Governor Lolo Moliga is not wavering on the 2018 Flag Day despite concerns expressed by some senators about spending money on a celebration when the territory is faced with devastation inflicted by Gita.
The governor said in an interview with KHJ News that government records show that after every natural disaster since the 1960’s there was never a year that Flag Day was cancelled.
And as far as he’s concerned this year’s Flag Day program will proceed as planned.
Lolo was emphatic that senators who want Flag Day to be called off or scaled down consider the purpose of the annual event.
He said its to commemorate and thank God for his guidance and blessings on American Samoa and also to show the territory’s appreciation to the United States for all the benefits and good fortunate that it continues to shower upon American Samoa.
Benefits such as the assistance from FEMA and Red Cross which will help residents affected by Gita.
Additionally said the governor, while the recovery and rebuilding from the storm continues, the people want to return to normalcy.
He said Flag Day is a happy celebration that the territory needs at this time.
Senators Tuiagamoa Tavai and Satele Galu Satele have suggested that the Fono advice the governor to only have a prayer service and a flag raising to mark the 2018 Flag Day and cancel everything else.
They also want the money allocated for Flag Day to be given to families who were displaced by Gita.
The governor said the people deserve to have the usual Flag Day celebration, “it’s their right and privilege.”
He also reminded that it’s because of American Samoa’s relationship with the United States which is being commemorated, that federal assistance is being provided to cyclone victims.
He said Flag Day is also good for businesses because every time there’s a major gathering in the territory people tend to spend money and that’s good for businesses..
