American Samoa is morning the loss of former Governor Lolo Matalasi Moliga who passed away early this morning in Honolulu.
His brother, Commissioner of Public Safety Taaga Saite Moliga said Lolo had been taken to Kuakini Medical Center on Saturday and passed way there around 2 this morning. He was 78.
As news of his passing spread, tributes began pouring in for a man who truly loved American Samoa and contributed so much to the territory’s development.
Lolo served two terms as Governor from 2013 to 2021 with Lt Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga. He was President of the Senate from 2005 to 2008. He also held the position of President of the Development Bank of American Samoa. He was elected to four terms as House Representative of Manu’a District #2.
Lolo began his public service as a teacher and later became principal of his alma mater Manu’a High School.
He served as Director of the Budget Office and was also a Chief Procurement Officer.
Lolo also owned a once successful construction company.
The Senate and House observed a minute of silence in honor of his passing at the start of their sessions this morning.
Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean was emotional when he spoke to KHJ News about his relationship with Lolo. He described him as an astute politician and one of the best Governors that the territory has had. “Lolo often sought advice, And he heeded advice,” Tuaolo reflected. He was also a kind hearted person and loved his family. “We have lost a very good man. I am deeply saddened with his passing.”
Iulogologo Joseph Pereira who served as Executive Assistant when Lolo was Governor said those were challenging times for our territory, as we faced the loss of one of our tuna canneries and the closure of the Bank of Hawaii branch in American Samoa.
“Through these difficult moments, Governor Lolo remained calm, steady, and resolute. With quiet strength and determination, he reassured our people that American Samoa would endure—that we would secure a functioning banking system and continue forward despite the loss of one of our major economic pillars.”
It was through Lolo’s efforts that Bank of Hawaii delayed its departure from American Samoa until the Territorial bank of American Samoa was established.
Iulogologo added that Lolo believed strongly in building capable teams. “He sought out the best minds and the most dedicated individuals, often bringing together people with differing perspectives—even those who had once been his political opponents—to serve in his cabinet. What mattered most to him was not politics, but the ability to work together to find solutions and advance the well-being of our territory.”
Iulogologo called Lolo a visionary leader who loved the people of American Samoa and worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for all. “His compassion, humility, and commitment to service defined his leadership and earned him the deep respect of those who had the honor of working with him.”
“Governor Lolo will be greatly missed on so many levels. I join the many members of our community in offering my sincere and heartfelt condolences to his beloved wife, Cynthia Moliga, their children, and the entire Moliga family. May they find comfort in the legacy of service, leadership, and love that he leaves behind, and may his memory continue to inspire us all.”
KHJ News extends its deepest condolences to Mrs Moliga, children and the Moliga family for the loss of a great man.
Ia pa’u se toa ae toetu se toa!
