The village of Sapunaoa, Falealili, has welcomed 63 new holders of the Tuiloma chiefly title.

They were blessed during a colorful and elaborate ceremony on Saturday.

The titleholders from the Itupaepae o Pati, Fagaivao, Totasi, Tuu and Tifaga were blessed during a traditional ceremony attended by families and villagers.

One of the new Tuiloma holders is the former Coach of the Manu Samoa, Namulauulu Alama Ieremia. 

He is from the Itu Paepae Totasi.

According to Faumuina Wayne Fong, who is a member of the Tuiloma family, it was an exciting event for them because it bring to an end years of planning.

“The whole purpose of this bestowment is to have enough matai to look after our family,” he said. 

“The family has grown and so there was a need for leaders to look after each family from each Itu Paepae.

“So that’s why the leaders of the Sa Tuiloma family have decided to have this bestowment ceremony this morning.” 

Rev. Toalua Perese of the Congregational Christian Church at Sapunaoa blessed the new holders while Rev. Reupena Leau of the C.C.C.S. in Piu delivered the message.