Tsunami Watch for American Samoa: After a powerful 7.8 earthquake hit the southern Philippines, Pacific emergency agencies issued tsunami advisories and coastal monitoring alerts. The U.S. Tsunami Warning Centre forecast waves under 0.3 meters above tide levels for places including American Samoa, Guam, Hawai‘i, Fiji, Tonga, and more, urging coastal authorities to inform residents and follow local procedures. Local Politics & Democracy: A congressional briefing in Washington pushed the question of “consent of the governed” for U.S. territories, highlighting that 3.6 million territorial residents still lack full democratic rights. Deep-Sea Mining Fight: Guam signed a seabed mining ban into law, while American Samoa continues pushing back on mining and transshipment; NOAA and private companies also move forward on seabed mineral reviews. American Samoa Funding & Services: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata says House Appropriations advanced key American Samoa priorities, including boosts for OIA operations and a report on Pago Pago Port improvements. Public Assistance Upgrade: DHSS launched the ASNAP Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system to modernize food assistance delivery. Aunu’u Wharf Update: Port and project partners say the Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Project is advancing through design and environmental review, with construction targeted for late 2027. Sports & Community: American Samoa’s softball program welcomed a new national team selection, and local football leaders hosted a dinner to grow international flag football. Crime Updates: Police reported arrests tied to domestic violence allegations and a burglary of a school cafeteria.