cyrus Astrande of Anchorage, Alaska, and Conrado Astrande of Hilo; daughter-in-law, Rousselle “Katrina” (Donavan) Singuimani of North Las Vegas, Nev.; mother, Bernadette Astrande of Medford, Ore.; sisters, Dawn Kamohai and Lalena (Dionisio “Jay”) Rosana of Medford; three grandchildren; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Arrangements by Dodo Mortuary.

Trump’s spy chief Gabbard winds down intelligence task force

WASHINGTON — U.S. spy chief Tulsi Gabbard told Reuters on Tuesday that she has wound down a task force she launched last year with the declared goal of rooting out politicization from intelligence agencies, but which critics accused of being a tool for partisan attacks by the Trump administration.

Trump administration removes rainbow Pride flag from New York’s Stonewall monument

NEW YORK — President Donald Trump’s administration has removed a large rainbow Pride flag that flew over the Stonewall National Monument, which marks the birthplace of the modern gay rights movement in New York City.

Suspect in Nancy Guthrie abduction detained in Arizona, law enforcement official says

TUCSON, Ariz. — A suspect in the abduction of U.S. television host Savannah Guthrie’s elderly mother, Nancy, was taken into custody in Arizona on Tuesday, nine days after the 84-year-old woman was reported missing, a U.S. law enforcement official briefed on the case told Reuters.

Democrats introduce ‘Virginia’s Law’ alongside Epstein victims

WASHINGTON — Congressional Democrats introduced legislation on Tuesday that they said would eliminate the statute of limitations that has shielded sex traffickers such as the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Lutnick acknowledges traveling to Epstein’s island

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick acknowledged in a Senate hearing Tuesday that he had traveled to Jeffrey Epstein’s private island and had another encounter with Epstein, years after Lutnick claimed to have cut ties with him.

Learn to recognize AI/crypto fraud at free AARP seminars

At two free seminars later this month on Hawaii Island, an AARP fraud prevention expert will explain how artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency kiosks are being used to defraud kupuna.

Performance of ‘LOVE’ set for Valentine’s Day

Back by popular demand, for the third year Aerial Arts Hawaii presents a one-night Valentine’s performance of “LOVE,” an aerial dance show, at the Palace Theater in downtown Hilo.

Public invited to provide feedback on HTA’s destination management plan

The Hawaii Tourism Authority is taking the next steps in its Destination Management Action Plan (DMAP) process.

Grand opening Friday for new Hilo Goodwill store

Goodwill Hawaii has announced that the Hilo Store and Donation Center will be relocating to its Hawaii Island Campus (17 Makaala St.), which offers a larger retail space, more parking and a convenient donation drop-off.

Top immigration officials refuse to discuss Minnesota shootings at hearing

WASHINGTON — Top immigration officials defended the Trump administration’s mass deportation campaign during a congressional hearing Tuesday and repeatedly declined to answer questions about the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis.

News in brief for February 11

Paramount attempts to sweeten Warner Bros Discovery bid

Police ID ATV rollover victim

Police have identified the man who died in an all-terrain-vehicle vehicle rollover late Saturday night in Honokaa as 41-year-old Kasey Hui-Ahsam of Honokaa.

[DECODED] China’s familiar language of provocation

What all of this tells us is that the playbook has always been there, it’s just that we’re now seeing the attack lines brazenly coming from the official source

Hawaiian Word of the Week: Makani nui

Makani nui—strong wind.

The post Hawaiian Word of the Week: Makani nui first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Full text of Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero's 2026 State of the Island Address

Delivered by Gov. Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero before the 38th Guam Legislature on Feb. 11, 2026 INTRODUCTION Lieutenant Governor Joshua Tenorio, Speaker Frank Blas Jr., Chief Justice Katherine Maraman, Congressman James Moylan, Members of the Thirty-Eighth Guam Legislature, Justices and Judges, Rear Admiral Brett Mietus, Mayors and Vice Mayors, Attorney General Doug Moylan, members of the Diplomatic Corps, my husband, First Gentleman Jeff Cook, family and friends— Nights like tonight—when we...

Dead possum found in Roxburgh reservoir triggers boil water notice for area

The Central Otago District Council said the possum was found during an unrelated inspection on Wednesday, and it's not known how long it's been in the water.

Child hospitalised after being hit by bus while riding a bike in Auckland

Emergency services were called to the crash on Te Atatu Road around 6.30pm on Wednesday.

Video of Michael Reed KC being asked to leave NZ First event played at probe into Judge Ema Aitken

A panel investigating the behaviour of a judge accused of disrupting a NZ First event has heard from its first witnesses today, members of NZ First.

New satellite imagery shows recent storms triggered more than 11,000 slips on East Cape

Recent severe storms triggered more than 11,000 slips on the East Cape, according to satellite imagery.

Sea life returns to Maitai Bay, eight years after local hapū declares unofficial fishing ban

Annual monitoring since 2017 has shown growing variety, numbers and size of fish - with a seven-fold increase in snapper leading the resurgence.

'Everyone is grieving' - fatal Wairoa crash devastates community

One person was killed and two others were critically injured in the crash involving a car and a school bus yesterday.

Winston Peters: NZ First will champion better visa access for Pacific Islanders

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters says Pacific people "want a fair go" and he is committed to helping them get easier access to Aotearoa.

Audit finds no evidence of some wait lists being misrepresented at Nelson Hospital

Unions which raised concerns about Nelson Hospital say it does not explain why "dummy clinics" were set up to manage patients.

Finn Diesel, Trixie or Trevor? - name sought for Gore's iconic giant trout

The public will choose the name of the trout statue that has stood in Gore for almost 40 years.

Teaching Council too focused on 'being liked by the profession' - review

A review found the council appeared to have the culture of an advocacy body rather than of a regulatory or membership body.

Moa Point: Regional mayors have their say on what happens next and who will pay

Some mayors in the Wellington region have weighed in on the Moa Point sewage plant failure.

Out of control Dunedin university party weeks sparks police concern

Senior sergeant Craig Dinnissen called for a "significant culture change" and for students to embrace social responsibility.

Christchurch terrorist tried to use top human rights lawyer as his 'mouthpiece', court hears

Tony Ellis, who represented him for about six months, told court today he felt the terrorist wanted him to do "precisely as ordered".

'It's just not enough': Salvation Army warns families are starving

The Salvation Army's latest State of the Nation paints a dire picture of worsening child poverty and unemployment.

Polio outbreak slows in Papua New Guinea, health officials say

Health Minister Elias Kapavore says Papua New Guinea currently has five cases of children paralysed by polio.

Fishing charter company fined $60,000 for illegally serving crayfish to customers

A Fiordland fishing charter company illegally caught and served almost $250,000 worth of crayfish to customers.

Heatwave coming to end this weekend as cold, heavy rain and winds move in

The hot weather across much of the country is come to an end this weekend, as possible heavy rain and strong winds move in.

Woman arrested over alleged 18-year romance scam

An unsuspecting Dunedin man lost more than half a million dollars over 18 years.

‘Da Pidgin Guerrilla:’ UH Mānoa alum Tonouchi named Poet Laureate of Hawai‘i

Tonouchi will serve until February 2029, carrying out readings and workshops across the islands.

The post ‘Da Pidgin Guerrilla:’ UH Mānoa alum Tonouchi named Poet Laureate of Hawai‘i first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Labelled, judged and far from home: Marshallese deported by ICE 'having the hardest time'

People deported to the Marshall Islands from the United States face a tough road to survival.

Labour law reform: Fiji women's rights group pushes for stronger menstrual leave provisions

Fiji Women's Rights Movement has told a parliamentary committee the country should introduce a 12-day paid menstruation leave for female workers as part of labour law reform.

US tags Palau Senate president, former Marshall Islands mayor for corruption

The U.S. Department of State has designated two officials from Pacific island nations for corruption, banning their entry into the United States.

Laura Beeman inducted into Mt. SAC Athletics Hall of Fame

The Rainbow Wahine basketball coach was inducted into the Mt.SAC Athletics Hall of Fame, returning to where her coaching career began.

The post Laura Beeman inducted into Mt.SAC Athletics Hall of Fame first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Rainbow Wahine softball pitcher named Big West Pitcher of the Week

Pitcher Taryn Irimata earned Big West Pitcher of the Week after two dominant wins.

The post Rainbow Wahine softball pitcher named Big West Pitcher of the Week first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Rainbow Warrior pitcher Magdaleno lands on national watch list

Isaiah Magdaleno earned preseason national recognition after a standout 2025 season as one of college baseball’s top relievers.

The post Rainbow Warrior pitcher Magdaleno lands on national watch list first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

UTOS to facilitate Registration for Samoa Airways Shareholding Initiative

Apia, SAMOA – 11 February 2026 – The Unit Trust of Samoa (UTOS) has been formally identified and approved by Cabinet as the vehicle to facilitate registrations for Samoan nationals interested in becoming shareholders in the national airline currently trading as Samoa Airways. This initiative provides an opportunity for eligible Samoans to participate in the […]

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Minister of Justice leads Samoa’s delegation at Commonwealth Law Ministers meeting

Apia, SAMOA – 11 February 2026 – The Commonwealth Law Ministers meeting opened in Fiji yesterday with calls for sustained action to ensure the rule of law delivers progress and shared prosperity for the people of the Commonwealth in an increasingly uncertain world. More than 250 delegates, including Samoa’s Justice Minister Fesola’i Apulu Tusiupu Tuigamala, […]

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Kauaʻi CC public health certificate offers pathway to UH Mānoa

Launched in fall 2020, the program has prepared 72 students for college-level public health courses and careers.

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Modern Mele: UH ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi scholar bridges Japan

UH Hilo PhD student Nicholas Kealiʻi Lum collaborates with a Japan recording artist to release an original mele Hawaiʻi composition.

The post Modern Mele: UH ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi scholar bridges Japan first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Indigenous performance, traditions takes center stage at UH Mānoa

The conference explored how Indigenous performance sustains knowledge, language and relationships across generations.

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Where Light Lingers After the Break

ISKOLARIS brings the Iskolar ng Bayan together in a moment of reflection where rest, memory, and collective struggle meet with renewed resolve.

National honors recognize UH medical school psychiatrist’s leadership

Helen (Nalani) Blaisdell-Brennan, recently received multiple national honors recognizing her leadership, mentorship and commitment to mental health equity.

The post National honors recognize UH medical school psychiatrist’s leadership first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Chamber of Commerce seeks answers about port/airport development plans

The American Samoa Chamber of Commerce is seeking answers from the Director of Port Administration concerning development plans for the airport and port. Chamber Chair Ella Gurr told KHJ News that companies currently leasing airport property want

Still time to register & audition for Flag Day Performing Arts Fest

The American Samoa Council on Arts, Culture and Humanities is inviting groups and individuals interested in performing for the 2026 Flag Day Performing Arts Festival to sign up for auditions to be held next week. The auditions

'Education hub' for students cut off from schools by Helena Bay Hill slip

Students cut off from their high schools by a monster slip northeast of Whangārei are instead taking lessons at a temporary 'education hub' set up at a local primary school.

Safety restrictions eased on four Tauranga homes after landslide

Western Bay of Plenty District Council says yellow stickers have replaced the red and the properties can be accessed under certain conditions.

Senior navy officer found not guilty of encouraging junior to kiss her

The unanimous verdict for the allegations against Commander Bronwyn Heslop came after more than five hours of deliberation.

A year of coping with the grief of losing a daughter

Kirsten O'Connor lost her 24-year-old daughter to suicide. She started making notes to process the grief, which have become a memoir.

Watch: Where Wellington's sewage is drifting in the harbour

Researchers have mapped the flow of raw sewage from the faulty Moa Point plant in the harbour. So is it safe to swim?

UH men’s volleyball fundraiser generates historic support for program

A sold-out evening provided massive support for the UH men's volleyball team.

The post UH men’s volleyball fundraiser generates historic support for program first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Grey Lynn shooting: Kayden Stanaway to spend at least eight years in prison for murder

Maxwel-Dee Repia, 18, was killed in Auckland's Grey Lynn in September 2024.

CNMI's hotel group appeals for federal support amid possible shutdown of Korea-Saipan route

Several shops in the once vibrant Garapan Square on Saipan are now closed due to low foot traffic. Photo by Mar-Vic Cagurangan/Pacific Island Times By Mar-Vic Cagurangan The Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands is pushing for federal policy changes to help stabilize the commonwealth's fragile tourism amid another setback posed by the possible shutdown of Korean carriers' Saipan route. The hotel group has joined a call for the U.S. Department of Transportation to grant the CNMI a...

US donates medical equipment for Faleolo Hospital

The US Embassy in Apia had donated more than $16,000 in medical equipment to the Samoa Ministry of Health to support patient case at Faleolo Hospital. The donated equipment includes four hospital beds and infant warmer which

UH Mānoa College of Education graduates excel in tech industry

LTEC graduates Stephanie Barry and Natalie Gauvin are making an impact in the tech industry.

The post UH Mānoa College of Education graduates excel in tech industry first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Hawaiʻi Island community celebrated ‘love’ for ʻōhiʻa

UH Mānoa’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience hosted the ʻŌhiʻa Love Fest and East Hawaiʻi Master Gardeners plant sale in January.

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Trio of Rainbow Warriors earn preseason Big West baseball honors

Elijah Ickes, Isaiah Magdaleno and Ben Zeigler-Namoa earned honors ahead of the 2026 season.

The post Trio of Rainbow Warriors earn preseason Big West baseball honors first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Person dies days after Wellington motorway crash

The crash happened on State Highway two about 2am on Sunday.

Ministry of Social Development set to cut security guards

Two staff were killed in a shooting in 2014, and some fear it could happen again.

UK citizens want refunds, more clarity from NZ Post over passport pandemonium

NZ Post customers say the company should offer refunds and be more upfront about increased demand and slower timeframes for international mail.

How to limit processed meats for lunch

What's the difference between supermarket meats and what the butcher sells? How do I understand the ingredients?

National war memorial bell-playing job axed, likely to be outsourced to Australia

An Australian may have to play the bells at Pukeahu on Anzac Day.

'Victim of unspeakable cruelty and deliberate evil': Coroner's findings on Malachi Subecz death

Everything possible went wrong for 5-year-old in the last six months of his life, as he was tortured, and no one noticed.

US designates two Micronesian leaders over corruption allegations

The United States has designated two high-profile public office holders from Palau and the Marshall Islands for "significant corruption", the US Department of State says.

Winston Peters to receive Pacific visa petition at New Zealand parliament

The petition wants visitors from six Pacific nations to be treated the same as travellers from 60 other countries.

Pacific Winds 20260211

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Pacific Winds 20260211

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

One dead, two critical after Wairoa crash

Police say the crash was reported to emergency services around 3pm on Tuesday.

Avian malaria widespread across Hawaiʻi bird communities, new UH study finds

The disease is a major driver of population declines and extinctions in native Hawaiian honeycreepers.

The post Avian malaria widespread across Hawaiʻi bird communities, new UH study finds first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Climate justice advocate, UH law alum wins ‘Alternative Nobel Prize’

Julian Aguon is one of four changemakers around the world who have won the Swedish Right Livelihood Foundation’s annual award in 2025.

The post Climate justice advocate, UH law alum wins ‘Alternative Nobel Prize’ first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Local resident extradited to CA released from custody

The man who was extradited from American Samoa to California last November in connection with a federal case involving drug possession and distribution and money laundering entered a not guilty plea in the US Federal District Court

UH scientists discover marine creatures bending the laws of evolution

A group of colorful hexacorals, known as “zoantharians” is defying the traditional laws of evolution by remaining virtually identical across the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific oceans.

The post UH scientists discover marine creatures bending the laws of evolution first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Community meeting on Aunuu Small Boat Harbor Wharf Expansion

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Honolulu District, in partnership with the American Samoa Department of Port Administration) and U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration (MARAD), is hosting a community meeting next week to provide updates

Congress Faces Friday Deadline to Fund DHS, FEMA, Coast Guard

Congress faces a Friday deadline to avert a shutdown of Homeland Security and with it FEMA, TSA and the Coast Guard, amid a bitter partisan fight over immigration enforcement. KHJ News Washington DC correspondent Matt Kaye reports…

Cause of days-long Cuba Street power cut unclear

A major power cut at a boutique hotel has thrown families and businesses into darkness on Wellington's Cuba Street.

Tonga government puts village under restrictions over typhoid

Restrictions are in place until the end of March, due to typhoid's maximum incubation period of 60 days.

Miss American Samoa brings military values to Pageant

By

Apenisa Waqairadovu, Fiji Broadcasting Commission

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Miss American Samoa, Tofoi Unutoa, is bringing military discipline and leadership to the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant currently underway in Nadi.

The U.S. military lieutenant and compliance officer says the values she learned through military service have shaped her advocacy, particularly her focus on women in leadership.

Unutoa says her participation in the pageant is an opportunity to highlight the importance of strong, values-based leadership, guided by the seven core military principles loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage.

“All seven of us here today are here as ambassadors, representing our cultures, our people, and our land. It’s also a reminder for our Pasifika sisters and myself that we carry our country, our land, and our people with us, and to instill those seven core values of military discipline and legal expertise into this pageant.”

The 25-year-old grew up in American Samoa before attending military school in Oregon to help support her family back home.

She says studying in the United States was a privilege and a blessing, especially coming from a low-income family that could not afford tertiary education.

Unutoa has also encouraged her fellow contestants to remain strong throughout the competition, reminding them that while pressure and outside voices may arise, they do not define who they are.

She says every contestant on the Miss Pacific Islands stage is already a leader, representing their people and culture with pride.

The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant continues this week in Nadi

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Miss Pacific Islands Pageant

St Bede's College told of priest's sexual offending nearly 20 years ago

Allegations against Friar Rowan Donoghue, who was recently convicted of historical abuse, were first made by an anonymous complainant in the mid-2000s.

Bill junking travel tax certified as urgent | The wRap

Today’s headlines: Travel tax, Jose de Venecia Jr., Bad Bunny

Lawmakers say they saw ‘messages’ showing Marcos knowledge of flood control kickbacks

Congressman Antonio Tinio says purported messages exchanged between a Palace undersecretary and Marcos contradict assertions that there was no evidence linking the President to the kickback scheme

True Value turns February into a month of love, fortune, flavor, and big wins

With a lineup of events running from mid to late February, shoppers can expect amazing deals, rewards, and experiences

Where do time deposits fit in today’s portfolios?

For investors seeking stability, this bank’s time deposit offers up to 8% interest per annum

Teens a ‘top priority’: Documents show Facebook, platforms’ efforts to hook young users

Unsealed documents give us a glimpse at platforms’ teen engagement playbook, as a landmark trial shifts the spotlight from user posts to platform design

Beijing retaliates, bans Kalayaan town councilors from entering China

China's retaliation is only the latest in what's been a weeks-long, tense exchanges between the Chinese embassy and a number of Philippine officials

What’s your dating app horror story? Yap about it!

Answer the question in our chat room for a chance to have your story read in one of our videos!

Rappler Talk: Calling out lies, half-truths about the West Philippine Sea

Rappler talks with Jay Batongbacal, director of the UP Law Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea to set straight issues surrounding the Philippines' claims and entitlements in the West Philippine Sea

FACT CHECK: Sotto not ousted as Senate president

The majority bloc thwarted the latest attempt to unseat Sotto as Senate president. He retains leadership of the upper chamber, contrary to the claim.

These monks walked for four months. Here’s what people learned from them

TRIANGLE, Va. — The roads were slick with ice, the ground was caked with hardened snow, and the stiff winds made an already brutally cold day in the Virginia suburbs feel below zero. Yet people came out by the hundreds.

Storm damage minimal for Big Island

“It looks like we may have dodged a bullet. It could have been a lot worse.”

Teacher harassment prompts push for protections

Reports of harassment and threats against Hawaii public school teachers have gained more traction since the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting renewed calls from educators and union leaders for stronger state protections — even as a package of proposed safety bills failed to advance last legislative session.

Bills seek to rein in free-roaming cat population in Hawaii

Should all cats five months or older in Hawaii be sterilized?

Bomb threats disrupt Ohio city in immigration spotlight

Bomb threats on Monday forced the temporary closure of schools and municipal buildings in Springfield, Ohio, where the sizable population of Haitians has made the small city a focus of the debate over immigration and President Donald Trump’s mass deportation campaign.

Trump is a global ‘wrecking ball,’ European security experts say

BERLIN — The security order that has bound together the West and much of the rest of the world since the end of World War II is under attack from President Donald Trump and like-minded leaders, officials of the Munich Security Conference warned Monday in remarkably blunt terms.

Olympic PSA: Do not jump for joy while wearing your medal

(NYT) — Woo! Snap! Clang!

Trump seeks to limit legal options for fired federal workers

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration is trying to make it harder for fired federal employees to contest their dismissal, according to a government plan released on Monday, by limiting their right to appeal their dismissal to an independent board.

UK’s Starmer refuses to heed calls to quit over fallout from Epstein scandal

LONDON — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer refused on Monday to heed calls to quit, even by the leader of his party in Scotland, pledging to fight on after his appointment of Peter Mandelson as U.S. ambassador plunged his government into crisis.

Meta, YouTube design apps to addict kids, jury hears as landmark trial begins

LOS ANGELES — Meta Platforms and YouTube deliberately designed products they knew would addict children, a lawyer for a woman suing the two companies told jurors in California on Monday at a trial that will test whether Big Tech platforms can be held liable for their app design.

Obituaries for February 10

Theo Lani Bell, 75, of Waimea died Jan. 26. She was born in Hilo. Private services. Online condolences: homelanimemorialpark.com. Survived by sons, Thomas (Bobbie Jo) Phillips and Matthew (Kaʻaka Swain) Phillips; sister, Thoedora “Tootsie” Timm; brothers, Theodore “Teddy” (Rosie) Bell Jr., Rodney “Butch” (Doreen) Bell and Keith “Jumbo” (Sandra) Bell; nine grandchildren and a great-grandchild. Arrangements by Homelani Memorial Park/

In Bad Bunny’s halftime show, a real wedding with 70,000 guests

(NYT) — Some fans spent the second half of the Super Bowl focused on the Seattle Seahawks closing out a decisive victory over the New England Patriots. Others were concerned with another question: Did that couple who appeared in the wedding scene during Bad Bunny’s halftime show just get married for real?

News in brief for February 10

Hollywood braces for new round of labor talks

Let’s Talk Food: Valentine’s Day is this Saturday

This Saturday is Valentine’s Day, or The Feast of Saint Valentine, and the time to express your love, affection and friendship with cards, flowers, chocolate and romantic thoughts.

Make cheesy broccoli chicken bake like you remember

Most of us who grew up in the 1970s and ’80s can recall certain staple dishes — either with love or so much distaste.

3 Ocean View residents charged with numerous offenses

Three Ocean View residents were arrested and charged with 36 drug and firearms offenses after police executed a narcotics search warrant Thursday at a residence in the 92-8700 block of Palm Parkway in Ocean View.

Experts say Wellington harbour water safe after sewage spill but Wellingtonians cautious

Nearly a week ago, the Moa Point Treatment Plant started pumping raw sewage into the ocean off the south coast after it completely failed last Wednesday.

Marcos officially secures 1-year protection from impeachment

This follows the House plenary approval of the committee report that tossed out the impeachment complaints against President Marcos

FACT CHECK: Quote of DPWH’s Dizon threatening case vs vlogger is fabricated

DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon did not make the alleged statement cited in the quote cards circulating online, the public works department told Rappler

Weather and Tide Schedule for tomorrow, February 11th

Tuesday, February 10, 2026 /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - According to Accuweather, the weather forecast for tomorrow is expected to be cloudy with scattered showers. Temperatures are expected to be 86 degrees high and 78 degrees low. The percentage of rainfall is expected to be 100%. Also, according to the Yap Weather Services Office, Tomorrow's tide schedule is as follows: the first high tide will be at 3:57 AM, reaching approximately (0.99 meters ) 3.2 feet. This will be followed by a low tide at...

The Yap Sports Council Office continues its Island-Wide Basketball Tournament at the Yap Sports Complex

Tuesday, February 10, 2026, /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - Yesterday, February 9th, the Yap Sports Council continued its ongoing Island-Wide Basketball Tournament at the Yap Sports Complex at 7:00 pm. The first game was between the YFA team and the YBC team. The YFA team won against the YBC team with a score of 65-54 points. The second game started at 7:30 pm between the Baby Shark team and the DPW&T team. The Baby Shark team won against the DPW&T team by forfeit. (For more information, please contact...

The Yap State Legislature held the 4th Session Day of the 4th Regular Session, proposing Ivan B. E. Kadannged to be Lieutenant Governor of the State of Yap

Tuesday, February 10, 2026, /// DYCA PIO Yap FM - On January 21st, Governor Francis Itimai issued a letter to Speaker Nicholas Figirlaarwon of the Eleventh Yap State Legislature regarding the nomination of the Lieutenant Governor Position. In the letter, Governor Francis Itimai stated, “I am transmitting my nomination of Mr. Ivan B. E. Kadannged for you and the Members of the Yap State Legislature's consideration and consent to the Lieutenant Governor position in accordance with Yap State Law...

Far North community residents arm themselves with sticks in fear of roaming dogs

"This isn't an anti-dog thing. This is just anti-irresponsible owners" says a parent who criticised the council for its reactive approach.

Cyclist dies after car crash in Upper Hutt

Emergency services received a report of the crash, involving a vehicle and a cyclist, in Trentham about 4pm today.

'Just not fair': Manawatū parents using savings and loans for school buses

Manawatū parents and caregivers are dipping into their savings and even taking out loans to fund a bus service to get their children to school.

Australian satanic child sex abuse ring has alleged links to NZ

Australian investigators have identified offenders from New Zealand, USA, Canada, Mexico, Europe, South America, and South East Asia.

Wellington sewage outflow could kill marine reserve's kelp forest ecosystem

A marine biologist says the worst case scenario if untreated sewage continues to be dumped in Wellington could be the die-off of the kelp forest ecosystem.

Christchurch terrorist just seeking attention with his appeal bid, survivor says

Temel Atacocugu, who was shot during the massacre at Al Noor Mosque, believe's the man's appeal is just so he could get the public's attention again.

Two students hit by cars before school on Monday morning

Both Auckland students were taken to hospital.

Mum calls for changes at Mt Albert Aquatic Centre after son's teeth smashed on slide, man's finger torn off

After no one stopped the slide to help her son look for his teeth, Tanya Rusher says her family won't be going back to the pools.

Dirt bike rider seriously injured in Whangārei crash

The crash came on the same day Northland police issued a stark warning about the dangers of dirt bikes on urban streets.

Body recovered from Bay of Plenty river

Police say they recovered a body from the Waioweka River after a man fell from a boat near Ōpōtiki last month.

Judge accused of disrupting NZ First event won't resign over 'something she did not do'

Judge Ema Aitken is accused of disrupting a NZ First event but her defence says the affair has been blown "out of all proportion".

Taupō school fire: Firefighter climbed onto roof of burning building after truck breakdown

A ladder-truck broke down as it set up the hose to fight the fire at Taupō-nui-a-Tia College, with another having to be sent from Hamilton.

Military panel retires to deliberate on navy official accused of seeking kiss from junior officer

A senior Navy officer pleaded not guilty to allegedly encouraging a junior officer to kiss them at a bar during an overseas operation.

“They did not apply but instructed me to accept them as Chairpersons” says Minister

Apia, SAMOA – 10 February 2026 – The Minister of Women Social Development & Community (MWSDC) Moefaauouo Julius Ah Kui Tafuna’i is obviously fed up with the misinformation and derogatory inferences by four HRPP Members of Parliament regarding their rejection as Chairs of their respective District Development Councils. The Minister called a press conference to […]

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Christchurch mosque shooter 'wanted to be called a terrorist', ex lawyer says

The white supremacist who massacred 51 people at two Christchurch mosques was pleased to be charged with terrorism, a court has heard.

'Very dangerous' electrical rule change to be reviewed

Electrical inspectors have warned the rule change could result in "multiple fatalities".

Series of Crashes Raises Road Safety Concerns Across Palau

By: L.N. Reklai Koror, Palau (Feb. 10, 2026) — A series of serious motor vehicle accidents over the past week has raised renewed concerns about road safety, particularly during peak traffic hours, as authorities urge drivers to follow traffic laws and remain vigilant. The incidents, which occurred on separate days and involved different causes, resulted […]

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Defense Delivers: Seahawks Claim Super Bowl LX as Palau Fans Cheer

KOROR, Palau (Feb. 9, 2026) – In Santa Clara, California, Super Bowl LX promised drama, but it delivered dominance. In a game that quickly became a showcase for defense, the Seattle Seahawks shut down the New England Patriots, earning a 29-13 victory at Levi’s Stadium on Sunday night and capturing the franchise’s second Lombardi Trophy. […]

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Angaur State Schedules Third Election in 14 Months

By: Laurel Marewibuel KOROR, Palau — The Angaur State Legislature has appointed an interim governor and set a special election for Feb. 19 following the recall of Gov. Natus Misech. The 22nd Olbiil Era Ngeaur (OEN) unanimously adopted Resolution No. 22-14 during a second special session on Jan. 17, naming Steven R. Salii as interim […]

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Palau Senate Rejects Key Whipps Appointments, Deepening Executive-Legislative Rift

By: L.N. Reklai Koror, Palau — The Senate has again declined to advance three key nominations by President Surangel Whipps Jr., deepening tensions between the executive and legislative branches over Cabinet appointments and confirmation procedures. The Senate took action on the president’s nominees for minister of finance, minister of education and ambassador to the Republic […]

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Angaur Interim Governor Halts Japan’s WWII Remains Recovery Citing Land Review

By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (Feb. 2026) — Angaur Interim Governor Steven R. Salii has ordered a temporary suspension of World War II human remains recovery work being conducted by Japan, citing unresolved land ownership issues and the need for proper authorization under Palau and state law. In a formal letter to Palau’s Ministry of […]

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Recipe for Daily Health — A Palauan Guide

Dear Editor, Recipe for Daily Health — A Palauan Guide Health grows from simple, repeated habits. Here is a Palauan‑focused recipe for daily wellbeing practical, cultural, and rooted in island life. These steps are not rules from outside; they are practices that fit our islands and faith. When repeated, they become culture. When culture supports […]

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PICRC publishes study on longnose emperor spawning aggregation

Since 2023, the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) has been collaborating with the Koror State Government (KSG) to conduct research and monitoring aimed at providing essential baseline data to guide the Koror Southern Lagoon Coastal Fisheries Management Plan, a new fisheries management initiative for Koror State. The management plan identified several fish spawning aggregation […]

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Palau Set to Host Regional Triathlon Camp, Pacific Cup in March

By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau — Palau is set to welcome regional athletes and coaches for the Regional Triathlon Development Camp from March 16–21, building toward the Pacific Cup, a key Oceania-sanctioned competition that will test endurance, speed and race readiness across swim, bike and run. Hosted by the Palau Triathlon Federation, the weeklong camp […]

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Three-Peat: Mindszenty Cardinals Defend BIIAA Boys Basketball Title

By: Summer Kennard KOROR, Palau (Feb. 9, 2026) — The 2025-26 BIIAA high school basketball season wrapped up Feb. 5 with a closing ceremony, highlighted by Mindszenty High School completing a championship three-peat in boys varsity competition and a strong emphasis on growth, teamwork and youth development across the league. The Mindszenty Cardinals defended their […]

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Palau Athletics raises standards as team prepares for regional competition

By: Laurel Marewibuel KOROR, Palau (Feb. 9, 2026) — Palau’s national track and field athletes were urged to meet higher performance expectations during a meeting with the Palau Athletics Board on Feb. 6, as officials outlined preparations for upcoming regional competitions. The board convened the full national team to recognize athletes’ efforts, introduce four new […]

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From shelter to strength: How disaster refuges protect lives in Palau

KOROR, 09 FEBRUARY 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) — The small Pacific Ocean island of Palau is helping communities build resilience against the dangers of climate change-driven extreme weather with the establishment of a network of emergency refuges – thanks to support from the United Nations. As a boy growing up in Palau, an archipelago of […]

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A sliver of hope amid economic fragility: With economic ‘diversification’ still out of sight, CNMI clings on to tourism

SAIPAN, 06 FEBRUARY 2026 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — Grandvrio Resort will temporarily close in April after more than four decades of doing business on Saipan. ABC Stores in Garapan closed shop on 31 December. DFS Galleria ended 40 years of operations in May last year. Hyatt Regency Saipan ceased operations in 2024. These were among […]

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2025 confirmed as one of the warmest years on Record in the Western Pacific

APIA,06 FEBRUARY 2026 (SPREP) — New climate data shows that 2025 was the fifth warmest year ever recorded in the western Pacific, continuing a long-term warming trend that is reshaping conditions across the region. According to ERA5, a global climate dataset from the Copernicus Climate Change Service, 2025 was the third warmest year on record […]

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‘We don’t care what you think’: Panel says deep-sea mining, more show issues with U.S territorial status

HAGATNA, 09 FEBRUARY 2026 (GUAM PACIFIC DAILY NEWS) — A push to mine waters around American Samoa without consent, a board appointed by the president dictating government decisions in Puerto Rico, and the removal of immigration controls from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands were all issues highlighted by a panel on U.S territories […]

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Japan PM Sanae Takaichi leads coalition to landslide election victory

In short: (ABC-Australia) Sanae Takaichi’s Liberal Democratic Party and its coalition partner are expected to hold upwards of two-thirds of the seats in Japan’s lower house. Ms Takaichi is Japan’s first female leader and has won over Japanese voters with a straight-talking, hardworking image. But her nationalist rhetoric has strained ties with China. Japanese Prime […]

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New Ambassador of Poland Presents Letters of Credence

Apia, SAMOA – 10 February 2026 – His Excellency Patryk Michal Blaszczak presented his Letters of Credence to the Head of State, Afioga Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II this morning, formally accrediting His Excellency as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Poland to Samoa, with residence in Wellington, New Zealand. Samoa and Poland have […]

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CNMI governor seeks revival of 702 funding as 902 talks resume Feb. 17

CNMI Gov. David Apatang with key cabinet members met with Deputy Assistant Secretary Angel A. Demapan and Office of Insular Affairs Budget Director Jeff Dunn to prepare for 902 talks set for Feb. 17, during which the Commonwealth is seeking a seven‑year schedule of federal budgetary support. Photo courtesy of the Office of the CNMI Governor By Bryan Manabat Saipan -- CNMI Gov. David Apatang is seeking the restoration of Covenant Section 702 financial assistance as the commonwealth prepares...

Jaylen Rodwell becomes first Niuean heritage player to score a goal in professional football

The 23-year-old, of Niuean and New Zealand heritage, is a midfielder for South Island United playing in the OFC Pro League.

Guam Election 2026: Torres' campaign focuses on affordability, security and opportunity

Mary Torres By Campaign Team Standing before a packed room of supporters at Capitol Kitchen, Mary Camacho Torres officially launched her campaign for Congress Thursday night with a clear message: Guam needs stronger representation, real accountability, and leadership that delivers affordability, security, and opportunity for everyday families.   In her remarks, Torres addressed the pressures shaping daily life on Guam—rising costs, fragile supply chains, and federal decisions made without the...

Brief Chat with Joleen Aguon: Steering through obstacles at Guam Memorial Hospital

As GMH moves through another period of transition, Aguon said she remains mindful that the hospital’s story is ongoing. “I am honored to walk alongside our dedicated staff as we move forward with transparency, humility and a shared commitment to serving our island," she said.

ASTA wraps up successful East Pacific Regional Championships

The East Pacific Regional Championships concluded Saturday with an awards ceremony at the tennis courts at Lions Park. The American Samoa Tennis Association which hosted the week long tournament with the support of local businesses, said it

Hospital Authority Board says employment termination of former CFO was without cause

The LBJ Tropical Medical Center (LBJ) announces the resolution of an employment matter involving Mr. Sefanaia Kaumaitotoya, former Chief Financial Officer for LBJ Hospital. LBJ confirms that Mr. Kaumaitotoya’s termination on February 14, 2025, was without cause.

Person falls from Christchurch's Tūranga library

The person has been taken to hospital in a critical condition.

Voting for Miss Internet closes Thursday

As of Monday morning, Miss American Samoa, Tofoipupu Unutoa was in 5th place in the online voting for Miss Pacific Islands. Miss Papua New Guinea was in the lead with 28.4K votes, followed by Miss Tonga with

Work safety group says proposed law change likely to increase harm to people

The bill sets out to cut death and injury rates, and compliance costs, by focusing on the most serious critical risks and reducing confusion.

Former cop cleared of forgery charges in Samoa

A former police officer Visesio Sitanisilao has been cleared of forgery. This was the decision handed down by the court last Friday. Talamua Media reports that the former cop was charged with two counts of forging another

WorkSafe to revisit Mt Albert Aquatic Centre after man's finger torn off, boy's teeth smashed on hydroslide

It comes after a boy smashed his front teeth less than a week after a man's finger was ripped off on the slide.

Police at scene of Christchurch stabbing

A person has been arrested.

Ex-ministry staffer accuses government of ignoring education experts, teachers

The staffer worked on the curriculum until the middle of last year and said it was chaotic and politicised.

'Grave concerns' for missing woman not seen for six months

Police are considering the possibility Rowena Walker may no longer be alive.

Letter to the Editor: Have any of the promises been fulfilled?

By Sen. Shawn Gumataotao Soon, the executive will present her State of the Island Address. It will be the last presented by this governor to the legislative branch of government and the people of Guam. We are reviewing her plan for the new fiscal year and will hear about what the next 10 months and beyond will bring for all of us. We all know where it started. “To provide leadership based on honesty, transparency, inclusion and fairness to provide our people with a government worthy of their...

NZ Post says deluge of UK passport applications causing delays

NZ Post says the volume of British passport applications is causing delays to them being sent to the UK.

John Campbell returns to RNZ as Morning Report co-host on April 13

The veteran broadcaster will join Ingrid Hipkiss as the new co-host of Morning Report on April 13.

Questions over who will pay for Wellington's sewage plant failure

It could be months before the plant returns to full operation.

New liquefied natural gas terminal: 'Vital' or 'bonkers'?

The government wants taxpayers to fund a natural gas import terminal, but says lower power prices will come as a result.

Pacific Winds 20260210

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Pacific Winds 20260210

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

No contract extension for Fono Building Architect/Project Manager

The architect and Project Manager for the new Fono Building, Mark Lively, has been served notice that his contract will not be extended. Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean and House Speaker Savali Talavou Ale informed Mr. Lively

Honoring Betty Mae Ah Soon

Betty Mae Ah Soon: December 22, 1943 – January 11, 2026 “A life well lived is a precious gift, of hope and strength and grace, from someone who has made our world a brighter, better place. It’s

AG: Information sharing between the two Samoa is essential

Attorney General Gwen Tauiliili-Langkilde says the two days of discussion with officials of the Samoa Government last week reflect a shared recognition that continued coordination, and information sharing between the two Samoa is essential to protecting our

Ailima Johnson wins 2026 Poetry Out Loud Competition

Faasao Marist High School senior Ailima Johnson won the 2026 Poetry Out Loud competition held last Friday at the ASCC Multi-purpose Center. Johnson will represent American Samoa at the Poetry Out Loud National Championships to be held

Panel highlights issues with U.S. territorial status

A push to mine waters around American Samoa without consent, a board appointed by the president dictating government decisions in Puerto Rico, and the removal of immigration controls from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands were

A Government Watching Itself

Dear Editor, A long-standing practice deserves public attention. Sitting legislators continue to accept appointments to executive boards and commissions. The arrangement raises serious concerns about accountability and conflicts of interest. Legislators are elected to write laws, approve

Our Changing World: Predator Free South Westland nears eradication goal

As an ambitious mainland predator eradication project reaches completion, what will it take to keep pests at bay long-term?

University students bombarded by sports betting

Stories were emerging of flats of students gambling rent money and student allowances on sporting fixtures.

New Attorney General commits to serve with integrity & honour

By Lagi Keresoma/ “Today I commit to lead with clarity, listen with respect and to making decisions guided not by convenient or popular opinion, but by courage and in the interest of this country,” – Mauga Precious Chang, Attorney General. Apia, SAMOA – 9 February 2026 – Samoa’s new Attorney General, Mauga Precious Chang is […]

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Court to hear from lawyers who would have represented Christchurch terrorist

Brenton Tarrant is seeking to overturn his guilty pleas for the March 2019 massacres.

School: Is redshirting best for your child?

Why some parents say delaying the start of school - and what the evidence says.

Taranaki locals get to grips with Swiss wrestling

The Olympics feature Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling and Japan is famous for sumo - but in South Taranaki it is schwingen that rules supreme.

Frankie Company says Apia hypermarket destroyed by fire

The company said they are cooperating with authorities in the investigation.

'A cascade of errors': Johnathon Taituma died after St John ambulance delays, coroner finds

A series of mistakes meant Johnathon Taituma, 43, was dead by the time help arrived.

Northland couple finally sees EQC landslide damage payout three years after claim

Even so, they came close to losing out entirely when engineers hired by the Earthquake Commission, backed its orginal call that it was not landslide damage.

The Sounds of Rain on Oneawa Street

by Eric Paul Shaffer xxxxx I hear the rain stop, and from the eaves begins the erratic whisper that sparks the leaves below, drop xxxxx by drop. Dogs released into the yards bark at the fences, and children play in the street, splashing xxxxx through puddles already disappearing. A car crackles through gravel, turns into the … … Continue reading →

More than 700 Education Ministry staff to try win back lost pay following partial strike

The staff had 10 percent of their pay deducted after a partial strike last year.

Clergy members file 3rd impeachment complaint vs Sara Duterte  | The wRap

Today’s headlines: Sara Duterte, Jimmy Lai, EJ Obiena

US territories are a cautionary tale for Greenland, according to decolonization advocates

President Donald Trump’s desire to annex Greenland as a U.S. territory is drawing comparisons between the United States' treatment of its territories and Greenland's benefits under Denmark's rule.

LIST: What are the issues raised in Sara Duterte impeachment complaints?

The complaints share numerous arguments, from Duterte's alleged mishandling of confidential funds, to her apparent threats to the life of President Marcos and his family

PMA alum, former Navy officer is DFA’s new spokesperson for maritime affairs

Meet diplomat Rogelio Villanueva Jr., a Philippine Military Academy graduate who joins a long list of Philippine spokespersons for maritime issues

[EDITORIAL] Who are the coddlers in the Senate?

Release that Senate blue ribbon report now, and the majority should sign it

War came to Ukraine and its dogs are not the same

The human cost of the war in Ukraine has been well documented. But Russia’s invasion is also affecting the country’s pets in surprising ways.

Long-vacant state jobs targeted by lawmakers

The number of stagnant state job vacancies tying up taxpayer revenue jumped last year after flattening in 2024, expanding a pile of cash that some Hawaii lawmakers want to use for urgent needs amid looming budget uncertainties.

Bills aimed at legalizing recreational marijuana lack support

Two bills aimed at legalizing recreational marijuana — or even creating marijuana guardrails — are effectively dead, according to House Speaker Nadine Nakamura and Rep. David Tarnas, who has pushed for legalization for years.

Global rivals start to gain ground amid flat growth

Hawaii entered 2026 with a visitor industry still well below its prepandemic peak, and new forecasts point to another year of modest gains as Maui’s recovery drags and international markets — especially Japan and Canada — continue to lag.

Japan’s ‘Iron Lady’ Takaichi forges stunning election win

TOKYO — Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s coalition swept to a historic election win on Sunday, paving the way for promised tax cuts that have spooked financial markets and military spending aimed at countering China.

Hims to stop offering GLP-1 pill after FDA warned of crackdown

Online telehealth company Hims &Hers on Saturday reversed course on its launch of a $49 compounded version of Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy weight-loss pill after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said it would take action against it.

News in brief for February 9

Polar plunge in the Northeast sets low-temperature records

Investors chase cheaper, smaller companies as risk aversion hits tech sector

Investors are turning to cheaper, smaller companies while reassessing how much risk they are willing to take owning volatile assets after market whipsaws pounded some sectors and assets. Wariness and risk aversion have swept through some corners of the market that have shone the brightest in recent years, accompanied by gains in other areas, as investors rotate their holdings. For example, the Dow Jones Industrial Average, a benchmark designed to track industrial companies, hit a record high on Friday even as software stocks lost $1 trillion over the week.

At least 50 arrested after protests escalate outside Minnesota federal building

Local authorities declared an unlawful assembly after protests Saturday escalated near a federal building just outside Minneapolis, leading to at least 50 arrests, the county sheriff’s office said.

Toddler was returned to ICE custody and denied medication after hospitalization, lawsuit says

NEW YORK — An 18-month-old girl detained for weeks by U.S. immigration authorities was returned to custody and denied medication after being hospitalized with a life-threatening respiratory illness, according to a lawsuit filed in Texas federal court. The child, identified in the lawsuit as “Amalia,” was released by immigration authorities in President Donald Trump’s administration after her parents sued on Friday. The parents, who also had been detained, were released as well. The suit had sought the release of all three of them.

Nancy Guthrie ransom note demands $6 million

A purported ransom note in Nancy Guthrie’s apparent kidnapping demanded $6 million, according to a report aired Sunday.

Jeffries says Democrats won’t pass DHS deal without ICE reforms

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Democrats are insisting on their full list of demands to reform Immigration and Customs Enforcement before agreeing to pass the remaining government funding for the Department of Homeland Security before the Friday deadline.

At the Puppy Bowl, there are no losers

The Puppy Bowl, Animal Planet’s annual extravaganza of canine cuteness, is more than a game.

[Rappler’s Best] Kicking out our kids off social media

It’s not going to be easy, given how messy things have been in the Philippine Congress

After flood control mess, NIA chief’s daughter transfers ownership of $1.2-M Las Vegas house

The 5-bedroom estate is not declared in the joint SALN of Claveria, Cagayan Mayor LA Guillen and Piddig, Ilocos Norte Councilor Dexter Yapo

King Charles’ brother Andrew shared UK trade files with Epstein, emails indicate

The former prince, 65, has faced years of scrutiny over his friendship with Epstein, a relationship that has cost him his role in the royal family, titles and home

Alibaba’s overloaded AI chatbot stops issuing coupons, asks shoppers for patience

The rollout of what Alibaba calls Qwen's Agentic AI strategy is marred by technical difficulties since the start of the coupon giveaway

Concerns about increased 'nangs' use in Hawkes Bay being aimed at young people

A significant jump in the recreational use of nitrous oxide has sparked concern, with claims big canisters of the gas are being marketed directly to children.

Senior navy officer allegedly encouraged junior officer to kiss them

The incident is said to have happened during a navy operation in Fiji in 2023.

[Pastilan] The cost of neglect in Iligan

Nature, at least, has been consistent. It is Iligan’s officials who seem to be persisting in demonstrating that consistency need not be learned.

Lisandro Claudio and the poverty of corruption discourse

Claudio mounts a strong challenge to the middle-class consensus that tends to regard corruption as the root of all evil and sees 'good governance' as the ultimate solution to the country’s problems

Waioweka Gorge reopens with guide vehicles in place

A convoy is operating three times a day in both directions; that is Gisborne bound and Ōpōtiki bound.

Dirtbike dangers raised as 3yo suffers facial injuries after father crashes in Northland

The crash has highlighted the danger of dirt bikes being used on city streets - and an alarming trend of riders taking young children for high-speed joyrides, almost always without helmets.

Homicide investigation launched after 'much-loved' grandmother found dead at worksite

A homicide investigation has been launched after the discovery of a woman's body at a worksite in Hawke's Bay last week.

Scene guards in place after Christchurch man stabbed

Police were called to a property on Fitzgerald Avenue at around 12:20pm on Monday, where a man was found in a critical condition, with injuries consistent with being stabbed.

District Court Judge Ema Aitken denies shouting during disruption of NZ First event at exclusive club

Judge Ema Aitken is appearing before a Judicial Conduct Panel in Auckland, accused of disrupting a function at Auckland's Northern Club in 2024.

Court to consider Christchurch terrorist's appeal application

The 35-year-old is seeking leave to appeal his convictions and life sentence for the massacres at Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre in 2019.

School bus catches fire in Mangawhai

All children and the driver are safe.

Man appears in court after woman’s body found at Raumati Beach home

Police were called to the address at 1.15am on Monday.

Lake Taupō's harbourmaster issued warning to teenager for boat fire

Lake Taupō's harbourmaster has issued a warning to a teenager in charge of a boat that caught fire just before Christmas.

Christchurch couple fight to keep more than $200k cash they found in the ceiling of their home

The couple's lawyer argued that withholding the cash, found in 2021, would discourage others from reporting similar finds to police.

Auckland mayor Wayne Brown says government 'unqualified' to lead city's economic recovery

The comments came as Wayne Brown again renewed calls for a bed levy tax, despite the government's opposition to the move.

Man sexually abused by priest 'appalled' police weren't notified by church

RNZ earlier revealed Fr Rowan Donoghue admitted six charges including indecent assault on a boy aged 12-16.

Doctor apologises after not telling patient bone graft came from dead donor

The doctor apologised after being made aware the use of the tissue was against the patient's cultural and religious beliefs.

Wellington Pasifika Festival celebrates culture, language and belonging

Wellington Pasifika Festival, a major gathering for Pacific communities in Aotearoa's capital, celebrates culture, language and belonging.

Cook Islands reports dengue fever-related death

The Cook Islands declared a dengue outbreak in May 2025.

One dead after crash involving truck and trailer in rural South Auckland's Buckland

Logan Road in Buckland remains closed while police examine the scene.

Super Bowl LX live: New England Patriots v Seattle Seahawks

Follow all the NFL action from Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California.

Taupō school fire: Pair face arson charges after huge blaze

The fire at Taupō-nui-a-Tia College destroyed a block of classrooms, police say.

Tonga's new PM vows to 'shorten the queues' in ambitious first 100 days

The Tongan prime minister says his administration is focusing on "hundreds of outcomes" in its "ambitious first 100 days", aiming to create "a more effective, lean and efficient public service".

Pacific news in brief for 9 February

A round-up of news from around the region, including Solomon Airlines and Qantas battling for airspace.

Calls for investigation into Moa Point Treatment Plant failure

Wellington Water's Pat Dougherty says early warning signs that there were troubles with the discharge at Moa Point's Wastewater Treatment Plant may have been missed.

Compact Budget Workshop Concludes in Palikir

PALIKIR, Pohnpei — February 8, 2026 – More than 80 budget professionals from across the four states of the Federated States of Micronesia and National Governments gathered in Pohnpei on January 16, 2026, for a four-day workshop held at the Central Facilities Building. The workshop, organized by the Office of Compact Management and Overseas Development […]

President Simina Receives Credentials of the Ambassador of Türkiye to the FSM

PALIKIR, Pohnpei — February 7, 2026 — President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, received the Letters of Credence of the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to the FSM, H.E. Oğuzhan Ertuğrul, during a formal ceremony held on February 6, 2026, at the President’s Office in Palikir. The […]

Review: Bradley Cooper's 'Is This Thing On?' is a lukewarm bath

Is This Thing On? is a divorce drama with no real stakes, and a comedy about stand-up comics with not that many jokes.

UH Campuses Closed February 9, Due to Severe Weather (UPDATE: Reopening February 10)

All UH campuses are closed. All in-person and online classes are canceled.

The post UH Campuses Closed February 9, Due to Severe Weather (UPDATE: Reopening February 10) first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

How fake NZ news pages are swamping Facebook with AI slop

Analysis - "Fake NZ news" pages are bombarding social media with misleading slop, including using AI to animate photos of a teenage landslide victim.

Outcry on Saipan after 'Free Palestine' mural vandalised, arrest made

The mural, painted on private property in the village of San Jose and associated with the grassroots group Marianas for Palestine, was defaced last week.

Do teens need to learn to type for online exams?

Should primary and intermediate schools teach children to type so they are ready for online exams at high school?

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Pacific Winds 20260209

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

Delayed diagnosis, wrong hip operation leaves toddler with pain and trauma

The parents of a three-year-old Dunedin girl with hip dysplasia say she has suffered unnecessary pain and trauma from a delayed diagnosis and the wrong operation.

Woman found dead at Kāpiti Coast home, man arrested

A 24-year-old man has been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Priest admitted sexual abuse nearly 20 years ago, church sent him overseas without notifying police

The religious order sent the priest to Australia for a programme that provided risk assessment and therapy for those accused of sexual abuse.

Toilet equity: Fighting for the right to pee

There are known reasons why this apparent toilet inequity occurs - and experts say - known solutions.

Few doctors offering ADHD diagnosis despite rule changes

There are hopes more will come on board, but for now, industry leaders say GPs could be slow to train up in an area most haven't worked in for decades.

Uncertainty for Auckland amid housing rule changes

Auckland Council's planning has been thrown for a loop after what looks like yet another government-imposed rule change over housing.

District Court Judge Ema Aitken faces Judicial Conduct Panel for disrupting NZ First event

Ema Aitken is accused of shouting that party leader Winston Peters was lying during a function at Auckland's exclusive Northern Club in 2024.

Southland man Donald Woodford tried to dispose of the explosives that caused his death

Donald Woodford tried to return the Powergel to the manufacturer and then hand it to police after years storing the explosives in a shed on his Mossburn property.

OFC Pro League: Tahiti United claim first win

Tahiti United and Bula FC now have five points each on the points table.

'Anything is possible': New Zealand-born Tongan to play in Super Bowl LX

The Seahawks' running back George Holani was born in Auckland and lived in Onehunga before his family migrated to the US.

Culinary 1st! UH Community College students earn Japanese certification

UH Community College culinary students worked with a Japanese chef on fish and wagyu beef.

The post Culinary 1st! UH Community College students earn Japanese certification first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Mental health patient who stabbed stranger while on escorted leave had history of violence

The victim says both she and her attacker were "failed" by a system that was meant to keep everyone safe.

Sevens: Fiji go down to South Africa in Perth final

Osea Kolinisau's players were chasing back-to-back titles, following their title win in Singapore the previous weekend.

COMMENT: AG’s “First Official Trip” – another media speculative fiction

Apia, SAMOA – 9 February 2026 – In a remarkable feat of modern journalism, Samoa’s Attorney General was recently reported to be heading to Fiji on her first official overseas trip — a development so well-planned that neither she nor her Office knew anything about it. According to the report, the Attorney General, Mauga Precious […]

The post COMMENT: AG’s “First Official Trip” – another media speculative fiction appeared first on Talamua Online.

Former police officer cleared of forgery charges

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 9 February 2026: Former Police officer Visesio Sitanisilao has been cleared of forgery. This was the decision handed down by the court last Friday. Visesio was charged with two counts of forging another police officer Nanai Vagi Vai’s signature for a loan at the Samoa National Provident Fund. He […]

The post Former police officer cleared of forgery charges appeared first on Talamua Online.

All Government lawyers return under the Attorney General’s Office

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 9 February 2026 – Cabinet has directed that all government lawyers employed by the Ministries and State-Owned Enterprises be returned to work under the Office of the Attorney General. Currently, every ministry and corporation has their own lawyers to deal with their legal matters, but that now changes with […]

The post All Government lawyers return under the Attorney General’s Office appeared first on Talamua Online.

Flames seen in school as smoke rises over Taupō

Fire and Emergency says crews have managed to contain a fire at a Taupo-nui-a-Tia College to just one structure.

Cop’s film donates proceeds to Davao NGO helping abuse, trafficking survivors

The team behind the documentary 'Sa Likod ng Tsapa' donates over P600,000 in proceeds to strengthen protection programs for vulnerable women and children in Davao City

Coroner prohibits publication of Sia Figiel’s postmortem results

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 8 February 2026: The Coroner, Judge Papalii Rosela Viane Papalii has issued an order prohibiting the publication or broadcast of any information relating to the results of the postmortem conducted on the late Papalii Sia Figiel whose dead body was found in her prison cell two weeks ago. The […]

The post Coroner prohibits publication of Sia Figiel’s postmortem results appeared first on Talamua Online.

UH gets grant for wildfire and land-use research

University of Hawaii researchers say new $2 million funding will help address one of the underlying drivers of wildfire risk across the islands: large areas of former plantation land now overrun with unmanaged, fire-prone invasive grasses.

HPD’s new chief discusses his approach to policing, priorities for the department

Policing is in the DNA of Hawaii County’s new top cop, Reed Mahuna.

At a Seattle port rocked by tariffs, there were 70 jobs for 600 workers

SEATTLE — On many mornings, Sarah Esch’s job as a dispatcher for dockworkers at the Port of Seattle boils down to a question of simple, frustrating math.

Mississippi man charged with kidnapping, sex assault

A 25-year-old Biloxi, Miss., man was indicted Wednesday by a Hilo grand jury for a series of domestic incidents that allegedly occurred between Jan. 22 and Jan. 29 at a Mountain View residence.

Hawaii legislative bills aim to rewrite crosswalk safeguards

Out on Kapahulu Avenue last week, pedestrian after pedestrian who waited at crosswalks to get to the other side welcomed a pair of bills moving through the state Legislature that would require drivers on all islands to wait even longer.

Saudis announce new investments in Syria, a sign of deepening ties

BEIRUT — Saudi Arabia announced Saturday sweeping investments in Syria’s telecommunications, energy and aviation sectors, the latest sign of a deepening relationship between the two countries.

Japan ocean-mining test successfully hauls up potentially valuable mud

Japan said it has taken a significant step in the controversial and complex race to mine the world’s ocean floors for valuable minerals.

Israel’s Netanyahu expected to meet Trump in US on Wednesday and discuss Iran

(Reuters) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to meet U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday in Washington, where they will discuss negotiations with Iran, Netanyahu’s office said on Saturday.

Southwest ends open seating. Some passengers will miss the scrum.

NEW YORK — With a water-cannon salute, balloons and commemorative bag tags, Southwest Airlines late last month officially retired its decades-old practice of open seating. For the first time, passengers received assigned seats, a major shift for the carrier, which also introduced a new group boarding process and premium seat options.

Trump opens marine national monument in Atlantic to commercial fishing

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump moved Friday to allow commercial fishing in the only marine national monument in the Atlantic Ocean, an area the size of Connecticut that is home to dolphins, endangered whales, sea turtles and ancient deep-sea corals.

Whistleblower report involved intelligence about a Trump contact

WASHINGTON — Members of Congress were briefed this past week on a whistleblower report about an intelligence intercept of a call between two foreign nationals discussing a person close to President Donald Trump, according to people familiar with the material.

Obituaries for February 8

Joanne Fleener Coon, 90, of Waimea died Jan. 8 at Regency at Hualalai. Born in Waipahu, Oahu, she was a homemaker and member of St. James Episcopal Church. Celebration of life 10 a.m. Saturday (Feb. 14) at Saint James Episcopal Church in Waimea. Casual attire. Survived by children, Deborah Hall of Waimea, Paul (Diane) Coon of Redmond, Ore., Karen Coon of Happy Valley, Ore., and Kathryn (John) Cross of Hakalau; eight grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Arrangements by Dodo Mortuary.

Volcano Watch: USGS offers new Hawaii citizen science tool — Is Tephra Falling?

During Kilauea summit lava fountaining episode 41, residents and visitors shared their observations of tephra falling via email, phone calls, and on social media.

Steves: Strasbourg is the bicultural crossroads of Europe

Nestled on the Rhine across the border from Germany, Strasbourg offers your best chance to experience the urban side of France’s Alsace region.

County, state announce weather-related school and facilities closures

The state and county have announced closures for today and Monday due to the severe weather.

What’s new in refiled impeachment complaints vs Sara Duterte?

Most of the offenses cited in the refiled petitions are similar to those raised in last year's impeachment drama, but petitions insist the complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte are not 'recycled'

EJ Obiena gets ‘missing piece’ with Asian Indoor Championships gold

Filipino pole vaulter EJ Obiena adds another piece of hardware to his trove which includes gold medals in the Asian Games and Asian Athletics Championships

Jaime Fábregas takes it to the streets

Veteran actor Jaime Fábregas could just stick to his many jobs, but he just can’t, not since his political awakening in the ‘80s

Sander Severino, a Filipino world chess champion, dies at 40

Sander Severino's death comes just a couple of weeks after a sterling showing in the ASEAN Para Games in Thailand which saw him bag three golds and one silver

[OPINION] Duterte vs. House: Why Javellana still matters for judicial review

By establishing clear constitutional guideposts, the Court makes impeachment more predictable and constitutionally sound

Ask Me Anything with EDCOM 2’s Karol Mark Yee

Got questions or thoughts about the Philippines’ education crisis? Join Rappler’s Ask Me Anything session with EDCOM 2 Executive Director Karol Mark Yee on Wednesday, February 11, at 5 pm!

[Two Pronged] Is it naive to want emotional connection with a hooker?

'When I told my friends about how bad I felt about not talking to the girl before I did the deed, they laughed at me,' the letter sender writes

Island Bay Festival cancels water-based activities due to sewage spill but thousands still attend

Thousands of people congregated at the festival which had to cancel one of its headline events, the Blessing of the Boats, earlier this week.

Rare jade vine discovered thriving in Apayao forest

Environmental officers consider the discovery a sign that parts of Calanasan’s forests remain healthy, undisturbed, and full of wildlife needed to sustain rare endemic species

Cook Islands reports dengue death, amid increase in outbreak

A clinician says dengue fever vaccines should be made available in New Zealand, as the Cook Islands reports a death from their current outbreak - an outbreak that has seen cases in Aotearoa grow too.

Car fire at Khyber Pass off-ramp jams SH1 in Auckland

A car fire has closed the SH1 Khyber Pass off-ramp in central Auckland.

Matt Gibb on why nerves are essential to live TV

TV presenter Matt Gibb reflects on his teen ambition to be a drum and bass DJ and the Gerry Rafferty love song that follows him around.

Minister confirms 4 HRPP MPs did not apply for Chairpersons position

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 8 February 2026 – The Minister of Women, Social Development and Community (MWSDC) Moefaauouo Julius Ah Kui Tafunai has confirmed that 4 HRPP Members of Parliament did not apply for the position of Chairperson of the District Development Councils. The MPs include Vaaelua Senetenari Samau for Faasaleleaga 2, Aeau […]

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Cook Islands reports first dengue death, amid increase in outbreak

The Cook Islands has reported its first dengue-related death, amid a significant increase in cases, and reminders to tourists to stay safe.

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A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

Southern hospital IT outage caused by third-party hardware failure, Health NZ says

The outage took out systems doctors and nurses need, forcing them to use paper for 36 hours.

Wellington SH1 tunnel closures begin

Wellington's Terrace Tunnel will be closing for work overnight this week.

OFC Pro League: Hekari remains bottom after loss

Hekari has a single point after losing four of their five matches so far.

One dead in crash north of Auckland

A person has died at Dairy Flat, north of Auckland, after a motorbike crash.

Fiji Sevens team to face NZ in Perth semifinals

Fiji were three from three in their pool matches.

 The Tongan shame: When family treasures become commodities

In Tongan culture, wealth is not measured merely in cash or property. It takes the form of koloa, such as beautiful textiles, fine mats, barkcloth, waist mats or ta‘ovala, quilts, bedspreads and decorated baskets filled with gifts.

Historic Manawatū bridge is no more, after decaying cables removed

A cables spanning the former Ōpiki toll bridge next to State Highway 56 came down in high winds on New Year's Eve.

Famous surfer dog Bosco makes a splash at Waitangi

Now five years old, the French bulldog was joined by younger companion Treasure, who is also learning to ride the waves.

Government examines seismic risks at schools, starting in Wellington

A Treasury report suggested two tranches of the new school seismic projects were approved in December by the Cabinet, with each worth more than $100 million.

Philippine bets Proulx, Ceccarelli return to roots in Winter Olympics bid

Born in Quezon City and adopted by Italian parents, Francis Ceccarelli rediscovers his home country along with US-based Tallulah Proulx as the two skiers represent the Philippines in the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics

Top 5 News This Week: Kiko Barzaga, Christina Frasco, Mollenido mother-and-son

Plus updates on impeachment raps vs. President Marcos and VP Sara Duterte, and an 'averted coup' at the Senate

Anne Curtis, Jericho Rosales tackle the spectrum of modern romance

Initially hesitant to return to the romantic film genre, Jericho Rosales and Anne Curtis agree after finding depth in the story of ‘The Loved One,’ a deconstructed narrative of a love that outgrew itself and found its way back

George Saunders: Animosity on social media is 'not entirely genuine'

The Booker Prize-winning writer talks about how social media fuels partisanship, the lessons of death, and his new novel Vigil.

The difference that ICE watchers are making in Minnesota

In the months leading up to the 2024 election, Jill Garvey, an organizer in Chicago for liberal advocacy groups, gathered with some like-minded colleagues and, she recalled, “did some scenario planning.”

How to tell if you will save money using TrumpRx

The government website TrumpRx.gov gives Americans a new option for getting their medications. But it also adds to the complexity of a system that can make it extraordinarily difficult for people to compare prices and figure out where to find the least expensive drug.

Trump deletes racist video of Obamas after outcry

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump posted a blatantly racist video clip portraying former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama as apes, then deleted it after an unusually strong and public outcry from members of his own party.

Iran is at work on missile and nuclear sites, satellite images show

Iran appears to have rapidly repaired several ballistic missile facilities damaged in strikes last year, but it has made only limited fixes to major nuclear sites struck by Israel and the United States, a New York Times analysis of satellite imagery suggests.

Besides stars and stripes, a few new flags are flying in Greenland

For years, the United States was the only major country to run a full-time consulate in Greenland, and it isn’t much — a little red house with an American flag poking out.

Officials pressed Schumer to help name Penn Station, Dulles for Trump

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration has sought to pressure Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., the minority leader, to help name New York’s Penn Station and Washington Dulles International Airport after President Donald Trump in exchange for releasing billions of dollars he has frozen for a rail tunnel under the Hudson River.

Colorado funeral home director is sentenced to 40 years in corpse abuse case

The director of a Colorado funeral home was sentenced to 40 years in prison Friday as family members spoke in court of their anguish after detectives discovered nearly 200 decomposing bodies stored improperly and that fake ashes had been delivered to grieving loved ones.

FBI investigates links to biological labs in Las Vegas and California

Federal and local law enforcement officials in Las Vegas are investigating a possible illegal laboratory in a residential subdivision that they say may be linked to another similar investigation in California.

Trump is hosting governors at the White House, but only Republicans

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump is hosting an annual meeting of governors at the White House this month, but is doing something different this year. He is not inviting Democrats.

US seeks to expedite deportation of 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos

Just days after being released from an immigration detention center in Texas, Liam Conejo Ramos, the 5-year-old boy in a bunny hat whose image rocketed around the world, is facing an escalating effort to deport him and his father.

Tropical Gardening: Adventures in nature, conservation and diverse cultures with the International Palm Society

Members of the International Palm Society and Hawaii Island Palm Society are about to embark on an adventure from Vietnam to Thailand studying the palms of those regions. Some members are extending the trip to include some remote islands like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal.

Franklin Drilon: The gentleman from Iloilo

Through his memoir, 'Being Frank,' Filipinos will have a closer look at the extraordinary life and work of former senator Franklin Drilon

Cambodia-Thailand border tensions test ASEAN’s conflict management role

As Manila assumes the 2026 ASEAN chairmanship, renewed fighting along the Cambodia-Thailand border and external mediation efforts place pressure on ASEAN’s centrality and credibility

The week in photos: January 31 to February 6, 2026

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

Removing sewage before it goes septic is main focus of Wellington water company

The smell from the massive Moa Point raw sewage discharge in Wellington could be about to get worse, as Wellington Water battles a new overflow in Porirua.

How these plane spotters’ dreams took flight

This community of plane spotters show a united passion for aviation, amazingly identifying an aircraft by silhouette alone and speaking in the language of fuselage length and engine thrust

OFC Pro League: Solomon Kings upset Auckland FC in Port Moresby

It was the Solomon Islanders' second win in the OFC Pro League.

In Rappler’s town hall, Dumaguete shows up for truth, youth, and accountability

Dumagueteños young and old talk about the future of advocacy and protest at a time when the city needs transparency and vigilance more than ever

Tokelau general election results returned

The results of the 2026 Tokelau general election have been returned, after voters went to the polls on Thursday.

Navy vessel Canterbury stops in Tokelau to mark centenary

HMNZS Canterbury will help mark the centenary of New Zealand administration of the territory.

Lookback on Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship: Restraint over reform in a year of crises

How did Malaysia set the scene for the Philippines ASEAN chair and deal with the range of challenges?

Emergency responses, traffic jams for two sections of SH1 in Auckland

Disruptions are creating backlogs on SH1 near Takanini and the northern motorway.

SH2 closed near Kaitoke after three-vehicle crash

NZTA Waka Kotahi says people travelling between Upper Hutt and the Wairarapa should delay their journeys, as no local road detours are available.

Norway to probe Epstein revelations as scandal reverberates round Europe

The release of an enormous cache of new files last week reveals a host of new Epstein connections with politicians, royals, and the ultra-rich

Cook Islands club secures OFC champions' league spot

The OFC men's champions' league kicks off in Fiji in August.

UH Maui College, Hawaiian Electric expand workforce training to Molokaʻi

Direct career pathway into Hawaiʻi’s electric utility grows.

The post UH Maui College, Hawaiian Electric expand workforce training to Molokaʻi first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Northland councils team up on local government reform

Northland's four councils are presenting a shared vision, following the proposal for local government reform.

UH Mānoa joins $3.5M multi-state cervical cancer screening study

The project will adapt, validate and test interventions to improve cervical cancer prevention and follow-up.

The post UH Mānoa joins $3.5M multi-state cervical cancer screening study first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Questions raised over communication delay during Black Cat ferry grounding

Passenger Chris Friedman wondered why little information was given to passengers immediately after the catamaran struck the seabed.

Pet bonds pass 1700 mark in first months of new system

Landlords can now charge up to two weeks rent as a pet bond, which came into force late last year.

Is a social media ban for minors the correct move?

After Australia, some governments worldwide, the Philippines included, are mulling a social media ban for minors. What are the possible pros and cons?

[Vantage Point] The Leviste sting: The risks of trading farmland for megawatts

In the global race to decarbonize, the most successful economies learned that the energy transition fails when it competes with the dinner table

PX employee faces 50 count of stealing and embezzlement

An employee of the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (PX) in Tafuna faces 50 counts of stealing and embezzlement. It’s alleged that between September 2 and October 16 of 2025, Sophia Esau as the PX employee

Amata joins choir at National Prayer Breakfast

Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata took part in the 74th National Prayer Breakfast on Thursday morning, and participated in the opening singing by the bipartisan House of Representatives Choir. “In American Samoa we believe in the power of prayer

NPAS Superintendent meets Lt Gov Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr.

The new Superintendent of the National Park of American Samoa, Paul PT Lathrop, has begun in his new role. This week he was officially introduced to Lt Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr. Joined by Park Liaison Pua

Dengue fever continues to spread in Samoa

Samoa’s Ministry of Health has urged that with the ongoing dengue outbreak in the country, prevention measures should continue as new cases reach 56. The warning comes as the ministry revealed one death and 11 cases admitted

Rachel Park is overall winner of Territorial Science Fair

Tenth grader at Manumalo Academy, Rachel Park, is the overall winner of the 2026 Territorial Science Fair, High School Division. Her biochemistry project evaluated breadfruit as a renewable source for biofuel. Her study explored the potential, renewability

Amata Honors President Reagan’s Birthday, Recalls His Message to American Samoa

Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is honoring the February 6th birthday of the late President Ronald Reagan, and recalling his historic video message sent to American Samoa and the South Pacific Conference, which was hosted in American Samoa that

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Pacific Winds 20260207

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

Live, love and smile for tomorrow we go

Yes&Know By Aline Yamashita Michelle emailed, “Love is real and warm no matter the weather.” She attached a gorgeous orange mini-hibiscus from their yard, reciprocating the flowers we'd shared when they were here. Michelle, Robert and Zach returned to their California home after spending time in Guam as we celebrated Mike Carlson’s first heavenly anniversary. Landing in 50-degree weather after our 80-degree weather, they appreciated their jackets. Here, they enjoyed the family, the sunshine,...

Tropical Depression Basyang crossing Negros Island after fifth landfall

Tropical Depression Basyang (Penha) is in the vicinity of Cauayan, Negros Occidental, as of 1 am on Saturday, February 7

Country Life: A Bit of Route 66 on State Highway 8

Mark Leishman goes on a personal journey to Burkes Pass, a place with deep family ties.

Stanley Waipouri's murderer Ashley Arnopp remains behind bars after parole hearing

Ashley Arnopp, along with Andre Gilling, beat Waipouri to death in a probable homophobic attack in December 2006.

Amata takes part in National Prayer Breakfast 2026

Source: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata’s D.C. staff

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata took part in the 74th National Prayer Breakfast on Thursday morning, and participated in the opening singing by the bipartisan House of Representatives Choir.

“In American Samoa we believe in the power of prayer and we are blessed with a strong and beautiful tradition of faith,” said Congresswoman Amata. “Scripture invites us to pray for our leaders in order for them to make wise decisions for the flourishing of our people, as well as to express our grateful hearts for all of God’s goodness.”

The National Prayer Breakfast is a yearly bipartisan tradition, which gained national attention in 1953 when President Eisenhower attended at the suggestion of famous evangelist Billy Graham. President Eisenhower gave remarks, and presidents of both parties have carried on the tradition. President Trump attended and spoke this time.

Bipartisan Co-Chairmen were Rep. Jonathan Jackson (D-IL) and Rep. Ben Cline (R-VA). Organized by the National Prayer Breakfast Foundation, the gathering encourages “the spirit of love and reconciliation as Jesus of Nazareth taught 2,000 years ago.” The Foundation is led by Chairman J.C. Watts, and years ago, Congresswoman Amata was employed by then-Congressman Watts.

Each year, prayers are led by respected clergy and others. They express thanks and pray for the country and its leaders, for wisdom in decisions, for peace, for the nation’s Service Members and their protection.

“I’ve enjoyed attending the National Prayer Breakfast most of the years that I’ve been in Congress,” continued Aumua Amata. “It’s a good reminder of what is most important about public service.”

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'Too often people look to Wellington' - Northland leaders want more local involvement at Waitangi

Northland Regional Council chairperson Pita Tipene says 'too often people look to Wellington' for leadership.

WorkSafe says explosion that seriously burnt a forklift driver was avoidable

The worker was seriously burned when several condemned, nine kilogram gas bottles exploded and their forklift caught fire in March, 2024 at Tank Test in Papatoetoe, Auckland.

Yarns, pottery, woodwork and happy mail: The rise of analogue hobbies

Crafters are carving out space offline, allowing them to let off steam, slow down, make friends. It's even becoming a social movement.

COA flags P300-M road, bridge works by Discaya firm | The wRap

Today’s headlines: Discayas, killing of cop & son, Aphelion

Tropical Depression Basyang slows down en route to Cebu

Tropical Depression Basyang (Penha) is moving west northwest at just 10 km/h on Friday evening, February 6

Myanmar’s opposition fears ASEAN betrayal

The Philippines envoy’s first steps may have raised eyebrows, but she appears to have moved quickly to engage opposition figures as part of a plan to tackle the Myanmar crisis

Trump’s ‘narrative warfare’ manufactures support

Trump's grip on power thrives by leveraging social media's emotional triggers to create fragmented realities and bypass democratic discourse

ADB, GCash lending arm Fuse partner to unlock inclusive finance, fight poverty in Philippines

ADB grants GCash lending arm Fuse Financing with P1.75B credit facility to expand loan access to MSMEs, women

Nuclear arms control era comes to end amid global rush for new weapons

The deadline has been looming over Washington and Moscow for years.

Obituaries for February 6

Patrick Glen De Sa, 76, died Dec. 31. He was born in Hilo. A celebration of life service for family and friends will be held 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 13 at the Waiakea Uka Community Center, 1200 Ainaola Drive, Hilo. Refreshments will be served. Casual attire. Survived by daughter Jaimelynn (Garrett Takara) De Sa; sons, Tracy (Michelle) De Sa, Damien (Sheila) De Sa, Brandon (Grace) De Sa; grandchildren Joshua De Sa, Shaila De Sa, Jhante Iga, Taylor and Tayson De Sa; Aunt Cecilia (De Sa) Masaoka, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Trump unveils TrumpRx discounted drugs website

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Thursday unveiled TrumpRx.gov, a website meant to offer consumers access to discounted prescription medicines and a central pillar of his efforts to lower drug prices in the United States.

Heavy rain forecast for E. Hawaii on Super Bowl Sunday

For those curious about the weather during Super Bowl watch parties, the forecast for East Hawaii is for heavy rain this weekend, especially on Sunday, according to the National Weather Service.

New report shows strong use of Hawaii medical cannabis program

A new independent economic analysis commissioned by the state Department of Health’s Office of Medical Cannabis Control and Regulation finds that the state’s medical cannabis program captures the vast majority of patient spending and is effectively serving registered users, while also outlining how a future adult-use cannabis market could reshape demand, regulation and public health risks.

Officers’ misconduct detailed

Two Hawaii Police Department officers were fired in 2025, although neither dismissal is final, and an officer fired in 2023 for burglary and assault is seeking to return to the force after a deferred plea acceptance resulted in his conviction being expunged from the record.

Pentagon asked to probe SpaceX for potential Chinese ownership

Two Democratic U.S. senators urged the Pentagon on Thursday to conduct an immediate review of SpaceX amid allegations that Chinese investors have secretly acquired stakes in the closely held rocket maker, citing potential national security risks, according to a letter seen by Reuters.

White House offers shifting story on Gabbard’s presence at Georgia raid

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump said Thursday that Attorney General Pam Bondi wanted Tulsi Gabbard, the director of national intelligence, to oversee the FBI seizure and search of voter rolls in Georgia — the fourth time this week the administration has shifted its story on Gabbard’s extraordinary involvement in a law enforcement operation.

Trump has no ‘formal plans’ to deploy ICE at polling sites, White House says

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump has not discussed “formal plans” to deploy U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to polling sites at November’s midterm elections, the White House said on Thursday, while declining to rule out their presence near voting locations.

Arizona sheriff says Nancy Guthrie presumed to ‘still be out there’ alive

TUCSON, Ariz. — Investigators in Arizona presume the kidnapped elderly mother of popular U.S. television news host Savannah Guthrie is “still out there” and alive four days after she was abducted from her home, though no suspect has been identified, authorities said on Thursday.

Democrats’ immigration enforcement reforms face rough waters in Congress

WASHINGTON — A public backlash against violent confrontations involving federal immigration agents has U.S. Democrats pushing for new controls on their activities, but with little buy-in so far from Republicans who control Congress.

News in brief for February 6

Bitcoin plummets, crypto market value tumbles $2 trillion

Dumaguete City councilor proposes FOI ordinance, flags ‘performative’ transparency

Participants in Rappler’s #CorruptionWatch town hall in Dumaguete City back calls for stronger public access to government documents and information

Health officials say no local Nipah virus cases detected, urge vigilance for travelers

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Demok Festival Brews Bigger Legacy in Ngaraard

By: Laurel Marewibuel KOROR, Palau—The Demok Festival of Ngaraard State kicked off in 2022 as a grassroots ode to Palau’s national soup — a hearty, rich demok that screams local pride and heritage from Ngaraard itself, said organizer Ngaraard First Lady Lisa Sakuma. “What started as a small gathering of family, friends, and community members […]

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Koror Introduces New Access Fee for Fish Spawning Sites

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Face card declined? Frasco’s image found in other government materials, too

Filipinos online take jabs at the other ‘self-promoting’ ways of Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco and show her how to actually boost Philippine tourism

Lawmakers Move to End Post-Election Delay for Absentee Ballots

By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang NGERULMUD, Palau — Lawmakers move to end the post-election delay before counting absentee ballots.  A bill introduced in the House of Delegates this week would require absentee ballots in national elections to be counted on the same day as all other ballots, ending the current seven-day waiting period after Election Day. […]

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A Most Modest Proposal for Palau’s Leaders

Dear Editor, Ranting Satire is good way to say hello… A Most Modest Proposal for Palau’s Leaders It is a truth universally acknowledged that a nation of 20,000 souls, blessed with pristine waters, fertile taro patches, and a strategic location so valuable that superpowers salivate over it, must surely be incapable of training its own […]

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Fostering Educational Pathways—A Harvard University-Palau Partnership

Access to higher education plays a crucial role in national development, particularly for small island nations like Palau, where educational opportunities abroad can contribute to capacity‑building and leadership development. In March 2025, “Harvard University President Alan M. Garber and Edgerley Family Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences Hopi Hoekstra on Monday announced that […]

The post Fostering Educational Pathways—A Harvard University-Palau Partnership appeared first on Island Times News.

Palau President Arrives in Dubai for World Governments Summit

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Taiwan-Palau Friendship Association Delegation Concludes Three-Day Visit

By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang Koror, Palau — A four-member delegation from Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan visited Palau this week for a three-day goodwill visit aimed at strengthening parliamentary ties and ongoing cooperation between the two partners. The delegation, part of the Taiwan-Palau Friendship Association, arrived Monday and departed Wednesday night, according to the Taiwan Embassy in […]

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FACT CHECK: VP Sara not named ‘mastermind’ in flood control corruption by Bong Revilla

There is no proof that the former senator implicated Vice President Sara Duterte in the flood control scandal. The claim used falsified graphics and has been debunked by multiple fact-checkers.

Applying Indigenous wisdom to deep-sea mining

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SPREP regrets U.S exit, warns Pacific still in Climate emergency

APIA, 05 FEBRUARY 2026 (PACNEWS)—The Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) has expressed regret over the United States’ decision to withdraw from the regional body, while warning that the Pacific remains in a state of climate emergency. SPREP Director General Sefanaia Nawadra said the organisation remains focused on addressing the interconnected crises facing […]

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Fears over financial impact of Wellington's south coast sewage leak

Divers and recreation groups are not only worried about the environmental cost, but also the financial fallout.

Germany recognises Niue as a sovereign state by formalising diplomatic relations

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Renewed chapter’: Marshall Islands President Heine meets PM Albanese in Canberra

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Meet the Pacific Islanders who will play in Super Bowl LX

By Penina Momoisea (ABC-Australia) NFC Champions, Seattle Seahawks will take on the AFC Champions, New England Patriots this weekend in San Francisco (Monday February 9, AEDT) for the National Football League’s championship game and showpiece event.  Meet the Pacific Islander players who will be playing in Super Bowl LX. Brandon Pili  Nose tackle for the Seattle […]

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UN says It’s in danger of financial collapse because of members’ unpaid dues

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‘Bloodbath’ at Washington Post as massive layoffs announced

In short: (ABC-Australia) The Washington Post is set to cut jobs across all of its news departments and will close its sports department, the newspaper’s executive editor has told staff. The changes at the paper, owned by Jeff Bezos, are being protested by staff but come as many outlets struggle to remain profitable. One staff […]

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Tropical Depression Basyang makes second landfall in Bohol

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COA flags Discaya firm over P300-M Ilocos Norte road, bridge works

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CNMI businesses eye military contracting opportunities

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Wellington Mayor Andrew Little says he will bring 'catastrophic' sewage failure to PM's attention

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Christchurch bottle stores ban the sale of popular drink Nitro to renew licenses

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Waitangi Day 2026 in pictures: the waka, kapa haka and crowds

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FENZ warns of public risk as 18 calls received during strike

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One dead after boat capsizes off Thames coast

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OFC Pro League clubs visit community ahead of matches

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Quick getaway sinks fast as fleeing boatie runs into police catamaran

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Rainbow Wahine basketball assistant coach selected for top leadership program

Khalilah Mitchell was selected to participate in the 2026 WBCA Next Generation Institute, a national program for aspiring collegiate head coaches.

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Pasifika hit hardest in NZ unemployment stats

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'Decide for ourselves': Ratu Tevita Mara warns Fiji against looking back to Britain

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Aboriginal group stands in solidarity with Māori at Waitangi

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Professor earns USDA award for teaching, student engagement

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Liberty Flour Mills at the crossroads: Family feud, falling profits amid turmoil in milling business

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Philippine Consulate General explores rare collections at Hamilton Library

Philippine Consul General Arman Talbo toured Hamilton Library with his delegation on January 23.

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Body found at Napier beach

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Samoa Tuna Processors Plant sold to StarKist Co.

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President Simina Hands Over Chuuk State Biosecurity Facility

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TESDA Skills Passport: A mobile app for job hunting, training, scholarships

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Miss Am Samoa: I’m well prepared for the pageant

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How to keep animals safe during typhoons, floods

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2 Rainbow Warriors named to inaugural men’s volleyball Player of the Year Watch List

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The post 2 Rainbow Warriors named to inaugural men’s volleyball Player of the Year Watch List first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Dengue Fever Claims 8th Victim

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The post Dengue Fever Claims 8th Victim appeared first on Talamua Online.

Wellington's sewage diverted away from shore, out to Cook Strait

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Philippine Airlines' Manila-Saipan return seen as boost to Oceania sports connectivity

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Watch live: Waitangi Day celebrations continue

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Confident Tausala Samoa heads off to the Miss Pacific Competition

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The post Confident Tausala Samoa heads off to the Miss Pacific Competition appeared first on Talamua Online.

Lahaina’s story lives in new hana keaka production

Hawaiian theatre production Lele Wale takes audiences on a journey of community rebuilding in the wake of the Lahaina wildfires.

The post Lahaina’s story lives in new hana keaka production first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Pacific Winds 20260206

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Pacific Winds 20260206

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

Super Rugby Pacific preview: Moana Pasifika

Super Rugby Pacific is back after a real return to form last year, with the competition kicking off in Dunedin on 13 February.

Ambassador Heine at UN

Journal 2/4/1983 P1 Utrik solar project approvedConstruction of the first solar power in the Marshalls on the island of Utrik has been approved by the Cabinet, President Amata Kabua told Nitijela February 2. The funds will come from Utrik’s community grant, the US Department of Energy and NASA. Journal 2/7/1992 P1 Thyroid tumors dominate NCT […]

The post Ambassador Heine at UN appeared first on The Marshall Islands Journal.

Further delay in release of 2025 Individual Tax Form

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Waitangi 2026: Dawn service in pictures

Thousands filled the Treaty Grounds at Waitangi for a dawn ceremony. Here's how it unfolded.

Reviewing the Honolulu City Charter INSIGHTS ON PBS HAWAI‘I

There is still time to have a voice in proposing changes to the Honolulu City Charter.

The post Reviewing the Honolulu City Charter INSIGHTS ON PBS HAWAI‘I appeared first on PBS Hawai‘i.

Tropical Storm Basyang makes landfall in Surigao del Sur

The maximum sustained winds of Tropical Storm Basyang (Penha) ease to 65 km/h after its initial landfall late Thursday night, February 5. Despite the slight weakening, it is still dumping significant rain.

Hawaiʻi Students Win Big at STN Challenge HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawaiʻi

Hawaiʻi students participated in a national Student Television Network competition and won big.

The post Hawaiʻi Students Win Big at STN Challenge HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawaiʻi appeared first on PBS Hawai‘i.

Preview: Fiji 7s teams brace for tougher challenges at Perth 7s

The Fiji men's and women's sevens rugby teams competing at Perth Sevens this weekend will face tougher challenges in their respective pools.

Island land snails’ extinction rates as high as 80% or more

The study found that extinction rates on high volcanic islands commonly range from 30% to as high as 80%.

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Summer drowning numbers tracking higher than last year

There have been 30 deaths over the past two months in waterways, lakes and beaches.

NMHU, American Samoa announce in-state tuition now available to American Samoa students

Las Vegas, NEW MEXICO — American Samoa Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula and Lt. Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae, Jr. recently announced a landmark educational partnership with New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU), culminating in a Joint Proclamation that grants in-state tuition classification to all legal residents of American Samoa pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees at NMHU, effective immediately.

This historic agreement represents a significant advancement for American Samoa’s commitment to expanding educational opportunity and reducing financial barriers for students seeking quality higher education on the mainland United States.

SUBSTANTIAL COST SAVINGS FOR AMERICAN SAMOA FAMILIES

Under the terms of the Joint Proclamation, American Samoan students enrolling at NMHU will automatically receive in-state tuition rates—a benefit that translates to substantial savings for families already facing geographic isolation and limited affordable higher education options within the territory.

“This is a transformative opportunity for our young people,” said Governor Pula. “Education is the foundation of personal success and national progress. By securing in-state tuition at a respected American institution, we are demonstrating that geographic distance will not limit our students’ access to quality education. This partnership honors the strong academic presence and cultural contributions that American Samoa students have brought to NMHU’s campus.”

REMOVING EDUCATIONAL ACCESS BARRIERS

American Samoa’s geographic isolation and policy distinctions have historically posed significant barriers to affordable higher education access on the mainland. This Joint Proclamation directly addresses that challenge by eliminating out-of-state tuition differentials that have traditionally placed mainland education beyond reach for many local families.

The in-state tuition classification applies to both undergraduate and graduate programs, ensuring that American Samoan students at every academic level can pursue advanced degrees in fields including education, business, health sciences, technology, and liberal arts—all at substantially reduced cost.

STRENGTHENING EDUCATIONAL PIPELINES AND PARTNERSHIPS

Beyond immediate tuition benefits, the Joint Proclamation establishes a framework for deepening educational collaboration between New Mexico Highlands University and American Samoa through:

•         Dual-enrollment initiatives connecting American Samoa Community College and local high schools with NMHU programs
•         Recruitment and articulation agreements ensuring smooth academic pathways for students transitioning to four-year university programs
•         Joint research collaborations in fields of mutual interest including indigenous knowledge systems, climate resilience, public health, education, and sustainable community development
•         Academic exchanges fostering deeper understanding and cultural engagement between institutions
•         Expanded student support services ensuring American Samoan students at NMHU receive cultural programming, academic advising, mentorship, and comprehensive support for student success

A PARTNERSHIP BUILT ON SHARED VALUES

Dr. Neil Woolf, President of New Mexico Highlands University, affirmed the institution’s commitment: “New Mexico Highlands University is committed to expanding access to higher education for students from underserved and culturally rich communities. This agreement reflects our growing collaboration with the people of American Samoa and expands opportunity for students while strengthening the cultural, academic, and community connections between Highlands and American Samoa.”

NMHU, founded in 1893, has a historic mission to expand access to quality higher education for students from underserved, rural, and culturally rich communities across the United States and its territories. This partnership aligns directly with that mission while addressing a critical need for American Samoa’s educational advancement.

ECONOMIC AND HUMAN CAPITAL BENEFITS TO AMERICAN SAMOA

The Governor emphasized the broader benefits of this partnership: “By reducing the financial burden of higher education, we empower American Samoan families to invest in their children’s futures. Education strengthens individuals, families, and communities. Our students who earn degrees from NMHU return to American Samoa with enhanced skills and credentials, better equipped to lead in government, business, healthcare, education, and other critical sectors. This investment in our youth strengthens our territory.”

PARTNERSHIP AND COOPERATION

The Joint Proclamation stands as formal recognition of the enduring bonds between New Mexico Highlands University and the people of American Samoa—a commitment to educational opportunity, the transformative power of knowledge, and a shared vision where students from all regions are valued, supported, and empowered to lead.

The Pula and Pulu administration will coordinate with the American Samoa Department of Education and American Samoa Community College to ensure seamless implementation of educational pipeline initiatives and to develop specific implementation agreements for collaborative research, academic exchanges, and student support services.

(Source: New Mexico Highlands University)

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Southern Brown Kiwi lays rare two eggs

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Watch live: Dawn ceremony kicks off Waitangi Day

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No Senate coup, but ‘power-sharing’ possible | The wRap

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The 2% inflation figure in January 2026 is within the government's target range, but is also the highest since February 2025's 2.1%

New patrol boat given to RMI

The Marshall Islands late last week took delivery of a new Guardian-class Patrol Boat, RMIS Jelmae, in a ceremony at HMAS Stirling, Western Australia. Foreign Minister Kalani Kaneko received the vessel on behalf of the RMI government. The vessel is expected to strengthen the Marshall Islands’ maritime capability and assist in responding to national and regional […]

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‘Slam dunk’ case? The brutal killing of a female cop and her son

Policewoman Diane Marie Mollenido and her eight-year-old son John Ysmael are killed over what police believe was a car scam

DOC becoming 'extremely concerned' about Wellington sewage leak

The leak may impact sponges, muscles, penguins and fish that eat particles in the water.

Could sewer robots be used to prevent repeat of Moa Pt sewage spill?

Sewer robots are being used to patrol pipes elsewhere in the world to keep them from blocking, but what about in New Zealand?

Waitangi wrap: Speeches, celebrations and heckling

A day of formalities has come to a close following several speeches and fiery crowd.

UNICEF calls for criminalization of AI content depicting child sex abuse

UNICEF also urges developers to implement safety-by-design approaches and guardrails to prevent misuse of AI models

Haeata Community Campus disputes MPI's mouldy school lunch claim

The school says an internal investigation has found no evidence to support the Ministry for Primary Industries' claims.

Wellington stationery drive in high demand, exhausts all funding

The organiser of the Wellington charity supplying school stationery to families in need says they may be forced to turn people away.

Man saves family from drowning in Kai Iwi Lakes

Haruru man Aaron Stott was described as a hero, but he said he just doesn't want to see people suffering.

Polls close in Tokelau

Polling stations are now closed in Tokelau and counting for the national election is underway.

Far too many risks come with synthetic peptide use, expert says

The expert says the drugs can be dangerous and many are sold based on unproven claims.

Schools, Education Ministry at odds over what counts as an official school day

The ministry says schools now have to add extra days to the end of the school year to make up for welcoming new students a day or two before other students return to class.

'Cremate and bury it': National's Tama Potaka on Treaty Principles Bill

Ahead of Waitangi Day, Tama Potaka joins Mihingarangi Forbes for a wide-ranging interview, discussing the Treaty Principles Bill, the Ngāpuhi settlement, emergency housing, whether he has ambitions to become Attorney-General, and Peeni Henare's shock r...

Waitangi 2026: Thursday in pictures

Politicians have been officially welcomed back to the Treaty Grounds on Thursday. Here's how it unfolded in pictures.

As it happened: Politicians including Hipkins, Seymour, Peters speak following welcome to Treaty Grounds

The PM faced heckling during his speech at Waitangi today amid tensions over the bill.

Child fatally struck by car in rural Canterbury town named as 10-year-old Alexander Bennett

Ten-year-old Alexander Bennett was walking on Leeston Road near Springston when he was hit about 3.30pm on Wednesday, police said.

Cook Islands community turns to full immersion education to save Māori language

"Cook Islands Māori is on the trajectory to becoming an extinct language."

Two Samoas complete Border Security Talks in Apia

By Jeannie Penehuro/ Apia, SAMOA – 5 February 2026 – High level officials have just completed two days of talks in Apia on border security between Samoa and American Samoa. The American Samoa delegation was led by the Attorney General, Gwen Tauiliili Langkilde and the Director of Homeland Security Glen Lefiti and included Heads of […]

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A sliver of hope amid economic fragility: With economic ‘diversification’ still out of sight, CNMI clings onto tourism

“Given the small size and limited resilience of the commonwealth's economy, the margin for error has effectively vanished,” the CNMI’s top political leaders said in a Jan. 6 letter to President Donald Trump.

New CEO Leads SUNGO Into Next Chapter of Growth

Apia, SAMOA – 5 February 2026 – The Samoa Umbrella for Non-Governmental Organisations (SUNGO) has appointed Afioga Lavea Peseta Lua Nafo’i as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Lavea comes to the position with a distinguished career in civil society and community development and nonprofit leadership and a wealth of experience and a strong vision […]

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'It's a ghost town': customers staying away after Moa Point sewage spill in Wellington

Some businesses along the Welington's South Coast say the major sewage spill is a "kick in the teeth" and they are already losing business.

Damage to Moa Point wastewater plant 'as bad as we feared' - Wellington Water

Wellington Water's chief executive says the Moa Point wastewater treatment plant is not in good shape, with 70 percent of it flooded and 80 percent of its equipment damaged.

Taranaki green hydrogen energy project construction starts this month

Five years after almost $20 million of funding was announced for a green hydrogen facility in South Taranaki construction is set to begin this month.

Woman accused of stealing thousands from elderly women in Hamilton and Auckland

Police say a 37-year-old woman targeted the women deliberately, entering their homes under false pretences and taking their bank cards to withdraw cash.

Police investigation launched after man turns up at hospital with gunshot wound in Auckland

An investigation has been launched after a man was shot in the Auckland suburb of Māngere overnight.

Heating up the hāngī pit ahead of Waitangi Day celebrations

A Wellington marae is putting its hāngī made up of mostly koha kai underground on Friday, in preparation for the city's Waitangi Day celebrations tomorrow.

Fepuari 4 – Tala Nei – Aoauli

Fepuari 4…Tala Nei mo le aoauli fofogaina e Doug Tuigamala.

Tribute to Prof. Andrew Garrod

GIFF JOHNSON Where to start a conversation about Professor Andrew Garrod, who died at age 87 last week in New Hampshire after an extended illness? Andrew touched quite literally thousands of people in the Marshall Islands over the nearly 30 years that his presence was felt here. And hundreds of those were the young people […]

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Prime Minister Christopher Luxon heckled during speech at Treaty Grounds

One person can be heard yelling "treason" during Christopher Luxon's speech.

Former Fiji anti-corruption chief seeks nearly US$1.4m compensation from government

The Fiji High Court ruled on Monday that Barbara Malimali's dismissal in June last year by the Fijian head of state - on the advice of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka - was unlawful.

Stop cyber threats! Learn to use AI as your small business security ally

Learn how to integrate AI tools for cybersecurity.

The post Stop cyber threats! Learn to use AI as your small business security ally first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

[Good Business] Kaya ba ng Pilipino maging world-class farmer?

Kaya ba natin? Kaya ba nating ituring ang agrikultura bilang propesyon ng talino, dignidad, at kinabukasan? Kaya ba nating maniwala na ang Filipino farmer ay maaaring maging world-class?

'Hero' saves family of four from drowning

A family of four have been saved from drowning by a fast-thinking local man being described by police as a "hero".

'Really serious': Call for urgency as review of insurance commences

The review needs to tackle the problem that insurance is becoming more unaffordable and potentially inaccessible, Consumer NZ says.

Wellington's City to Sea bridge saved but $85m in seismic work off the table

There's been a years-long fight over the City to Sea bridge that connects Wellington's waterfront to the central city.

Education Summit: Build the House With Many Posts

The Department of Education Summit on Public Education convened at the American Samoa Community College Multi Purpose Center on Wednesday. Educators, government leaders, business representatives, church ministers and students attended the summit whose purpose is to gather

Shooting death of officer spurs push for tougher gun laws in Hawaii

The shooting death of American Samoa-born Maui Police Officer Suzanne O is spurring a push for tougher penalties for felonies and firearms violations in Hawaii. Still, some say the proposal goes too far. Maui Police Officer Suzanne

Send-off for Miss American Samoa!

Miss American Samoa Tofoipupu Unutoa departed Wednesday for the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant in Fiji. BlueSky Communications hosted a send off for her and her 18 member contingent at the airport, with dancing by the Malualii Dance

Live: 'Sort yourself out', politicians told as they are welcomed to Waitangi

MPs were told people's anger was "the waka capsizing", while protesters squared off with security as a pōwhiri welcomed the parliamentarians to the Treaty Grounds.

'We are all connected': Indigenous, Pacific leaders unite at Waitangi

Waitangi Day commemorations have become a gathering point for Indigenous ocean leadership from across the Pacific.

Part of Mt Maunganui landslide road cordon set to be lifted

Adams Avenue between Maunganui Road and Marine Parade will be open to both vehicles and pedestrians.

People across North Island report second possible meteor sighting within a week

Social media users have reported seeing a bright flash light up the sky in the early hours of Thursday morning.

Canterbury primary school mourning student hit and killed by car

Springston School Te Kura o Makonui board says its thoughts are with the child's family, as staff and students are supported.

Adventurous seal pup given police escort out of New Plymouth CDB

Police say the seal pup wandered "a bit too far from home" but was safely escorted back to the sea.

Heine meets Albanese

President Hilda C. Heine and First Gentleman Thomas Kijiner, Jr. departed with a delegation to Australia this past Saturday. The President and her delegation is making an official visit to Australia, her first since taking office two years ago. She met with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese Monday this week. During the visit, President Heine […]

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Zero-interest loans expand to nursing students at UH Mānoa

The program helps nursing students pay for tuition and living costs so they can focus on their studies and clinical training.

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Draws galore midway through round two of the OFC Pro League

Draws all-round for Solomon Kings FC, South Island United FC, Bula FC and South Melbourne FC.

Auckland FC in cruise control after five-star start in OFC Pro League

The New Zealand-based club appears to be in a league of their own, winning five games on the trot and sitting eight points clear at the top of the table.

Pacific Winds 20260205

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Pacific Winds 20260205

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

Tokelau heads to the polls after storm delays

The election was postponed last month after severe weather conditions delayed the ferry carrying the ballot boxes.

Pechanga Resort & Casino is venue for ASGERF Board meeting

The annual meeting of the Board of Trustees of the American Samoa Government Employees Retirement Fund and fund investors will be held February 11 and 12 at the Pechanga Resort & Casino in Temecula, California. This has

Parents urged to look out for signs of Rheumatic Fever

With February being American Heart Month, the Department and Health and LBJ Hospital are promoting awareness of a condition that’s prevalent in children that can lead to heart disease if not diagnosed and treated early. This is

Samantha Ricketts named head coach of AS National Softball Team

Mississippi State University head softball coach Samantha Ricketts has been named the head coach of the American Samoa Womens National Softball Team. Ricketts will helm the national program simultaneous with her duties at Mississippi State and will

'Catastrophic failure': Wellington mayor describes plant's leak as environmental disaster

An average of around 70 million litres of untreated wastewater has been pouring into Wellington's South Coast each day since Wednesday morning.

'Everyday living is just so hard': Families going into debt to pay for school uniforms

A charity says it's not just lower socio-economic households who are feeling the pinch.

Tauranga mayor says it's unlikely Mt Maunganui landslide area will remain a campsite

Mahé Drysdale said any decisions on the future of the land surrounding the landslide will require conversations with iwi, communities, and people closely affected by the tragedy.

Guam, national defense and world peace

Guam still matters, according to Adm. Samuel Paparo, commander of the Indo-Pacific Command. “Guam sits at the forward edge of the tyranny of distance. Guam anchors our ability to surge, sustain and respond,” the commander said in his remarks at the Honolulu Defense Forum last month.

Body of Samoan police officer found

The body of a police officer who went missing on Tuesday after falling from a moving police boat off the coast of Utualii, was recovered yesterday off the coast of neighboring village Levi, Saleimoa. An official statement

Police hold serious concerns for missing woman Nicola O'Connor

The 42-year-old has gone missing while travelling around the central North Island in a house bus.

Published mugshot leads to lawsuit against Samoa Police

A man who was among the 114 suspects that the police arrested and charged with drug-related charges has filed a lawsuit against the police for publishing his mugshot on social media. Samoa Observer reports that Iopu Siolo

Jigsaw puzzle racing winners crowned at Masters Games

Jigsaw puzzle racing was a new addition at the last Masters Games in Dunedin and it sold out within a day when it returned this year.

[Walang Pasok] Class suspensions, Thursday, February 5, 2026

Here is a list of areas where classes are suspended for Thursday, February 5, 2026, due to Tropical Storm Basyang (Penha)

New report confirms 2025 among Hawaiʻi’s driest, warmest on record

The inaugural Hawaiʻi Annual Climate Report 2025 detailed the second-driest year in over a century, with every single month recording temperatures above average.

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Image of the Week: Appreciating astronomy

This week’s image is from UH Maui College faculty member Trenton Niemi.

The post Image of the Week: Appreciating astronomy first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

One dead after single-vehicle crash in Tasman District

The road where the crash occurred in Lower Motuere was closed for some time but has now reopened.

Papua New Guinea's Morobe province responds to flu outbreak

Many parts of Papua New Guinea are reported to be experiencing outbreaks of the H3N2 virus, with the country in the middle of the rainy season.

Nervous wait for British passports as deadline looms

Families waiting for news on their passports fear planned holidays to the UK will be upended by processing times and delivery delays.

Leaders encourage Māori to vote in upcoming election as Waitangi draws near

It comes as politicians from all parties will be welcomed to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds at 11am on Thursday.

'Pretty gross': Locals shocked as raw sewage flows into Wellington sea

An average of around 70 million litres of untreated wastewater had been pouring into the capital's South Coast since Wednesday morning.

Basyang intensifies into tropical storm east of Surigao del Sur

Surigao del Sur is placed under Signal No. 2 late Wednesday evening, February 4, due to Tropical Storm Basyang (Penha)

Hawaii man sentenced to life for trying to kill Trump

FORT PIERCE, Florida — Ryan Routh, the man accused of hiding in the bushes of a Florida golf course with a semi-automatic rifle to try to assassinate Donald Trump less than two months before the 2024 U.S. election that returned him to the presidency, was sentenced by a judge today to life in prison.

House panel: Marcos impeachment cases insufficient in substance | The wRap

Today’s headlines: Marcos, Discayas, Christina Frasco

Gov’t urged to shift away from using schools as evacuation centers

Learning is further disrupted when schools serve as temporary shelters — another issue that the disaster-prone Philippines must address once and for all

From champ to champ: Why did Janti Miller jump from San Beda to La Salle?

Janti Miller commits to play for reigning UAAP champion La Salle Green Archers after parting ways with the San Beda Red Lions, a team he helped lead to an NCAA title

[In the Public Square] Impeachment: Mission impossible?

Is impeachment now an impossible dream?

Sotto bloc foils Senate coup but ‘power-sharing’ possible in ‘near future’

Senator Loren Legarda briefly takes the Senate president's seat, but only as presiding officer

German voice actors boycott Netflix over AI training concerns

Voice actors, like many in the entertainment industry, are increasingly wary of artificial intelligence upending their livelihood and raising fresh copyright concerns

Police mourn the death of Officer Evile Paulo at sea

Apia, SAMOA – 4 February 2026: The Samoa Police, Prisons & Corrections Services have confirmed the passing of Sergeant Evile Paulo Ekueni, who died at sea in the course of duty. A Police statement said Sergeant Ekueni was reported missing during a routine maritime coastal patrol yesterday. Following coordinated search efforts, his body was recovered […]

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Papua New Guinea’s High Commissioner Presents Credentials

Apia, SAMOA – 4 February 2026 – H.E. Mr. Sakias Tameo, Papua New Guinea’s accredited High Commissioner to Samoa, presented his Letters of Credence to the Head of State of Samoa, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II at the Credentials ceremony at the official residence of the Head of State at Vailele this morning. Samoa and […]

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Congressman Edvic Yap, implicated in flood control scandal, resigns

The Court of Appeals previously froze Edvic Yap's personal accounts amid the government's probe into the public works corruption mess

Renee Good’s brothers call on Congress to rein in immigration crackdown

WASHINGTON — Nearly one month after a federal immigration agent shot and killed Renee Good, 37, in Minneapolis, two of her siblings, Brent and Luke Ganger, appeared Tuesday on Capitol Hill and urged lawmakers to move to rein in the deportation crackdown.

Police ID women killed in Hilo fire

Hawaii Island police have identified the two women who died in the Nov. 29, 2025, structure fire at the former Puueo Poi factory building on Kekuanaoa Street in Hilo.

Group outlines spending plan for new climate change tax

The new Green Fee Advisory Council had to choose from among more than \(2 billion worth of funding requests to help Hawaii respond to climate change, but will only have \)100 million or so annually to recommend through the first statewide tax of its kind in the country, which has been collecting revenue since Jan. 1.

Trump signs bill to reopen government

WASHINGTON — A partial government shutdown ended Tuesday as President Donald Trump signed a spending package to reopen major parts of the government as well as fund the Department of Homeland Security during his negotiations with Democrats over restrictions on the administration’s immigration crackdown.

Tephra cleaup continues: Kilauea volcano’s recent episode made a mess of things

A week-and-a-half after episode 41 of Kilauea’s yearlong summit eruption deposited tephra — lightweight volcanic glass debris — over a sizable area surrounding Halema‘uma‘u crater, residents of Volcano are still digging out.

US fighter jet shoots down Iranian drone amid heightened tensions

WASHINGTON — A Navy fighter jet on Tuesday shot down an Iranian drone that aggressively approached a U.S. aircraft carrier transiting the Arabian Sea, according to a spokesperson for the U.S. military’s Central Command.

No plans for ICE immigration operations at Super Bowl, officials say

SAN FRANCISCO — National Football League and federal law enforcement officials said on Tuesday there were no planned Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations for Sunday’s Super Bowl or the events leading up to it.

Clintons to testify in Epstein congressional probe later this month, contempt vote on hold

WASHINGTON — Former U.S. president Bill Clinton and 2016 Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton will testify later this month in a congressional investigation into the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, Republican U.S. Representative James Comer said in a statement on Tuesday.

Walmart joins tech giants with $1 trillion market valuation

Walmart crossed above $1 trillion in market value Tuesday, becoming the first traditional retailer to hit the milestone and joining a small club mostly made up of technology giants such as Apple and Microsoft.

Trump seeks $1 billion from Harvard as deal proves elusive

President Donald Trump said his administration was seeking $1 billion from Harvard to settle probes into school policies, after a news report that said Trump had dropped his demand for a payment from the Ivy League school.

US Senator Kelly to ask judge to block Trump’s ‘retribution’ campaign

WASHINGTON — Lawyers for U.S. Senator Mark Kelly will ask a federal judge on Tuesday to block the Pentagon’s proceedings to demote his retired Navy captain rank because he urged troops to reject unlawful orders. The court hearing, set for 4 p.m. ET in Washington, is another test of President Donald Trump’s historic campaign of vengeance against his perceived political enemies, which has drawn pushback from judges across the ideological spectrum.

At White House, Trump says Colombia’s Petro is ‘great,’ defying expectations

Many feared the worst from Tuesday’s meeting between President Donald Trump and President Gustavo Petro of Colombia, the first face-to-face encounter between two leaders known for speaking their minds.

Trump’s call to ‘nationalize’ elections draws furious pushback from Democrats

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump’s call for Republicans to “nationalize” elections drew pushback on Tuesday from lawmakers, including from a few Republicans, as Democrats voiced fresh concern that he intends to interfere with the November midterms that will determine control of Congress. In a podcast interview with former FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino released on Monday, Trump repeated his false claims that the 2020 election was stolen from him and said his party should “take over” and “nationalize” voting in at least 15 places, without detailing what he meant.

News in brief for February 4

Jill Biden’s ex-husband is accused of killing current wife

Former Farming Leaders Warn U.S. Agriculture Could Face ‘Widespread Collapse’

WASHINGTON — Current economic conditions and Trump administration policies could lead to “a widespread collapse of American agriculture,” a bipartisan coalition of former Agriculture Department officials and leaders of farm groups warned in a letter Tuesday.

Buoyed by Kennedy’s success, MAHA groups take aim at state vaccine laws

WASHINGTON — U.S. activists allied with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. hope to ban vaccine mandates in as many as a dozen states this year, building on a law they conceived and passed in Idaho, according to interviews with three people working on the effort. Vaccine skepticism has gained traction under President Donald Trump, who has embraced the Kennedy-aligned “Make America Healthy Again” agenda. Kennedy, a longtime anti-vaccine activist, last year remade the government’s vaccine advisory committee, replacing independent experts with many appointees who are also aligned with the MAHA agenda and share his anti-vaccine views. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and its revamped advisory panel have weakened the government’s childhood vaccine recommendations, which traditionally underpinned state mandates for which inoculations students must have to attend schools. The Medical Freedom Act Coalition, which combines 14 MAHA-aligned organizations, launched in January and aims to advance that agenda by taking on state vaccine mandates they say are government overreach, leaders of three coalition groups told Reuters.

Police search X’s premises in France as prosecutors summon Elon Musk

PARIS — French police searched the premises of X in Paris on Tuesday as prosecutors issued a summons to the social platform’s owner, Elon Musk, raising the stakes in a yearlong investigation that has heightened a wider trans-Atlantic dispute over how to regulate tech companies.

Free music recital this Saturday in Hilo

The public is invited to a free Hilo music recital.

Acclaimed all-female mariachi group to perform Thursday

The critically acclaimed all-female Mariachi Divas de Cindy Shea will perform at 7 p.m. Thursday at the UH Hilo Performing Arts Center.

Kealakehe High team wins $25K in contest

American Savings Bank has awarded $135,000 to nine winning student teams from seven Hawaii public schools through its annual Bank for Education KeikiCo Business Plan Contest, a statewide student business competition that equips public and charter school students in grades 3-12 with practical financial and entrepreneurial skills.

HEART hosts benefit concert featuring Broadway star

Hilo Education Arts Repertory Theatre, or HEART, is celebrating five years of inspiring young artists and strengthening the community through live theater with a special Fifth Anniversary Benefit Concert and Fundraiser at 7 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 9, at the historic Hilo Palace Theater.

Kawili Street paving project underway through Feb. 27

The Hawaii County Department of Public Works announces that paving work has begun on Kawili Street in Hilo and will continue through Feb. 27.

[Be The Good] In Dumaguete, we launch #CorruptionWatch

'No AI bot can visit typhoon-stricken communities and help tell the story of their survival or suffering.'

[Kasalikasan] What do traffic and garbage have in common? Band-aid solutions

From experimenting with bus lanes to imposing steep garbage fees, we keep choosing band-aid solutions over fixing the system

Supreme Court junks petition questioning ICI’s establishment

The High Court en banc dismisses the legal challenge for failing to meet the basic requirements for judicial review

House slaps new 60-day suspension vs Kiko Barzaga over continued misconduct

The House ethics committee says Barzaga 'committed repeated, escalating misconduct' during his first suspension period

Ducks euthanised after found hunting and killing native pūteketeke chicks

DOC's Dean Nelson says staff were horrified to see graphic photos of the chicks being eaten alive, as it was unusual for ducks to prey on other birds.

Couple sentenced in accidental bank transfer trial

District Court judge dismisses the couple's defence for spending what they claimed was a 'gambling windfall' worth $158,000.

Mt Eden prison inmate dies after court appearance

Corrections said there were no indications the death was suspicious.

Sublime are coming to New Zealand for the first time

For this first-ever New Zealand tour, Jakob Nowell, son of the band's late lead singer Bradley Nowell, will take the mic.

Māori Queen pledges proceeds of Turangawaewae Regatta to weather-impacted communities

The chair says the century-old gathering would now be a chance to give some relief to those affected by recent flooding.

Man charged with murder of vet Jillian Clark in Clutha

A woman was found deceased at an address in Crichton on 23 January.

State of emergency in Tai Rāwhiti extended

The declaration on 21 January came as heavy rain and severe flooding swept across the North Island, battering communities on the East Coast.

Historic Ōpiki Bridge's future under cloud with more repairs needed

For the second time in just over two years, the ageing structure has sagged into the water below.

Child dies after being hit by car in Canterbury’s Springston

A road remains closed.

Cries of 'shame on you' as Clutha councillors vote on looking into vehicle-free zones on beaches

There was anger in the public gallery as Clutha council voted to drop an investigation into safe zones on beaches to protect wildlife.

Emergency set net fishing ban to protect threatened hoiho lawful, court rules

An environmental charity's claim that a set net fishing ban around Otago Peninsula didn't go far enough to protect hoiho has been dismissed.

Auckland homeowners not advised of rule change affecting flood buyouts, advocate says

The change means the homes can be lived in, and the council will not have to pay up to $14 million buying out the properties.

70 million litres of raw sewage flowing into Wellington sea

Mussels, kina, pāua, sponges, fish, and penguins could be at risk as 70 million litres of sewage a day flows into sea.

Man arrested after jumping into Hutt River to evade police

A witness took to social media to the describe seeing the man on a bicycle being pursued by police on the eastern side of the Hutt River.

Wellington's Moa Point Wastewater Plant floods, shuts down, fix could take months

Andrew Little says with beach access limited the plant failure could not have come at a worse time.

Police plea for thief to anonymously return Les O'Connell's Olympic gold medal

The gold medal holds immense sentimental value and police are asking for its anonymous return.

Watch: Prime Minister speaks after meeting with the Iwi Chairs Forum

Government and diplomatic corps representatives are being welcomed onto the Treaty Grounds ahead of Waitangi day.

Firefighters abused by motorists after road closure between Christchurch and Sumner

In a social media post, Sumner Volunteer Fire Brigade said it was saddened by the behaviour of some members of the public.

Business Briefs: Wings in Paradise; GEDA offers export training; World cuisines at Tsubaki

The Women in Aviation International Guam Chapter will host Wings in Paradise, an aviation open house, on March 28at the Asia Pacific Airlines Hangar in Tiyan.

'Loud and proud' teens descend on Treaty Grounds as part of six-day hīkoi

About 60 people, many carrying banners and flags, took part in this morning's leg of a six-day hīkoi through Kerikeri's town centre.

New Plymouth cycleway: 'Mallowpuff' lane dividers to replace controversial 'Tim Tams'

Some of New Plymouth's concrete cycleway separators are set to be replaced.

Mountain West announces new media rights package

The Mountain West announced a new media rights package with CBS Sports, FOX Sports, The CW Network and Kiswe beginning in 2026.

The post Mountain West announces new media rights package first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Campus to the Capitol: UH Mānoa brings cutting-edge research to lawmakers

Approximately 100 undergraduate and graduate students, researchers, faculty and staff shared their work through informational displays, demonstrations and interactive activities.

The post Campus to the Capitol: UH Mānoa brings cutting-edge research to lawmakers first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

UH Mānoa volleyball’s Kainoa Wade named national Player of the Week

Wade earned the AVCA recognition after leading the ‘Bows in kills, aces and digs during a three-match road sweep.

The post UH Mānoa volleyball’s Kainoa Wade named national Player of the Week first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Three men linked to Head Hunters gang sentenced to life in prison for murder

The men were found guilty of murdering West Auckland teenager Jayden Mamfredos-Nair nearly three years ago.

[Between Islands] Philippines-Japan relations: Weaving a shared future

Between Islands looks beyond treaties and formal agreements to the everyday lives that quietly shape Philippines–Japan relations. It’s a perspective shaped by years of living in Japan, countless bowls of ramen, and long morning walks that leave plenty of room for reflection.

PNG's Raymond Diho living his dream playing for Vanuatu United FC in OFC Pro-League

At just 19 years old, Papua New Guinea international Raymond Diho is living his dream after signing his first pro football contract with Vanuatu United FC.

Scholarships for Lahainaluna students lead $3.5M Bezos investment in Maui’s recovery

Gift also advances land stewardship research to reduce future wildfire risk.

The post Scholarships for Lahainaluna students lead $3.5M Bezos investment in Maui’s recovery first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Pacific news in brief for 4 February

A round-up of news from around the region, including a major roading programme in Papua New Guinea operating in breach of legislation.

Serial rapist Malcolm Rewa admits to sexually attacking another woman

Rewa is serving a life sentence for the 1992 murder of Papatoetoe woman Susan Burdett.

Shallow 4.4 earthquake rattles lower North Island

More than 1500 people reported feeling the moderate tremor.

Students help bring Vietnamese cinema to global audiences

UH Mānoa students helped digitize and subtitle more than 70 classic Vietnamese feature films through a collaborative project led by CSEAS.

The post Students help bring Vietnamese cinema to global audiences first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

St Kevin's College pupils stood down as police probe report of serious bullying

Three boys have been suspended from an Oamaru high school while police investigate the alleged incident at a hostel.

Rainbow Warrior volleyball trio captures Big West weekly honors

UH Mānoa’s Tread Rosenthal, Kainoa Wade and Justin Todd earned player of the week recognitions after a road trip sweep.

The post Rainbow Warrior volleyball trio captures Big West weekly honors first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Reports of fallen rocks closes main road between Christchurch and Sumner

Council crews are assessing the situation, a spokesperson says.

'In crisis every day': Help needed for community affected by foul-smelling sewage plant

Bromley community leader Jackie Simons has made an emotional plea to the council for more help to be provided to those affected by the foul stench pouring from Bromley Wastewater Plant.

StarKist Co. President/CEO visits territory

The President and CEO of StarKist Co., the parent company of StarKist Samoa, Mr. Eunhong Edward Min, is in the territory this week to visit the local cannery and hold meetings with ASG leaders. Deputy General Manager

Approved bills include funding for Am Samoa

Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is welcoming House passage of the Senate Amendment to H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026, with a vote of 217 to 214, sending five full-year FY26 appropriations bills to President Trump’s desk to

Cook Islands dengue outbreak: Travellers urged to 'please take extra precaution'

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The post He aloha ʻōlelo e ʻī mai ana first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

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Pacific Winds 20260204

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The post Pacific Winds 20260204 appeared first on Hafa Adai.

Pacific Winds 20260204

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

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Amata expects American Samoa’s Port funding to be secured

Congress negotiating end to partial government shutdown

Source: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata’s D.C. staff

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is expecting American Samoa’s funding to be secured, despite the current partial government shutdown. American Samoa has one House-passed funding addition that Congresswoman Amata requested now awaiting the vote that will end the shutdown, while another recent announcement is completed and was signed into law a week ago.

Her House-passed requests include \(1 million in project funds for port improvements, awaiting one last vote, and a \)900,000 boost to American Samoa’s operations fund via OIA that was signed into law in late January. These appropriations legislative packages also contain broadly all other federal funding and services that the territory receives from various U.S. departments and agencies over the course of a year, including formulas and grants.

The House has successfully passed the traditional 12 appropriations bills for the year, but the Senate did not pass half of them in time to prevent a partial shutdown at midnight January 31, when the Continuing Resolution expired. Senators held up the remaining government funding over disagreements regarding Department of Homeland Security support levels. However, it is a partial shutdown because six of the 12 appropriations, already passed, were signed into law.

Currently, a negotiated compromise proposal could be sent to the House this week that would pass full-year funding for remaining departments, agencies, and programs, including American Samoa’s port funding.

“I’m very confident our funds will be secured,” said Congresswoman Amata. “American Samoa’s funding is in the House-passed appropriations bills that include the Department of Transportation, while the Department of the Interior is already funded. Our remaining funds are right at the finish line. I’m optimistic the necessary agreement will be in place soon, government funding will be voted through, and this partial shutdown will end much sooner than the unfortunate one that lasted from October 1 through November 12, 2025.”

She continued, “I oppose these shutdowns as they are generally unnecessary and funding disagreements should be resolved for the good of the country before deadlines.”

Funded departments include Agriculture, with its Nutrition programs, including American Samoa’s grant; Interior, with $29 million for American Samoa operations and other grant support; Veterans Affairs; Commerce; and Justice. Some of the key funded agencies include EPA, NOAA, and FDA.

Departments awaiting final passage include Transportation, with highway and port funds for American Samoa; HHS; Labor; Education; Defense, which funds the military pay raise Congress already authorized; and Homeland Security.

Section:

Local News

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Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata

In Marshall Islands, people connection matters more than anything else

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Iwi chairs prepare to challenge government, ahead of Prime Minister's Waitangi visit

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The post UH: Keiki voices ignite Hawaiian Language Month first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Dark matter may be answer to why stars near the Milky Way’s core are muted

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The post Dark matter may be answer to why stars near the Milky Way’s core are muted first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

2026 ASGERF annual board meeting reportedly will be held at a mainland resort & casino

By

Samoa News staff

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A letter to the editor, “FROM ENVELOPES TO CASINOS”, written by Fuiavailili Keniseli Lafaele, a member of the American Samoa Government Employees Retirement Fund (ASGERF) board, has brought to light where the 2026 Annual Board Meeting of the Fund is reported to be held and when.

The letter as written by Fuiavailili follows and is self explanatory:

“FROM ENVELOPES TO CASINOS”

Dear Editor

In the wake of the Maota Fono dedication — and the troubling public discussion about cash envelopes for lawmakers and dignitaries — another decision raises serious questions about leadership, priorities, and restraint.

The annual board meeting of the American Samoa Government Employees Retirement Fund (ASGERF) is scheduled to be held this February at a mainland resort and casino, with legislators reportedly attending.

This comes at a time when the American Samoa Government owes more than $20 million in unpaid contributions to the Retirement Fund, and when the territory faces uncertain economic growth in the post-ARPA period.

Even when actions are technically permissible, leadership is not measured by what is allowed, but by what is appropriate.

At a moment of mounting arrears, a more constrained fiscal environment, and strained public trust, the optics of off-island travel to a casino venue for pension governance are deeply troubling.

For years, the Fund’s annual board meeting has been held off-island. While this may be administratively convenient, the choice of venue sends an unmistakable signal about whose presence is prioritized in pension governance.

This is not about legality. It is about judgment.

Pension funds exist to protect retirement security, not convenience. Governance requires restraint, humility, and a clear focus on the people whose livelihoods depend on these decisions.

When leaders appear distant — geographically and symbolically — trust erodes. And when trust erodes, institutions begin to unravel.

The question before us is simple:

Will pension governance be centered on members, or on comfort and convenience?

Leadership begins with choosing the former.

Fuiavailili Keniseli Lafaele

BACKGROUND

Samoa News reached out to for the name of the mainland resort & casino and understands that it is the Pachenga Resort and Casino, located in Temecula, California.

Legislators — House & Senators — that can attend will be leaving this Thursday. All were invited.

It has not been confirmed that any government officials from the Administration will be attending.

The off-island trip is fully paid for by the Retirement Fund — fares & per diems.

This is the annual conference where service providers present to the board — auditor, investment advisor, custodian, actuary, and any new investment managers or advisors they bring on board.

Section:

Local News

Tags:

FROM ENVELOPES TO CASINOS

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House panel to vote on Marcos impeachment cases | The wRap

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The post Samoa Launches USD2.5M Educational System Transformation Grant Project appeared first on Talamua Online.

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News in brief for February 3

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Obituaries for February 3

John Hitoshi Ide, 91 of Hilo died Dec. 24 at home. Born in Hilo, he was a retired battalion chief for the Hawaii County Fire Department, pastor for the Church of Hilo Bible Study, member of the Panaewa Kumiai and U.S. Army veteran. Visitation 3:30-5 p.m. Monday (Feb. 9) at Dodo Mortuary Chapel. Funeral service at 5 p.m. Casual attire; no flowers. Online condolences: dodomortuary.com. Survived by daughters, JoAnn (Joel) Wasson of Kaneohe, Oahu, and Karen (Cesar) Robledo of Hilo; son, John Ide Jr. of Honolulu; four grandchildren; nephews, nieces, and cousins. Arrangements by Dodo Mortuary.

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The post Shanty Sigrah Asher: Building Stronger Partnerships for Nature and Communities appeared first on Island Times News.

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How Precious Life Is…

Dear Editor, Brothers and sisters, life is precious. None of us knows the hour or the day when our time will come to be with the Almighty. That truth should not fill us with fear, but with gratitude. It should remind us to live carefully, to live joyfully, and to live lovingly with one another. […]

The post How Precious Life Is… appeared first on Island Times News.

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An Enduring Flavor: The Business of Apigigi-Making from a Saipan Kitchen

By Kianna Reyes | Marianas Press

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The post From deepfakes to grooming: UN warns of escalating AI threats to children appeared first on Island Times News.

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The post U,S territories brace for Trump’s deep sea mining appeared first on Island Times News.

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The post Chicago Bulls star Josh Giddey overlooked for NBA All-Star game appeared first on Island Times News.

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The post Hope and healing: Windward CC program launches inmates into mental health field first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

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From Dole Whips to Disney’s elite ranks: KapiʻolaniCC graduate earns award.

The post Disney bestows ‘highest honor’ to Kapiʻolani CC alumnus first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Feeding future lawyers: New fund tackles hunger, wellness at UH law school

This new resource integrates health and professional development directly into the educational experience at the UH law school.

The post Feeding future lawyers: New fund tackles hunger, wellness at UH law school first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Dedication to kūpuna earns UH medical student gerontology award

Kristal Xie has received the Nā Lima Kōkua Award for her dedication to improving care for Hawaiʻi's kūpuna.

The post Dedication to kūpuna earns UH medical student gerontology award first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Te Tiriti o Waitangi Marae welcomes manuhiri once again for Waitangi celebrations

The marae, commonly known as Te Tii, welcomed iwi from around the country in a pre-dawn pōwhiri today.

[Vantage Point] SEC vs the Villar empire: Too orderly to be innocent?

The SEC is not asking the courts to imagine a conspiracy, but to recognize a pattern so orderly, so beneficial, and so internally consistent that innocence would require a level of coincidence the capital markets simply do not produce

'Renewed chapter': Marshall Islands President Heine meets PM Albanese in Canberra

The last visit by a Marshall Islands president occured in 1993, according to the Australian Embassy in the Marshal Islands.

Woman faces assault charges after attack on bus driver in Auckland

Police say the driver initially did not let the woman board the bus as she was acting "unusually", but she chased it and managed to board the bus on Queen Street allegedly attacking the driver.

Facebook Marketplace sale ends in car chase, armed confrontation in Northland

Armed police managed to stop a vehicle using road spikes at Taipā Bridge, Northland.

Territorial Science Fair begins with Explorers Day

The Territorial Science Fair opened Monday morning at the DYWA Center in Tafuna with Explorer’s Day for Kindergarten to Grade 2 students displaying their science projects. This level is not a competition, just an exhibition of the

February 4 is World Cancer Day

Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata released the following statement emphasizing World Cancer Day on February 4: “Modern nutrition and health care knowledge have done wonders for our overall longevity and well-being, but cancer remains an especially difficult illness to

2026 East Pacific Regional Championships open

The 2026 East Pacific Regional Championship Tournament has officially opened Monday morning at the tennis courts in Tafuna. Father Andrew Wilson offered the invocation and the President of the American Samoa Tennis Association Florence Wasko welcomes off

Emergency crews rush to Hawkes Bay Airport after plane alert

The small plane's nose landing gear appeared to be damaged, police said, but it landed safely.

How much less than asking price are house buyers paying?

If you're in the market for a new house, you might be wondering what to offer.

OFC Pro League: Gusmao resigns as PNG Hekari FC coach after three matches

In a statement, the club said Marcos Gusmao had resigned "based solely on personal reasons" and "chosen to dedicate more time to his wife and family".

Rugby Sevens: Fiji drawn with South Africa, Argentina for Perth

Fiji leads the men's world sevens standings after winning in Singapore last week.

What you need to know about Tiaki Wai, the entity replacing Wellington Water

Ratepayers in the Wellington metropolitan area will have two bills from 1 July as new water entity Tiaki Wai steps up.

Australia unveils new, cheaper visa deal for PNG Chiefs' supporters ahead of NRL debut

Prime Minister James Marape welcomed the announcement that the visa will come at a significantly reduced cost compared to a regular Australian visa.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins sets sights on Māori seats

It comes as Te Pāti Māori MP's Mariameno Kapa-Kingi and Tākuta Ferris enter a substantive hearing at the Wellington High Court after being expelled.

Waitārere Beach shooting: Man found dead was stabbed - police

Police have revealed Benjamin Timmins was stabbed while three others were shot at Waitārere Beach.

Six ASPA apprentices begin studies at Fiji National University

Six young men and women departed for Fiji last Wednesday to begin a three-year course at the Fiji National University. The six are apprentices of the American Samoa Power Authority who will be studying to become civil,

Consumer Protection Bureau warns of Phishing Scams

The Consumer Protection Bureau of the Attorney General’s Office has issued an official advisory about phishing scams. Phishing is a fraudulent practice where scammers impersonate legitimate organizations via email, text, or phone to mislead or trick you

Pacific Winds 20260203

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The post Pacific Winds 20260203 appeared first on Hafa Adai.

Pacific Winds 20260203

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

Governor disappointed with House vote on Butler

Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula has expressed disappointment that the House of Representatives did not confirm Brett Butler as Treasurer. Speaking on the Talatala le Taui Show with host Taupau Tauleave Toluono, the Governor said he was saddened

Conspiracy case against Samoa PM postponed

The long awaited conspiracy case against Samoa Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt and five others has, again, been postponed until February 20. La’aulialemalietoa, former member of parliament Fepuleai Faimata Su’a, Samuelu Su’a, Sivai Kepi, Lise-Marie Schmidt and

'This is crazy': Commuters face long delays as Lower Hutt's $1.5b road works continue

Roadworks across Lower Hutt have made a busy choke point even worse.

National mission to launch sovereign satellite kept under wraps by officials

An RNZ request for the key documents came up mostly empty, with ministerial briefings either largely blanked out or withheld entirely.

Op-Ed: From Envelopes to Casino

By Fuiavailili Keniseli Lafaele In the wake of the Maota Fono dedication — and the troubling public discussion about cash envelopes for lawmakers and dignitaries — another decision raises serious questions about leadership, priorities, and restraint. The

Facing the new Agent Orange in human form

We used to live in a world dominated not just by the military and economic power of the United States, but by its cultural power. There was no corner of the earth where American cultural influence did not make its presence known, even as the power of the dollar and the Department of Defense had its limitations and faced pushback. This was the case in the second half of the 20th century. It just doesn’t seem like it anymore.

A journey to Guam’s past: A circle closing across generations

William D. Rhodes’ granddaughter and great-grandchild arrived on Guam carrying more than suitcases. Tucked carefully among their belongings were black-and-white photographs from the 1930s, images taken when their great-grandparents lived on the island while serving in the U.S. Navy.

Pharmac makes move towards funding weight loss drug Wegovy

The drug currently costs around $460 a month.

Corrections didn't tell staffer's managers of investigation into his alleged child sex offending

Corrections was aware one of its probation officers was being investigated by police over alleged child sex offending for more than two weeks before he was arrested.

Auckland councillor's plea to 'disruptive, disturbing' dirt bikers

The 40-strong group of dirt bikers are being urged think of their community after police say they were driving dangerously in Ōtara at the weekend.

Tonga's flag-bearing sensation to carry Olympic flag at Winter Games

The Olympic flag features the five rings representing the union of the five continents and the meeting of athletes from throughout the world.

Growth Mindset HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawaiʻi

Watch stories about growing everything from bok choy to muscles.

The post Growth Mindset HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawaiʻi appeared first on PBS Hawai‘i.

Second town red-listed by AA Insurance for new home insurance policies

Locals say it's "baffling" AA will no longer issue new policies in Woodend - but for different reasons to its decision in Westport.

CNMI utility seeks up to US$700m in federal funding for power upgrades

It comes as Washington signals stronger support for energy projects tied to the region's strategic importance.

February 2026 anniversaries

The University of Hawaiʻi celebrates February 2026 faculty and staff anniversaries.

The post February 2026 anniversaries first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Hāwera cinema world-famous for PJ ban faces imminent closure

More than 200 people turned up to a public meeting vowing to save Hāwera Cinema 2 in Taranaki.

Pike River families 'pissed off' and 'frustrated' at long wait for outcome of police criminal probe

Police said they are nearing the final stages of their criminal investigation into the disaster

Mt Maunganui review to focus on hours leading up to landslide

Six people died in the slip at the Beachside Holiday Park, and their bodies have now been recovered and identified.

Lemalu Slade humbled & honoured by Australia’s recognition

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 3 February 2026: Lemalu Roy Frederick Slade is humbled and honoured by the recognition rendered upon him by the Australian Government. “I am deeply honoured to be recognized with this award,” he told Talamua. He said the Samoan community in Brisbane looked at what he does and came together […]

The post Lemalu Slade humbled & honoured by Australia’s recognition appeared first on Talamua Online.

Stranger

by Anna Scarpone There’s a room alive with the heat of bodies, and a booming bass its ever-pulsing heart. Limbs press against limbs, flushed skin is illuminated only by the opening and closing of the bathroom door. Now and then, some shrieking, drunken laugh rings out over the crowd like a descant. In this darkness, … … Continue reading →

Cold, wet, windy front hits South Island

An orange heavy rain warning is in place for Tasman, and MetService warns other wind and rain watches may be upgraded.

Our Changing World: Insect vibes

Researchers are translating pest insects' vibrational language to use it against them.

Goals reached as Alex Eala earns new career-high No. 45 world ranking

Although Alex Eala misses out on ruling the inaugural Philippine Women's Open, she still rises four spots in the WTA rankings

Sara Duterte faces new impeachment complaint | The wRap

Today’s headlines: Sara Duterte, Marcos impeachment, 2026 Grammys

Pilot, passenger killed in Paekākāriki Hill helicopter crash named

The pair were pest control contractors working on Transmission Gully.

Sotto shrugs off coup rumors; Cayetano says no leadership shakeup yet

'As of today, the 13 votes are not there yet or not present,' says Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano

Hawaii lawmaker looks to ban popular ‘prediction market’ wagering

Ahead of Gov. Josh Green’s annual State of the State address last week, online bettors placed $448,667 in “prediction market” wagers on whether he would say phrases that included “affordable,” “affordability,” “mainland,” “cost of living,” “aloha,” “kauhale,” “housing,” “health care,” “tourism” and “volcano” as part of an online gambling phenomenon that would be prohibited under House Bill 2198.

Olivia Dean named Grammy’s best new artist

LOS ANGELES — British soul-pop singer Olivia Dean was named best new artist, and hip-hop megastar Kendrick Lamar claimed the prize for best rap album with “GNX,” his chart-topping sixth studio set, as the 68th Grammy Awards got under way on Sunday.

Bills would protect reefs, bar military live-fire training, expand robotics

Hawaii’s watersheds and coral reefs would be recognized as “legal persons” with legal rights; high school robotics could become an interscholastic sport; military live-fire training would be banned on state land; and a new fee would be charged on any “sugar-sweetened” beverages under new House and Senate bills to be considered during the legislative session that’s scheduled to adjourn May 8.

Council urges restoration of Isaac Hale park

A resolution urging the county Department of Parks and Recreation “to prioritize and expedite the restoration of Isaac Kepo‘okalani Hale Beach Park at Pohoiki” was approved 6-0 on Jan. 23 by the County Council with council members Ashley Kierkiewicz and Matt Kaneali‘i-Kleinfelder of Puna and Heather Kimball of Hamakua excused.

Green’s tax cut freeze plan repeals five years of additional savings for taxpayers

Hawaii taxpayers stand to receive dramatically stunted financial savings under a plan by Gov. Josh Green to cancel future state income tax cuts.

Obituaries for February 2

Dr. Philip J. Barnes, 80, of Hilo died Jan. 19. Born in Indianapolis, he graduated from Cathedral High School, earned his bachelor’s degree from Purdue University, master’s degree from Indiana University and two doctoral degrees from the University of Miami, was an educator for 30 years and was past county chair of the Moku Loa group of the Sierra Club, past Hawaii county chair of the Democratic Party and member of the Hawaiian Historical Society. Online condolences: www.homelanimemorialpark.com. Survived by wife Diane Fournier, of Hilo; daughter Brooke Barnes and one grandson of Cincinnati, Ohio; brothers John Barnes (Kelly) of Verona, Wisc. and Bill Barnes (Lucy) of Sioux Falls, S.D. and numerous nieces and nephews. Arrangements by Homelani Memorial Park and Crematory.

Texas Democrat’s win a ‘wake-up call’ for Republicans ahead of 2026 elections

WASHINGTON — A Democratic candidate won a special election for the Texas state senate by a double-digit margin, taking control from Republicans for the first time in decades in a result the losing candidate on Sunday called “a wake-up call” for the midterm elections. The victory for a seat vacated by a four-term Republican followed a string of wins in recent months for the Democratic Party in local and state elections across the country, offering hope for national Democrats looking to claw back power later this year.

Judge who ruled against Trump administration cleared of Justice Department complaint

A high-ranking federal appeals judge dismissed an ethics complaint filed by the Justice Department against Judge James Boasberg, whose rulings repeatedly raised questions about the Trump administration’s respect for the rule of law, including regarding the deportation of Venezuelans to a maximum-security prison in El Salvador.

A ‘historic’ snowfall hits the Carolinas

DURHAM, N.C. — At one point, snowflakes were falling so fast on the field inside the Carolina Panthers football stadium that it looked like a TV cutaway to Buffalo, New York — not glossy, uptown Charlotte, North Carolina. In the South Carolina Lowcountry, there was the unusual sight of snow tumbling across palm trees, adorning the crooked branches of Southern live oaks that dripped with Spanish moss.

News in brief for February 2

Hazing death in Arizona leads to charges for 3 fraternity leaders

Five-year-old boy detained by ICE has returned to Minnesota, lawmaker says

WASHINGTON — Five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father have returned to their home in a Minneapolis suburb after being detained by U.S. immigration officers and held at a detention facility in Texas, a lawmaker said on Sunday.

Costa Ricans vote as right-wing populists aim to extend mandate

SAN JOSE — Costa Ricans are voting in a general election on Sunday as the right-wing populist government seeks to extend its mandate and secure control of Congress at a time when drug-fueled violence has gripped the country. Laura Fernandez, President Rodrigo Chaves’ protege and former chief of staff, is leading in the polls with just over 40%, enough to win outright and avoid an April 5 runoff. She has pledged to continue Chaves’ tough security policies and anti-establishment message. Her closest rivals in the 20-person field are Alvaro Ramos, a centrist economist representing the National Liberation Party (PLN), Costa Rica’s oldest political party. Another is Claudia Dobles, an architect representing a progressive coalition and a former first lady whose husband, Carlos Alvarado, served as president from 2018 to 2022.

Iran warns of regional conflict if US attacks, designates EU armies ‘terrorists’

DUBAI — Iran’s leadership warned of a regional conflict on Sunday if the U.S. were to attack it, stoking the tension between Washington and Tehran, and it designated EU armies as “terrorist groups” in a retaliatory move.

Pakistan forces kill 145 militants in two-day battle after wave of attacks

QUETTA — Pakistani security forces killed 145 militants in a 40-hour battle launched as a series of coordinated gun and bomb attacks across Balochistan left nearly 50 people dead, the province’s chief minister said on Sunday.

[Rappler’s Best] Ah, the Villars

Who would have thought it would come to this? Nearly two decades ago, the presidency was within Manny Villar's grasp.

Mindanao big bike endurance ride results in crashes, public outcry

The 1,200-kilometer motorcycle ride across Mindanao draws riders from across the country on BMW big bikes, pushing endurance limits on public roads across several regions

[EDITORIAL] EDCOM 2 report: The horror story of a literacy crisis

We will find ourselves literally in the gutter in the next decade if leaders don't heed the recommendations of the report

Dr. Victor Yano opened Palau’s first private medical clinic

‘Being active in the community gives me joy’

Efforts to salvage capsized Black Cat Cruises tour boat in Akaroa halted

Forecast bad weather for the next two days means the Black Cat Cruises vessel will remain lodged on rocks.

Grammys 2026: Winners of the biggest awards at the ceremony

Bad Bunny's 'DeBi TiRAR MaS FOtoS' is named Album of the Year

NZ pulls plug on $6.7m power project in Papua New Guinea amid tribal violence

A $6.7 million New Zealand aid electrification project in a tribal violence hot spot of Papua New Guinea has been halted due to security concerns.

Dirt bikers ride into oncoming traffic, almost hit kids in South Auckland, police say

Police say the Eagle helicopter and dozens of staff were diverted to try and split a group of 40 bikers.

FACT CHECK: Circulating Marcos ‘medical report’ is fake

Malacañang condemned the circulation of the medical report falsely attributed to the President, while St. Luke’s Medical Center released a statement calling the alleged document ‘fake and falsified’

Modern windows suspected of being behind rise in serious Kererū injuries

A Dunedin wildlife hospital suspects double glazed windows could be to blame for an increasing number of serious injuries in Aotearoa's native wood pigeon.

House panel declares impeachment complaints vs Marcos sufficient in form

The House justice committee will reconvene on Tuesday, February 3, to determine whether the two impeachment complaints against Marcos are sufficient in substance

FACT CHECK: Duterte did not leave ICC detention for one hour; photo is AI-generated

The ICC did not allow Duterte to leave his detention center; court rules state that all visits must be conducted within the detention facilities

GovGuam reports strong fiscal performance, but business sector says government operations leave much to be desired

By Pacific Island Times News Staff   The government of Guam generated \(1.043 billion in total revenues, exceeding expenses and ending the year with a net surplus of \)102 million in fiscal 2024, according to the governor’s office. “To put these results in everyday terms: Guam finished the year the way a responsible household hopes to—paying its bills, setting aside savings and improving its credit standing,” the governor’s office said. “Just like household finances, that surplus is not all...

Seven people injured in two-car crash in north Auckland

The crash closed the arterial route of Whangaparāoa Road in Auckland.

Police criminal probe into Pike River nearly finished

Last November the lawyer for Pike River families told RNZ police had enough evidence to lay manslaughter charges over the disaster.

OFC Pro League: Bula FC climbs to third after win over Solomon Kings FC

Bula FC, Solomon Kings FC and South Island United FC have four points each, but the Fijians have a better goal advantage. Auckland FC continue to lead the standings.

Man charged over fatal Dunedin crash

A man has appeared in court over a crash that killed one person and seriously injured another near Dunedin on Friday night.

First GP prescriptions for adult ADHD patients issued

Adam Currie - who already had his diagnosis - said his Monday morning appointment was "really smooth".

Cyclist dies after crash on SH1 in Marlborough

Another person has been injured.

Increased police presence in Napier suburb

Police found nothing of concern after a report of a person with a gun.

Long-running Wellington fish-and-chip shop Rice Bowl Burger Bar to close

Rice Bowl Burger Bar has been serving up hot food since the early 1970s.

Judge Saaga recused from presiding over Lise Marie Schmidt’s case

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 2 February 2026 – District Court Senior Judge Talasa Atoa Saaga today recused herself from hearing Lise Marie Schmidt’s allegations against former Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa. Judge Saaga was to preside over the hearing that was supposed to start today. Her reason was that she had presided over […]

The post Judge Saaga recused from presiding over Lise Marie Schmidt’s case appeared first on Talamua Online.

President Simina Administers Oath of Office to Appointees

WENO, Chuuk — February 2, 2026 — His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), administered the oath of office to two appointees during a ceremony held at the Chuuk State Office of the Governor Auditorium. Mr. Etop Malone was sworn in as a Member of the Board of Directors […]

Coroner finds young man's death weeks after hospital discharge couldn't have been prevented

A coroner has found the death of Liam Booth, who was sent home from hospital in a taxi after threatening to take his own life, could not have been prevented.

Patient touched while sleeping, watched while washing during recovery at Hutt Hospital

A woman recovering from a leg amputation at a hospital was left with post-traumatic stress disorder after being subjected to "unwanted attention".

Dismissal of Fiji's anti-corruption chief Barbara Malimali unlawful, court rules

Fiji's High Court has ruled that the President had acted "unlawfully" when he dismissed Barbara Malimali as the commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption.

Tauranga City Council votes for independent review into fatal Mt Maunganui landslide

Six people were killed by the slip at a Mt Maunganui campground, which led to a recovery operation spanning more than a week.

Petroleum Prices down for February

Apia, Samoa – 2 February 2026 – The price of petroleum products have decreased for February. The Minister of Finance announced the new prices that apply from 1st February 2026: Petrol: decreases by 5.7 sene per litre, from \(2.97 to \)2.91 Diesel: decrease by 22.9 sene per litre, from \(3.22 to \)3.00 Kerosene: decrease by […]

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$43 Million in 4% dividend payout to SNPF contributors

By Lagi Keresoma/ Apia, SAMOA – 02 February 2026 – The Minister of Finance, Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molio’o has announced a 4% dividend cash payout for all SNPF contributors to assist with the back-to-school preparation. Mulipola said the 4% cash payout is from the $43,584,951 allocated to fund the scheme. She said the Government notes […]

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Samoa Business Hub Launches SAT 3M Loan Facility for Micro Businesses

The Samoa Business Hub (SBH) has launched a new financial assistance initiative funded by the Government of Samoa, offering support for start-ups and micro businesses. The initiative was launched during a two-day Awareness sessions held at the Vaisala Hotel and Don Bosco Hall, Salelologa. This initiative follows a similar introduction of support in Upolu in […]

The post Samoa Business Hub Launches SAT 3M Loan Facility for Micro Businesses appeared first on Talamua Online.

Clinicians fear over-diagnosis of ADHD as GPs, nurse practitioners allowed to prescribe medication

Doctors fear over-diagnosis, but advocates says it's a big step in improving access to help.

Auckland Transport chief Dean Kimpton to resign ahead of agency's reform

Dean Kimpton took on the role in 2023, when AT faced a major shake-up.

Mariameno Kapa-Kingi hopes to be back in Te Pāti Māori following court hearing

Mariameno Kapa-Kingi is also asking the court to require the party to conduct a "proper full and open and honest process" regarding its leadership through a special general meeting.

Taranaki surfers thrilled over return of world's surfng elite to NZ

Taranaki surfers say they're stoked for Raglan, who will hold a World Surf League event in a few month's time.

Appeal for witnesses as recovery of tourist boat grounded in Akaroa begins

More than 40 people had to be saved when the catamaran grounded at Akaroa.

Ferry network could link Northern Marianas and Guam, study finds

The feasibility stud was presented to the Commonwealth of Norhtern Mariana Islands Legislature last week.

Fiji defends Singapore 7s title with comeback win over France

The Fijians defeated France 21-12 after they had trailed 12-0 at half-time. The win gives them the lead on the HSBC SVNS men's points table.

Waitangi Day 2026: What's open, what's not, and when you have to pay a surcharge

Unlike Easter holidays, Christmas, or before 1pm on Anzac Day, trading restrictions don't apply.

Crash closes SH1 in Marlborough

Police said one person was badly injured in the crash at about 7.30am on Monday.

Auckland Council starts flood research project

Auckland Council is looking at ways to make houses more resistant to floods.

'It's me': Statue model comes face-to-face with younger self 60 years later

Catherine Lee posed as Wendy from Peter Pan when she was 9.

Pacific Winds 20260202

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The post Pacific Winds 20260202 appeared first on Hafa Adai.

Pacific Winds 20260202

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

OFC Pro League: William Cardona denies Tahiti United, claims draw for Vanuatu United

William Cardona denied Tahiti United FC a three-point win and gave his team one point in the process.

Fiji 7s dominate Pacific sports headlines for the weekend

The Fijians finished day one of the Singapore Sevens, the third tournament of the 2025/2026 HSBC SVNS Series, with three wins.

Pacific news in brief for 2 February

A round-up of news from around the region, including PNG's government defending the use of force to evict residents of an informal settlement.

A memorandum for the stateless: What do we really know about US-Palau MOU?

I remember the night the Uyghurs arrived in Palau. I’m sure everyone on the island that night 17 years ago remembers it. Shortly before dawn, with no commercial flights inbound, the loudest plane I’ve ever heard circled twice. As virtually the entire land mass of Palau lies in the flight path of the airport, the arrival was anything but secret.

Guam's labor department begins AI training

The Guam Department of Labor has commenced AI training in partnership with the University of Guam in an effort to keep pace with rapidly evolving technology.

Summer’s last weeks could be a bit of a roller coaster, but it’s not all bad news

You might be wondering how long the weekend's warmer weather might last.

'For all New Zealanders': Celebrations getting underway at Waitangi

It's a packed schedule of festivities at both the upper treaty grounds and the newly refurbished Te Tiriti o Waitangi Marae.

Singer Lily Allen is coming to New Zealand

The UK star will perform her critically acclaimed album, West End Girl, from start to finish for fans at Spark Arena.

Wairau Valley regeneration has potential to become 'local treasure'

Three years after the Auckland Anniversary floods, the community is working together to turn the Wairau creek catchment into something residents won't fear.

Minister shut down NZ involvement in 'road map' away from fossil fuels

Resources Minister Shane Jones shut down the possibility of New Zealand signing up to a 'road map' away from fossil fuels at the annual global climate summit, documents reveal.

Adjusted for local prices, Hawaiʻi’s economy among worst in nation, UHERO finds

The report documents how Hawaiʻi's per-person GDP, income and productivity growth have stagnated since the early 1990s.

The post Adjusted for local prices, Hawaiʻi’s economy among worst in nation, UHERO finds first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Longest-standing Māori theatre company brings whānau voices of trauma and hope to the stage

For more than three decades, Aotearoa's longest surviving independent Māori theatre company has used storytelling to open kōrero about trauma, healing and hope in communities.

Canterbury museum to mark 50 years hosting Waitangi Day commemorations

It is the South Island's biggest and longest-running commemoration of Waitangi Day, beginning in 1976.

Mayor says area around Mount Maunganui to open when safe

Police have completed recovery work at the landslide, and Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale said he was hopeful streets could be reopened in a number of days.

Heavy rain and strong winds forecast for parts of South Island from early Monday

MetService has issued multiple severe weather watches as heavy rain and strong winds threaten Fiordland, Westland, Canterbury and Marlborough.

Tougher penalties and fines sought for aquarium fish violators

A bill has been introduced in the state Legislature that would establish a criminal penalty and increase monetary fines for aquarium fishing violations.

Powerful men who turn up in the new batch of Epstein files

The Department of Justice on Friday released the largest batch of Jeffrey Epstein files to date, a giant tranche including 3 million more pages of documents and thousands of videos and images.

Protesters rally across US in solidarity with Minneapolis

Crowds rallied in dozens of cities across the nation Saturday to protest the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, hoping to build on momentum from demonstrations Friday against federal operations targeting Minneapolis and other liberal-leaning cities.

Hawaii visitor arrivals end 2025 well below pre-pandemic peak

Hawaii ended 2025 with nearly flat visitor arrivals and a tourism economy still short of its pre-COVID peak — and below what many hotels and small businesses say they need to stay afloat.

Obituaries for February 1

Jane “Mila” Milar Arellano, 81, of Papaikou died Jan. 1 at Hilo Benioff Medical Center. Born in Pepeekeo, she was a former operation clerk for Hilo Motors, clerk for Dr. Douglas Yamashita and meal tracker clerk for Waiakea Elementary School and member of Church of World Messianity. Visitation from 9 to 10 a.m. on Friday (Feb. 6) at Dodo Mortuary Chapel, Hilo; Service at 10 a.m. Casual attire.No koden (monetary donations). Survived by, sister, Amy (El) Baruel of Papaikou; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Arrangements by Dodo Mortuary.

Israel launches deadly strikes in Gaza, as Rafah border is set to reopen

JERUSALEM — The Israeli military launched a series of airstrikes on the Gaza Strip on Saturday, an attack that local health officials said was the deadliest in weeks and that comes as the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was set to move into its next phase.

Florida universities have partnered with ICE, stoking anxiety among students

An unusual agreement between many Florida universities and federal immigration officials has caused a new wave of anxiety among students, as immigration raids around the country have swept up thousands and ignited protests.

NASCAR star’s plane had several instrument failures before crash

WASHINGTON — The small passenger jet that crashed in North Carolina last month, killing NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his wife and children, and three others, experienced a series of instrument problems in the few minutes it was airborne, according to a preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board, which has been investigating the incident.

Officials: 6 missing in fishing boat from Mass. are presumed dead

The U.S. Coast Guard said Saturday that it was suspending its search for six people reported missing Friday off the coast of Massachusetts, saying they were unlikely to have survived after the fishing boat they were aboard sank.

Judge orders release of 5-year-old, whose detention drew outrage

A federal judge on Saturday ordered the release of a 5-year-old boy and his father from immigration custody, condemning their removal from their suburban Minneapolis neighborhood as unconstitutional.

Volcano Watch: When it rained rocks — tephra fall during Kilauea’s episode 41

Large lava fountains streamed from both the north and south vents reaching heights of at least 1475 feet (450 meters) during episode 41 of Kilauea’s summit eruption on Jan. 24, 2026. Strong updrafts coupled with light winds blowing to the east and north sent lava fragments from the fountains, called tephra, over much of the District of Puna and into South Hilo and the eastern edge of Ka‘u.

Steves: Visiting Germany’s ‘Lutherland’

Martin Luther — a pious monk and fiery orator who became the “Great Reformer” — came from a humble, pastoral corner of Germany’s heartland. It’s a land of half-timbered villages, rolling hills, and fanciful castles — and where Luther’s bold attempts to reform the Catholic Church launched the Protestant Reformation more than 500 years ago. Along with the Renaissance, and as part of the rise of humanism, the Reformation contributed greatly to the birth of our modern world.

Over 2000 litres of fuel leaks from Akaroa shipwreak into ocean

The boat was carrying 2240 litres of marine diesel fuel and around 120 litres of other oils.

Illegal Fireworks: Should More Be Done? INSIGHTS ON PBS HAWAI‘I

New Year’s Eve was quieter this year than in the past despite illegal fireworks. What next?

The post Illegal Fireworks: Should More Be Done? INSIGHTS ON PBS HAWAI‘I appeared first on PBS Hawai‘i.

Death, devastation and extreme weather test media

Reporting what went wrong and why after tragedies at Mount Maunganui and Welcome Bay was a fraught task for the media.

[Tambay] Sa usaping West Philippine Sea, kanino ka panig?

‘Pilipinas right or wrong’ ang ‘ideal position’ ng mga mataas na opisyal ng bansa. Pero para kay Robin Padilla, ok lang sa kanyang mabansagang pro-China

US judge declines to halt Trump’s Minnesota immigration agent surge

The lawsuit accuses federal agents of racially profiling citizens, unlawfully detaining lawful residents for hours and stoking fear with heavy-handed tactics

More than pork: Sagada marks identity and community at Etag Festival

The fiesta I remembered was louder, smaller, simpler. The festival I returned to is larger, more organized, and consciously protective of what makes Sagada Sagada.

Government drops part of Border Processing Levy by 30%

The levy, which funds x-ray screening, detector dogs and other protections, was raised after Covid-19.

[Two Pronged] Concerned for my best friend who caught her husband cheating

'She can still fight to get him back, but she has lost interest. She is not even depressed with his betraying their marriage vows,' the letter sender writes

One dead following Matamata crash

The two-vehicle crash occurred on Puketutu Road, about 12.15pm Sunday.

[Mind the Gap] The Pinoy MAGA: “I stand with ICE!”

The future political direction of Filipino America will likely not be decided by viral posts or family group chats, but by lived outcomes

Mount Maunganui landslide: recovery stood down, all victims identified, cordons still in place

Police will work with council and geotechnical experts to determine when it is safe to reduce cordons.

'Food is one of the most delightful things that we've created' - Yotam Ottolenghi

Eating well is one of life's great joys, so it's a mistake to only think of food as nutritional fuel, the globally-celebrated chef and author says.

Empty seats, open doors: How Trump’s ambassador recall hands China new space in the Pacific

Inside the Reef By Joyce McClure When the Trump administration announced it was recalling nearly 30 U.S. ambassadors in late December, the explanation was straightforward enough. Presidents appoint ambassadors. Presidents can recall them. That’s the system. But this shake-up is happening at a moment when China has quietly overtaken the United States in the number of diplomatic missions worldwide, and when Beijing is continuing to steadily extend its reach into the Pacific. Empty U.S. embassy...

Boaties told to steer clear of Akaroa waters after tourist boat carrying diesel grounded

Environment Canterbury says the boat carried 2240 litres of marine diesel fuel, and about 120 litres of other oils in sealed containers and engines.

One dead after crash near Glenorchy

One person has died after an early morning crash north of Lake Wakatipu, and the Glenorchy-Routeburn Road partly blocked.

 ‘Groundhog Day’ and the CNMI workforce issue

Recently, the CNMI Department of Labor issued a report on the federally created CW Fund program, which derives its funding from a $200 fee collected for each CW-1 or CNMI-only guest worker visa petition.

Letter to the Editor: Guam's most pressing issues

The most pressing issues facing the people of Guam today are straightforward: cost of living, jobs and healthcare. Solutions to these three issues being tackled

by your Republican policymakers at all levels.

Crews from across Southland and Otago fight fire in Fiordland

Firefighters were called to a building on Te Anau Milford Highway about 11.15pm Saturday, when a roof was alight.

Sam Ruthe blitzes Boston field to smash age mile record

The Tauranga 16-year-old blitzed the under-18 world record in a scarcely believable mile performance in Boston.

Landslide victim Max Furse-Kee remembered for light, laughter and love

"No words are big enough to capture this pain," Max Furse-Kee's mum said.

Police appeal for witnesses after man assaulted outside Napier nightclub

Detective Sergeant Ryan Kemsley said police were called at around 1am to West Quay in Ahuriri where the man was located unresponsive on the ground.

One killed in crash north of Gisborne

A person has died after an early morning crash on a remote road north of Gisborne.

Pacific Winds 20260201

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Pacific Winds 20260201

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

Read any good books lately? Biba Book Club seeks to bring reading back to the center of community life on Guam

At a time when reading often competes with screens, scrolling and short attention spans, the owners of Biba are bringing people together over books again through the revival of the Biba Book Club.

12-month prescriptions now available

Patients can now get a script for up to 12 months of medication - up from three - with their doctor's permission.

TAIC to send team of investigators to Akaroa following ferry grounding

There were reportedly 38 passengers and three crew on-board the 17-metre catamaran, on a wildlife cruise.

Wellington City Mission launches free dental service

Appointments would be available by referral only from social agencies across the Greater Wellington region.

More than 40 rescued before tourist boat capsized at Akaroa

The passenger said he heard a loud sound, as if the boat had run over something, followed by a whizzing sound.

Top 5 News This Week: Senators vs. Chinese embassy; Rodrigo Duterte and ICC

The Philippines' top news stories from January 25 to 31, 2026

Hindi Ito Marites: A geopolitical travelogue through the PH’s strategic partners

The Philippines is diversifying its defense partnerships to lessen dependence on the US

Justice Dept. releases 3 million pages of Epstein files

The Justice Department on Friday released 3 million more pages of documents along with thousands of videos and images from its Jeffrey Epstein files, as the Trump administration sought to bring an end to the accusations and speculation swirling around the case.

‘It’s all just going down the toilet’: Police chiefs fume at ICE tactics

Five years ago, local police departments faced a tidal wave of criticism over racial profiling and the unnecessary killing of unarmed people. Many citizens looked to the federal government to rein them in.

Kamehameha Schools tuition to be free, judge rules

A Circuit Court probate judge Thursday granted the Kamehameha Schools trustees’ petition that will allow it to be tuition-free beginning in fall of the upcoming school year.

Trump picks Kevin Warsh as Fed Chair

President Donald Trump announced Friday that he was nominating Kevin Warsh to serve as the next chair of the Federal Reserve, positioning the former central bank governor to take a pivotal role in steering an institution that has faced a barrage of attacks from the administration over its reluctance to more aggressively lower interest rates.

Protesters denounce Trump immigration tactics in ‘national shutdown’

They ditched school in Atlanta. Left work in Philadelphia. Blocked traffic in Los Angeles. And closed businesses in New York. Across the country Friday, protesters marched, rallied and disrupted their everyday routines in solidarity with Minneapolis residents to demand an end to the Trump administration’s immigration tactics.

Catherine O’Hara, ‘Home Alone’ and ‘Schitt’s Creek’ actress, dies at 71

Catherine O’Hara, the Emmy Award-winning comic actress who endeared herself to audiences, blending a maternal Everywoman quality with a sly touch of the surreal, as showcased in blockbusters like the “Home Alone” films as well as offbeat fare like the hit TV series “Schitt’s Creek,” died Friday at her home in Los Angeles. She was 71.

Stock market takes Warsh’s Fed nomination in stride

Investors seemed broadly unfazed with the nomination of Kevin Warsh to become the next chair of the Federal Reserve, with muted reaction in stock and bond markets after his announcement.

Senate passes deal to fund government and negotiate ICE limits

WASHINGTON — The Senate passed a bipartisan spending package Friday to fund most of the government and keep the Department of Homeland Security running for two weeks while Democrats and President Donald Trump negotiate restrictions on the administration’s immigration crackdown.

Born of a factory mistake, this sad toy horse captures China’s mood

When Vivian Hao, a 39-year-old editor in China’s Anhui province, came across the red horse plushie on social media, she felt a pang of recognition. The toy, meant to spread holiday cheer, seemed to capture something deeper about modern life.

Tropical Gardening: Waimea Cherry Blossom Festival is Feb. 7

Spring flowering trees are on schedule to bloom, and most notable are the cherry blossoms of upland Waimea. To celebrate the blooming, check out the Waimea Cherry Blossom Festival next Saturday, Feb. 7. There will be all kinds of activities to showcase the age-old Japanese tradition of hanami.

Carl Joseph Papa rotoscopes an invisible grief in Rotterdam animated docudrama ‘58th’

One hundred animators. Years' worth of footage. Carl Joseph Papa immortalizes the memory of the Maguindanao massacre.

Controlled explosion rocks residents north of Auckland

A marine locator marker was blown up at Okoromai Bay on Auckland's Whangaparāoa Peninsula.

Alex Eala admits ‘concerning’ rise of fake content about her

Filipina tennis star Alex Eala encourages people to be more discerning of the information they believe in

Syrian government, Kurds agree integration deal, US hails ‘historic milestone’

The sides announce the deal after government forces under President Ahmed al-Sharaa captured swathes of northern and eastern Syria from the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces

Dance music fans take a minute silence at DJ Fisher show in Mount Maunganui

Event organiser Toby Burrows said it had been a rough week for everyone, but after careful consideration the first ever live music event at Bay Oval pushed on.

The week in photos: January 24-30, 2026

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

The significance of SEC’s filing of criminal complaints vs Villar Land, officers

The outcome is likely to shape not only the future of the Villar Group, but also the credibility of the Philippine capital market itself

Serious motorcycle crash causes delays on State Highway 3

The crash happened about 4.20pm, between Whangaehu Village Road and Ratana Road.

Sixth, final victim of Mount Maunganui landslide confirmed as Jacqualine Wheeler

The corner has now completed formal identification of all the fatalies from last week's tragedy.

FULL RECORDING: Rappler, Linya-Linya launch  Mabuting Pamamahala campaign

Watch the January 24 roundtable discussion with Raco Ruiz, Ansis Sy, and SPIT Manila’s Monica Cruz, and the Q&A with the audience

In ‘Running With Scissors,’ Cavetown learns to accept that risk is in everything

The indie artist's latest record sees him go against the current and trust that he can pick himself back up if he falls

Surfers pay tribute to those killed in Mount Maunganui landslide

The paddleout was organised by Surfing New Zealand and Bay Boardriders, who are hosting an event at Mount Maunganui.

Bright 'shooting star' delights Wellingtonians

A large flash that lit up the night sky over much of New Zealand was captured by a live feed camera and prompted speculation it could have been a meteor.

Two protests in Auckland's CBD monitored by police with cordons, road closures

The first protest was led by Destiny Church-affiliated Freedom and Rights Coalition, and the second by Toitū te Aroha across Auckland's CBD.

Mt Maunganui landslide: FENZ Search and Rescue team return home

One of the teams that have worked at the tragic Mt Maunganui campground landslide are returning home.

Live: Traffic delays expected in Auckland with two protests planned

A Brian Tamaki-led protest moved back to Victoria Park, while a protest led by Toitū te Aroha marched up Queen Street.

Thompson School innovates to solve Hawaiʻi’s social work shortage

Practicums and partnerships are helping to develop more social workers.

The post Thompson School innovates to solve Hawaiʻi’s social work shortage first appeared on University of Hawaiʻi System News.

Civic Media Lab Update

Last Wednesday, students explored self-interest as an important foundation of community organizing. Each student reflected on their lived experiences, values, and motivations—and how these shape the ways they choose to engage politically and in their communities. We were also excited to welcome guest speakers from grassroots organizations including Hawaii Workers Center and Lahui Foundation who […]

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Artists rethinking form, meaning at Art Fair Philippines 2026

This year’s fair shines a spotlight on a wide range of artists, from emerging names to established figures in contemporary art

Journos Bobby Coloma, Iris Gonzales, 3 others recognized in 2025 Glory Awards

'Our honorees exemplify excellence and impact in their fields, bringing pride to our alma mater and inspiring the UPCMC community,' says alumni association president Malou Choa-Fagar

AG recommends moratorium on Special Provision

Attorney General Gwen Tauiliili Langkilde is recommending a moratorium on the special provision which allows corporations to sponsor foreigners to work for their businesses. Speaking at a hearing of the Senate Government Operations Committee on Friday, the

Landslides in Aua, Failolo and Fatumafuti

The back portion of a home in Aua village was damaged by a landslide early Friday morning. The manager of the Road Maintenance Division of Public Works, Ite Matagia, said a crew responded; however, heavy equipment could

Petition for visa on arrival in NZ gains over 45,000 signatures

A petition calling for a three-month visa on arrival for travelers from the Pacific to New Zealand has garnered more than 45,000 signatures. Samoa Observer reports that on February 11, the petition will be handed to New

Twin protests set to cause traffic woes for Auckland

Police say commuters should expect delays in Auckland's central city on Saturday with two protests planned.

One in five schools recently scrutinised by ERO needs external support or intervention

Twenty-one recently published Education Review office reports say the schools need statutory managers, a commissioner or guidance.

One person dead and another seriously injured after single vehicle crash in Dunedin

One person has died after a single vehicle crash on Wickliffe Road in Port Chalmers on Friday night.

Bill sets out procedures for election of Swains Island Delegate

Election procedures for the election of the Swains Island Delegate to the House of Representatives are being proposed in a bill that Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean has introduced. The bill establishes a new chapter in election

Pacific Winds 20260131

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Pacific Winds 20260131

A daily collection of news affecting the Asia-Pacific region

Inflation rate dips in last quarter of 2025

American Samoa’s Consumer Price Index, for the 4th Quarter of 2025, shows that for the first time since the 4th quarter of 2020, the territory recorded negative inflation: an annual rate of minus 0.1 percent and a

Public schools and some private schools closed Friday

Classes are cancelled today for all public schools and some private schools. Director of Education Maefau Dr. Mary Taufetee issued an announcement yesterday afternoon about the school closure, and cited expected high winds, heavy rainfall, and high

Hospitals IT failure follows start of new group to fix old systems

An IT failure that forced some hospitals to rely on pen and paper for 12 hours follows closely on the government setting up a new centre to try to fix the plethora of weak old systems.

Convicted double-murderer Scott Watson declined parole for a fifth time

The 54-year-old has been in prison since June 1999 for the murders of Ben Smart and Olivia Hope.

Inflation rate in American Samoa drops into the negative

By

Samoa News staff

reporters@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — At -0. l%, the inflation rate for American Samoa in the 4th Quarter 2025 (Oct.-Dec. 2025) was negative for the first time since the fourth quarter of 2020. With students back in classrooms, the Education & Communication Group has the largest expenditure category this quarter. Annually, the Medical Group is the highest at 1.4%.

QUARTERLY GROUP MOVEMENTS

The Food Group's quarterly percentage change (QPC) is -1.3% this quarter. Among the thirty food items that have seen a price drop, one item significantly contributed to this decline, eggs. Prices for eggs decreased by - 238.4%, bringing the average cost to \(2.43 this quarter, down \)1.52 from the previous quarter. Eggs aren't the only items that have decreased in price; twenty-six other food items have also experienced drops. These include onions (-10.2%), cake mix (-7.6%), tomatoes (-7.1%), chicken wings (-7.1%), pigs' feet (-6.4%), and pork ribs (-4.3%). Additionally, thirty-three food items have increased in price, such as lamb neck (15.3%), boneless beef (12.2%), turkey tail (9.6%), cabbage (9.0%), cucumbers (8.7%), and ketchup (5.1%). Twenty-five items, however, have not changed in price, which include bread, water, a McDonald's meal, and soda.

During this quarter, the Alcoholic Group experienced a decline of 3.7%. All three monitored categories within this group saw price changes. Specifically, beer prices increased by 1.2%, while prices for distilled spirits decreased slightly by 0.1%, and wine prices fell by 15.9%. The Housing Group registered an increase of 2.4%. The items that saw price rise include refrigerators (7.9%), bedroom furniture (4.5%), other living room furniture (4.2%), ASPA electricity (2.9%), and freezers (2.0%). However, a few items within this group experienced price decreases, including washing machines (-0.03%), chainsaws (-0.003%), construction materials (-0.6%), and non-electric hand tools (-1.5%).

With a 2.2% increase in the CPI, the Apparel Group saw an increase this quarter. Costs of women's slacks (2.6%) and women's & girls' footwear (0.4%) have gone up, whilst women's dress (-2.9%), men's & boys footwear (-3.0%), infants' footwear (-0.4%), and infants diapers (-8.0%) have decreased.

The Medical Group has increased by 1.8% this quarter. Most items monitored for this group remained the same, except for Non-prescription drugs (1.9%) and Band-Aids (1.0%). The Entertainment Group has seen a decrease of -3.2%. Only one item out of the twenty-two items has seen a rise in cost, and that is cat food at 2.0%.

The Education and Communication Group increased by 4.4%, making it the top expenditure group this quarter. Similar to the Entertainment Group, the Education & Communication Group has only one item that has seen a change, while all other items remain the same. The one item that has changed in the group is the cost of a postal service charge, which has increased by 9.1%. Other Goods and Services Group experienced a 0.7% increase. Three items have seen price decreases: hair conditioner (-1.2%), toothpaste (-2.0%), and soap (-6.8%). Deodorant is the only item that has increased in price by 0.5%.

The Transportation Group experienced the greatest decline this quarter, with a decrease of -5.0%. Gas prices fell by -0.1%, diesel by -0.2%, and airfares at -6.8%. However, the costs for automotive brake repairs increased by 6.9%. Average gas and diesel prices are as follows:

Q4/2024         Gas \(4.28      Diesel \)4.49

Q1/2025         Gas \(4.19      Diesel \)4.48

Q2/2025         Gas \(4.01      Diesel \)4.19

Q3/2025         Gas \(4.12      Diesel \)4.39

Q4/2025         Gas \(4.06      Diesel \)4.38

ANNUAL GROUP MOVEMENTS

The Medical Group has the highest expenditure, with an annual increase of 1.4%. Following this, the Other Goods & Services Group saw an increase of 0.8%, while the Housing Group experienced a rise of 0.7%. Both the Food Group and the Education & Communication Group increased by 0.4%. On the other hand, four groups have reported decreases. The largest decrease was observed in the Alcoholic Beverages Group, which fell by 3.5%. This was followed by the Entertainment Group at -1.7%. The Apparel Group saw a decline of 0.9%, and the Transportation Group dropped by 0.8%.

COMPARATIVE COST OF SELECTED GOODS AND SERVICES IN MANU'A

A sample of average commodity prices normally purchased in the regular CPI was used as the survey template with the same commodity descriptions, weights, detailed specifications, brand names, etc., to make direct comparisons. Eleven stores in Ta'u, Ofu and Olosega islands were selected and 28 commodities including Food (21 items), Housing (2 items), Alcohol (2 items), Miscellaneous (2 items) and Transportation (1 item) were priced.

The reported cost difference between Tutuila and Manua is 73.99%. During data collection in Manua, several stores were closed due to the owners traveling for personal reasons. The stores that were open had a limited selection of items in stock.

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INFLATION RATE