PostCourier_2025.12.15_U by Post Courier Online

ADDITIONAL K700M LOAN

APPROVED! World Bank agrees to back jobs, revenue, trade and disaster in PNG

PAPUA New Guinea will advance reforms to strengthen revenue collections, facilitate trade, grow jobs, and better protect communities from disasters following the World Bank board’s approval of a new US$150 million (K700 million) budget support.

In a statement released yesterday the World Bank said PNG’s economy was driven by mining, oil, and gas, but most people earn a living through agriculture and informal work.

CONTINUE ON PAGE 3

A team from Pacific International Hospital is on an outreach to Kikori, Gulf Province. The team has done 207 free eye surgeries, restoring the eye sight to people in remote communities in the province. READ STORY ON PAGE 3

FROM PAGE ONE

“For years, low and unpredictable revenues have constrained public investment in essential services and jobs.

“The new World Bank support aims to help PNG secure stronger, more reliable returns from its resource wealth, open new opportunities for farmers and small businesses, and strengthening systems that protect communities during disasters and

VICKY MAOBmeet

From admin assistant to deputy procurement manager

MORE than 200 people from remote Gulf Province communities have regained their sight following a successful eye care outreach at Kikori Hospital, delivered through a partnership led by the Laila Foundation and Pacific International Hospital (PIH).

For many patients, accessing care required extraordinary effort. Some travelled by canoe for up to 12 hours along the Kikori River, paddling from isolated villages to reach the hospital. Thanks to the generosity of TotalEnergies and the Santos Foundation, many patients were supported with transport to Kikori Hospital, including those travelling from as far as Orokolo.

Many patients had lived with blindness or severe visual impairment for years, with no access to specialist eye care. Others became aware of the life-changing benefits of cataract surgery after hearing from patients who had undergone surgery by the PIH team at Kapuna in December last year.

The outreach began with a screening programme conducted by Church Health Services, after which patients were referred to Kikori Church Hospital for surgical care.

The program was supported by Catholic Church Health Services,

BY NATASHA PHILIP

MORE than 500 people from Gadsup LLG –– a newly established local level government managed by its first female acting manager, Samantha Andy, in the Obura Wonenara district –– are currently benefiting from the first-ever integrated cataract surgery initiative at the Omaura Health Centre in Eastern Highlands Province.

Alex Tipiso, acting district health officer at Kainantu District Hospital, described this integrated outreach program as a significant gift to the rural population for this Christmas.

BUSINESS FEATURE OF THE WEEK: SEE PAGE 31

World Bank approves budget support to Papua New Guinea

health emergencies,” said Han Fraeters, World Bank Country Director for Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. “ .

At the centre of the reform program was the new Income Tax Bill, which introduced a capital gains tax and strengthened measures to ensure overseas companies appropriately report and pay tax on profits taken out of the country.

This is complemented by a reinforced State-Owned Enterprise

Dividend Policy to mandate higher and more consistent returns from SOEs to the government.

“PNG has not been getting the returns it should from its immense resource wealth. These reforms can help to change that,” said Mr Fraeters. Mr Fraeters added; “By strengthening revenue systems and directing more resources to health, education, and jobs, Papua New Guinea can build a more stable and more resilient economy. It will

now be critical that PNG moves to implementing these newly adopted reforms.”

Additional measures, such as the Biosecurity Bill 2025 and the National Trade Portal, are designed to facilitate trade, ease exporting, and support agribusiness growth.

The new World Bank financing also includes a US$50 million (212 million tranche that the government can immediately access after a major disaster to

maintain essential services and support affected communities. Known as a Catastrophe Deferred Drawdown Option (Cat DDO), this is the first time PNG has used this mechanism for immediate disaster assistance.

As part of this disaster financing, the government will strengthen national preparedness by establishing real-time health data systems and enhancing search-andrescue coordination.

Hundreds get eyesight restored

the generosity of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Charity Vision USA, and resourcesector partners Santos and TotalEnergies.

“This combined support from our partners, under the leadership of the Laila Foundation, is what enabled specialist services to reach one of Papua New Guinea’s most

remote regions,” said Dr Amyna Sultan, OBE, director of the Laila Foundation.

Local church health workers in the Gulf Province, led by the dedicated

“It is the best Christmas gift for the people of Gadsup LLG, bringing true happiness during this festive season.” He emphasised the unique nature of this collaboration in Eastern Highlands Province with the Obura Wonenara DDA, highlighting the rewarding experience of witnessing patients’ transformations post-surgery -- many of whom, previously dependent

after receiving their treatment. One unfortunate case is that of 14-year-

Dr Valarie Archer from Kapuna, played a critical role in mobilising communities and identifying patients most in need.

Over three intensive days in December, 207 sight-restoring eye surgeries were successfully completed by a single PIH surgeon, Dr Imran—a record achievement despite challenging logistical conditions—supported by a dedicated five-member eye care team from the Laila–PIH partnership. MRDC further supported the outreach by donating a steriliser to Kikori Hospital and providing accommodation for the visiting medical team at their camp.

Follow-up reviews demonstrated strong clinical outcomes, with patients reporting immediate improvements in vision, independence, and overall quality of life. The Kikori outreach marked a strong conclusion to the Laila Foundation’s 2025 programme, bringing the total number of surgeries delivered this year to nearly 1,000, across Kimbe, Manus, Lae, Wewak, Kikori, and Mount Hagen. In Papua New Guinea, where distance is vast, geography should not determine access to essential healthcare when partners are united by a shared goal.

see and attend school. Following his cataract surgery, Jene can now see clearly, an outcome that has not only brought joy to him but also to his father, as he can return to school and engage freely with other children.

Jene’s father, Mathias Pyao, shared his experience. “It was a real struggle for me bringing my two children up since their mother passed on. I can’t afford to pay for hospital costs and transport fare to get my child treated. I thought my son would be like that for the rest of his life, but I thank MP John Boito for making everything possible for people like us to have free health access at our doorstep. I am happy for the heart that the health officials have to serve us and restore hope.”

Some of the elderly patients in Kikori, Gulf, who had their sight restoredy by Laila Foundation. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

-PENGEE: thedrum@spp.com.pg

AIRBUS ARRIVES

On Friday, PX flew in its newest addition to its stable of aircrafts, the second Airbus A220 to a rousing welcome at the Jackson International Airport. While the tarmac outside was an hive of activity to meet the “People’s Balus”, inside the terminal, it was chaotic, as passengers struggled to get on their flights home to spend Christmas with their loved ones in their villages. Ironically, the new Airbus 220 is supposed to relieve the pressure on PX but something is definitely not right at the national flag carrier. Why is it that at every Christmas season, we face this problem?

ONLINE BOOKING PROBLEM

While on Air Niugini, we applaud the company for modernising its fleet and aiming to fix the flight cancellations, downgrades and whatever else that it has to address to fix the problem we have at every Christmas. We suspect the problem is really with its online booking system. We suspect Air Niugini keeps selling seats on flights well after they are fully booked and pushing the passengers onto any available flights, just to make money during the Christmas peak season. It should just close the bookings after the flights are fully booked, that way, we may not face the mad scramble for seats every day. Hopefully we do not get into trouble for saying this.

FORCING TEACHERS TO FLY HOME

We live in a democratic country right? So why is the Education department forcing the teachers to fly home to their villages during Christmas by remitting all their leave fares direct to Air Niugini? The leave entitlements, we believe, are the just and legal entitlements given to the hard working teachers. Why not just pay their entitlements direct into their bank accounts to do whatever they want with it. We all know that the village is no longer the places we love any more. The department could be sending them to more unwanted troubles.

CONFERENCE COSTS

The Sydney Investment Conference is over. Everyone have returned home. It is time we do some math and tell the nation how much it cost the country to send all the delegates to the conference. It should be an interesting story, given that our currency, the Kina, has not appreciated in the last few months, in fact is had deprecated against all major trading currencies in the world. We may be shocked with the findings

POTHOLE BRIGADES NO MORE

What happened to the pothole brigades of yesteryears employed by the National Capital District Commission? We just loved their response time to filling potholes anywhere in the city. All potholes, whether big or small were attended to quickly. Today the civil engineering companies have taken over their jobs and we have to wait until the potholes get really big and ugly before they are attended to. Can’t understand why the NCDC had a change a perfectly working system.

BIRTH OF A SIMBU INITIATIVE

Simbus from all walks of life in Port Moresby came together at APEC House on Saturday night and what a gala event it was! A Simbu home-grown initiative known as the Simbu Province Development Foundation (SPDF) was officially launched that is now the vehicle for elites from that geographically challenging province to drive development agendas. The turn-out was overwhelming, in itself a loud statement of intent and desire that should translate into tangible development initiatives to assist the provincial and respective district public service apparatus on the ground to complement and supplement physical and socioeconomic developments come January 2026 moving forward. Kudos to the persons behind this grand initiative and PENGEE extends an appeal to Simbu leaders for the necessary political will to back it up.

K2MILLION FINE FOR DRUG OFFENCE

Yes, you read that correctly. Under the new Controlled Substances Act 2021, if you are found guilty of an illegal drug related offence, you will be court fined up-to K2Million and/or face life in prison. It is no joke, as it is wilfully intended to be the ultimate deterrent against producing, trafficking and abusing drugs like methamphetamine (crystal meth), cocaine, marijuana and a host of other drugs and substances classified as illegal under this law. The message is loud and clear- it is not worth throwing away your life and liberty, according to the PNG National Narcotics Bureau’s current media campaign.

Scanheretoreadmore

EDITORIAL

EDITOR

Peter Korugl

Email: pkorugl@spp.com.pg Ph: 309 1032

CHIEF OF STAFF

Frank Rai Ph: 309 1059

Email: frai@spp.com.pg

BUSINESS EDITOR Ph: 309 1173

SPORTS EDITOR

John Pangkatana Ph: 309 1068

Email: jpangkatana@spp.com.pg

YU TOK

Letters to the Editor Ph: 309 1061

Email: yutok@spp.com.pg

BUREAUS

POM: Marcia Negri Ph: 309 1040

Email: mnegri@spp.com.pg

LAE: Daniel Kila Ph/Fax: 472 4166

Email: dkila@spp.com.pg

KOKOPO: Peter Korugl

Email: pkorugl@spp.com.pg Ph: 309 1032

MT HAGEN: Mal Taime Ph: 542 2602 Fax: 542 3039

Mobile: 76725260 / 72854454

Email: mtaime@spp.com.pg

BUKA: Steven Busin Ph: 79826750

Email: sbusin@spp.com.pg

ARAWA: Peterson Tseraha Ph: 78313008 Email: ptseraha@spp.com.pg

GOROKA: Nelson Joe Ph: 76996961

Email: njoe@spp.com.pg

DIGITAL/ONLINE

DIGITAL DIRECTOR Matthew Vari Email: mvari@spp.com.pg Ph: 309 1054

DIGITAL EDITOR Philemon Kassman Email: pkassman@spp. com.pg Ph: 309 1084

Closing Eucharist of Saint Peter Torot

BY SHARON WALI

THE TAKUBAR Sports Ground in Kokopo was packed to capacity with Catholic pilgrims as they stood under the scorching sun in faith, witnessing the closing Eucharist of the sainthood celebrations of Saint Peter Torot yesterday.

Main celebrant Cardinal Sir John Ribat led the Eucharist celebrations in the presence of more than 5000 Catholic pilgrims.

The people flocked into Kokopo's sport grounds as early as midnight to take a spot before day break.

The mass of Thanksgiving, a historic event lured together the population of Catholic pilgrims across ENB, including 2000 from across PNG , and also to at least catch a glimpse of the Vatican representative of the Pope, Maurizio Bravi, Apostolic Nuncio to PNG and Solomon Islands.

MP Rabaul Dr Allan Marat on behalf of the ENB Governor Michael Marum, acknowledged the presence of the Catholic Church leaders in the province, country and importantly visitors from Rome.

Dr Marat in highlighting the celebrations purpose, Saint Peter Torot lived a life that God wanted him to.

He emphasised that the Saint stood his ground by his faith and his sole purpose to serve God.

Dr Marat reiterated that if such life of Saint Peter Torot would be followed by everyone. To live a life that pleases God.

He said that the government is struggling

and if only leaders stood firm on what is right, this would help ease some of the government's struggles.

He applauded the celebrations, ending his note that may the sainthood of the blessed Saint Peter Torot reign forever. Meanwhile, Provincial MSC Fr Sylvester Warwakai acknowledged the relentless devotion of those who contributed to the recognition of Peter Torot as Saint.

He outlined that Saint Peter Torot is the fruit of more than 150 years of continuous

devotion.

The devoted layman stood firm in his faith, and stood against the root of polygamy relations and defended the sacredness of marriage.

Fr Warwakai urged the pilgrims to live such life and give back to the communities what its expected as the right thing to do. The four-day celebrations ended yesterday as Catholics in PNG, especially East New Britain feel privileged as they have lived and witnessed a historic event in their Christian faith.

Crowd packs Takubar Sports Ground to witness Sainthood celebrations

Apostolic Nuncio His Excellency Maurizio Bravi (left) with His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat taking the stage for the mass of Thanksgiving yesterday. PICTURES: SHARON WALI

The clergy representing different dioceses, and archdiocese in the country during the mass.

Supreme Court: Petition does not survive after the death of petitioner

BY MELYNE BAROI

THE Supreme Court has dismissed a petition by the former Chuave MP Wera Mori who died while pursuing this petition, and made firm comments that when a petitioner dies the petition no longer survives and should be dismissed.

The three-man Supreme Court bench comprising Justices Joseph Yagi, Kenneth Frank and Daniel Liosi delivered the decision last Friday, setting a precedent for future court proceedings with similar facts.

Justice Frank delivered the decision on Friday noting that:

“The right to petition under sections 206 and 208(c) of the Organic Law on Provincial and Local Level Government elections, is a personal claim which does not survive the death of its petitioner

A petition disputing the election of a member to the Parliament abates upon the death of the petitioner.

Substitution of a deceased petitioner is not available as a matter of law,” the court ruled.

Following the close of the late Mori’s election petition case at the trial and prior to the resumption of trial when the petition respondents were to make their No Case to Answer submissions, the petitioner passed away.

The court heard that when the trial resumed the judge (in the National Court), upon being informed of the death, directed the lawyers to argue on the issue on whether the trial should continue notwithstanding

the death of the petitioner.

After hearing submissions on the issue, the judge ruled that it must in the absence of the petitioner.

Aggrieved by that ruling and order, in these reviews the petition respondents; James Nomane and the Electoral Commission sought amongst others, an order “to quash that order on the ground that the petition abated (was invalid) on the death of Mr Mori.

Lawyer for later Mori maintained arguments that the Supreme Court should declare that the petition survived the death of Mr Mori but did not provide an case to support that argument.

“Nor has any authority been cited for the propositions that the cause of action in a petition survives the death of its petitioner or that this Court should find that it does simply on the basis that it pleads a serious allegation” Justice Frank said.

“Seriousness of an allegation alone is not a sufficient foundation for the trial court or this Court to find that a petition survives the death of its petitioner.”

The judgement established that the substantial merit must be consistent with the law.

“Therefore, when the primary judge ordered the trial to continue despite the death of the Deceased Petitioner, His Honour erred in law and the exercise of his discretion miscarried as it was adversely affected when he failed to take into account the relevant factors alluded to and by the irrelevant factors he considered” Justice Frank said.

Contempt decision against Powi stayed, appeal to be filed in 21 days

BY MELYNE BAROI

A THREE-MAN bench of the Supreme Court has granted leave for Southern Highlands Governor William Powi and his provincial assembly clerk Leo Vali to file their appeal against a national court contempt proceeding against them.

The decision was delivered by Justice Derek Wood on behalf of the bench consisting of Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika and Justice Pauline Bre.

The appeals are expected to be filed within 21 days from last Friday.

The court also issued a stay order on the National Court contempt proceedings against the duo in Mount Hagen and a group of Local Level Government presidents as well as the provincial administrator Jerry David.

The presidents Joseph Kunukunu, Jack Kipoi, Francis Walipa, Jacob Iki were alleged to have been illegally occupying the presidents’ seats since 2019 and benefiting from all presidential salaries and entitlements despite a court order that nullified their elections.

Messers Powi, Vali and David were all implicated in the same allegations for recognizing the four men as presidents.

After the local level government elections of July 2019, there were two meetings to elect LLG presidents for the Ialibu Pangia district.

One meeting was organised by the district administrator Samson Wereh and was held on 7 August 2019 at Ialibu station where the plaintiffs Wambi Nondi, Lasa Mainu, Gibs Siri and Peter Yamuna were elected LLG presidents. The second meeting was organised by acting provincial administrator Mr Joseph Cajetan on 14 August 2019 in Mendi where Kunukunu, Kipoi, Walipa and Iki were elected LLG presidents at that

Yafai allowed to review sentence

BY JACOB POK

THE Supreme Court in Waigani on Friday, allowed Jacob Yafai, to appeal his 22-year jail sentence.

Single judge, Justice David Cannings, granted Yafai’s application for leave to appeal after the court was satisfied that there were a number of arguable grounds raised in the application.

Yafai, the former deputy Finance Secretary, was jailed over the controversial K41.8 million payment to Paul Paraka Lawyers.

He wants the Supreme Court to intervene in what he described as a legally flawed and excessively harsh sentence imposed on him, hence, challenging the legality and severity of the sentence. Yafai was convicted on August 19, 2025, on four counts of misappropriation and one count of abuse of office, arising from his role in approving payments to Paul Paraka Lawyers while serving as Deputy Secretary (Operations) in the Department of Finance.

On October 23, the National Court sentenced him to 20 years’ imprisonment with hard labour on each misappropriation count, to run concurrently, and a further two years for abuse of office to be served cumulatively, resulting in an effective sentence of 22 years.

The application for leave to appeal was lodged Yafai through his lawyer Edward Sasingian of Sasingian Lawyers on November 17, within the statutory 40-day window, and is brought under section 22(d) of the Supreme Court Act 1975.At the heart of Yafai’s submission was the argument that the trial judge committed clear errors of law in sentencing.

The first and primary ground asserts that the 20-year sentence imposed for each misappropriation count exceeds the maximum penalty allowed under section 383A of the Criminal Code at the time Yafai was charged. According to the submission, the applicable maximum penalty was 10 years’ imprisonment per count, not 20.

Mr Sasingian, during the submission, argued that the court unlawfully doubled the statutory limit, describing it as an “identifiable error of law” warranting intervention by the Supreme Court.

The submission pointed to the State v Paul Paraka [2023] decision, where Justice Berrigan imposed a maximum of 10 years per misappropriation charge. In that case, Mr Sasingian submitted that Paraka’s effective 20-year sentence was achieved by ordering some

sentences cumulatively, and not by exceeding the statutory maximum per count.

The second ground of appeal that Mr Sasingian raised, challenges the trial judge’s decision to make the abuse of office sentence cumulative rather than concurrent. He argued that the offences arose from the same transaction and occurred simultaneously, making cumulative sentencing inappropriate.

The third ground, Mr Sasingian contended that the judge erred in refusing to suspend the sentence, despite evidence that Yafai did not personally benefit from the K41.8 million payment and acted under direction from the then Secretary for Finance.

His conviction, Mr Sasingian submitted, was based on a failure to properly verify the payment rather than intentional personal gain.

Mr Sasingain further argued that the sentence was “harsh and crushing”, in that Yafai received a longer term than Paul Paraka, despite Paraka being the direct beneficiary of the funds.

Mr Sasingian said that there were clear legal and discretionary errors in the sentencing and urges the Supreme Court to grant leave for Yafai to appeal.

meeting. This resulted in a litigation instituted by Mr Wereh after he was suspended for organising the first meeting. In that case in the National Court, Justice Collin Makail declared that any election conducted in Mendi for the local-level governments for Ialibu Pangia district "is illegal, null and void ab initio”.

The plaintiffs Wambi Nondi, Lasa Mainu, Gibs Siri & Peter Yamuna filed a proceeding in 2023 claiming the governor, Powi, Vali and David were continuing to recognise Kunukunu and the others in the provincial assembly; and they were guilty of contempt of court.

As trial finally commenced this year the Kunukunu and Vali raised objections claiming errors in Justice Makail’s orders in in 2019; claiming it was not minuted, signed and sealed.

A full trial was conducted and a decision is pending a decision. It is understood the outcome of this decision could result in imprisonment of the defendants.

But that objection was refused by the trial judge Justice Joseph Crowley in Mt Hagen National Court.

They each filed their first request to appeal in the Supreme Court that was heard by a single judge; Justice David Cannings who refused both applications.

Unsatisfied, the duo supported by the presidents (Kunukunu and others) and Mr David filed a for a rehearing of this same request at the Supreme Court but this time before a three-man bench.

The bench comprising Justice Derek Wood, Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika CJ and Justice Pauline Bre heard the application last Monday.

Vali’s lawyer Harvey Nii argued that strongly that the un-minuted, unsigned and unsealed order by Justice Makail was not a valid order to warrant a contempt charge.

Chinese company buys into Simberi mine

BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA

THE Simberi Gold Project in Namatanai, New Ireland Province, will now be called New Simberi after a major Chinese gold producer acquired a strategic stake in the Australian-owned mine.

This now marks a significant shift in ownership and injecting hundreds of millions of dollars into the expansion of the New Simberi Gold Project.

Lingbao Gold Group, one of China’s top 10 gold companies, has agreed to pay A$370 million to acquire a 50 per cent interest in St Barbara Mining Pty Ltd, the subsidiary of Australian miner St Barbara Limited that holds the Simberi operation in PNG.

The deal, announced yesterday, will see the Chinese company become an equal partner in the mine, which is already in production and earmarked for a major expansion. It also fully funds St Barbara’s share of the expected capital costs, removing a long-standing financing risk and accelerating the project toward a final investment decision.

Under the new structure, St Barbara Mining will hold an 80 per cent stake in the Simberi Gold Project, while the remaining 20 per cent will be owned by Kumul Mineral Holdings, following a

separate A$100 million investment by the State-owned entity. Together, the transactions value the Simberi project at about A$800 million.

St Barbara managing director and chief executive officer Andrew Strelein said the entry of Lingbao and Kumul would fast-track development and deliver greater value to PNG and shareholders.

“The investments by Lingbao and Kumul in Simberi will help us accelerate the development of the Simberi Expansion Project and the delivery of its value to our shareholders and key stakeholders in PNG,” Mr Strelein said.

Lingbao chairman Wang Pinran said the company was confident in the quality of the Simberi resource and the strength of the partnership with Australia’s St Barbara and PNG’s Kumul.

“Our confidence is solid not only because of this high-quality project, but also because of the participation by Kumul, demonstrating the PNG Government’s support and encouragement for overseas investors,” Mr Wang said.

He said Lingbao was keen to contribute to local communities, the economy and environmental management, while showcasing PNG as a viable destination for global mining investment.

Panguna mine could unlock K170 billion in benefits: Nanei

BY GORETHY KENNETH

BOUGAINVILLE'S Panguna Mine could unlock K170 billion (US$40) in benefits, Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei told the Investment Summit in Sydney last week singling out that key stakeholder support was critical for the project to move forward.

Mr Nanei in his presentation, said the mine, a major copper asset with significant upside potential, is on the cusp of development after Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL) completes due diligence and secures a mining partner.

With the support of the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) as regulator and majority shareholder, the project could deliver up to $40 billion in direct benefits over its 20-year life, including $2 billion annually.

He said rising interest in Bougainville’s mineral sector, with 20 exploration licenses and six new artisanal mining applications, signaled growing investor confidence in the region’s potential.

Bougainville Copper Ltd (BCL) has just completed a structured EOI process for redevelopment of the Panguna copper-gold project, focusing on: transparent assessment of developer capability, strong compliance with ABG mining and environmental laws, landowner-driven decision-making, and, ensuring long-term fiscal benefits to Bougainville.

Bougainville is entering a new phase of economic transformation -- built on strengthened governance, enhanced regulatory systems, and renewed opportunities across the mineral and energy sectors.

Geographically strategic and resource-rich, Bougainville holds: major porphyry copper–gold systems (including Panguna), high-grade alluvial gold belts, extensive geothermal systems (from Balbi to Loloru), hydropower, solar and

biomass potential, and deep-water port sites suitable for energy and minerals logistics.

The Panguna Mine in Bougainville is a well-known and well-defined asset with significant upside potential.

Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL) currently holds the exploration license (EL01) over Panguna.

With the support of the ABG as the regulator and majority shareholder, BCL has been undertaking a due diligence process to source a credible mining partner to invest in and develop the project.

Once developed, the project will bring substantial benefits and investment to the Bougainville region – both direct and indirect. Mine life of approx. 20 years, with potential to increase.

K170 billion (US$40b) in direct benefits.

That equates to approx. K8.5 billion (US$2b) per annum

Stakeholder support is critical for the project to advance

China unveils APEC Shenzen 2026

PAPUA New Guinea was among senior officials from APEC economies who convened in Shenzhen, a modern southern coastal city of China, to lay the groundwork for the forum’s agenda for next year.

China, the host of APEC 2026, introduced its theme, Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Prosper Together. Opening the meeting, Deputy Foreign Minister of China Ma Zhaoxu underscored the urgent need for unity and coordinated action as the region confronts rising protectionism, anti-globalisation pressures and sluggish economic growth.

“Rising protectionism and antiglobalisation trends have created many uncertainties and challenges, placing pressure on economic growth and leaving difficult issues that are hard to address,” Ma said.

“How to strengthen policy coordination and sustain AsiaPacific economic growth has become an urgent and serious test before all APEC economies.”

Ma recalled President Xi Jinping's remarks in Gyeongju during the 2025 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, quoting: "China stands ready to take this as an opportunity to bring all parties together to advance the goal of an Asia-Pacific community, promote growth and prosperity in the region, energise

practical cooperation on priorities including the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP), connectivity, digital economy and AI, so as to inject greater vitality and impetus to development in the Asia-Pacific and deliver more benefits to the people of the region."

Ma said that Asia-Pacific community is not only an aspiration but also a set of practical actions, outlining China’s three priorities for APEC 2026 – openness, innovation, cooperation – as the means to translate this vision into concrete work.

Openness, he noted, has long been the lifeblood of the region as the average tariffs across APEC have fallen from 17 per cent to 5 per cent. With 2026 marking the 20th anniversary of FTAAP, he called for continued support for the multilateral trading system, a stable and open regional economic environment, strengthened industrial and supply chain resilience, and deeper connectivity.

On innovation, Ma pointed to rapid technological change, particularly in artificial intelligence, as the driver of new engines of growth. He called on APEC to deepen collaboration on frontier technologies, expand digital public services, promote interoperability of standards, and ensure that technological benefits are shared equitably across the

region.

“China has accumulated significant experience in technological innovation and long-term development. Shenzhen is widely recognised as a global innovation hub, and we are ready to share our experience with all partners and contribute to the region’s innovative growth,” he said.

Cooperation remains foundational to Asia-Pacific prosperity. Ma underscored APEC’s role as the region’s premier economic cooperation forum and called for deeper coordination and capacity building in fiscal policy, food security, energy, SMEs, transportation, tourism, human resources, and public health to ensure that “no member or community is left behind”.

Shenzhen provides an apt backdrop for this meeting. One of China’s first special economic zones and now the economy’s top foreign trade hub, the city has grown from a GDP of just 270 million yuan in 1980 to 3.68 trillion yuan in 2024, with total trade reaching about 4.5 trillion yuan last year.

Shenzhen will also host the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in November 2026.Ambassador Chen Xu, Chair of the APEC 2026 Senior Officials’ Meeting, introduced the logo for APEC 2026, drawing

inspiration from Shenzhen, also known as the City of Peng, named after the legendary creature that transforms from a giant fish into a soaring bird.

The logo features 21 interwoven feathers, each distinct yet seamlessly connected, forming the shape of the bird Peng. The design represents the 21 APEC member economies, diverse but connected, harnessing momentum and rising together toward shared prosperity.

“In spite of the unprecedented changes in the world, the APEC region remains the major engine of global economic growth,” Ambassador Chen said. “And APEC, as a modern, efficient and effective incubator of ideas, continues to be the premier forum for regional economic cooperation.

“As we move into 2026, China will strive to advance our collaboration to promote economic cooperation in our region.”

APEC 2026 will also mark a key milestone including the first fiveyear review of the Aotearoa Plan of Action, which provides a timely opportunity to assess progress and recalibrate efforts toward achieving the 2040 vision of an open, dynamic, resilient and peaceful Asia-Pacific community. Senior officials will meet for the first set of technical meetings from 1 to 10 February 2026 in Guangzhou.

further.

Bougainville is progressing multiple fronts:

Eight exploration licences (EL’s) granted to-date; including EL01 for Panguna project.

Four Artisanal Mining Licences (AML’s)

Fourteen (14) Gold Dealers Licences. Increased interest in Bougainville’s mineral sector with approx. 20 EL applications recently received and six new AML applications.

This reflects increased investor interest in Bougainville as a mineral sector investor destination.

Bougainville stands at the threshold of major economic transformation.

Our policies, institutions, and regulatory frameworks are maturing.

Our people are ready and our government is committed to responsible, transparent and mutually beneficial investment partnerships.

B’ville has huge potential in energy sector

BOUGAINVILLE will go big on geothermal energy and use it to drive growth and development in the autonomous region.

This is according to ABG chief secretary Kearneth Nanei who unveiled their plan to tap into the "region's major energy investment opportunities" in Sydney last week. In his Sydney investment presentation, Mr Nanei highlighted major energy investment opportunities, including the redevelopment of the Loloho fuel depot and the exploration of geothermal energy, as key components of their vision for a clean, reliable, and affordable energy future.

The projects, supported by the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, could unlock significant economic benefits, create jobs, and position the region as a leader in renewable energy and energy security.

He explained to the conference the competitive advantages of investing in Bougainville which included: Landowner-backed development model ensures social licence Modern, transparent regulatory systems across mining and energy Strategic geographic access to Asia-Pacific markets

ABG Chief Secretary Kearneth Nanei in Sydney

Late Mirisim to be laid to rest at home

BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA

THE body of the late Minister for Works and Highways and Member for Telefomin, Solan Mirisim, will Lie in State at the Grand Hall of the National Parliament this morning (Monday December 15, 2025).

The official program, confirms that the State Funeral service will proceed following the parliamentary honors, marking the beginning of a week-long journey to lay the leader to rest.

The National Haus Krai is currently being held at the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG) in Waigani.

According to the program, proceedings today will start at 10am with the arrival of the hearse at the National Parliament precincts.

The casket will be conveyed down Independence Boulevard to the front entrance, where it will be officially received by the Speaker of Parliament, Job Pomat.

The Pallbearer Party will usher the casket into the Grand Hall for late Mr Mirisim to Lie in State. Dignitaries and Members of Parliament will have the opportunity to view the body and pay their respects before the hearse departs at 11am.

A State Funeral Service is scheduled to follow immediately at the Sioni Kami Memorial Church from 1pm to 4.30pm.

The Order of Service indicates that Prime Minister James Marape and the Secretary for the Department of Works and Highways (DoWH), Gibson Holemba, will present the obituary at 2pm. A family representative is scheduled to deliver the eulogy.

Following the service, the casket will be taken to the DoWH Headquarters for a final visit before being transported to the family residence at East Boroko to overnight.

The late Minister’s repatriation to his home province of West Sepik is set for Tuesday, December 16. The body will be flown to Vanimo, where it will be received by the Sandaun Provincial Government for a special provincial assembly session at noon.

From Wednesday to Thursday, the body will be transported to the Telefomin District.

The casket is scheduled to visit seven Local-Level Governments (LLGs), allowing the local communities to offer tributes.

The formal handover of the body by the State to the family will take place on December 19.

The final burial is scheduled to occur between Friday, December 19 and Sunday, December 21 in Telefomin.

The program notes the proposed burial site is on State land, pending final confirmation.

AA’s Tribal Fashion

Simbu themed wear.

Cybercrime arrests rise

WITH more than 8.2 million users now connected to mobile and online services nationwide, the rapid rise in cybercrime must be viewed against the scale of Papua New Guinea’s digital expansion.

Acting Minister for Information and Communication Peter Tsiamalili Jr said the increase in connectivity had been accompanied by a surge in cyber-enabled offences, particularly scams targeting unsuspecting users through social media and mobile messaging.

“Scamming has become the most frequently reported digital threat in PNG,” Mr Tsiamalili said.

“From impersonation of government officials and agencies on social media to coordinated fraudulent SMS campaigns, criminals are exploiting the scale of our connected population.” He said the growing number of users reinforced the urgency behind government efforts to strengthen cyber laws, enforcement and public awareness.

“The more people we connect, the more important it becomes to protect them,” he said. “Cybersecurity is no longer optional it is essential.”

Arrests and charges linked to cybercrime are on the rise in Papua New Guinea as police step up enforcement amid an escalation in online scams, digital fraud and technology-enabled offences targeting citizens and institutions.

Mr Tsiamalili, who is also police minister, said cyber-enabled crime had become one of the most frequently reported threats confronting law enforcement, driven by the rapid expansion of digital services and mobile connectivity across the country.

“From where I sit as Police Minister, I can confirm that scamming has become the most frequently reported digital threat in PNG,” he said.

Google to build undersea cables as part of major defence and digital infrastructure

BY GORETHY KENNETH

AUSTRALIA will fund three undersea cables in Papua New Guinea at the cost of US$120 million which internet giant Google is set to lay, as part of major defence and digital infrastructure deal.

The US$120 million project, funded by Australia, aims to create a resilient, multi-route digital backbone, positioning Papua New Guinea as a regional digital anchor.

Early this month, Post Courier had an exclusive interview with a Google executive Mr Shirshendu Bhattacharya, who revealed that discussions are underway on plans to lay out these three undersea cables in PNG.

Information and Communications Technology Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr called it a "major step forward" for the country, highlighting Google's role in advancing the project.

"This investment is a major step forward for Papua New Guinea," the country's Minister for Information and Communications Technology

Peter Tsiamalili Jr said this week.

"The new subsea systems will provide high-capacity connectivity to: (1) Northern part of Papua New Guinea, (2) Southern part of Papua New Guinea, and (3) The Autonomous Region of Bougainville, to create a more resilient, multiroute digital backbone for the nation. Importantly, the Minister

highlighted that the initiative carries no cost implications to the State, with the full investment being delivered through Australia’s commitments under the Pukpuk Treaty.

“This ensures that Papua New Guinea receives world-class connectivity infrastructure without drawing on the national budget. Minister Tsiamalili Jr. emphasised that the initiative is a direct implementation of the Pukpuk Treaty, reflecting the shared commitment of Papua New Guinea and Australia to strengthen digital security, regional stability, and national development.

“As part of progressing the initiative, Minister Tsiamalili

PNG to become digital anchor with US$120m initiative

PNG is set to leapfrog into the next era of digital connectivity with the launch of the K516.45 million (US$120 million) Pukpuk Connectivity Initiative, a landmark program that will deliver three new submarine cables across the nation.

The initiative, a major bilateral infrastructure project under the Pukpuk Treaty, will create a resilient, multi-route digital backbone linking the northern and southern regions of PNG, as well as the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.

The move aims to secure highcapacity, reliable connectivity while reducing dependence on single points of failure in the country’s

digital network. “This is a defining moment for Papua New Guinea,” said Minister for Information and Communications Technology Peter Tsiamalili.

“The Pukpuk Connectivity Initiative lays the foundation for our long-term digital growth and positions PNG as a regional digital anchor.”

What makes the initiative particularly significant is that it comes at no cost to the State. The full investment is being delivered through Australia’s commitments under the Pukpuk Treaty, ensuring world-class infrastructure without drawing on the national budget. Last week Mr Tsiamalili,

alongside Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald and U.S. Ambassador Ann Marie Yastishock, met with Google Sydney to discuss the tech giant’s role in the submarine cable rollout.

Google, a global leader in subsea cable development, will partner with the PNG government to deploy the systems throughout the IndoPacific region.

Mr Tsiamalili said the initiative reflects the shared commitment of PNG and Australia to bolster digital security, regional stability, and national development.

“Through this partnership, we are ensuring our people have access to robust digital infrastructure.”

— together with the Australian High Commissioner to PNG HE Ewen McDonald and the United States Ambassador to Papua New Guinea Ann Marie Yastishock —held a high-level engagement earlier this morning with Google Sydney Tsiamalili said he met with Australian and US diplomats this week to discuss the project at Google's Sydney office and the company's "role as a partner for the submarine cable rollout". The discussions focused on Google’s role as a partner for the submarine cable rollout.

Google is a global leader in subsea cable development, and will be laying a cable systems throughout the Indo-Pacific. The Pukpuk

Connectivity Initiative will: Establish three new internationalgrade subsea routes, reducing reliance on single points of failure Expand access to underserved regions, including Bougainville Improve the stability and quality of national telecommunications Attract investment for hyper-scalers to deploy in PNG.

Minister Tsiamalili stated that the initiative is a defining moment in PNG’s digital development: “This investment is a major step forward for Papua New Guinea.

“The Pukpuk Connectivity Initiative lays the foundation for our country’s long-term digital growth and positions PNG to be a regional digital anchor.”

and Anna Amos are well known in the fashion industry in PNG. At the Simbu Province Development Front Inc launching on Saturday night in Port Moresby, the models from AA’s Fashion took to the catwalk to showcase their bilum wear collection. In the picture are three of the models in their

PICTURE: PETER KORUGL TOP FASHION SHOWCASE

Minister for Information and Communications Technology Peter Tsiamalili. FILE PICTURE.

Hello valued readers.

Season greetings to you all.

Starting today, our focus will be on the Christmas and New Year celebrations throughout the city of Port Moresby.

Christmas and New Year generally starts from late November to December, and through to early January, characterised by decorations, celebrations, holidays, parties, gift-giving, family reunions, feasts and mumus.

The period also bridges major holidays like Christmas, and New Year.

Port Moresby Today is therefore, inviting you to share with us your Christmas memories with your families, friends and loved ones in words and pictures.

Help us spread the Christmas cheer and blessings throughout the city.

Parkop calls for unity, peaceful festive celebration

BY MARCIA NEGRI

NCD Governor Powes Parkop (pictured) has urged the city residents to celebrate together this festive period, Christmas and into the New Year, celebrating under the theme, uniting our city, people and country.

“As we celebrate, I invite you to join us in the churches, and the city and throughout or country PNG, this Christmas from the 24th to the 25th and let us have a good Christmas and worship in the churches across the city, and across the country,” Mr Parkop said.

joy to all our communities in the city and length and breadth of our country, and the world the same.

As part of our city’s festive program too I want to remind us all to not miss the governor’s cup, that is an initiative that is also in uniting our city, featuring four exciting sports, rugby league, soccer, netball and volleyball.

country.

“And is a message that we have invited you all to come and we will celebrate together and amplify very important message to get us into the spirit of Celebration as we prepare for December 25 and also prepare for the New Year.

This festive season, lets embrace the true spirit of Christmas, unity and diversity like the waves that meet our shores, let our difference flow together in one harmony, we are one city, with many voices, singing one song of joy and unity.

and nationalities that have come to share our city with us and be part of our city and journey.

“And let there be also harmony to us, no matter your tribe, harmony or background.

“Part of this beautiful city of ours, Amazing Port Moresby and let’s uplift and care for each other and care for the vulnerable and walk towards a brighter future tomorrow, this is the spirit of Christmas and birth of Jesus Christ our saviour who we believe came to earth to bring and peace and unity to mankind.

If there is an issue that you would like to bring attention to, do not hesitate to contact us by calling 3091040 and ask for Marcia Negri, or email: mnegri@spp.com.pg

“Let us gather in prayer, in song, in fellowship and embracing the joy of the season, but importantly amplifying the meaning and spirit of Christmas, as we step into the New Year, let’s do so with moderation and respect for each other, respect your neighbours, community district, province and country.

you br to ca an Neg mneg

May our celebration respect the love and peace of Christmas and bring joy to everybody’s heart and

Mr Parkop added that let us also use this season to care for one another, fighting against challenges, in our city and country like cancer, tb, HIV/AIDS, this Christmas we make time and think of them.

“And remind us all that it is a time for us to think about bringing peace and harmony to family and stop GBV, lets champion equality that every man, women, girl and boy is valued in our city and

Let there be peace in our hearts as we exchange gifts for Christmas, sing the carols and let’s spread kindness, forgiveness and compassion in a world that needs it and a city, a country that needs it.

“Tonight let us shine as a beacons of peace and inclusivity. Let’s make our city an inclusive city of men and boys and women and girls and for all our thousands of tribes, 860 languages, but equally for all the people of other faiths

“Thank you for coming out and joining us this evening for the Carols by the Sea program, as we gather for this underneath the stars and the gentle light of Christmas, we are celebrating a message that transcends tribes, languages, borders, ethnicity, transcends, all different barriers and that is the message of love unity and peace, that is the essential message of Christmas and is an important message for all of us as Christians,” said Mr Parkop.

From a shepherd’s hut, a Kingdom was

BY PAUL MAIMA

THE festive season begins in December.

School closes for the holiday with students at home. Many workers also take leave to spend at their respective communities.

The flights out of Port Moresby have been increasing. With many people queuing at the airport.

A time to spend with families and friends. And the share of gifts and presents had been a common experience on Christmas.

For the Christians it's an important moment to commemorate their faith and hope in Jesus Christ.

Most celebrate on the 25th December with church activities honouring the birth of Jesus Christ.

It's a moment to reflect on their spiritual goals and connectivity with their faith and belief in God.

Papua New Guinea was constitutionally declared a Christian country. We have many Christians, churches, and ministries in the nation preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Bible as the foundation of their teachings.

As we are heading into Christmas Day, we must remember and commemorate the Birth of Jesus Christ, our Saviour.

In the true spirit of Christianity and Faith rather than partying and drinking which results in many unnecessary problems.

Take time to spend this significant day with your families and those who are dear to you. And reflect on your Christian Faith.

Life is short and as Christians we must continue to uphold the Christian evangelisation and teach the fundamental of truth, love, respect, forgiveness, sharing, and hope. A reflection on Christmas and what it means to the believers.

God's promise fulfilled in King David.

The Kingdom of King David, the most powerful man of his era, ended up in a hut, a manger.

birthed

Joseph was a descendant of David. Jesus was born through this family as prophesied by the Prophets. After thousands of years. God's promises will still be fulfilled.

The star guided the Gentile wise men into Bethlehem, where Jesus was born. They brought with them gifts to present to a newborn King. A vision and potential that is seen and interpreted by foreigners who are not related to Jews.

Some religious philosophers said these visitors from the East worship the stars. But that night, the star that they worshipped led them to the real God, the creator where Jesus was born. The birth of the Truth and Salvation.

Mankind's lust for prestige, materials, power, and money has driven our world into a frenzy Kingdom of territorial dominance ruled by a few elite classes.

Yet the Bible teaches us that simplicity, humility, and truth are the fundamental principles of humanity that we must not deviate from. History has taught us great lessons from the rise and fall of a King/ Queen with their Kingdom.

But God's Kingdom, which is of more spiritual relevance, has been built with the Gospel message of Jesus Christ all over the world.

The son of God born and raised by a carpenter from Galilee in Israel continues to change the lives of millions of souls around the globe. Including Papua New Guinea. The word came and found us, while we were still worshiping the stars and other gods of the ancestors.

Today as Christians we know the Truth of the Gospel. We must continue to live in Simplicity and Humility.

We are a Country richly Blessed by God in terms of natural resources and our diverse cultures. Yet lives in Poverty. Driven by hatred, greed, corruption, nepotism and continually struggling with our socio-economic challenges for the last 50 years as an Independent state.

Family launches 360 photo booth experience

BY MARCIA NEGRI

TO see yourself from all angles while remaining stationary is quiet an experience, said Dale Mark of the 360 Experience, a revolving camera that comes complete with a booth.

Mark's family, who hail from Pongani in the Ijivitari district of Northern province and it is their aim to bring a new experience to the public in the changing digital space.

Owner of the 360 Experience platform, Nelson Bonga, along with his wife, Nadia and children, said it is a family business initiative.

“We bought the overhead 360 photo booth (sky booth) last year, it was my wife’s idea, there are similar booths but this one is the overhead booth.”

He added that, they had a few gigs last year, but yesterday was the biggest one yet, and we want to expose our brand and expand in the corporate space, because we see the potential in it,"Mr Bonga said.

"We are looking at marketing it more, following yesterday’s gig as well, and we had a few bookings too," he said.

"It’s a family business, where myself, my wife and kids run and it comes under the Bonga Holdings

Limited band and 360 experience is one of our products.

We are approached by clients and get booked to feature at their events.

Nelson’s son, Dale was present during the 360 Experience booth set up with his brothers at the Carols by the Sea event hosted buy NCDC and Amazing Port Moresby on Saturday at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium. He said; "It’s a family business initiative and we saw that not many Papua New Guineans know about the 360 booth".

“So, we bought this online and hopefully get some money and we have made some good money in the past few months and it is new to PNG, a lot of us don’t know about it, we put it for hire and we do small, family events.

And taking part is the exposure, we started a year ago and last year we didn’t make most of it and this year a lot of people have come to know about us through friends, and there has been a lot of events that we have covered.

He added that the 360 experience it lets you see yourself from different angles, whole full body and how you look all around, looking at gaining exposure and traction.

Police launch zero tolerance on drunks patrol in NCD

BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA

PORT Moresby city has been placed firmly on notice as police rolled out a strong and visible drunk patrol awareness campaign ahead of the festive season, signalling zero tolerance for alcohol-fuelled disorder and dangerous behaviour.

A convoy involving all police stations within the city moved through key roads and suburbs, serving as a clear warning to the public that intensified patrols will be conducted throughout the day and night.

Police said the awareness drive was aimed at reminding the public that festive celebrations must not come at the cost of public safety, with officers expected to be on the streets in full force over the coming weeks.

Authorities advised that by 6pm, people should begin heading home and avoid lingering in public places, particularly where alcohol is involved, to prevent unnecessary confrontations with the law.

The festive season policing

operation has now been formally launched, with police working closely alongside the Road Traffic Authority (RTA) to enforce traffic regulations and curb drunk driving.

Police stressed that motorists found driving under the influence, as well as individuals involved in public disturbances, will be dealt with decisively.

“This is about visibility, prevention and accountability,” police said, adding that the joint operation is designed to reduce road accidents, crime and alcohol-related incidents during one of the busiest periods of the year. The public has been urged to cooperate with law enforcement, plan ahead, arrange safe transport and look out for one another.

Police reminded the public that while the festive season is a time for celebration, it is also a time for responsibility.

“Be safe this festive season,” they said, warning that patrols will remain active across the city throughout the holidays.

THE 360 Experience booth in action during the Carols by the Sea Event. PICTURE COURTESY. NCDC MEDIA

THE 360 Experience Crew: From L-R: Dale Mark, Ahmed Bonga, Vergil Bonga Junior and Darren Bonga, infront of their booth at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium Carols by the Sea Event on Saturday. PICTURE. MARCIA NEGRI

Manki land group calls for review of Bulolo forest deal

BY PISAI GUMAR

THE Manki Incorporated Land Group Association in the Watut area of Bulolo in Morobe is calling on Prime Minister James Marape to direct an urgent review of the long overdue Bulolo Forest Plantation agreement and its trust fund.

Bulolo MP Sam Basil Jr raised the matter in the third Parliament sitting this year and directed it to Prime Minister James Marape and the Minister for Forest Salio Waipo.

Mr Marape assured that a State team was tasked to investigate and resolve the issues as a matter of priority.

Four die from fallen tree

BY VELERIE BULUMARIS

A TREE, felled by heavy rain and strong winds, killed three people instantly and injured 11 others on Monday night at Kamkumung in Lae, Morobe Province.

The disaster was described as sudden yet devastating for families who live within Asingu settlement beside the Bumbu River.

About 11 of them were injured with broken bones, trauma and heavy bleeding sustained from that fallen tree that fell on their rental homes after a heavy rain with strong wind blew it (tree) down.

Most of the victims were tenants living in a rented flat-like apartment that contained about eight rooms.

The victims were in their homes when the tree fell at around 8pm and destroyed the property along with those inside.

Victim Justine Tembi, who sustain injuries and is now walking with crutch, described the incident as sudden and violent.

“The rain was heavy, I heard only a little crackling sound so I went outside to check when the tree fell and its branches dragged me down,” he said.

Mr Tembi's flat was close to the tree’s root and both his wife and daughter were trapped inside when that accident happened.

He said after that tree fell he immediately called out to his family, his wife and daughter responded.

They were rescued along with the other injured victims by nearby settlers who responded after they heard screams.

Two out of those three deaths were the landlord’s 9-year-old daughter and wife whom witnesses said were trying to have dinner after returning home from a long journey.

A community leader, David James said both mother and daughter just returned from their village in Markham and wanted to cook their dinner outside their home when the heavy rain caused them to move indoors.

The Mamose regional Chief Superintendent for St John Ambulance, Anderson Poumb confirmed that his crew transported about 11 injured victims of that incident to Angau Memorial General Hospital since last night.

One of them died after being brought to the hospital while 10 others are still fighting for their lives.

Manki ILG chairman, Mr Anonga Mendiso, said it has not happened and they are still waiting to put to rest this decade-long issue.

Mr Mendiso, in a letter to Mr Basil seeking urgent financial assistance to pursue these issues, acknowledged the MP as the beacon of hope for rural people to champion their cause in Parliament on behalf of the Manki, Watut, Wandumi and Anderson-Kauri plantation landowners.

“Our community is awaiting a resolution on the utilisation of the funds held in trust for our benefit,” he said.

“Our lawyer has prepared a

court order, and we are currently in negotiations with the relevant authorities in Port Moresby. However, limited financial capacity has delayed us to pursue the matter further and we seek your assistance”

Mr Mendiso said.

Mr Mendiso said the two pressing matters are Bulolo Forest Plantation agreement review and its trust fund.

“As landowners, both the national government and its agent, the PNG Forest Authority (PNGFA) continue to leave us in the dark so we must have our representative on the PNGFA board.

“Our rep must speak on landowner’s behalf to ensure

government, PNGFA and stakeholders know our pains and struggles”

“If the Forest Minister and his PNGFA managing director be unable to address forestry plantation landowners issues then they must vacate their seats too” Mr Mendiso said.

Mr Basil said he is aware of the existing issue Manki ILG was pursuing and as their leader he has raised it in Parliament sitting midthis year.

“I have submitted the letter to Prime Minister James Marape and awaiting his directives,” Mr Basil said.

BY ROSE BOBOLA

MORE than K1 million has been allocation for the education sector for Huon-Gulf district, Morobe province this year.

This was announced by the local MP Jason Peter stating that almost K1.3 million has been allocated to improving education in his district.

Mr Peter said with the funding, Huon Gulf District Development Authority (DDA) was looking at building classrooms as well as teachers’ houses for each school in the district.

“My dream is to build 63 double classrooms for my district by 2027,” Mr Peter said.

The MP also said in addition to building new classrooms, his office is also looking to build a one staff house for each school in the district.

He added that education is his number one priority, and want to ensure that schools in his district are prioritised, hence, his administration allocates K5 million every year for the education sector.

Mr Peter further added that education is the gateway to unlocking everything, hence, his administration is doing this to see improvements.

The district has built a number of classrooms already, with some classrooms, mostly in the rural parts of the district yet to be complete.

In addition, the MP also presented a total of 195 bicycles to ward councillors and police officers in the district.

He said this a way to help support the efforts of ward councillors and police officers in the district to address law and order issues as make it easier for them to get from one place to another.

“Many times, when an issue arises somewhere, councillors and police officers take time getting there, hence, these bicycles will help them in this area,” Mr Peter said.

civic pride and environmental ownership.

According Mr Rosso, the Lae City Authority spend about K8 million to K10 million annually to collect and clean up rubbish throughout Lae City.

The physical toll of collecting rubbish, sweeping streets, and

revitalising public spaces across the city is immense.

Recognising the need to keep volunteers energised and motivated, Twisties, a brand known for its fun and dynamic spirit, provided hundreds of cartons of its popular snack.

BY PISAI GUMAR

THE SIASSI district expects to host between 3000-4000 Lutheran delegations to attend the 35 ELCPNG Synod (Parliament) at Bunsil station, Siassi Island scheduled for January, 18-23 2026.

The Synod theme “Stand Firm, We Are Free” extracted from the scripture in Galatians 5:1.

The Siassi district as the host will accommodate other 16 districts include Mumeng, Boana, Yabim, Goroka, Simbu, Hagen, Madang, Karkar, Jiwaka, Ukata, Kainantu, Emmanuel, East Simbu, Papua, Kote and New Guinea Island including overseas visitors and various government and partner church agencies.

The General Secretary, Bernard Kaisom in a statement said the total delegation is 50 people per 17 districts.

Of the 30 voting delegates be included primary and Sunday school teachers, youth and women representative apart from selected members of parishioners.

The remaining balance of the delegation will comprise visitors from the overseas church partners in Germany, America and Australia, administrations staff in various ELC-PNG units, other government and church agency representatives, singsing and youth groups including host (Ass Paia) district.

GOODMAN Fielder's iconic snack brand, Twisties has stepped forward as the official snack sponsor for the massive cleanup drive as part of community support, an initiative hosted by the Lae MP and Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso on Saturday November 22, 2025, to foster

Goodman Fielder marketing officer Audrey Garem marketing officer (right) and the team, who delivered the cartons to the organisers, ensuring the snacks reached every corner of the clean-a-thon. This gesture highlighted the brand’s commitment to providing a refreshing reward for the community’s hard work.

Ten candidates confirmed

BY REINHARD MINONG

TEN candidates, including former Namatanai MP Byron Chan are confirmed to contest the byelection for the seat which became vacant following the passing of the Governor, late Sir Julius Chan.

Mr Chan is the son of Sir Julius. He was nominated to stand, last Thursday.

Independent candidate Kepas Aruban Wali opened the nomination on Tuesday. On Wednesday, Independent Stanley John Wapot lodged his nomination.

Thursday’s nominations began with Nelson Hungrabos (Independent), followed by the only female candidate Rhodie PautNawara (Independent).

Other Independents who filed also on Thursday include Moses Taram, Chris Gai and Joseph Willie.

Two party-endorsed candidates who joined the race were Byron Chan, endorsed by the People’s Progress Party (PPP) and Joshua Takin Soi, endorsed by the National Alliance (NA)

The final nomination of the day

BY REINHARD MINONG

NEW Ireland Provincial Police

Commander Chief Superintendent

Albert Beli says the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) has now activated a full security operation in New Ireland.

This is to ensure the upcoming New Ireland Provincial by-election is conducted safely, peacefully and in compliance with electoral laws.

Addressing candidates and election officials after the close of nominations last Thursday, he said the police have moved into a heightened state of preparedness with additional Mobile Squad units and specialist teams already arriving in the province.

“You will see new faces around, Mobile Squad units and other operational groups who will be accompanying us as part of the

came from Hosea Topit Kalis (Independent), who lodged his papers just hours before the close.

Provincial Returning Officer

Benjamin Kliawi confirmed that the campaign period will run for 45 days until 16 January 2026, followed by 14 days of polling from 17-30 January 2026.The counting period will run from 31 January to 20 February 2026, with the return of writs due on or before Friday, 20 February 2026.

Mr Kliawi commended all candidates for “a successful and orderly start to the by-election”.

Clerk of the New Ireland Legislative Assembly Ao Ure speaking on behalf of the New Ireland Provincial Administration, appealed for discipline throughout the election period.

“We have always set a precedent for peaceful elections in New Ireland. I plead with all candidates and supporters to ensure this by-

election is same; safe, peaceful, and transparent,” he said. He reminded candidates that under the Constitution, leaders are elected by the people, for the people, and must uphold the integrity of the electoral process.

The New Ireland Provincial byelection now moves into a sixweek campaign phase, with ten candidates eight Independents and two party-endorsed vying for the mandate of the people.

Police announce security rollout for polls

additional troops we requested for this by-election,” he said.

Chhief Supt Beli said that the byelection is of higher significance compared to LLG elections, as it determines the next provincial leader under the same national electoral laws that guide parliamentary elections.

“For this by-election, we are here for the people. We want to see a true, fair election so that we have a leader elected by the people to represent New Ireland Province,” he said.

Chief Supt Beli urged all candidates and supporters to respect the official schedule released by Provincial Returning Officer Benjamin Kliawi, warning that police will enforce the law if anyone breaches campaign, polling, or counting rules.

“The dates and timeframes given are very important. Please work within the timeframe,” he said.

“Cooperate with the provincial election manager and his staff to ensure the election runs smoothly and freely.”

He confirmed that police will be on full deployment throughout the 45day campaign, 14-day polling period, and 21-day counting period.

Patrols will be active in both rural and urban areas, while rapid response units will be on standby for election-related incidents.

“As time goes by, I will be leading my men in the eyes of the community to make sure we don’t go wrong,” he said.

“We will guide, enforce, and maintain order according to the rules and regulations set by the PNG Electoral Commission.”

Chief Supt Beli reminded the candidates that New Ireland has a long-standing reputation for calm and orderly elections and police

New Ireland by- election Treasurer

TREASURER Ian Ling-Stuckey has commended the outgoing Internal Revenue Commissioner Sam Koim. In a public statement yesterday, Mr Ling-Stuckey said that Mr Koim had resigned to compete in the Dei Open by-election in Jiwaka Province.

He said Mr Koim was appointed 9 days before he was appointed Minister for Treasury, and they have worked closely together over the last six years and four months.

“As he departs today, I would like to congratulate him for his contribution to the Internal Revenue Commission, and PNG more broadly.

His time has been marked with strong increases in revenue collections, restructuring IRC systems and digital innovations that include the myIRC platform, and a strengthened audit process,” he said.

Mr Ling-Stuckey said Mr Koim leaves at a time when expectations on the IRC have been lifted by the National Government.

He said PNG simply does not collect enough revenue to meet its development needs.

Indeed, focusing on PNG’s 3 core domestic taxes, the personal income tax, the company income tax, and the goods and services tax (GST), the value of these taxes has declined from 16.4 per cent of non-resource GDP in 2014, down to just 12.5 per cent in 2024.

“This lack of collections is equivalent to a revenue shortfall of K3,360 million,” he said. “If revenue performance had been maintained at earlier levels, PNG would have achieved a budget surplus in 2024, and we would now be paying down debt.

Unfortunately, the 2026 Budget expects these key taxes to fall even

further as a share of the economy, down to just 12.3 per cent. Between 2012 and 2018, there was no year with such a low rate of core tax collections -- indeed, the average over this period was 14.1 per cent.”

Mr Ling-Stuckey said PNG needs both more revenue, and better-quality expenditures. All international advice is that PNG is collecting significantly less revenue than similar developing countries.

Compared with PNG’s 15.2 per cent all taxes to GDP rate (so including all taxes, including resource taxes, and not just the 3 main taxes used in the earlier figures), most Pacific States have tax collections over 20 per cent, the African average is 19 per cent, in Latin America and the Caribbean it is 23 per cent, and the OECD average is over 34 per cent.

“In response to concerns about falling IRC taxes as a share of the economy since a better year in

CANDIDATES Contesting the NIP

Regional Seat By- Election. Get to know the candidates for the 2025 by-election for the New Ireland Provincial seat, their box numbers, and a brief background summary of each candidate. After the order of draws for the candidate last Thursday, the 10 candidates contesting the New Ireland Provincial Seat left vacant by late Sir Julius Chan are;

1. JOSHUA TAKIN SOI (BOX 10) PROFESSION: Pastor (formerly), later served as President of the Namatanai Local Level Government (LLG).

2. RHODIE PAUT-NAWARA (BOX 11) PROFESSION: Senior Planning Officer at the Department of National Planning and Monitoring. Holds a Bachelor of Economics at the University of Papua New Guinea.

3. STANLEY JOHN WAPOT (BOX 12)

PROFESSION: Director at Beda Consulting. Holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics from the University of Papua New Guinea and a Postgraduate Qualification in Science Education from the University of Goroka.

4. MOSES TARAM (BOX 13)

PROFESSION: Chief Executive Officer (Administration) for New Ireland Province. Former Provincial Administrator. A highly qualified trained Doctor.

5. CHRIS GAI (BOX 14)

PROFESSION:Former Community Engagement Officer and Government Liaison with Newcrest Mining. An elite candidate with a solid university background.

6. NELSON HUNGRABOS (BOX 15)

PROFESSION:Former Provincial Administrator of Western Province. Holds strong academic credentials and has demonstrated exceptional leadership.

7. JOSEPH WILLIE (BOX 16)

intend to maintain that standard.

“We have set a precedent in previous years with proper, troublefree elections. This is not new to us,” he said. “Police are committed to protecting that record.”

He thanked police officers, election officials, and communities for their contribution to the peaceful LLG elections and called for the same level of cooperation during the byelection.

Chief Supt Beli emphasised that security will not rely on police alone.

Community leaders, supporters, and candidates have a key role in ensuring tensions do not escalate.

“Election is for everyone. Work together, work well, and cooperate,” he said.

“Our goal is simple: to deliver a safe, transparent by-election and ensure New Ireland chooses its next leader freely.”

PROFESSION: TVI Program Officer – WPU. A strong, vibrant, and intellectual young candidate.

8. BYRON CHAN (BOX 17)

PROFESSION: Former Member of the National Parliament; served 15 years as Namatanai MP and held the portfolio of Mining Minister. Education: Certificate in Business Law, and Certification in Airport & Aviation Security (Queensland Tertiary).

9. HOSEA KALIS (BOX 18)

PROFESSION: Principal Director, Eastwood Energy Group; trained at the PNG Institute of Public Administration. Recognised as one of the remarkable minds in the province. Brilliant track record, well groomed professional.

10. KEPAS ARUBAN WALI (BOX 19)

PROFESSION: PNG’s first Petroleum Engineer with Kutubu Oil. Holds a Bachelor of Science from UPNG and a Postgraduate Qualification in Petroleum Engineering from Tulsa University, Oklahoma, USA. Has held senior national roles, including MD at PNG Ports, MD at MRA, Chairman of PNG Ports Corporation, and Executive General Manager for Harmony Gold Mine.

2023, as well as to wider governance concerns, the Parliament has agreed to introduce a new board to provide strategic oversight of the IRC.

This PNG-designed reform is similar to the modernisation of the Bank of PNG, which has seen significant improvements in the availability of foreign exchange, the licensing of 3 new PNG banks, and the expansion of banking services into rural communities,” Mr LingStuckey said.

“The IRC and Customs used to be effectively, part of the Department of Treasury until 2013. In 2013, based on external advice, IRC and Customs were created as two separate entities, with an internally run ‘Commission’ structure (although this has not been meeting in IRC in recent years).

“No other country in the world has such a “Commission” governance structure-reporting to itself.

Funding support for wages and other costs have increased at the IRC from K15m in 2014, to K100m in 2025. Despite this six-fold increase in funding, tax revenues have less than doubled, and failed to keep up with the growth in the economy. Indeed, 2014 marks the turning point when key tax collections started falling as a share of the economy.”

He said the Sir Nagora Bogan Tax Review in 2014 noted early concerns with the 2013 governance arrangements, and recommended that an oversight Board be established. Subsequent reviews have also called for either a Board structure, or the IRC returning to become part of the Treasury.

“Recent reviews of governance at the IRC indicate that there will be much work for the new board to try and lift performance and accountability,” he said.

Clerk of the New Ireland Legislative Assembly Ao Ure drawing the candidates numbers during Thursday afternoon’s draw

MONDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2025

Rebuild National and Emergency Service

The heavy rain in the last few years has caused some landslides in the Highlands which have claimed several lives already.

Floods have devastated food gardens and homes, leaving many hungry and without shelter.

Apart from the tropical storms, this country sits on the ring of fire, a horseshoe-shaped zone around the Pacific Ocean. The area is known for intense seismic and volcanic activity due to tectonic plate collisions, making it prone to frequent earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and tsunamis.

For a disaster-prone country, our ability to educate and inform our people on the different types of natural disasters, their causes and effects are left wanting because the key state agency that should this work is not functioning at all.

This is the National Disaster and Emergency Service (NDES), which was parked with the Department Provincial Affairs but has since been moved to the PNG Defence Force.

The problems plaguing the NDES is well and truly over following the announcement by the World Bank that it was providing a US$50 million loan to the Government of PNG to bolster nationwide disaster preparedness.

The World Bank board approved the loan yesterday, which was part of the K700 loan to PNG in budget support help PNG secure stronger, more reliable returns from its resource wealth, open new opportunities for farmers and small businesses, and strengthening systems that protect communities during disasters and health emergencies.

Known as a Catastrophe Deferred Drawdown Option (Cat DDO), this is the first time PNG has used this mechanism for immediate disaster assistance.

As part of this disaster financing, the government will strengthen national preparedness by establishing real-time health data systems and enhancing search-and-rescue coordination.

The loan as been approved and it is now up to PNG to decide when to draw down the money.

We urge the government to use the money to rebuild the capacity of NDES, and its network to undertaken it job properly and competently to protect the people in times of disasters.

HOW LONG ARE YOU HOLDING US HOSTAGE HERE?

Impose a curfew in Wewak

CAN the East Sepik provincial government and the provincial police command impose a curfew in Wewak and surrounding areas during this Christmas and New Year season?

There is widespread noise and disturbance on the main streets of Wewak in the evenings and early hours of the day.

The road going to the Sepik Timber area, going past the Assemblies of God church, is one area where men and youths are swearing up and down at odd times in the night and morning.

On December 12, a white double-cab car was parked there all night and a group of men had their car audio system going full blast from 10pm until 7am the following day.

There was singing and cheering going on all night. That was disrespectful of them.

The people in that vehicle do not live in the houses nearby and they were causing the noise pollution all night.

They had no respect for working professionals residing on both sides of the road.

The night following on December 13, another group did the same thing again. They started the noise at 8pm.

Nearby another group also got into a swearing session that could have sparked violence.

If these practices or drinking along the road and swearing continue, something nasty would happen soon.

As I am putting these words on paper, people are still shouting and swearing further down the road, towards the settlement area.

The situation there is just one example of the immature attitude of young men and youths in town and surrounding areas.

They cannot have a drinking session quietly without disturbing others. Others like to swear and just walk up and down the road.

This is plain narcissism.

Therefore, the East Sepik provincial administration and

provincial police command should impose a curfew in Wewak and surrounding areas and instruct everyone to be in their homes by 10pm and not sitting by or walking along any road and making noise. All fundraising dances should also be banned. Such activities invite more problems to the community, as also mentioned by residents on social media.

Please, East Sepik administration, be proactive and promote peace and safety in our town and province. Prevent problems. Act now.

Your reader, WEWAK RESIDENT

IN the early 1980s until middle or towards the end of the 1990s each open MP was allocated K250,000 for small infrastructure development at home.

It was known as District Support Improvement Programme or DSIP. Not much when you compare it.

But the Open Electorate MPs did a lot with that for their people.

Firstly, the MPs then did not know how to steal and secondly, Australian kiaps were in many districts and made sure every cent was accounted for.

Today, all our MPs are overnight millionaires.

For most of the current MPs, the millions of kina in their district projects must be a nightmare.

They have never touched or seen this in their lifetime.

Nature has it and because of our human imperfections, greed and temptation are always there, waiting.

The rest is history as we all know.

The essence of this commentary is a small, but important reflection of what it was like then when our seniors, most of whom were uneducated, but tribal leaders elected to the floor of the people’s House.

In many respects, these men were scared of misusing the people’s money meant for projects rather than their pockets.

That is the difference in the current political matrix.

History has it that the MPs from the 1980s and 90s never went to jail for corruption or embezzlement.

PNG’s internal security must be top priority

PAPUA New Guinea’s most serious security threats are not external. They are already within our borders and affecting our people every day.

Crime, corruption, tribal fighting, weak law enforcement, porous borders, law and order, and rising poverty continue to destabilise communities and weaken confidence in the state.

These internal challenges pose a far greater and more immediate risk to national stability than any credible external military threat.

At this stage of our development, costly external security

partnerships promoted by more capable regional countries do not reflect PNG’s real needs.

Such arrangements risk draining limited resources while delivering little improvement in the daily lives of ordinary citizens. When our own systems are fragile, entering complex external defence commitments is both impractical and irresponsible. Advice reportedly provided by the PNG Defence Organisation and some state agencies appears deficient, poorly prioritised, and less than professional. There is no clear or convincing

evidence that PNG faces an external threat more serious than the deep internal insecurity already undermining the nation. Security policy must be guided by facts on the ground, not external pressure or borrowed strategic thinking.

The situation is like trying to field a football team in another country’s competition while our own local league is broken. It may look impressive on paper, but it does not build strength at home, nor does it produce lasting benefits.

Symbolic participation cannot substitute for real national capacitybuilding.

For these reasons, the so-called “Pukpuk Treaty” and similar external security arrangements should be shelved.

PNG urgently needs a new and realistic internal security framework—one focused on anticorruption, poverty reduction, effective policing, border control, justice delivery, and accountable governance in the government and public administration system. These are the true foundations of national security.

Since independence in 1975, successive governments and eight Prime Ministers have failed to

seriously and consistently address PNG’s internal security problems. The consequences are visible today in rising lawlessness, weak institutions, and public frustration. True national security begins at home. Fixing our internal systems must come first.

Only when PNG is internally stable, secure, and well governed can external partnerships add real value rather than deepen existing problems. Internal security is not optional—it is the foundation of our future.

REGINALD RENAGI

NUMUTOKA MOHO

YU TOK

Development void in Waria LLG

THE absence of tangible development in Waria Local-level Government since the election of the MP for Wau-Waria in 2022 raises significant concerns regarding governance and accountability.

Critical infrastructure, such as health facilities, remains in disrepair; for instance, the Garaina health centre urgently needs maintenance, and health workers are sorely lacking.

Furthermore, the council chamber, which serves as the vital meeting

point for councillors to address developmental issues, has been non-functional since its destruction in the early 1980s, contravening Section 23(2) of the Local-level Government Administration Act 1997.

As a resident of Waria LLG, I have observed a troubling lack of progress and development across all 17 wards, prompting a crucial inquiry into the allocation of District Support Grants, particularly those from the Rural Action Program for the years

2023, 2024, and 2025, as mandated by Section 95A(1)(a)(i) of the Organic Law on Provincial Government and Local-level Government.

While funding for the Wau-Garaina road has been sourced largely from the national government’s Connect PNG programme, the residents of Waria LLG deserve clarity and accountability from their MP regarding the glaring deficiencies in service delivery and development.

DN Simeno

Chinese scholarship requirements for PNG students

Dear Ambassador,

I am writing to respectfully express my concern regarding the Chinese Government Scholarship for PNG students (2026/2027 intake).

My concern is the requirement for applicants to pay the China Scholastic Competency Assessment (CSCA) test fee and the exclusion of domestic and international travel costs from the scholarship package.

While the scholarship provides valuable opportunities for Papua New Guinean students to pursue higher education in China, these financial requirements place a heavy burden on disadvantaged families.

For example, my son has achieved a Grade 12 GPA of 3.6, which is well above the minimum requirement of 2.5. He is an excellent candidate academically and highly motivated to study in China. However, as an unemployed parent, I am unable

to meet the costs of the CSCA test fee and international travel.

This situation will prevent my son from applying, despite his strong academic performance and potential.

By comparison, other international scholarship programs — such as the Australian Awards Scholarship, Indonesian Government Scholarship, and UK Chevening Scholarship — cover travel expenses and do not require additional test fees.

These provisions ensure that students from all socio economic backgrounds can participate equally. Without similar support, many capable PNG students will be excluded from the Chinese scholarship program simply due to financial hardship.

I respectfully urge the Embassy to consider:

Waiving or subsidising the

CSCA test fee for PNG applicants. Including international travel costs in the scholarship package.

Exploring ways to make the scholarship more accessible to disadvantaged students, so that financial hardship does not prevent them from pursuing education in China.

Education is a powerful tool for strengthening the relationship between China and Papua New Guinea. Ensuring equal access to scholarships will not only benefit individual students but also contribute to the long term development of our nation and the friendship between our two countries.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your kind consideration and response.

CONCERNED PARENT,

POM

Screen overseas trips by MPs and public servants

IF trips abroad by MPs travelling on Boeing aircrafts - sleeping in world class hotels and taking glimpses of foreign land skyscrapers and other breathtaking sights and sponsored through their electoral development funds, then it is wrong and a misappropriation act.

And this act is just similar as stealing from DSIP funds. Why l say this is criminal act because an overseas trip is not development but mismanagement of DSIP funds. Our judges, police commissioner and other law enforcement agencies must consider this issue (overseas trip) as criminal in nature because

this expense is nothing to do with development aspiration of the electorate, province and the welfare of citizens.

Therefore it (overseas trip) by MPs at the expense of DSIP or PSIP funds is stealing in disguise for personal joy and benefit of what (funds) rightfully belongs to the people.

You take joy ride in a Boeing aircraft while a seriously ill person or a mother in labour carried on a stretcher to the nearest aid post or health centre as a result of unavailability of ambulance.

You enjoy yourself in a world class hotel while more cancer patients are

dying as a result of unavailability of cancer treatment machine.

You enjoy the travelling allowance - getting family presents while school children are sitting under bush material roof or studying under old and rusted roof.

The list goes on for MPs goodies and the bad and ugly for the constituent people and their children. I see this as something serious and disgusting year in - year out of MPs overseas trips that are taken, especially at the expense of the people’s DSIP and PSIP money.

PAUL MINGA , Binz Ambang village

GET POLICE ON THE BEAT

I am a very lucky Papua New Guinean who manages to travel the world and visit only place heard of in geography lessons.

I venture about in many large cities containing in many cases several million people and feel not only safe in doing so but also never feel unprotected by the local laws.

Returning home every year, it has become more and more noticeable of the lack of representation of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary walking the ‘beat’ or being visible.

Is the new community policing all about removing the constabulary from visibility unless you’re a high profile public servant

RESOURCE PROJECT BONUS

The recent amendment to section 98 of the Organic Law on Provincial and Local Level Governments which will allow DDAs to receive benefits from resource projects is not good. It will deprive, the resource owners their rights, to fully benefit from their own resources. This is what I call daylight robbery by the Government,on resource owners funds benefits. Who is DDA here. DDA does not own the resources. The resources,all around

www.postcourier.com.pg

or politician.

The PNG tourist trade will never take flight and generate income unless the law and order issue is managed. In all the countries I visit, both West and East I always notice foot police, manned police boxes or even police of bicycles mingling with the people and being accessible to all. I don’t just mean the customary road blocks or incident reposes just ‘coppers’ walking the beat and being present. Alas, it seems the RPNGPC become so risk adversed in their own society on the actual disorder that seems to reign supreme.

Papua New Guinea,are resources, rightfully belongs to the people.Is the Government, in it’s right state of mind, to do such amendments.These amendments are uncalled for.Let, whatever benefits from, our peoples resources,must rightfully be given back to our people.The Government of today and tomorrow,must not rob our people.

Personal interest over public interest

IN THE corporate world, prudent budget management and control ensures that income generating capacity is not threatened by excessive spending on overheads exceeding 10 percent of the overall budget.

It ensures that a firm sustains its operations as a going concern.

President Donald Trump, the current president of the United States of America, came from a corporate world with good management and governance experience, and is doing just that. His strategy of curbing public spending and downsizing public administration is intended to save public resources which can be

directed to priority areas that will contribute to the improvement in the welfare of the general population. For Papua New Guinea (PNG), it is vastly different. Big man mentality and personal interest and prestige walk the talk of public life. They govern everything that we individuals do in private and public life. In other words, a culture of strong personal interest has emerged and has overtaken a culture of public interest that existed long before colonisation of PNG.

CONCERNED CITIZEN

WORLD NOMAD

TOM NICK GOMAROSINA FANE NADE VILLAGE, FERGUSSON ISLAND, MILNE BAY PROVINCE

Police recruitment for NCD, Central and Gulf now open

BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA

THE Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) has officially launched its 2026 Regular Recruit Training drive, calling on eligible young Papua New Guineans from the National Capital District, Central and Gulf provinces to apply.

Police Commissioner David Manning said the recruitment is part of a broader government directive to strengthen police manpower in line with PNG Vision 2050, the MediumTerm Development Plan and the RPNGC Corporate Plan 2021-2030.

“This recruitment supports our commitment to building a professional, capable and disciplined police force that can

meet the growing law and order challenges of a modernising Papua New Guinea,” he said.

Under the current call-out, applicants must be PNG citizens aged between 20 and 30 years, with a minimum of Grade 12 education and at least “C” grades in English and Mathematics. Applicants must also meet strict physical and medical fitness standards and have no criminal record.

The RPNGC has set minimum height requirements of 158 centimetres for females and 160 centimetres for males, and applicants must demonstrate sound English speaking and writing skills.

In addition to new recruits, the Constabulary has also opened

applications to trained reservists with more than three years of continuous service, providing an opportunity for experienced personnel to transition into regular service. Applications will only be accepted online through the official RPNGC website, with all required documents uploaded as a single PDF file. Hard-copy submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances.

The deadline for applications is Friday, January 9, 2026, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview.

Mr Manning said the recruitment drive was deliberately limited to NCD, Central and Gulf provinces, with a nationwide intake to be

announced at a later date.

“This is a targeted recruitment round. Applicants from other provinces are advised that a separate national call-out will be made in due course,” he said.

The RPNGC has encouraged eligible young men and women to take up the opportunity, stressing that the organisation promotes equal employment opportunities and is seeking disciplined, committed and service-oriented citizens to join its ranks.

For further information, applicants can contact the RPNGC Recruitment Section at Police Headquarters during official working hours.

The recruitment notice was approved on December 1, 2025.

RPNGC shifts fully to online recruitment

BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA

THE Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary has completed its 2025 police recruitment exercise with a major reform to the process ––moving fully to an online application system to tighten screening and eliminate fraud.

Police said the digital recruitment portal, introduced during this year’s intake, has strengthened transparency and allowed real-time verification of applicant records, marking a significant shift in how future intakes will be managed.

The second and final batch of recruitment for 2025 covered applicants from the Highlands and New Guinea Islands regions, following an overwhelming response that saw the intake split into two phases. Recruits from the Southern and Mamose regions are already undergoing training at the National Centre of Excellence at Bomana, while successful candidates from the Highlands and NGI will commence training early next year. A total of 2267 candidates from the Highlands and NGI regions were shortlisted for interview, including 1754 from the Highlands and 513 from the NGI provinces.

However, police confirmed that a significant number of shortlisted applicants were ruled out after failing to report for interviews, not meeting minimum height requirements or submitting incomplete documentation.

The RPNGC said it worked closely with the Department of Education, National Identification Office and Civil Registry to verify academic records and identity documents, resulting in the immediate disquaification of applicants found to be using fake certificates. While final numbers are still subject to character and background checks, police said the confirmed list of trainees will be released in a separate statement. The Constabulary has advised applicants to prepare genuine documents ahead of the next national recruitment call-out in December 2026.

BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA

KUMUL Petroleum Holdings Limited has positioned itself well to rewrite Papua New Guinea’s gas story, unveiling a bold Western Gulf development push that senior officials say, will finally unlock more than a decade’s worth of stranded fields across the Papuan Basin.

In a detailed presentation at the PNG CORE Investment Week in Sydney, Kumul Petroleum laid out what it calls a “gas aggregation strategy” a plan that groups 17 stranded discoveries into a single development pathway, lowering costs and opening the door to longdelayed commercialisation.

For years, Ketu, Elevala, Ubuntu, Pandora, Kimu and others sat untouched, being too small individually to stand on their own, yet too valuable to ignore.

This week, that changed, with Kumul executives telling investors that the company has already completed major groundwork: 80 kilometres of seismic across Barikewa and Kimu, gas resource certification, and pre-FEED studies for a 1.5 mtpa floating LNG (FLNG) development — a first for the

national oil company.

“This is the most aggressive and focused subsurface and commercial program ever undertaken by a PNG national petroleum company,” one senior official said, pointing to the seismic campaign that mobilised 1,090 workers, recorded over 729,400 man-hours and achieved a perfect safety record with zero fatalities or major incidents.

The four anchor fields Barikewa, Kimu, Uramu and Pandora form the backbone of what is now being referred to as the Western Gulf Fields Development, or Kumul LNG. Kumul has confirmed that resource recertification is underway, with upgraded numbers expected as early as the first quarter of 2026. Encouraging new geological data suggests upside potential, particularly offshore.

At the centre of the plan is the FLNG option, with pre-FEED completed in late 2025. FLNG is seen as the most viable solution for scattered gas fields, providing a single offshore processing and export hub.

“This will allow PNG to monetise discoveries that have remained dormant for decades,” another official said.

BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA

HELA Province has taken a decisive step toward reshaping its energy future, signing a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ExxonMobil PNG to progress the proposed Hela Hydro Project.

The agreement was signed in Sydney during the PNG Investment Week by Hela Governor Philip Undialu and ExxonMobil PNG managing director and chairman Dinesh Sivasamboo, confirming that the province is serious about transitioning its energy supply and securing long-term industrial

THE Papua New Guinea Government has issued an open invitation to global financiers and development partners- “align your project capital with the nation’s K20 billion Connect PNG infrastructure program to unlock immediate, shared economic returns.”

During a presentation outlining the massive, legislated 20-year roadmap, Secretary for Works and Highways Gibson Holemba said “government emphasised that while it is securing long-term funding

customers.

Governor Undialu described the MoU as a critical confidence-builder for the project that aligns Hela’s ambition with the needs of major industrial players operating in the province.

“The MoU signifies ExxonMobil’s willingness to explore transitioning from its current gas-powered generation at the Hides Gas Conditioning Plant to clean, reliable and cost-effective hydropower once the project is completed,” Mr Undialu said.

He said the shift would not only support decarbonisation efforts but would preserve more natural

for the road network, successful investment in PNG’s resource, energy, and special economic zones (SEZs) hinges directly on private sector partnership in shareduse corridors. PNG is open for business. But investment flourishes where roads exist,” he told the international business community. Align your project infrastructure with Connect PNG corridors. Co-invest in shared-use roads, bridges, ports, and energy corridors. Work with Government to open new

gas for LNG export, creating greater long-term value for joint venture partners, the State and landowners. For Hela, securing ExxonMobil as a potential future off-taker boosts the project’s commercial credibility a crucial factor for any major hydro development.

“Engaging large industrial consumers such as ExxonMobil strengthens the commercial viability of the project and lays the foundation for the proposed hydro project to get off the ground,” Mr Undialu said. The province is now expected to accelerate its technical and financing work as it seeks to move the project into the next phase.

SEZs and resource frontiers.

Connect PNG is formally legislated through the Connect PNG Implementation & Funding Act 2021, securing 5.6 per cent of the national budget annually over two decades. This K20 billion commitment moves beyond simple maintenance, establishing a comprehensive national connectivity and economic transformation strategy aimed at addressing the estimated K750 million the economy loses each year.”

Assistant Commissioner of Police Training Chief Superintendent Silva Sika inspecting the training commandant’s parade last Friday at the Bomana Police National School of Excellence, Port Moresby. PICTURE: TARAMI LEGEI.

Commander’s parade ends year 2025

THE Papua New Guinea Defence Force marked the end of operations in 2025 with the Chief of Defence Force end of year parade last Friday at Murray Barracks, Port Moresby.

The parade was done by all three units of the force -- land, sea and air elements -- to mark the end of the 2025 operations year.

Chief of Defence Force Rear

Admiral Philip Polewara said that the year has been an impactful and stressful year for the force and the nation, however, the force actively positioned itself to meet such challenges.

“This year has been an impactful and stressful year for

the Papua New Guinea Defence Force and for our nation.

“The operational and strategic landscape around us is rapidly evolving, and the PNGDF is actively positioning itself to meet these challenges.

“This intent is clearly demonstrated by the significant Defence Agreements witnesses this year,” he said.

RADM Polewara highlighted the significant Defence Agreements such as the Pukpuk Treaty between PNG and Australia, the trilateral meetings of Defence ministers from Indonesia, Australia and PNG, and the continuation of the Defence Cooperation Agreement with the United States.

“These initiatives…clearly highlight the PNG Defence Force commitment to grow its capacity and discharge its duties effectively, both within in Papua New Guinea and in the near region first, and far regions in the future.

“The impact of these agreements will be far-reaching and will shape our Defence posture for years to come,”

RADM Polewara said.

He added that the events that was successfully done this year revealed the PNGDF ability to plan and execute complex operations and underscored the strength of the relationships of the force with its partners in the region that share the same values and ideals.

RADM Polewara thanked the partners and bilateral partners that have supported and contributed to the force; the Australian Defence Force, the United States through the INDOPACOM, the New Zealand Defence Force, the United Kingdom, the Japanese Self Defence Force, the Indian Military, the France Armed Force in New Caledonia, Indonesia, China and Israeli Defence Attaché.

“Our partners have supported us exceptionally well, and I must acknowledge their valuable contributions…and our other bilateral partners have also committed forces and assisted this year,” RADM Polewara said.

Polewara: Stay healthy, fit

Stories BY TANISHA SASSAH

THE Papua New Guinea Defence Force continues to play a vital role in the country’s security and the Chief of Defence Force Rear Admiral Philip Polewara reminded the force to remain healthy and fit last Friday during the Chief of Defence Force end of year parade at Murray Barracks, Port Moresby.

“As I always emphasise, stay healthy and fit, eat well and get plenty of rest. Our line of work is demanding and I expect you all to maintain your health and fitness,” he said.

He added that every year the government tasks the PNGDF to support security efforts particularly in the highlands and staying fit and healthy is vital in the force.

“This year was no exception, our personnel continue to execute these tasks diligently and effectively, despite logistical and funding constraints,” he said.

Since the introduction of the lifestyle policy in the force, RADM Polewara said that they have done well in the year with

observing and implementing the policy, and the service personnel have shown concerns in their wellbeing, there have been reduced fatalities related to lifestyle.

“We also have an established clinic at FSB specifically for lifestyle disease, and it will be rolled out to other units.

“I thank Australian Defence Force and the United States military for your support in this area, lifestyle disease overrun

us because our physical training standards have dropped,” he said.

RADM Polewara said that any facilities that will not contribute to the health of the soldiers will be closed.

“There are facilities in the PNGDF that do not support our lifestyle policy and they must go.

“The bowling club is now closed until further notice, if there is no plan for re-location

it must be demolished,” he said.

He added that the Kemane Sportsman Bar will also be temporarily closed and reassigned to a coffee shop, health shop, and a gift shop.

RADM Polewara thanked the sailors, airmen and women, soldiers, logistics team, trainers, sappers and everyone for a job well done in 2025.

“Thank you for serving your people and the country well,” he said.

Milne Bay to use 60 police personnel in festive operations

MORE than 60 police officers have been deployed for the festive season operations in Milne Bay Province after the launching of the operations last Friday in Alotau. Milne Bay Provincial Police Commander Benjamin Kua launched the operation and deployed more than 60 police officers to respective tasking throughout the province to

ensure the people of Milne Bay and visitors into province to enjoy the celebrations with their families without disturbances.

“The police will be in full force to ensure the province is safe. I must warn any gang group or individual who thinks you can do anything by robbing our people or anything bad. Now it's time to reflect on the birth

of Yesu and celebrate with compassion and share gifts with love ones,” he said. PPC Kua also added that those prisoners who have escaped are to return back voluntarily for their safety.

“I also appeal to the prisoners who escaped from Giligili jail and Alotau police station to surrender voluntarily to me, PPC for your own safety.

“In this regard I call on all responsible leaders, parents and relatives of the escapee to bring them to where they are.

“It is not safe nowadays so they must surrender now or never,” he said.

“I thank everyone for working together to fight crime in the province and we will continue to better next year; I wish everyone Merry Christmas.”

PNGDF Soldiers marching during the Chief of Defence Force end of year parade last Friday at Murray Barracks. PICTURES: PNGDF MEDIA

PNGDF sailors marching during the Chief of Defence Force end of year parade last Friday at Murray Barracks.

Partnership delivers clean water, boosts learning

FOR many children across Morobe province, the school day begins with the challenge of finding clean water.

In most rural communities, students walk long distances and rely on unsafe water sources, affecting their health, well-being, and ability to learn.

The lack of water often leads to missed lessons, poor hygiene, and learning environments that fall short of what every child deserves.

This situation is now changing.

Through the Morobe Water Security Project, a partnership between the Australian government and the Morobe provincial

administration, 98 rainwater tanks with mini-structured halls have been installed to provide clean, safe drinking water in 35 elementary schools across seven districts.

Last week, the Australian ConsulGeneral Lae, Brenton Kanowski, handed over water tanks and desks to Kaisenik Elementary, Mainyanda Elementary, and Mangki Elementary in the Bulolo and WauWaria Districts.

Access to clean water is essential to keeping children healthy and making sure students don’t have to walk long distances to fetch water and miss valuable learning time.

These small but important facilities, including the new desks, are part of Australia's support in creating safer, better learning environments and improve conditions for children, teachers and surrounding communities.

Representing the Morobe administration, the Director of National Functions, Fiona Gesa said: “We appreciate the continued partnership and support from the Australian Government.

“I encourage students, teachers, and community members to take ownership of these new facilities and ensure they are well cared for.”

The Morobe Provincial Governance committee, consisting of the provincial administration, Provincial Health Authority, Provincial Division of Education, civil society organisations, and partners, guided site selection, planning, and oversight to ensure strong local ownership and alignment with community priorities. This initiative demonstrates Australia’s support for locally led, co-investment partnerships that support provinces in delivering resilient, communitycentred infrastructure and enhancing children’s learning, health, and future opportunities.

THE Light for Learning project (Phase 3) is now complete, opening opportunities for remote communities in Huon-Gulf District, Morobe Province.

The project, implemented by the Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF) and Australia’s Pawarim Komuniti Partnerships (PKP) Program, installed solar energy systems for more than 8000 homes and almost 300 community facilities in 37 of the district’s remotest villages.

Minister for Community Development, Religion and Youth, Jason Peter, joined Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor Dr Cate Rogers in Morobe Province to celebrate completion of the project.

“This project is transformative. By lighting up homes and powering devices, solar power is enabling children to study independently at home after dark – to study for as long as they wish; to reach as far as their talents take them,” said Dr Rogers.

“Australia is proud to support the Light for Learning project as it continues to make sustainable improvements to teaching and learning for children in PNG’s remotest communities.”

The project’s locally led, wholeof-community approach ensured that solar systems were distributed to every household and every community facility in every participating village.

Mr Peter said the project is transformational.

“Bringing clean, affordable electricity to remote villages matters. It empowers and transforms,” he said.

“But it is hard; it requires cooperation, trust and commitment from everyone involved. I want to thank all the project partners for their efforts – the Kokoda Track Foundation, the Salamaua and Morobe Rural Governments and the participating communities.

“The Project’s achievements are yours.”

The ongoing support of the community will be vital to the project’s sustainability and longterm success.

The project trained 304 local solar champions to carry out maintenance on the new solar systems with support from a Solar Hub – a onestop-shop set up in Buakap Village to provide assistance and spare parts.

A student assists Consul-General Brenton Kanowski to cut the ribbon for the official handover of the water structure. PICTURE: AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSION

Church donates hygiene kit to Gerehu hospital

BY WILLIAMLUKE JR

THE Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has donated 1000 hospital hygiene kits to mothers and children at Gerehu General Hospital in the National Capital District .

The donation was received by the hospital management, who praised the church's ongoing commitment to community health in NCD.

Acting hospital manager, Dr Jerry Tanumei, expressed his gratitude to Bret Dandoy and his wife, with a team youths from the church.

“I want to thank the Church of

Latter-day Saints for coming in and being a blessing to the mothers and children,” Dr Tanumei said.

The kits were distributed to the patients at its paediatric and medical wards, and will also be shared with the Metoreia Urban Health Centre.

“Most of the patients who access services at the hospital come from marginalised places where they cannot afford services,” he said.

“That's where churches like the Church of Latter-day Saints come in. It is a blessing for them.

“It puts a smile and blesses the mothers and children, and everyone else.”

This recent donation is part

of a progressive and sustained engagement between the Church and the NCD Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA).

Dr Tanumei noted that the church has invested in and assisted with physical infrastructure at the hospital as well.

“Church of Latter-day Saints has donated this site that is over the children's outpatient, also the waiting shelter that is over the adult outpatient.”

He concluded by saying that the church has invested and assisted the delivery of health services here at Gerehu General Hospital and has come again and done something for the community.

PNG health workers boost child emergency care skills

High Commission

DOCTORS and nurses working with critically ill and injured children across PNG have strengthened their skills through the Advance Paediatric Life Support Project (APLS).

The project has trained more than 240 health workers in Port Moresby, Lae and Goroka since 2018, supported by the Australian Government.

To complement this training, the APLS project team recently procured 13 multipurpose monitors from a local provider to use in wards at Port Moresby

handing over the monitors to

General Hospital and other provincial hospitals.

By purchasing the monitors locally, the Australian Government continues to demonstrate its commitment to ensure its development assistance supports PNG’s economy.

The APLS course includes teaching clinicians the use of vital signs monitors to guide resuscitation and clinical decision making in paediatric emergencies. These monitors will also be

used to support the running of 3-day real-life scenario training provided by the APLS project.

The Australian Government remains committed to working in partnership with the Government of PNG to improve the health outcomes for women and children across the country. This support is possible through the longstanding partnership between the Port Moresby General Hospital and Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS), with Australian Government funding.

Australian

representative

Port Moresby General Hospital’s Director of Medical Services, Dr Sobi

Road works to begin

NCD and landowners reach truce

BY CHARLOTTE SERE

CONSTRUCTION for the new road connecting Poreporena Freeway to Badili roundabout will start soon after a truce was made between the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) and the customary landowners of the concerned land.

The new road will start from Burns Peak through the back of Ranuguri settlement, cutting through the hills of Vanama, siding across the Konedobu Water PNG Southern Cross down to Talai and to Badili Roundabout.

This road project was initially launched in March this year and construction was set to commence in April, however, due to land disputed by customary landowners, the project was delayed.

At the customary ceremony on Tuesday, NCD Governor Powes Parkop said that he was of the opinion that the disputed land was state land, but after proper

consultation with the landowners, a truce was made and the road project will progress.

Marking this agreement and partnership, pigs, local food and cash were given to the three landowning groups in appreciation for allowing the city’s development project to unfold on their customary land.

Governor Parkop said that as construction commences, the commission will proceed to conduct proper survey of the land and pay appropriate compensation to the landowners for the land to be acquired for the project.

“We will do proper surveying and pay compensation for the for the road corridor in the city,” he said.

“It will first be formalised by our board but I want to assure you all that it will happen.

“Our contractors have been ready since August, but we have delayed the actual construction to show our deepest respects to you.”

He said that NCDC will work

closely with the landowners and ensure the remaining land is surveyed, registered and obtain titles so landowners can benefit from their own land.

He also warned that landowners should refrain from selling their land as it is illegal, instead, he encouraged them to do proper surveying, obtain land titles and enter into better development deals with investors and developers.

“This way they and their future generations will benefit from the land,” he said.

Mr Parkop assured the landowners that he will ensure that the people of Motu Koita will always be a part of the development unfolding in the city.

“Where the roads go, development follows.”

FACT BOX:

This road project will be delivered through a partnership between NCDC, Grace City Company and the China Harbour Engineering Construction company.

Teachers praised for job well done

BY ROBERT APALA UPNG journalism student

THE Papua New Guinea Teachers Association closed the year with a meeting highlighting issues that will benefit teachers around the country.

President of the PNG Teachers Association Aita Sanangkepe said: “Let’s forget about the past and look forward to good things to come, recently some of our submissions have been approved.”

Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission Mike Ugaia said everyone needs to work together to achieve what is needed.

“Teachers make up the biggest single highest employees in this land and we are six times bigger

than the three disciplines put together. Almost 11,000 plus more in the country and we take care of them. Our role as an association and commission is a critical one because we are dealing with such a big number,” Mr Ugaia said.

“Most of the top performing schools in the country is the result of teachers commitment and effort to get such good results and I thank the hardworking teachers out there for doing a tremendous job.”

He said working together will make a difference because teachers build nations, even in the most remotest part of the country.

“When you think there is no sign of Government, a single teacher will be there and that is the government serving the people.”

Ward members yet to be sworn in

BY MARK TALIA

CENTRAL Province has yet to swear in all the 285 ward councillors –– 51 from Kairuku, 51 from Abau, 91 from Rigo and 56 from Hiri-Koiari and 36 from Goilala.

Bereina station witnessed the swearing in of the 51 ward councillors from Kairuku district by Central Provincial Magistrate Alex Palangi and assisted by Central Province legal officer Kila Maino.

The new Kairuku LLG President Terence Rau said: “I wish to make a special acknowledgement to my 22 ward councillors of Kairuku and also to the 51 councillors of Kairuku district who have emerged successfully in the recent local level government elections.

“Your victory represents more than your personal achievement. They are the testimonies and show of confidence from your people.

“You have been entrusted with the sacred responsibility to lead, protect and to elevate your ward communities. To each councillor, I look forward to working with you and together we must translate our people's aspirations into tangible outcomes that they can seek and benefit from their everyday lives.

“But let me speak with absolute clarity that accountability,

transparency and honesty begin today and now, from this very moment.

“For far too long, necessary delays, incomplete projects, public funds being misused and administrative shortcomings have held our district from progressing. Our people rightfully deserve.

“This chapter closes today as we cannot afford another year of lost opportunities and so from today onwards, we will commit to a leadership culture defined by responsibility, efficiency and integrity.

“I further extend my sincere congratulations to our Mekeo President Eddie Kekele and President of Kuni Ignatius Aua, your success is also the success of your people.

“I am honoured to stand beside you as a partner in leadership as now we do not stand as isolated presidents from different perspectives.

“We stand as collective voice united with the same shared mission to uplift our history as young leaders, emerging leaders within a political landscape, we these presidents, three presidents from Kuni, Mekeo and Kairuku recognise the immense responsibility carried by our Member for Kairuku and Minister for Energy Peter Isoaimo.”

Landowner Terence Tamarua receiving the banana from NCD Governor Powes Parkop while other landowners and city officials look on.

The 20 ward councillors of Kairuku LLG swearing in by Central Provincial Magistrate Alex Palangi and assisted by Central Provincial legal Officer KIla Maino at Bereina station. PICTURE: MARK TALIA.

Ganai claims East Sepik deputy governor’s seat

Delayed, criticised, and even challenged in court, the Local Level Government (LLG) elections are now complete democracy upheld and justice prevailed.

In Wewak, the East Sepik Provincial Assembly sat in full strength on Friday, 12 December 2025, for the official swearing-in of its 28 LLG Presidents, culminating in the unopposed nomination of Mr Manuel Ganai, pictured, as Deputy Governor. Mr Ganai is the President of West Yangoru LLG.

Assembly Chairman and East Sepik Governor, Allan Bird, allowed ample time for congratulatory speeches and expressions of opinion from each of the Presidents, most of whom are first-timers.

In his inaugural remarks prior to taking his oath of allegiance/ office, Deputy Governor-elect Ganai outlined Unity and Coordination: Ganai committed to working closely with Governor Bird and all six MPs for the equitable distribution of revenue to all 667 wards and 28 LLGs, mirroring

provincial governance priorities on fair resource allocation. “You are here to make a difference,” Ganai told his colleague Presidents.

Economic Focus ("Wok Didiman"): He placed emphasis on agriculture, which is aligned with East Sepik Province's (ESP) known strengths (cocoa, vanilla) and broader national calls for LLGdriven development. Governor Bird has publicly advocated for stronger autonomy and fair funding to drive provincial development outcomes.

Deputy Governor Rotation:The call to rotate and share the Deputy Governor role among all LLGs aims to counter concentration of power in Wewak/Yangoru and broaden representational equity, consistent with ESP’s push for inclusive provincial governance.

National Commitments: Ganai appealed to the Prime Minister to release outstanding funds to East Sepik, reflecting persistent cash flow and liquidity stresses recognised provincially, which have led to service delivery strains and project delays.

Law and Order Realism: He acknowledged that there is “no miracle” solution but stressed the urgency of addressing ongoing concerns about robberies, violence, and social breakdown impacting provincial development and service access.A budget report in 2012 indicated East Sepik’s internal revenue was K9.34 million, a baseline that may have increased due to inflation and economic growth.

ESP provincial report

THE EAST Sepik Provincial Government Report indicates major concern for the government and people.

In respect to budgetary allocation, the ESP has not received its full budgetary allocation of K370 million in the 2025 fiscal year.

The report indicates that the provincial government is yet to receive K100 million of the budgetary allocation and that has affected service delivery in the province.

East Sepik Provincial Grants Record indicates that in; 2024 - The Budgetary allocation was K326.8 million (Actual) 2025 - The Budgetary allocation was K370 million (Estimate)- yet to receive K100,000 2026 -The recent budgetary appropriation was K370 million (Estimate)

In relation to the Human Development Index (HDI) Ranking- the HDI Position for East Sepik’ in 2023 was at 0.571, placing it in the “medium human development” tier and ranking 16th nationally, slightly below the national average of 0.576.

In respect to service performancethe health system performance reports highlight capacity and staffing gaps across provinces. Furthermore,ESP’s districts often perform below the PNG average on learning outcomes, indicating multi-sector constraints.

In relation to Priority projects and outstanding Infrastructure or Service Issues, the provincial report indicates that the major

infrastructure development in the province is the upgrading and maintenance of the Boram Airport. Creek diversion and runway and terminal works progressed to tendering in 2024–2025, with ADB financing conditions guiding environmental compliance.

According to Governor Alla Bird the terminal tender is with the National Airports Corporation (NAC) as of early 2025.

The next major infrastructure development is the Maprik’s Hayfield Airport, and major upgrade and completion of the work is currently outstanding.

The report further indicates that the Boram Hospital staffing is a major issue, The Provincial Health Authority (PHA) reported in 2023 underscores staffing and service delivery challenges, supporting claims of unfilled positions hindering care.

The precise figure of “700+” vacancies require confirmation against PHA Human Resource data.

The report also indicates that recurrent issues, such as power outages in Wewak, are consistent with broader ESP service constraints and frequently cited in local reporting as impacting business and households. e report indicated a Law and Order crises in the province with issues like highway robberies, violent incidents (including wire catapult injuries), village burnings tied to ethnic conflict, and moral decay reflect the province’s urgent security and social cohesion challenges.

Doctor expands medical services

A MEDICAL practitioner, Dr Tara Susuke, and his life partner, Fenny, have enhanced their service with a new medical facility in the heart of Kainantu, Eastern Highlands Province.

Their humble beginning as Kainantu Medical Centre on October 20, 2006, “not for money but to serve” has transited to Enena Medical Service Limited housed in a medically tailored Susuke Haus, a contemporary set-up not only highlighting but also setting the contemporary for new buildings in Kainantu, Goroka and other district stations.

The medically tailored building is conveniently constructed at the bus stop enroute to Goroka along the Highlands Highway for easy access by casualties resulting from road accidents as well, with a plan for a medevac ambulance to response to emergency cases.

Its top floor features spacious patient waiting bay in front of the reception counter, at the back of which is a dispensary store area and secured rooms for administration, manager, doctors’ consultation and diagnosis, treatment, observation, audiometry, pantry, dental treatment, radiology/scanning with high-tech X-ray machine and pathology laboratory on the top floor and emergency room and pharmacy on the ground floor.

Governor Simon Sia joined the people of Kainantu and the others from the neighbouring OburaWonenara, Okapa and Henganofi districts within the province and the others from the Morobe’s Markham and the Madang’s MiddleRamu districts to grace the occasion with his presence and words of congratulation to Dr Susuke and his family for this enhanced establishment to take care of their health.

Representatives from business communities graced the occasion

with their presence.

Among them were the provincial lands officer Eric Hinome and building board chairman, Andrew Korarome Jr, whose attendance signified the satisfaction of the lands and physical planning requirements with their attendance, punctuated it with the Building Board’s certificate presented to Dr Susuke.

Mr Korarome Jr stressed that the new building, along with the Fresh Produce Development Agency technical training centre and its seeds laboratory set a standard that is expected to be met by new buildings in Kainantu and Goroka as well as the other district stations going forward. In commending Dr Susuke, the officer in charge of the Kainantu District Hospital, Dr Joseph Amos, said that such an establishment complements the public health service in line with the government’s public-private partnership policy.

Dr Susuke acknowledged the people, the BSP Kainantu branch,

the K92 Mine and others for their trust in his service.

He said their trust in his service has brought him and his wife, a nurse by profession, from a humble beginning 20 years ago to the new set up manned with specialist doctors and nurses on two shifts daily – 8am to 4pm and 4pm to 10pm.

He also thanked the local contractor and an accounting consultant, also a local, for their support. His medical consultation fee is K20 which, Governor Sia said, was very cheap and urged all to have medical check routinely.

Dr Susuke also appealed to appealed to other local professionals to set up their consultancy services in Kainantu.

“Kainantu is a busy town and needs other professional services as well,” he said.

“The businesses and the people need professional services, so why not our local lawyers and accountants come and set up their services here as well?”

Newly elected LLG leaders warned

BY NELSON JOE

JAMES Sipa, adviser of the Eastern Highlands’ district and local level government affairs, has warned the newly elected third level government leaders to remain in their respective areas and serve their people or be put off the payroll.

Mr Sipa sounded this warning after the swearing-in of six ward members, who then elected ward three member, Michael Lienama, as president of Unggai local level government of Unggai-Bena District

Kainantu

BY NELSON JOE

needs professional services

MEDICAL practitioner, Dr Tara Susuke, has appealed to the local elites to set up their professional consultation branches in Kainantu, Eastern Highlands Province.

He made this appeal during the opening ceremony of his clinic, Enena Medical Service Limited housed in Susuke Haus specifically constructed for health service.

Speaking at on the occasion in Kainantu on Thursday, he said: “If you are a lawyer, come and put up a law firm here. I need a lawyer just like I need my brother Gabi Tika, an accountant I have to get from Port Moresby to look into my books for tax, pays and other purposes and for business plan because we don’t have an accounting consultant here. We have many business people here and they need business ideas. Come here and serve them.”

The township, is being accessed by the people from Kainantu, OburaWonenara, Henganofi and Okapa districts within the province and others from the Morobe’s Markham and the Madang’s Middle-Ramu districts, as well as the commuters of the Highlands Highway.

Joining them are the working-class people with their families serving at Ramu hydro project 1 (Yonki), the agricultural institutions in Aiyura, Arona, Gusap and Ramu and Markham valleys, the K92 Mine, the learning institutions and business houses.

Those districts also host a good number of coffee plantations. All these make Kainantu the biggest economic contributor to the province.

The new building joins the Fresh Produce Development Agency training centre with its seeds laboratory in giving the township a new look, gradually transforming from its tag as a “cowboy town”, reflecting this standard.

Dr Tara, also a local, appealed to his elite colleges in other professions to consider boosting this transformation through their services to the people in the district and the general public as well. He said his new and enhanced set up, after a humble beginning 20 years ago, is a 2025 Christmas gift to the people of Kainantu, OburaWonenara, Henganofi and Okapa district within the province and others from the Morobe’s Markham and Madang’s Middle-Ramu districts and the general public, especially the commuters of the Highlands Highway. He said his latest establishment is the trust in his service by the people and presented it as a 2025 Christmas gift back to the people, assuring that the clinic has been enhanced not for money but to serve, as has been its focus since its humble beginning.

“Merry Christmas to you all and I present this medical centre as a Christmas gift to the people of Kainantu, Obura-Wonenara and everyone else and,” he said.

School farewells principal

THE Kerowagi Secondary School in Chimbu Province last week farewelled its departing principal, Samuel Kono.

The locals from the nearby communities, in numbers, joined the 61 teachers, 57 ancillary staff and 2235 students in a low key but significant farewell program on Wednesday where they acknowledged his contributions to the school and the personal development of many Chimbu elites.

The head of social science, Steven Kuglame, on behalf of the school, described Mr Kono as a mentor, role model and good administrator who served with Integrity for the last 13 years, setting it to become one of the provincial schools of excellence.

“All good things transpired under his leadership and his term and it is very hard enough to thank him for his total commitment, time and effort put behind to transform the

institution,” Mr Kuglame said, adding that Mr Kono’s has left behind a shoe to fill.

Mr Kono said all the teachers are professionals and they will give their best, if they are taken care of, including the school and everyone and everything within its premises.

“Teachers are professionals and many of them leave their family members, community and comfort zone just to educate our children and we have a huge responsibility to ensure their wellbeing, welfare, safety and work with them,” he said.

“When you look after the teachers well, you will get best teachers and the teachers will give all their best to our children so at the end of academic term will achieve quality results.”

He said he was passionate about teaching and does not regret choosing this profession, rather giving his best wherever he is posted to.

Development Authority on Tuesday in Goroka.

“I will recommend to the relevant State authorities for you to be put off the payroll, if I see you at the Suave or Karakuk markets on odd days frequently,” he said.

He said like the others throughout the country, the province’s 287 ward members including the 25 LLG presidents, are privileged to be on the government payroll, unlike in the past.

“The ward members before you were not on government payroll but

they served their people faithfully,” he said. But now, you are on the payroll. It is a privilege and it comes with your mandate to serve people who voted you, compared to the working class people earning their positions because of their qualifications.”

“So stay with the people in your areas and serve them because your pay comes from their tax contributions.” He congratulated them and said he looked forwarding to working with them through their LLG managers going forward.

Eastern Highlands provincial district and local level government affairs advisor James Sipa, giving his address after the election of ward three member Michael Lienama as president of Unggai LLG of Unggai-Bena District Development Authority. PICTURE: NELSON JOE

The Kerowagi Secondary School community farewelling principal Samuel Kono with gifts. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

Dr Tara Susuke (centre) flanked by his wife Fenny and Eastern Highlands governor Simon Sia and other dignitaries getting ready for ribbon cutting to mark the opening of Enena Medical Service Ltd in Kainantu. PICTURE: NELSON JOE

Goodman Fielder rewards top five students in Hahela primary

school

BY NICOLLETTE HIRIATS

GOODMAN Fielder PNG has sponsored the top five students of Hahela Primary School in Buka through its Skel Rice School Program.

With support from school headmaster John Matiha, the business sponsored K3000 to assist five students to help pay Grade nine tuition fees in 2026 academic year.

The dux of the year also received K500 as the Skel school dux Award recipient in Hahela Primary School.

The top five students, ranked from 5th to 1st based on internal and external exam marks, are:

5th: Sahin Djamilla, 4th: Samo Joshane; 3rd: Edenara Jarmalh; 2nd: Leilani Tukana and 1st (Dux): Chaves Junior Kora

Chavis Junior Kora scored the highest in the school and region, with a perfect 50/50 in maths in the national exam.

NGI Regional manager Brandon Basse said this is not a one-off event.

The Skel Rice promotion will continue in 2026 and expand to other schools in Bougainville and the rest of the New Guinea Islands Region. Hahela Primary is the first school in the region to benefit.

He said, GFI plans to partner with more schools in supporting students.

This is the company’s first initiative in the NGI Region and shows its ongoing commitment.

The headmaster of Hahela Primary School, John Matiha, thanked Goodman Fielders and PNG Vodafone Company for their generous support of the students.

He said he could not thank them enough, adding that the assistance will greatly benefit the students in their current academic year and inspire upcoming students to work hard in the following school year.

ENB police launch festive operations

BY DIANNE WILSON

THE Provincial Police Command in East New Britain, launched its festive police operations, named “Operations High Speed II”, last Friday, December 12, 2025 at the Kokopo market.

The launch started with a show of strength march by members of the police from the NGI Police Divisional headquarters at Ralum, Kokopo, to the market, the march included personnel from the 2025 ENB police reservists, regulars and members of the ENB MS squad at Tomaringa.

PPC Chief Inspector Felix Nebanat said the official launch of the operations aims to make the people in the province aware that police operations earmarked for Christmas into the new year has officially begun.

“After the launching, we have the

Lass overcomes odds to study nursing in Bougainville

BY PETERSON TSERAHA

A YOUNG woman from Erave, Southern Highlands province beat all odds to get educated in Arawa, at the Bougainville College of Nursing.

Meet 22-year-old Stacey Tomu from Samberigi, Erave, Southern Highlands province who chose Bougainville to do her nursing studies. Miss Tomu was originally a student of the Mendi School of Nursing in 2022. It was a struggle for this young woman as she had to carry her own table, chair and walk to the school in the hills. Due to lack of space in a classroom crammed with students, many would stand the whole day and others preferred sitting on the floor.

It was until Miss Tomu met Mary Akis, the former principal of Vunapope School of Nursing. Ms Akis encouraged her to apply to the Bougainville College of Nursing (BCON). She did and was accepted in 2023. The first-year school fees were

Police issue warning on schools misusing funds

BY REINHARD MINONG

NEW Ireland Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Superintendent Albert Beli has issued a stern warning to school administrators and public servants on misuse of public funds. The warning came following the Independent Commission Against Corruption’s (ICAC) investigation into the misappropriation of more than K1.04 million in Government Tuition Fee Subsidy (GTFS) funds at New Hanover Secondary School.

Speaking to the Post-Courier, Mr Beli confirmed the ICAC findings, describing the investigation as “timely, neutral, and long overdue”.

He said while the report has already been widely circulated in national media, his confirmation reinforces that law enforcement supports the ICAC probe.

paid by her parents from their hard-earned cash generated from subsistence farming. And for the next two years fortunately worldrenowned oil company Oil Search Limited stepped in and sponsored Miss Tomu.

According to BCON principal Celyne Tusala, her grades were good and she got accepted into the Bougainville College of Nursing.

“I travelled from Mendi to Buka. “Bougainvillean people are the friendliest and helpful people.”

When asked about the Bougainville College of Nursing she simply replied with a smile and said “BCON will forever be in my heart as it is the college that made me who I am now”.

She said both her parents flew in to see her graduate.

“Doing my practical I travelled to other parts of Bougainville,” Miss Tomu said.

“I would like to thank Mary Akis, Celine Tusala, my parents, teachers and staff of Bougainville College of Nursing.”

briefing for the operations order for Operation High Speed 2, which will be on Monday (today) at Ralum HQ,” he said.

“All the commanders will come for that, I will give them a run down on what I expect as the commander for the operation and what I wish for this operation to achieve, according to my plans for the province.”

Mr Nebanat said orders for the police festive operations will be given to the police station commanders, who will then revert to their police sections and relay to their subordinates.

“We want to make sure there is a smooth execution of the operation,” he said.

Mr Nebanat said he is happy to have the police reservists join this year’s police operation, and further called on district offices to assist police with other logistical support like vehicles and fuel.

“The reservists are going to be filtered into the process, they are going to be added into the manpower, those for traffic will go to traffic, duty counters and even Foot beats.”

He said there will be police road blocks set up to deal with unregistered vehicles.

“The total strength for policing, during this operation, both regular and reservists, is more than 400 and that is a good, strong number,” he said.

Mr Nebanat appealed to youths to refrain from doing anything that is illegal or might get them in trouble with the police, he further urged parents to keep their children grounded, at home, during the festive period.

Mr Nebanat further applauded the police in the province for the good police work carried out during the year, despite a challenging year.

According to ICAC and confirmed by Mr Beli, principal Frederick Mahisu and Provincial GTFS coordinator Apollo Pangasa allegedly inflated student numbers between January 2021 and March 2025, triggering larger government payments that were then diverted for personal use.

Part of the misappropriated funds was allegedly used to buy four vehicles, all of which have since been seized.

Mr Pangasa also received kickbacks deposited into personal accounts, and Benson Apelis, CEO of the Social Services Division in the New Ireland Provincial Government, has been linked to the misused funds.

“When ICAC came into New Ireland, they did a fantastic job that made everyone happy parents, students, guardians, sponsors,” Mr Beli said.

“Everyone wants transparency and accountability in government business.”

He said cases like this fall under white-collar crime sensitive and requiring specialised investigation that ordinary police cannot always conduct due to strict procedural protocols.

ICAC has already arrested four individuals.

ICAC executed search warrants at Mahisa’s school, the provincial subsidy office, and New Hanover Secondary School, securing crucial documents and electronic evidence. Mr Beli said frontline detectives were proud to assist the national team.

He issued a clear warning to anyone misusing public funds: “If they come back to investigate other schools or government money, my message is simple: be careful.”

Mr Beli said ICAC’s work has restored confidence among parents, communities, and the broader public.

“To me, this is a breakthrough. We hope this work continues for our good people in New Ireland and Papua New Guinea.”

Stacey Tomu (centre) and her parents at her graduation ceremony in Arawa last week.

ENB PPC Chief Inspector Felix Nebanat (right) with Police Station Commander for Rabaul Chief Sergeant John Hapot inspecting the police parade last week. PICTURE: DIANNE WILSON

GFI plans to partner with more GFI to partner with more schools in supporting students schools in students

Philippines says fishermen hurt, boats damaged by China in South China Sea

MANILA: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said on Saturday (Dec 13) that three Filipino fishermen had been wounded and two fishing vessels suffered “significant damage” when Chinese coast guard ships fired water cannon in a disputed South China Sea shoal.

Manila’s coast guard said nearly two dozen Filipino fishing boats near Sabina Shoal were targeted with water cannon and blocking manoeuvres on Friday.

A small Chinese coast guard boat also cut the anchor lines of several Filipino boats, endangering their crews, it said.

“The PCG calls on the Chinese Coast Guard to adhere to internationally recognised standards of conduct, prioritising the preservation of life at sea over pretensions of law enforcement that jeopardise the lives of innocent fishermen,” Manila’s coast guard said in a statement.

China’s embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside office hours.

On Friday, China’s coast guard said it had driven away multiple Philippine vessels and taken “control measures”.

– CNA

Health system in Solomons under strain

Pacific workers being “deskilled, underpaid and exploited

WELLINGTON: Australia is being accused of draining skilled health workers from Pacific Island countries to fix its own shortage of care workers, pushing fragile health systems in the region closer to collapse, according to a new report.

Research by the Centre for Future Work at The Australia Institute and Public Services International finds that nurses and other trained professionals from Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu are abandoning frontline jobs to take up betterpaid but lower-skilled care roles in Australia under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme.

The report warns that health services in some countries are now running at “30–40 percent capacity or below.” It also reveals Pacific workers are being “deskilled, underpaid and exploited” once they arrive in Australia, with their visa status leaving them vulnerable.

In the Solomon Islands, the report notes the country’s population of 720,000 is spread across 900 islands, already making the delivery of quality health care difficult. Public health services are struggling,

pushing people toward private providers and creating new inequalities.

Workers told researchers that low wages, rising living costs and overloaded workplaces are driving migration. Training gaps, lack of equipment skills, and shortages of doctors mean nurses are often forced to perform higher-level duties.

Unions say the “brain drain” is widening. Older experienced workers are leaving, and younger staff are not receiving proper mentoring or support. Public sector unions report that existing labour laws offering allowances and benefits are not being enforced.

One workshop participant summed up frustration with treatment in Australia and New Zealand, saying: “Employers in Australia and New Zealand say ‘workers are like our families’. This is not true.”

The Solomon Islands Council of Trade Unions (SICTU) has been pressuring the government to take urgent action to protect citizens working under PALM. Concerns follow a UN report highlighting serious issues with the treatment of temporary migrant workers in Australia.

The report says poor oversight of private recruitment firms continues to expose workers to false promises, exploitation and unfair conditions.

Workers with limited English skills are particularly vulnerable.

While remittances accounted for 5.4 percent of Solomon Islands’ GDP in 2023 and are improving living standards for many families, the report warns labour mobility is creating new income gaps at home and worsening shortages of skilled workers.

Workshop participants called for stronger regional cooperation to prevent workforce crises, including more scholarships for health workers, mutual recognition of qualifications, and secondment schemes to build capacity. They also urged greater involvement of unions in labour mobility programs to ensure worker protection and transparency.

Unions said that without urgent reforms, labour mobility risks deepening inequalities and further weakening an already strained health system in the Solomon Islands.

Thailand declares curfew along coast as Cambodia border fighting spreads

BANGKOK: Cambodia shut its border crossings with Thailand on Saturday (Dec 13), after Bangkok denied United States President Donald Trump’s claim that a truce had been agreed to end days of deadly fighting.

Violence between the Southeast Asian neighbours, which stems from a long-running dispute over the colonial-era demarcation of their 800km border, has displaced around half a million people on both sides.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Saturday evening reiterated that no ceasefire had been reached with Cambodia, vowing to continue military operations along the disputed border.

“It is likely a misunderstanding,” Anutin was quoted as saying by Thai media outlet Bangkok Post, following a call by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for the two countries to cease hostilities. ”Currently, there is a lot of communication going on. It would be best to listen to the statements from the military. At this time, there are no ceasefire negotiations, and it is not yet the time for that,” he added.

Defence Minister Nattaphon

Narkphanit also confirmed that the government had not issued any ceasefire order to the armed forces, saying that there would be no halt to operations until Cambodia “clearly ceases all hostility” towards Thailand.

In a statement on Saturday, Anwar said that he had called on both countries to cease cross-border hostilities by 10pm local time on Saturday, with an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) observer team to monitor the truce

on the ground.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, in a statement on Saturday on Facebook, had said that he welcomed the proposal by Anwar.

CNA

Fiji secures agreement on Ocean and climate action Resolution at UNEA-7

SUVA: Pacific delegations at the seventh session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA7) are celebrating a breakthrough in Nairobi with Fiji securing an agreement on their resolution, “Accelerating Global Action to Promote the Climate Resilience of Coral Reefs.”

The breakthrough was achieved on Wednesday night at the ongoing UNEA-7 negotiations, the first of 15 resolutions under negotiation at the meeting.

The milestone signals global recognition of Fiji’s leadership on Ocean and climate action. The “Accelerating Global Action to Promote the Climate Resilience of Coral Reefs” resolution calls for enhanced international cooperation and financing to protect coral reef ecosystems from mounting threats like climate change, pollution, and overexploitation. Fiji’s technical team, led by the Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr Sivendra Michael,

and the Director of Environment, Senimili Baleicakau, navigated complex scientific, environmental and geopolitical issues to bring all countries on board.

“Fiji extends its sincere appreciation to all countries and partners for their constructive engagement, flexibility, and support,” a statement issued by the Fiji delegation said.

“This early success underscores Fiji’s leadership in multilateral environmental diplomacy and

CARE WORK

Skilled health workers from Pacific Island countries are being poached to fill Australia’s shortage of care workers, pushing health systems in the region to the brink of collapse, according to new research.

A report by the Centre for Future Work at The Australia Institute and Public Services International found that many Pacific workers arriving in Australia are being deskilled, underpaid and exploited.

FLOOD DEATHS

Devastating floods and landslides have killed 1,006 people in Indonesia, rescuers said on Saturday (Dec 13) as the Southeast Asian nation grapples with the huge scale of relief efforts. The disaster, which has hit the northwestern island of Sumatra over the past fortnight, has also injured more than 5,400, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency said.

EXPORTS BOOST

China plans to expand exports and imports next year as part of efforts to promote “sustainable” trade, a senior economic official said on Saturday (Dec 13), state broadcaster CCTV reported. The trillion-dollar trade surplus posted by the world’s second-largest economy is stirring tensions with Beijing’s trade partners and drawing criticism from the IMF and other observers who say its production-focused economic growth model is unsustainable.

BRUSSELS MEET

The Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) will hold its 120th Session of the Council of Ministers from 12 to 14 December 2025 in Brussels. Presided by Peter Shanel Agovaka, Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Solomon Islands, the meeting brings together ministerial leadership from 79 Member States to review ongoing institutional and financial reforms, examine key policy priorities, and take stock of preparations for the 11th OACPS Summit of Heads of State and Government.

MYANMAR MILITARY

Myanmar’s military on Saturday (Dec 13) acknowledged there was an airstrike on a hospital in the western state of Rakhine, which a local rescuer and media reports said killed over 30 people, including patients, medical workers and children. In a statement published by the state-run Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper, the military’s information office said armed groups, including the ethnic Arakan Army and the People’s Defense Force, pro-democracy militias formed after the army takeover in 2021, used the hospital as their base.

PEACE KEEPERS

DHAKA: At least six Bangladeshi peacekeepers were killed, and eight were injured, in a drone attack on a United Nations base in Abyei, Sudan, the Bangladesh Army said on Saturday (Dec 13). “The situation in the area is still unstable, and clashes with terrorists are ongoing,” it said in a statement, adding that the authorities were doing their best to provide medical treatment and rescue operations for those injured.

PRESS FREEDOM

reaffirms our commitment to protecting the world’s coral reefs and the communities that depend on them.

The week before, during the opening plenary of the Seventh Open-Ended Committee of Permanent Representatives, Fiji made the case for the resolution to the global community, echoing the call by all Pacific countries for urgent action on Ocean health and the protection of our Blue Pacific Continent. – PACNEWS

Samoa’s new government has found itself at odds with journalists over whether the state is attempting to stifle press freedom in the country by controlling “negative reporting”. This comes after Samoa Observer reported excerpts from the “third version” of a leaked copy of a draft media protocol document, which the newspaper states would introduce “sweeping new restrictions on how journalists may question the country’s leaders”, including foreign media. - Agencies

Displaced people gather at a temporary camp in Banteay Meanchey province on Dec 13, 2025, amid clashes along the Cambodia-Thailand border. PICTURE AFP/TANG CHHIN SOTHY)

Belarus frees 123 prisoners as US lifts sanctions

MINSK: Belarus has freed 123 prisoners, including prominent opposition activist Maria Kolesnikova, after the US agreed to lift sanctions on the country.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Ales Bialiatski is also among those who have been released following talks in Minsk with US President Donald Trump’s special envoy for Belarus, John Coale.

The US has agreed to lift sanctions on potash, a key ingredient in fertiliser and an important export for Belarus, which is a close ally of Russia. Coale said: “As relations between the two countries normalise, more and more sanctions will be lifted.” Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko is not recognised as president by the EU.

Kolesnikova has been in prison since 2020, much of the time in isolation. Speaking after her release, she described “a feeling of unbelievable happiness” at being able to see and hug people “dear to me”.

She said: “It’s a huge happiness to see the first sunset of my freedom, such amazing beauty.

“But also we think of those who are

Manhunt continues after two killed in shooting at Brown University

PROVIDENCE: A manhunt is under way after two students were killed and nine other people were injured in a mass shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island.

The gunman opened fire in a classroom at around 16:00 local time (21:00 GMT) on Saturday, in a building where exams were taking place.

The university, one of the oldest and most prestigious in the US, was placed into lockdown as police searched for the gunman, who remains at large.

Students in parts of the campus are continuing to be told to shelter in place until police can escort them out of the area.

Officials from Rhode Island Hospital said most of the injured are in a “critical but stable” condition. The identities of those killed or injured have not yet been released by officials.

“This is a day that we hoped never would come to our community. It is deeply devastating for all of us,” said Brown University President Christina Paxson in a statement.

Police have released limited information about the male suspect, including an identity or motive. It is not known if he has links to the university.

CCTV footage showed the suspect walking out of the building after the attack but the his face can not be seen.

Providence Deputy Police Chief Tim O’Hara said the suspect was dressed all in black and may have been wearing a mask. It is not known what type of firearm he used and it has not been recovered.

not yet free. I wait for the moment when we can all hug each other, when all are free.”

Kolesnikova was handed over to Ukraine along with 113 other prisoners, according to Kyiv’s Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War.

In a statement on Telegram, Ukraine said that after receiving

the necessary medical assistance, the prisoners will be transported to Poland and Lithuania.

Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, the exiled Belarusian opposition leader who was waiting outside the US embassy in Vilnius, told the BBC the decision to send them to Ukraine was unexpected and had been made by Lukashenko.

A small number, including Bialiatski, were transported to the Lithuanian capital.

After embracing Tikhanovskaya, Bialiatski said: “Thousands of people have been and continue to be imprisoned...so our struggle continues.”

Tatsiana Khomich, Kolesnikova’s sister, said the first thing Kolesnikova said when they spoke was “thank you to the US administration, President Trump [and] to the Belarus government as well for leading and talking and having these negotiations”.

The deal is a major achievement for Lukashenko. The authoritarian leader will also welcome how the Americans have ended his international isolation.

As well as the EU, the US did not recognise Lukashenko as president following unfair elections five years ago which led to mass street protests that were brutally suppressed by police.

Hundreds of people were arrested then - including Kolesnikova - and the intense political repression has continued.

– BBC

Three Americans killed by IS gunman

CAIRO: Two US soldiers and a US civilian interpreter have been killed in Syria in an ambush by an Islamic State (IS) gunman, the US Central Command (Centcom) has said.

Officials said three other service members were injured in the attack, during which the gunman was “engaged and killed”. Syria’s state news said two Syrian service personnel were also injured.

US President Donald Trump wrote on social media that it was “an ISIS attack” against the US and Syria and said there would be “a very serious retaliation”. The Syrian

government has issued a statement condemning the attack.

The identities of those killed are being withheld for 24 hours until their next of kin have been informed, Centcom said.

In a post on X, Centcom, which directs American military operations in Europe, Africa and the Indo-Pacific, said the attack was “the result of an ambush by a lone ISIS gunman”, while a Pentagon official said initial assessments showed the attack was “likely” to be carried out by the Islamic State group.

The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the attacker was a member of the Syrian security force.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and the identity of the gunman has not been released.

The ambush occurred in Palmyra, located in the centre of the country, while the soldiers were “conducting a key leader engagement”, according to Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell.

He added the attack is under investigation. – BBC

Israel targets senior Hamas official in deadly Gaza strike

JERUSALEM: Israel said it killed a senior Hamas commander on Saturday in a strike on a vehicle inside Gaza.

In a joint statement, the Israeli military and security agency Shin Bet announced it had “eliminated” Raed Saad, the head of weapons production for Hamas’s military wing, the Qassam Brigades, in Gaza city.

Saad had been regarded as one of the most prominent Qassam commanders and led several brigades during Hamas’s 7 October

attacks on Israeli communities east of Gaza City.

The Hamas-run Civil Defence spokesman, Mahmoud Basal, told the BBC that four people were killed in the strike. He said multiple passers-by were also injured by the blast.

A local Hamas official in Gaza told the BBC that the strike also killed Saad’s aide and another lowerranking official identified as Abu Imad al-Laban.

The BBC is prevented by Israel from reporting independently from

CHILE ELECTION

Chileans will vote in a runoff presidential election on Sunday that is expected to result in the South American country’s sharpest rightward shift since the end of the military dictatorship in 1990. Nearly 15.6 million registered voters in Chile are set to cast ballots. Polls will close at 6 p.m. local time (2100 GMT), pending voter lines, with initial results expected soon after..

RUSSIA VISIT

DUBAI, Dec 14 (Reuters) - Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, will visit Russia and Belarus in the next two to three days, foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said on Sunday. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Turkmenistan on Friday.

BONDI KILLING

Australian police said on Sunday two people were in custody after reports of gunshots and injuries at Sydney’s Bondi Beach. “The police operation is ongoing and we continue to urge people to avoid the area,” New South Wales police state in a post on X.

BUDAPEST MARCH

Thousands of Hungarians marched to Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s offices on Saturday, led by opposition leader Peter Magyar, who urged the veteran nationalist to resign over an abuse scandal at a juvenile detention centre. Protesters walked through Budapest’s frosty streets behind a banner reading “Protect the children!”, carrying soft toys and torches in solidarity with victims of physical abuse in a case dating back several years.

ZELENSKIIY ON MEET

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Saturday he would meet U.S. and European representatives in Berlin to discuss “fundamentals of peace.” Zelenskiy said Ukraine needed a “dignified” peace and a guarantee that Russia, which invaded his country in 2022, would not attack again. Germany said earlier on Saturday that it would host US and Ukrainian delegations over the weekend for talks on a ceasefire in Ukraine, before a summit involving European leaders and Zelenskiy in Berlin on Monday.

SENEGAL PLAYERS

Senegal have included three players who have been carrying injuries in their squad for the Africa Cup of Nations finals, confident that they will be ready when the tournament in Morocco kicks off later this month. Assane Diao, Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr were all uncertain about making the squad, but coach Pape Thiaw named them on Saturday in a 28-man selection, telling a press conference that he was confident they would be ready to play.

ELECTION CHAOS

inside Gaza and is unable to verify details of the incident.

The IDF and ISA joint statement added that Saad had been “responsible for the deaths of many soldiers” killed in the Gaza Strip as the result of explosive devices.

Saad is believed to be a member of the newly formed five-member leadership military council established since a ceasefire took hold in October.

Israel has attempted to kill him on multiple occasions. – BBC

Weeks before Honduras’ November 30 presidential election, a test run exposed deep flaws in the votecounting system: only 36% of practice ballots were processed, according to electoral council member Marlon Ochoa. Now, nearly two weeks after the election, the presidential vote remains paralysed with hundreds of thousands of ballots still uncounted, rival candidates trading fraud accusations, and an electoral system crippled by delays and dysfunction.

CANADA’S WESTJET

WestJet Airlines said on Friday it would pause its rollout of nonadjustable economy seats next week, testing the limits of add-on culture as it faces pushback for charging extra for adjustable seats.

Canada’s WestJet in October started

- Agencies

Nobel Peace Prize winner Ales Bialiatski arrives in Vilnius

Rescue workers at the zone that was hit in Gaza.

China to boost exports, imports in 2026, seeking ‘sustainable’ trade, official says BEIJING, Dec 13 (Reuters) - China plans to expand exports and imports next year as part of efforts to promote “sustainable” trade, a senior economic official said on Saturday, state broadcaster CCTV reported. he trillion-dollar trade surplus posted by the world’s second-largest economy is stirring tensions with Beijing’s trade partners and drawing criticism from the International Monetary Fund and other observers who say its productionfocused economic growth model is unsustainable.

Wall Street ends lower; fears of AI bubble and inflation send investors away

Dec 12 (Reuters) - The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq closed down more than 1% on Friday with investors leaving technology for other sectors as Broadcom and Oracle fueled concerns about an AI bubble and rising U.S. Treasury yields added pressure after some policymakers spoke out against easing monetary policy. Treasury yields rose after a group of Federal Reserve officials who voted against the central bank’s interest rate cut this week voiced worries that inflation remains too high to warrant lower borrowing costs. Broadcom (AVGO.O), opens new tab shares tumbled 11.4% after the chipmaker warned of slimmer future margins.

Air Niugini welcomes second A220 series airbus

BY MAYSON LUIS

AIR Niugini’s comprehensive fleet modernisation program sees the arrival of its second fourthgeneration Airbus A220-300 series last Friday at Jackson International Airport.

The arrival of the plane marks a milestone for the “national flag carrier” and a boost for the country’s aviation sector.

Gradually closing in on phasing out its Fokker and Dash 8 operations, the arrival of the second airbus being one of the 11 planes (9 yet to arrive) marks the initial batch of fleet under its (Air Niugini’s) fleet renewal program.

At the airport to witness the event were, the staff and dignitaries –namely Minister for State-owned Enterprise, William Duma, Air Niugini Board chairman, Karl Yalo, including others.

The 11 airbuses will come in two variants – three A220-300 series with seat capacity of 138, and eight smaller A220-100 series. Two of the A220-300 series have arrived, with one yet to arrive.

Airbus A220-300 series includes, wider seats, wider cabins, larger windows, greater range and fuel efficiency, that helps reduce costs and emissions. The plane also runs on less fuel – about 25 per cent less than Fokker series.

Mr Yalo said that the arrival of the second A220 is more than a new aircraft; “It is a signal that we are turning a difficult corner and delivering great solutions for our people.”

Elaborating on scope of Air Niugini’s fleet modernisation, Mr Yalo said: “This is a once-in-ageneration renewal. It will shape our air services and national connectivity for decades to come.”

“The (Airbus) A200 is one of the most modern and efficient aircraft in the world, and it is well suited to

PNG’s short runways, mountainous terrain, and challenging weather,” he added.

Air Niugini’s fleet renewal (modernisation) program also marks the largest capital investment ever made, fully bolstered by the government.

Minister Duma emphasising on the airliner’s fleet modernisation says, “The A220's power and advanced avionics make it ideal for challenging take-off and landing environments that we all have across our country in PNG.”

The plane was under the command of the renowned Captain Timothy Narara and co-piloted by Captain

Christian Felix Patchlatko.

Caption Narara co-piloted “People’s Balus” along with Captain Beverly Pakii, en-routing from its fleet assembly in Montreal, Canada.

The plane arrived a September 15.

Minister Duma further reaffirmed that arrival of three planes to help sort the flight delays and cancellations with improved and enhanced operations across PNG.

“The second airbus that is before us today (Friday), and the third one that is coming soon, will of course further improve on-time departures and arrivals.

“This is not a quick fix, as it is the busiest time of the year for air

travel, but it is improving with this growing fleet,” said Mr Duma. Meanwhile, the government plans to privatised Air Niugini – along with other state-owned enterprises. Kumul Consolidated Holdings to oversee all the reforms.

“I am implementing the vision of our government to bring the private sector in to invest and manage businesses.

“This is for Air Niugini and other SOEs such as PNG Power, WaterPNG, and Telikom just to name a few.

“Eventually we will have to privatise most of our SOEs,” said Mr Duma.

Departure issues are technical not political, says Yalo

AIR Niugini chairman, Karl Yalo reassured the travelling public that flight departure times are improving with the introduction of new jets during the Christmas peak period.

He further warned that frustrated passengers who are abusive to staff will be removed from airports.

“I can say with certainty that every man and woman working for Air Niugini, PNG Air, CASA, NAC, Niusky, and all other related businesses and government agencies, are doing everything they can to get passengers home to their loved ones,” Chairman Yalo reassured the public.

He also made the point that getting people home to their families is all about the right technical solutions to challenges.

“At this point of the Christmas travel peak period it should not be about political activists and their drama trying to use delays to promote their personal interests.

“Overcoming delays will be achieved through engineering

and technical solutions, it is about getting people in seats and planes in the air.

“People are not interested in the blame-game, they just want their kids and other family home for Christmas.

“Every aviation sector worker is going above and beyond their duties to get Papua New Guineas home for Christmas.

“Air Niugini will continue to implement necessary fleet alignment to ensuring uplifting of passengers to their destinations particularly during the festive season.

“For Air Niugini this also includes an additional 55 front line airport staff who were recruited in October and November in anticipation of the peak period.

“I am pleased to inform our passengers and my fellow Papua New Guineans that as of 3pm today every planned flight has departed, except for two delayed flights, Wewak and Kavieng. Wewak and Kavieng will depart tomorrow.

“But I have to be very clear, that there will be zero tolerance for anyone becoming aggressive with airline and airport staff.

“Our workers are just doing their jobs, they are there to help, so anyone who starts being abusive towards staff will be removed from the airport and their flight.- 2 -

“Airlines and airports are working closely with the RPNGC and security companies to keep passengers and staff safe.”

Chairman Yalo said just about every airline and every airport around the world experiences delays at Christmas time, and this requires patience and cooperation.

“Problems come from a range of issues including bottlenecks in passenger processing, bad weather causing flight interruptions, and in the United Kingdom where one in three passengers is likely to face flight delays.”

Chairman Yalo made the point that the introduction of new Airbus aircraft is already making a difference in reducing

congestion.

“The first new Airbus A220, tail number P2-PGA, is taking up more routes to Lae, Alotau, Manus and New Ireland, which frees up Fokker and Q400 aircraft to maintain other routes.

“CASA is processing the paperwork so that we will have the second Airbus, with the tail number of P2-PGB, ready for flight operations in the coming days.

“We thank CASA for their prompt action to get PGB into the air carrying customers as soon as possible.

“The third new A220 has now left the factory in Canada to arrive in Port Moresby this coming week and we are working with CASA to get this aircraft certified for operations within days.

“Christmas is such an important time of the year where we celebrate our Faith and people want to be home with loved ones. And everyone in the aviation sector including Air Niugini will work our hardest to get people home for Christmas.”

Minister for State-owned Enterprises, William Duma and Air Niugini board chairman Karl Yalo along with other dignitaries walking out of the plane. PICTURE: FIDELIS WASARI

Over 36 flights cancelled at Jackson Internation Airport in last three days

BY MAYSON LUIS

TRAVEL mayhem erupted from peak holiday season has cost 36 domestic flight cancellations in the last three days at Jackson International Airport in Port Moresby.

The National Airports Corporation (NAC) indicated 36 flight cancellations from both PNG Air and Air Niugini in the last three days – a disruption affecting the hundreds of travelling publics in the recent weeks at the largest airport in PNG.

Of the flight cancellations, 31 are from Air Niugini while five (5) are

from PNG Air.

13 cancellations on Thursday, December 11 (Air Niugini)

10 cancellations on Friday, December 12 (9 Air Niugini, 1 PNG Air)

13 cancellations on Saturday, December 13 (9 Air Niugini, 4 PNG Air)

While most people blame Air Niugini for the fault, Minister for State-owned Enterprise, William Duma claimed that the issues related to flight delays and cancellations are partly a collective one – involving not only Air Niugini but, Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and NAC.

Minister Duma when giving his remarks last Friday during the arrival of Air Niugini’s second airbus, highlights the key combined factors that led to domestic flight cancellations: delays of aircraft maintenance; lack of capacity to account for increased flights; lack of airport infrastructure; and failure of upgrading airport infrastructure.

“The main contributing factors to this are delays in maintenance issues with all aircraft, and there are some limited capacities of airports to move people and planes. That is not to blame, even CASA or the National Airports Corporation we’re in this together.

Wia trade enterprise wins top SME award

BY MARISHA BULUNGOL DWU Journalism Student

A PAPUA New Guinea owned SME operating in Nadzab, Morobe Province, has taken the first placing during the 6th Annual Ela Motors PNG SME awards on November 13 in Port Moresby for building a premium coffee brand distributed nationwide and exported internationally.

The ceremony was hosted by the PNG SME Magazine marking a significant milestone in commemoration to PNG celebrating its 50 years of Independence.

Mr and Mrs Waramboi, owners of the Wia Trade Enterprises are the overall winner for 2025, and as part of their achievement Ela Motors

has presented them with a new truck which will help them enhance their production and broaden their market reach.

Ela Motors CEO Masaru Mikami expressed the company’s commitment in supporting SMEs, he highlighted that moving forward together with trusted partners brings great strength and encouragement, and to remain dedicated to support SMEs in whatever ways they can.

In an article posted by the Ela Motors on November 13, they have stated that, this year’s award highlighted the strength of rural enterprises, with agriculture emerging as a dominant force.

Which six top 10 SMEs who hails from Mamose region, one from

Highlands and one from New Guinea Islands.

The awards entries were received from various sectors including agriculture, fisheries and sustainability.

With such recognition of awards from PNG Ela Motors it will help boost and strengthen rural SME in Papua New Guinea to grow and contribute to economic development of the nation.

Additionally, the PNG Ela Motors ought to remain committed through with its sponsorship and partnership which more than K2 million worth of awards was presented to MSMEs and cooperatives for their contribution to creating job opportunities and wealth generation in PNG.

Kina Bank supports clinics with medical and office equipment

TWO clinics in Port Moresby have received much-needed supplies to help them continue delivering vital healthcare services.

As part of its community engagement program, Kina Bank’s Asset, Investment Management and Strategy (AIMS) team donated essential medical and office items to St Therese Clinic in Hohola and Lawes Road Urban Clinic in Konedobu.

The donation included medical equipment such as thermometers, blood pressure monitors, hand sanitisers, face masks, gloves,

glucometers with strips, weight scales, as well as cleaning supplies like air fresheners and disinfectants.

In addition, the clinics received office essentials including chairs, tables, standing fans, manila folders, A4 paper rim, and two refrigerators.

Boge Dikana, General Manager of Kina Investments and Superannuation Services, said the clinics have served his family and many others for years despite operating with limited resources.

“We saw the conditions these clinics work under and knew we had to support them so they can

“The lack of airport infrastructure is a problem that has been getting worse as the number of flights has increased, but the capacity has not kept pace.

“Air Niugini has made it clear way back in 2011 to our own National Airports Corporation that intended to introduce bigger planes, such as the Boeing 737 to the fleet, and that the strengthening of airport runways was required.

“But some of the upgrades have not taken place.

“Again, it is a combination of factors.

“We are all here, and we are all to be blamed for everything that has

happened,” said Minister Duma. However, Air Niugini hopes to address the woes in coming days when its newly airbus is cleared by CASA.

“This second Airbus, will enter service in the days ahead, after a safe vacation via CASA, and will continue to add value,” he said. He further added that reducing delays, increasing reliability in festive season, is the “immediate priority for Air Niugini and the Government”.

Meanwhile, the public is urging the airline to cease ticket sales and sort the affected ones prior to the issuance of the next batch of tickets.

Ramu NiCo awards certificates to 63 trade skills graduates

A TOTAL of 63 Ramu NiCo employees graduated with National Apprentice Trade Testing Board (NATTB) Level One certificates - focus on enhancing job specific skills and competency.

The graduation held on 7 December 2025 at its Basamuk Refinery, saw 43 local employees based at refinery and 20 local employees based at its Kurumbukari Mine site receiving NATTB certified and endorsed certificates.

The graduates completed training in Heavy Equipment Fitting (HEF), Motor Vehicle Mechanics (MVM), Metal Fabrication and Welding (MFW), and Maintenance Fitting and Machining (MFM). The training for Basamuk Refinery plant employees was conducted earlier this year in Lae, Morobe Province, while similar programs for Kurumbukari Mine site workers were delivered in Port Moresby as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to build national trade capacity.

General manager & registered manager of works, Bill Hill, thanked the Ramu NiCo management team for supporting young Papua New Guineans in gaining internationally recognised skills and encouraged the graduates to set a positive example within their respective departments.

“While the focus has been on trades training, we also have other programs to develop in the future. We are talking about electricians, instrument technicians, and operations personnel who will also undergo structured training,” Mr Hill said.

Deputy general manager of the

While the focus has been on on trades training, we also have trades we also have other programs to develop other programs to in the future. We are talking in the future. We are about electricians, instrument about instrument technicians, and operations technicians, and personnel who will also who will also undergo structured training. structured training.

Human Resource Department, Jeffers Teargun Heptol, urged graduates to continue building their computer literacy to support their future roles.

“Get yourself a computer and learn. When our trainers move on, you will become the next trainers for our local workforce after obtaining your Level Three certificates,” he said.

Training department manager, Mike Tait commended his team of trainers for imparting essential knowledge and practical skills aligned with global expectations.

“I instructed my trainers to prepare these employees properly— to train them to a level that is recognised internationally,” Mr Tait said.

The program reflects Ramu NiCo’s commitment to developing a highly competent local workforce capable of contributing to the province’s long-term economic and technological development.

continue providing quality care to our communities,” he said.

Sr Joslin Kulin, Clinic Manager at Lawes Road Urban Clinic, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Kina Bank stating: “Kina Bank is the first to assist us.

“We lack so much equipment to treat our patients. God saw our need and used you to bless us at this time of the year.”

The AIMS team, along with other business units at Kina Bank, raised funds and contributed personally to give back to the communities they serve.

WIA Trade Enterprise owner, Mr and Mrs Waramboi received a truck from the Ela Motors in Lae. PICTURE SUPPLIED.

Kina Bank’s AIMS team pictured with clinic staff and the donated items to Laws Road Urban Clinic. PICTURE: KINA BANK

BILL HILL

GM Ramu NiCo mangement

BY PAUL MAIMA

An increased budget with An increased budget with greater needs greater needs

THE Parliament has passed the 2026 National Budget of K30.9 billion at 8pm on Tuesday.

The total appropriation of expenditure is at K29.3 billion, with an operational expenditure of K18.5 billion.

Opposition Shadow Treasurer and Member for Madang Bryan Kramer in his budget reply referred to the 2026 budget as “big numbers with no impact”.

Mr Kramer said the national budgets are not just spreadsheets.

“They are moral decisions about who eats, who learns, who is protected-and “who is left behind”.

Prime Minister James Marape described the Opposition’s 2026 Budget response as “selective, misleading and politically motivated narratives”.

He said that the K30.9 billion record budget, tabled last week by Mr Ling-Stuckey, continues his government’s disciplined economic strategy, correcting structural weaknesses inherited over decades while laying long-term foundations for inclusive growth.

Mr Marape pointed out that despite claims of rising debt, PNG debt to GDP ratio is projected to fall to 45.5 per cent in 2026 one of the lowest amongst developing economies, and well below many advance nations.

He highlighted that company tax revenue, which reflects privatesector health has surged:

2019: K1.9 billion

2024: K3.4 billion

A new national record. Similarly Mining and Petroleum Tax has risen dramatically under the ‘Take back PNG” reforms:

2014: K794 million

2018: 775 million

2024: K3.707 billion - almost five times higher.

“These numbers don’t lie. Under our leadership, the resources sector is finally paying its fair share. This is what ‘Take Back PNG’ looks like in real kina, Mr Marape said.

Former Prime Minister Peter O’Neill said while the government tabled a record budget of K30.9 billion, the government must stop promoting the “kaikai man culture” and learn to save for the future.

The winner of the budget must be to enhance the quality of life for ordinary Papua New Guineas. Indeed, the demand to meet the expenditure needs with the growing population in PNG has always been a challenge for the government of the day and the policy planners. Due to the funding constrain, capacity gaps, corruption risks, implementation huddles, monitoring and evaluation weakness.

The 2026 budget themed as “Security with growth” Treasurer Ling-Stuckey flamboyant budget speech last week continued to assured the nation of positive growth in PNG economy and the national government enduring commitment in manoeuvre a challenging economy to create a safer prosperous country. With strong domestic growth and ambitious economic targets.

But he did admit that the staggering budget figures is not enough and “still nowhere near” to meet the nation’s need.

Now with the nation’s population confirmed with more than 10 million

people by National Statistical Office through the National Population Census in 2024. A figure which many critics believes PNG Population could be higher than the recorded. The Government policy makers and planners should now align its development planning, budget basing on the real statistical figures to save cost and save surplus.

Former Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa has criticised the National Government continuous borrowing to fund another deficit national budget.

Experts believe macroeconomic realities could derail budget assumptions amidst several economic headwinds.

However, as a responsible government, they must continue its constitutional duty in running the affairs of the country and its annual monetary plan. The treasurer said it is important to put the 2026 Budget into a broader context of the nation’s past and future as PNG crossed over from its 50th Golden Jubilee as a sovereign nation.

“We must learn some painful lessons from our past. And with the wisdom from the past, let us ensure our budgets provide the targeted resources that can inspire our future.”

A budget with K30,913 million in expenditures. Budget revenues will total K29,306 million.

He said it’s a record budget figures.

“However, we do need to keep these numbers in perspective. But even these record levels of expenditure are less, much less, than the needs of our people.”

The Treasurer said the K30.9 billion in expenditure represents only K2,882 per person in PNG, based on an estimated 2026 population of 10.7 million.

“Across our budget, this is actually only K430 per person for all our education expenditure, only K268 per person for health, only K219 per person for all our police, defence and court systems, and less than K200 per person for all our roads and wharves and airports.

“Clearly, still, just not enough.

“We cannot fix this shortage of development funds in just one year. We need more revenues. We do not, want to increase taxes,” he said.

He said that in 2026, PNG domestic revenues are expected to be 18.8 per cent of GDP. This is higher than the revenue target of 17.9 per cent by 2027 set out in the Medium-Term Revenue Strategy.

“We are now exceeding our revenue targets, but still not enough

to meet the legitimate needs of our people.”

Government concerns to address security challenges in PNG have receives an increased funding. That includes, Police, (K761 million) Judiciary Services( 59 per cent increase), Defence Force ( 29 per cent increase), Correctional Services ( 10.6 per cent increase) Police Fuel, Defence Catering and Court Cases (K159 million) Office of Public Prosecutor, (60 per cent increase) Magisterial Services( 36 per cent increase), Ombudsman Commission (15.2 per cent increase) Independent Commission Against Corruption, (K54.1 million) LLG Leader’s Allowances, (K72 million)

The operational expenditure consists of: Personal Emoluments: K7.7bn

Goods and Services K5bn

Functional grants: K769.961 million

Debt interest: K3.7bn

GST transfer to provinces: K1.2bn

The budget further captures the total expenditure of K10.8bn of capital expenditure and these consist of: Direct government funding: K7.6bn

Concessional loans: K1.2 bn

Donor grants K1.5bn

National Parliament: K435.1 m

Judiciary services: K444.9m

Bigger portion of the expenditure includes Increased appropriation for Health sector K2.3bn, Education K4.9bn. Connect PNG Program, K1.7bn, Household assistance package, K1.0bn.

No GST for 13 products, which are rice, flour, tinned fish, tinned meat, chicken, biscuits, noodles, tea, coffee, cooking oils, and health related products of soap, women’s hygiene products and baby diapers.

Mr Ling-Stuckey said PNG economy is expected to exceed K145 billion in 2026.

This is K12 billion higher than the K133 billion economy in 2025.

“Our 2026 economy will be over 80 per cent higher than the K79 billion economy in 2018, we inherited.”

“We are well on target for a K200 billion economy by 2030, a K300 billion economy by 2035, and a, one trillion economies by 2048.”

The Treasurer said the very large increases, in nominal GDP are, the real growth figures, are in the non-resource economy. Real non resource growth per capita, is the best measure in PNG for tracking movements in living standards. The non-resource sector, accounts for 7 per cent of the economy.

From 2021 to 2026, PNG is forecast, to benefit from its longest run of

jobs and employment for our citizens,” he said.

Opposition Leader and Chuave MP James Nomane said the 2026 development budget should be a K25.0 billion, deficit free budget.

He said the 2026 national budget of K30.9 billion is “dominated by debt-servicing rather than service delivery”.

“The 2026 budget should effectively decentralise functions and empower the provinces to drive national development at the sub-national level. By championing key policies of decentralisation and PublicPrivate-Partnership (PPP), blended financing for infrastructure investments in each province can be obtained, promoting equity and inclusivity in nation building.”

sustained real growth, in the nonresource economy, of over 4 percent in its history.

Specifically, PNG has had real nonresource growth, so taking out the impacts of inflation, of: 4.2 per cent in 2021, 5.9 per cent in 2022, 4.7 per cent in 2023,4.5 per cent in 2024, 4.6 per cent in 2025 and 4.5 per cent in 2026.

“Expenditures are estimated to grow by 9.0 per cent in 2026, much less than the estimated growth in revenues, of 15.3 per cent.

“This is the basis, for responsible budget repair. The budget deficit falls from 8.9 per cent of GDP in 2020, down to 1.1 per cent in 2026, according to the Treasurer.

The National Budget has increase annually since Marape took office as Prime Minister in 2019 under different theme.

2020- “take back PNG’-K18.7 billion.

2021 - "Consolidation for Growth,"- K19.6 billion

2022- “lightening the burden", - K22.175 billion

2023- “Implementing the vision, - K 24.567 billion

2024 – “Securing our Future” – K 27.377 billion

2025 - “Securing PNG in 2025 and Beyond”, - K28.4 billion

2026 - “Security with growth” – K30.9 -billion

The 2026 national budget is an increase of K2.5 billion from last years budget.

Mr Tomuriesa during the Treasurer budget presentation has criticised the National Government continuous borrowing to fund another deficit national budget.

“The budget is K30 billion kina plus, with 88 per cent domestically raised and the balanced of 12 per cent borrowed.

“Why continue to borrow?” he said.

“Twelve per cent is almost K4 billion to be borrowed to fund another budget, deficit when we can manage the economy wisely without much borrowing by being smart.”

Mr Tomuriesa suggested that government should cut down on, unnecessary expenditure, connect PNG Program, overseas travel and inflated contracts. Instead, the funding should be diverted to Health, Education, Law and Order and Agriculture.

“Prepare the nation with funding to support, downstream processing in forest, fisheries and agriculture that PM has been very passionate about.

“This must be a budget that stimulate opportunities and create

Mr Nomane said during the budget debate on Tuesday that, the national debt stock now stands at K65 billion, with a debt-repayments of K5.6 billion in the 2026 Budget.

“The total K5.6 billion to take up 18 per cent of the total 2026 budget and this will have a crowding out effect on essential services like education. Law and order, health and other essential services that the people depend on.

‘This is the real concerns especially the debt servicing component of interest,” he said.

“From the total K5.6bn interest takes up 67 per cent of the total debt servicing requirement in 2026 or K3.7bn.

“So, for far too long we have gone on a borrowing spree and we have become addicted to debt.”

While the Government describes the Budget as one focused on “Security with Growth. But behind the optimism, economists and budget analysts warn of deepening cracks in the nation’s fiscal foundations – raising serious questions about sustainability, political spending pressures, and the risk of overreliance on borrowing.

PNG’s fiscal position has deteriorated steadily over the past decade.

The 2026 money plan continues a pattern of spending more than the Government collects, with the deficit bridged through domestic and external borrowing.

While deficit budgeting is not unusual, the concern now lies in the consistent growth of debt without corresponding growth in revenue or major new economic drivers with expanded economic capacity.

Experts believe macroeconomic realities could derail budget assumptions amidst several economic headwinds: Persistently high inflation driven by fuel and imported goods, ongoing foreign exchange shortages that have crippled businesses, Weak nonresource sector performance, especially in manufacturing and agriculture, delayed major resource projects such as Papua LNG, P’nyang, and Wafi-Golpu and soft global economic outlook to reduce commodity prices.

The 2026 Budget reflects a government trying to maintain momentum in service delivery and national programs despite tight conditions. But it also reveals deeper structural challenges: rising debt, slow revenue growth, and an expanding appetite for politically sensitive programs. The message from analysts is clear: PNG must live within its means.

Gumine road. KMK PHOTO

Vicky Maob: From admin assistant Maob: From admin assistant to deputy procurement manager to procurement manager

THE unfortunate onset of hardship earlier on in life can help shape one's perception and path to a better life. That is how Vicky Maob sees it.

“Coming from a broken home has taught me that the definition of family can change but the importance of love, resilience and finding happiness remains constant.” Vicky said.

“This has taught me to embrace change and have a positive mindset, understanding diverse perspectives and be proactive to problem solving and communications which are all valuable in my role.”

Growing up in a home shaped by separation, she developed a strong sense of adaptability and optimism.

Vicky Maob was born to parents from Madang and Central provinces and is the second of four siblings. Raised in Port Moresby by her grandparents, Vicky learned early that family can be defined by love and support, and not just by structure.

Vicky began her career at Oilmin in April 2014 as an Admin Assistant. After a short break in 2017, she returned in 2019 with a renewed focus.

The first role gave her valuable insight into the company’s operations. Over time, her eagerness to learn helped her rise to the position of Deputy Procurement and Logistics Manager. Her professional development has been just as impressive. Funded by Oilmin, Vicky attended and graduated with a Mini MBA from the Australian Institute of Management and has completed several leadership programs, she is also pursuing a bachelor's degree in business management through Divine Word University’s flexible learning program. When asked what her proudest achievement was, Vicky said: “The recent KPHL (Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited) Seismic project where I was the expeditor in charge of all procurement of camp requisitions, it was challenging and rewarding to see the project completed successfully. Also being part of the Social Committee and ensuring all

bring to every challenge.

about paperwork and negotiations.

events happen smoothly, especially events that our families attend and see happy, smiling children.”

She takes particular pride in training new staff in the company’s Asset Warehouse and Management System (AWMS).

This responsibility reflects her commitment to mentoring and team development. Her leadership style is based on trust and fairness. She gives her team the space to work independently while encouraging teamwork and open communication.

“I like that the team are always open to learning new things so whenever we want to introduce something new or to review anything we do so without any hiccups,” she said.

Vicky believes in continuous learning and values strong relationships. She encourages new employees

to take initiative, seek out learning opportunities, and respect leadership. She is especially passionate about supporting and empowering women in the workplace.

Outside of work, Vicky is a devoted mother to three children. She balances her career and family life by prioritising health, wellbeing, and quality time. She enjoys travelling and is a lifelong learner.

One of her favourite sources of inspiration is Ben Carson’s Gifted Hands, particularly the quote, “Success is determined not by whether or not you face obstacles, but by your reaction to them.”

When asked who her greatest influence is, she said without hesitation: “My mother has been the greatest influence in my life. From professional advice, shaping my core values and the approach I

Her ability to listen actively and empathise with others taught me the importance of people skills in a business setting. Understanding the perspectives of suppliers, team members, and stakeholders is crucial for effective collaboration and conflict resolution. She showed me that kindness and empathy can be powerful tools.”

Looking ahead, Vicky is focused on self-improvement and building stronger collaboration between procurement, logistics, and other departments within Oilmin. She envisions a future where these functions are more closely aligned with the company’s broader business goals, and she is ready to help lead that change.

Vicky reflects on her journey and admits that people often think procurement and logistics are all

“Many people assume that procurement and logistics is all about paperwork and negotiating prices, but with camp services and projects it’s all about meeting deadlines, whether it be clients, shipping, and air freight, and to that you must have good relationships with your service providers and suppliers.

In addition, when you work in procurement and logistics department here at Oilmin you are challenged to carry out many other tasks from warehouse to inventory and housekeeping and it’s a good experience.”

To those stepping into leadership, her advice is straightforward: never give up, always be one step ahead, and lead with kindness.

She believes even the smallest actions can make a big difference in someone’s day.

Vicky Maob participating in a presentation at Divine Word University’s Port Moresby Campus. PICTURES SUPPLIED

Vicky Maob with Declan Leahy, the operations manager in procurement and logistics, during the 50th Independence Celebrations.

Vicky Maob with her husband and their three children.

Usually you’ll stand up to anybody who’s being stubborn or are causing you problems. Yet if you’re willing to invest time in discussion, which means delving into those difficulties, not only should you be helpful and so, earn their gratitude, what you learn will answer persistent questions of your own.

LEO JUL 22 - AUG 22

Getting though this period of dramatic and often unsettling change, yet maintaining your knack for enjoying almost any occasion, will require focus. Which is something you have, and plenty of it. Still, there’s no avoiding the effort that dealing with these matters will require. You know what most of these are, and can prepare.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 22 - DEC 20

The unsettled mood and sudden changes triggered by Mercury’s retrograde cycle influence everybody. But because it’s in your sign, you’ll find many of those events raise questions about matters you’ve either regarded as stable or battled but couldn’t budge. Now, unexpected, things will happen with little effort on your part and, often, swiftly.

GIANT CROSSWORD

Few things are more worrying than making decisions while short of facts. However, with so much in transition, what seem solid facts will change tomorrow and reform themselves the day after. Knowing that, regard whatever you plan or organise as an experiment and when the unexpected arises, you’ll be ready for it.

VIRGO AUG 23 - SEP 22

While the period during which your ruler Mercury is retrograde is renowned for the confusion it triggers, the current planetary setup is so positive that even seemingly worrying matters are likely to go well. And of those, the ones that seemed hopeless could work out, and in ways as amazing as they are unexpected.

CAPRICORN DEC 21 - JAN 19

For ages you’ve meant to conduct an edit of your life. By that is meant both examining certain arrangements that no longer work, and considering if they’re worth saving. But, even more important, it’s time to examine which dreams are as

unrealised dreams, and reflection they still matter to you.

GEMINI MAY 21 – JUNE 20

This is one of those peculiar periods during which even seriously worrying clashes can, and will, lead to amazingly informative discussions. Knowing that, invest time in talking things over with those involved with these matters, even if recent discussions have been both difficult and unrewarding. You’ll be delighted how well things go.

LIBRA SEP 23- OCT 22

During periods of transition such as this, few things are more welcome than reliable plans. Straightforward as what’s being organised may seem, judging by the coming week’s planetary activity, even the simplest of arrangements won’t last as they were first conceived. However, any temporary chaos is justified, because what’s next will be an improvement.

AQUARIUS JAN 20 - FEB 17

Life’s about change and, ideally growth, rewarding relationships and achievement. You know that. Still, if you’re unaware of the influence of the Sun and planet of focus, Saturn moving into new positions, the actual changes that take place could seem overwhelming when, in fact, it’s just the beginning of a new cycle

CANCER JUN 21 - JUL 21

While most of those born under the sign of Cancer are dynamic and enjoy tackling new tasks, these will generally have been carefully thought out. However, now things are moving too swiftly for analysis of any kind. Worrying as that seems, you’ll soon realise that, actually, there’s no reason for concern.

SCORPIO OCT 23 - NOV 21

It’s not that you’ve been secretive but, rather, you couldn’t see any reason to reveal information you regarded as private. While those facts didn’t matter at the time, they do now. So much that you’ve no choice but to go back over old ground, and explain what you left out and why.

PISCES FEB 18 - MAR 19

The line between others being helpful and them interfering isn’t always clear and, at the moment, is especially confusing. when you realise that learn the individuals in question either have access to valuable information or those who’d be helpful, you’ll rethink your views. Once you’re actually involved, you’ll wonder why you hesitated for even a minute.

PUZZLE #0197

SOLUTION NO. 131583

ACROSS: 3 Scimitars,8 Enigma,9 Imbrue,11 Shooters,14 Magi,17 Shriek,19 Hen,20 Zinc,22 Allege,24 Alias26 Grave,28 Gratis,31 Edit 32 Rye,34 Praise,36 Earl,38 Unlikely,41 Oyster,42 Nevada,43 Marmosets

DOWN: 1 Fees,2 Biro,3 Smith,4 Camera,5 Morsel,6 Teem,7 Range,10 Brilliant,12 Hail,13 Oscar,15 Ahead,16 Inlet,18 Keg,20 Zaire

21 Niger,23 Greek,25 Sap,27 Vial,29 Trusts,30 Silent,33 Yalta,35 Sires,37 Loom,39 Elan,40 Year

SUDOKU MINI

Companies Act 1997

Sec. 305(2)(a)

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF LIQUIDATOR PGFF LIMITED (IN LIQUIDATION)

Notice is given in accordance with Section 291(2)(a) of the Companies Act 1997 that, I, Andrew Pini, Registered Liquidator of Pini Accountants and Advisors, Reke St., Boroko, NCD was appointed Liquidator of PGFF Limited (In Liquidation)(“the Company”) by a Special Resolution of the Shareholders’ of the Company made on 12th December 2025. I was notified of the appointment and served with signed and sealed Shareholders’ Resolution on 12th December 2025.

My office address is situated on Allotment 1, Section 14, Reke Street, Boroko, NCD.

My contact details are:

Address:PO Box 6070, Boroko, National Capital District, Papua New Guinea; Telephone: (+675) 323 8595 / (+675) 757 26788; Facsimile:(+675) 323 8263; or by Email: helpdesk@piniaccountants.com.pg

All creditors of the Company are advised to lodge their claims using the prescribed claim Form 43 of Schedule 1 of the Companies Regulations 1998. The claim Form 43 can be obtained from my office on request or from the Office of the Registrar of Companies. All claims must be accompanied by all relevant supporting documentation.

In accordance with Section 21 of the Companies Regulations 1998, creditors of the Company are required to lodge their claims with the Liquidator by 5pm, Thursday, 15th January 2026. Pursuant to Sections 22 and 23 of the Companies Regulations 1998, on or before the date fixed (15th January 2026), any creditor who fails to make his claim shall be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made or who fails to establish any priority that his claim may have shall be excluded from objecting to any distribution made before the priority of his claim is established.

ANDREW PINI LIQUIDATOR

Allotment 14, Section 1, Reke Street P.O.Box 6070, Boroko, NCDC, PNG

Tel: 3238595/ 75726788/ 70705986

Fax: 323 8263

Eml:helpdesk@piniaccountants.com.pg

WITH YOU THEN, NOW AND ALWAYS TERMS AND

CONDITIONS

Advertising accepted for publication in the Post-Courier and any associated Publications is subjected to the conditions set out in the rate card and rules applicable laid down from time to time by the Publisher. Every advertisement is subject to the Publisher’s approval and the Publisher may, at its discretion, refuse to accept an advertisement for publication if it believes that the advertisements may infringe the rights of any person or may not comply with all laws and regulations of the Country. The Publisher accepts no responsibility or liability in relation to any loss due to the failure of an advertisement to appear according to instructions.

1.Post-Courier reserves the right to alter, abbreviate, omit or re-classify advertisements as required.

2.Our Advertising booking deadline is 4pm (2 Days Prior).

3. All artwork must be submitted 10am (1 Day Prior). Late supply may result in penalty fee of K100 per hour per staff.

4.Requesting for cancellation MUST be made before 11am (1 day Prior) to publication. Late cancellation will incur charges (no refund). Late cancellation advertisements, space maybe utilized by another advertiser. version1.4.

6.No compensation or responsibility will be assumed by the Post-Courier if material or amendments are delivered beyond our published deadline.

7.Material submitted for publication is accepted on the understanding that it is not in contravention of any relevant laws or regulations. must be paid regardless of position.

9.Color cannot be guaranteed.

WARRANTY & INDEMNITY

Advertisers and/or advertising agencies upon and by lodging material with the Publisher for the publication or authorizing or approving of the publication of any and agents against all claims, demands, proceedings, costs, expenses, damages, awards, judgements’ and any other liability whatsoever wholly or partially arising directly or indirectly in connection with the publications of the material and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, indemnify each of them in relation to defamation, libel, slander of title, infringement of copyright, infringement in trademarks or names of publication title, unfair competition, breach of trade practices or fair trading legislations, violation of rights of privacy or other intellectual property rights, AND WARRANT that the material complies with all relevant laws and regulations and that its publication will not give raise to any claims against or liabilities on the Publisher, its directors, employees or agents.

Bobby Eka goes in to score a try.

Where is the support?

A packed Scrum Oval witnessing the grand finals.

Stanlyn Tamtu of Lae Corporate touch open women’s taking on Corporate Touch Port Moresby. Lae was knocked out in the semi-finals

time.

Check the video ref as indicated by Arthur Esila.

Andrew Turlom of the Lae Corporate Touch Open men’s team goes in to score in the grand final against Ijivitari. PICTURES: SIMON KESLEP

Lae Biscuit Company chairman Ian Chow watching the grand finals at the Scrum Oval.

Gigiba to head Western to head Western Provincial RL RL

RUGBY LEAGUE

RUGBY League in Western Province have seen a great sense of promise and a new dawning for future of Rugby League in the province.

The first ever Special General Meeting was conducted by Community Rugby League Participation Manager Saku Ank on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the Crows Nest Hotel in Daru, signifying the birth of a well organised rugby league administration.

Affiliated leagues of 2026 under

PNG Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) through the Community Rugby League Division were present during the meeting and have appointed its New Board to oversee development of rugby league in Western Province.

Bina Gigiba was appointed the inaugural Chairman of the Western Provincial Rugby League Board, Ricky Sibia as the Deputy Chairman, Kenny Mopa as the Secretary and Adrian Dana as the Treasurer.

The new Board members assured

all affiliates and associates of their commitment and will present the three-year Strategic Plan (2026 –2028) for Rugby League Development in Western Province on the 20th of December 2025.

On behalf of PNGRFL Community Rugby League, Mr Ank congratulated Mr Gigiba and its board and urged them to work with PNGRFL Community Rugby League to ensure all requirements are followed.

The Western Provincial Rugby League Board have registered nine

BY JOHN PANGKATANA

NCD Governor Powes Parkop wants his annual Xmas sports to unite the city.

With the launch of the NCD Governor’s Cup for rugby league and soccer set to be launched tomorrow, Parkop is keen to spread the message to the wider public that sports can unite communities, women and children during the festive period.

Speaking to his management team headed by NCD Governors Cup

director Billy Aki, the Governor further encouraged Motu Koita teams to participate as well.

“The NCD Governor’s Cup is not complete without the inclusion of Motu Koita teams.

“I am sure the Motu Koita community have women’s rugby league players that would want to participate as well.

“Hopefully, we can still encourage one or two teams to participate as well,” he added. Parkop reminded his team that the Xmas festive sports is for everyone,

the wider public must be given the opportunity to participate as well.

“We want to keep people, the youths, the women busy during this festive period and I envisage an expansion of this program soon,” he added.

The expansion will streamline owards including netball and volleyball as well.

He further stated that the concept of the Governor’s Cup is to create an ambience of unity in all the communities we live in and promote true sportsmanship.

TOUCH

(9) leagues for 2026 so far and will continue to affiliate other leagues in the province.

Mr. Bina Gigiba in his remarks stated that they (board) will always work together with the Community Rugby League to make sure compliance and standard requirements are met by leagues in Western Province.

“Under my leadership we will launch the three-year Strategic Plan which will be our roadmap for rugby league development in the province,” Mr Gigiba said.

TOUCH FOOTBALL BY SIMON KESLEP

TICK off all the boxes!

This is the directive being issued out to all Touch Federation of PNG affiliates ahead of submitting their bids to be the host of the next national touch championship.

Following a resolution being reached during TFPNG Annual General Meeting last Saturday night at the Salvation Army conference room in Lae, most of the affiliates express their views on working in collaboration with TFPNG to improve administration and lure corporate and government support to elevate touch football in the country.

TFPNG president, Steven Kuimp, in his address to the majority of the affiliates who were in attendance said from previous experiences host associations face financial issues apart from other important criteria in hosting the championship.

Other key agendas being discussed include the appointment of Simon Nuabo of NCD Touch Association as the newly appointed vice president of TFPNG. Another agenda include the last World Cup report yet to be compiled by the team management headed by Andrew Oli. TFPNG executives including the presidents and representatives from the associations have also made an urgent call out for the report to be finalise.

FOOTBALL BY

SIMON KESLEP

IJIVITARI Open men’s touch footy team retain the title after defeating Lae Corporate Touch in the National Touch Championship grand final yesterday at the Scrum oval in Lae. Lae had the upper hand when they came out dominating the first half and leading 3-2 at halftime. The experience of PNG representative Andrew Turlom in the centres saw Ijivitari working overtime in defensive sets to contain Lae.

Ijivitari on the other hand without any PNG representative on their side manage to utilise their speed and quick decision making in counting attacking Lae.

Both teams prove to be the champion winning side when power rucking their attack from one end of the field to the other. It was entertaining to watch as players shifted the game momentum to another level in the second half.

The full-time score of the regular match time was 5-all and then extra time came into play.

Fatigue slowly crept into Lae’s defensive game and they were their own enemy when a pass out from a dummy half run was intercepted by Ijivitari’s Alu Nama. He (Nama) sprinted all the way to score the winning try which shattered the hearts of Lae players and even the vocal home fans who turned up in numbers.

Ijivitari vice-captain and recipient of the best & fairest award, Alex Rolkerea, said the win is dedicated to all their fans and team management.

“I am really excited about the efforts from fellow teammates, our coaches and team management who helped prepared us for our travel.”

“Next championship we aim to win again.”

“I told the players that everything is in the hands of our Heavenly Father because we have trained hard…we went into the drop-off and I am happy that we defended the title again,” said Rolkerea.

The new board headed by Bina Gigiba as Charmian in a group photo after their appointment at the Crow’s Nest Hotel in Daru on Saturday. PICTURE SUPPLED

NCD Governor Powes Parkop with his team behind the scenes preparing for the Governor’s Cup 2025.

Eddie Joe still going strong

ROAD RUNNING

EDDIE Joe repeated history at Port Moresby Road Runners at Ela Beach on Saturday afternoon. The affable athlete of Hiri-Koiari, Aroma and Oro heritage showed why he is a great inspiration to other runners of all ages by taking out the 5.4-kilometre event in 40 minutes and three seconds.

Eddie had his maiden road runners victory at the same venue as a 20-year-old in 1984. He is now 61 years of age and still going strong.

Fletcher Denniston is more than 40 years younger than the energetic Eddie but had no answer to the

senior runner’s firepower up the huge hill in Hunter Street where the result was determined.

Fletcher hung on to second in 40.52 but faced stern resistance from the power-packed first female Juan Shang (40.54) and the chunky Chimbu champ, Soa Gor (42.18).

Jamie Loho (42.49) flew the flag for Gulf Province while the brother of Fletcher, Robert Denniston was next in 49.45. But wait, there’s more: the father of the flock, David Denniston, was eighth in 57.50.

Nestor Elias ran his own race. He got lost while trying to do the long race of 10 km. He is a handy performer and while he might well

have run for 10 km, he followed an irregular route and his time of 58.08 was recorded as 5.4-km finish. The short race of 3 km, which went to the Big Fish at Koki and back, was dominated by youngsters including last week’s winner, Joshua John, who won again in 12.54.

Philip Solo put in a rip-roaring performance to be runner-up in 13.12. The girls were also strong.

Jesina Wesley (14.12) and Linda Goksy (14.25) claimed their usual spots in the top ten by being fourth and fifth respectively.

Other females to shine in the warm and wind-free conditions

were Lovelyn Robert 17.54, Jill Yomu 18.08, Ruthy Ricky 18.25, Beauty Rose-Bora 18.36, Nicole Bora 18.37, Theresa Titus 18.38, Ritz-Sally Bade 19.36, Tenelyn McLaren 21.27, Margaret Bora 21.28, Rhoda Jack 23.48, Kalina Mera 24.01, Hannah Mera 24.02, Faith Moses 24.53, Vicky Sailas 27.24 and Gabriella Heaoa 31.32.

Fourteen diehards completed the 10 km event, led home by Joseph Michael (51.11) and Thomas Kelly (51.29).The annual Paga Hill Christmas Crawl will be held this Wednesday starting at Ela Beach Tower at 5.30 pm. It’s only a distance of 3 km but the inclines

are testing to say the least. For those not content with that distance, there is a longer option. This involves a loop along the Paga Ring Road and a return-to-base up Cuthbertson Street, Douglas Street and Musgrave Street.

Participation in POM Road Runners is the perfect antidote to the excesses of the festive season. Whether shaking off a hangover or just in need of fresh air and friendly company, Road Runners is for walkers and runners of all abilities and ages. Next Saturday at 5.00 pm the action will take place at Apec Haus.

PORT MORESBY ROAD RUNNERS RESULTS

Saturday 13 December 2025

Ela Beach

31.37, 40 Andrew Crompton 31.37.

Road runners

Lae

3.0 KM: 1 Joshua John 12.54, 2 Philip Solo 13.12, 3 Tasi Unido 13.59, 4 Jesina Wesley 14.12, 5 Linda Goksy 14.25, 6 Junior Heaoa 14.38, 7 Robson Max 14.52, 8 Mara Iamo 14.52, 9 Vincent John 14.58, 10 George Heaoa 15.16, 11 Badui Irai 15.20, 12 Gary Jack 15.40, 13 Jerry Jack 15.57, 14 Ricky Mou 16.04, 15 Jeffery Ben 16.24, 16 Bara Ove 16.24, 17 Timaugi Gurumi 17.00, 18 Mark Ex 17.05, 19 Daniel Romie 17.05, 20 Sonyzel Gombu 17.48, 21 Lovelyn Robert 17.54, 22 Jill Yomu 18.08, 23 Richard Marshall 18.14, 24 Ruthy Ricky 18.25, 25 Beauty RoseBora 18.36, 26 Nicole Bora 18.37, 27 Theresa Titus 18.38, 28 Josek Bomida 18.39, 29 Ritz-Sally Bade 19.36, 30 Tenelyn McLaren 21.27, 31 Margaret Bora 21.28, 32 Rhoda Jack 23.48, 33 Kalina Mera 24.01, 34 Hannah Mera 24.02, 35 Faith Moses 24.53, 36 Vicky Sailas 27.24, 37 Titus Tobia 27.24, 38 Gabriella Heaoa 31.32, 39 Simon Nutley

5.4 KM: 1 Eddie Joe 40.03, 2 Fletcher Denniston 40.52, 3 Juan Zhang 40.54, 4 Soa Gor 41.09, 5 Simeon Paul 42.18, 6 Jamie Loho 42.49, 7 Robert Denniston 49.45, 8 David Denniston 57.50, 9 Nestor Elias 58.08.

10.0 KM: 1 Joseph Michael 51.11, 2 Thomas Kelly 51.29, 3 Hitofumi Abe 54.47, 4 Swans Pinampio 55.18, 5 James Gurumi 62.16, 6 Arthur Balaoio 62.16, 7 Milton Iakosi 63.17, 8 Amoa Peter 67.49, 9 Dominic Armbrust 68.02, 10 Jeremiah Sailas 68.20, 11 Havae Harupa 93.52, 12 David Cannings 95.21, 13 Joseph Woka 95.21, 14 Henry Horou 95.21.

Registrar: Giri Sanata, Timekeeper: Philip Bade, Photographer: Mark Eddie. Next events: Wednesday 17 December 2025, 5.30 pm, Paga Hill Christmas Crawl, Ela Beach Tower: 3 & 5.5 km, Saturday 20 December 2025, 5.00 pm, Apec Haus: 2, 4 & 8 km.

FROM BACK PAGE

RUMBAM made the point that this is a first of it's kind for semi professional soccer in Papua New Guinea…the third place final between Lae City FC and Hekari FC was forfeited.

“We (Lae City FC) were awarded the win without even running onto the field on Sunday.

“Maybe at the community level, but not at the elite level.

“Today (Sunday) was a very

FC want to be reimbursed

Lae City FC want to be reimbursed

unfortunate day for Papua New Guinea's Premier Soccer League finals for the 2025 season.

“Lae City FC was prepared for the third, fourth playoff with Hekari and came to Port Moresby with extra players and officials a day earlier for the game.”

Rumbam said when the team fronted up at the PNGFA Stadium at 8:30am (yesterday) they were told by the PNGFA Competition Management that Hekari was not taking the field and this game will

be awarded to LCFC.

In the true spirit of sportsmanship in soccer, LCFC did not take this announcement lightly.

Stating the approach lacked decisive and thorough judgement to the extent of prior notice at least a day or two before they departed for Port Moresby, would have suffice.

“Even worse, no proper reason was given as to the unavailability of Hekari despite our requests taking the whole day

and still nothing.

“Though we have decided not to play even without our rivals failing to explain their unavailability, it is paramount that PNGFA must come out clearly to identify and address this issue.”

PNGFA should seriously look at applying a heavy fine on Hekari and we would like to be compensated (K30,000) for spending our time, and money from the extra airfares and lodging that we took for this game, he added.

He further alleges that the PNGFA has been compromised and this scenario is not in the true spirit of soccer… the world game as we know it to be.

“As a club that has spent a lot of time and money to compete in what we believe is the pinnacle soccer competition in PNG, we strongly condemn the approach taken by Hekari to be indecisive and we demand for appropriate regulating measures to be imposed on Hekari,” Rumbam added.

Eddie Joe steams home.

Road runners negotiating Lawes Road.(3)

negotiating Lawes Road (4)

Lae City FC team and management that flew to Port Moresby to win on a forfeit in the Premier Soccer League third and fourth playoff yesterday.

SHAMEFUL!

NO SHOW BY CHAMPION CLUB HEKARI FC AT PLAYOFF FOR THIRD; LAE CITY FC LEFT IN THE DARK

SOCCER

LAE City FC has described the no-show by Hekari FC for the Premier Soccer League play-off for third as shameful.

Club president Edwin Rumbam has called for the PNG Football Association to address this issue in line with the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) and FIFA practices.

CONTINUE PAGE 39

TRY TIME:

Angela Geno of Corporate Touch Port Moresby scores a try in the Open Women’s grand final against Ijivitari yesterday during the National Touch Football Championships staged in Lae. CTPM won 6-3. PICTURE SIMON KESLEP. SEE STORY PAGE 38

Lae city FC president calls for action against Hekari FC.