Photo By Petty Officer 3rd Class Ethan Lambert | LUGANVILLE, Vanuatu (Nov. 10, 2025) – Pacific Partnership 2025 band member Musician...... read more read more
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LUGANVILLE, Vanuatu — Students and staff at Santo East Secondary School welcomed members of Pacific Partnership 2025 for a full day of cultural exchange and sports, Nov. 8, highlighted by football games, dancing, and a performance by the Pacific Partnership Band.
The day’s events brought together more than 2,000 students and 43 teachers for friendly competition and community celebration, underscoring PP25’s mission to strengthen ties and build goodwill through shared experiences.
“This is the first impression that the U.S. recognizes Vanuatu in the Pacific Ocean,” said Jonathan Lavere, chairman of the Santo East Secondary School Board. “Partnership is very important to us, and this visit shows the friendship between our countries.”
Located on four hectares of land in Luganville, Santo East Secondary School is one of the largest in the area, serving more than 2,100 students. Lavere said the school hopes to transition from a day school to a boarding school in the future to better support its growing student population.
During the visit, students and PP25 participants played soccer and American football, danced, and shared in local traditions. Lavere said the introduction of American football was an especially memorable part of the day.
“One thing that sports can do is unite everyone, regardless of tribe, religion, or language,” he said. “We can use football to teach teamwork and discipline while strengthening our relationship with Pacific Partnership.” Capt. Mark B. Stefanik, mission commander for Pacific Partnership 2025, said events like the Santo East Secondary School visit embody the mission’s purpose.
“Sports and music transcend boundaries,” said Stefanik. “They help us connect on a personal level, celebrate friendship, and build lasting trust with our partners across the Pacific.”
As the day concluded, students and service members shared smiles, songs, and handshakes—symbolizing the enduring bond between Vanuatu and the Pacific Partnership mission.
Pacific Partnership, in its 21st iteration, is the U.S. Navy’s largest annual multinational humanitarian and civic assistance mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Each year, the mission team works alongside host nations, allies, and partners to strengthen relationships, enhance regional resilience, and improve capacity to respond to disasters.
| Date Taken: | 11.08.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 11.13.2025 02:49 |
| Story ID: | 550974 |
| Location: | VU |
| Web Views: | 17 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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