Thousands of Papua New Guineans, in vibrant yellow gathered as early as 5am this morning for a spirited Trukai Fun Run, raising crucial funds to send Team PNG to the upcoming Pacific Mini Games in Palau. The event, a powerful display of national unity and athletic passion, underscored the vital role of community support in the nation's sporting success. "This isn't just about a fun run; it's about investing in our nation's pride," said Team PNG Chief de Mission Me. Kinivanagi Karo. "Every clean-up and every shirt sold is going directly into helping our athletes prepare and travel to Palau. That's something to be proud of," stated Karo. A major highlight of the event was the recognition of Trukai Industries Limited, the long-standing naming rights sponsor for Team PNG. Trukai has championed Papua New Guinea's athletes for an incredible 25 years, a testament to their unwavering commitment to sports development in the country. NCD Governor Powers Parkop delivered a passionate speech, commending the turnout and the enduring spirit of support for Team PNG. "It's great to see everybody turn up this morning for this annual event, the Fun Run, sponsored by Trukai," Governor Parkop stated. He expressed immense appreciation to Trukai for their consistent support in enabling Team PNG to compete in various championships globally, especially within the region. He highlighted the presence of members of the PNG Olympic Committee, various sporting coaches, and representatives from corporate organizations, government departments, and state enterprises, all demonstrating their commitment. He emphasized the symbiotic relationship between sponsors and athletes: "It's a win-win sort of relationship, promoting Trukai, but at the same time, more importantly, supporting our athletes who go out there and do their best to carry the red, black, and gold, inspiring our people, representing Papua New Guinea." Drawing parallels to Papua New Guinea's 50th anniversary this year, Governor Parkop underscored that sports is more than just competition; it's a powerful tool for nation-building. "It unites our people, inspires the youths of our country," he affirmed, stressing the need for increased effort and resources in this great platform that is a win-win for government, for sporting coaches, for athletes and for development all around." When Team PNG steps onto the international stage, the nation's collective spirit will be with them. "You were part of that journey. You helped them get there. They're not just competing for themselves or their families. They're doing it for Papua New Guinea, for you, for all of us."

Pacific International Hospital (PIH) has successfully wrapped up its two-day Cancer Outreach Program in Kokopo, marking a significant step forward in its ongoing efforts to extend essential healthcare services beyond Port Moresby city. The outreach was held at the PIH Medical Centre in Takubar Industrial Estates on Friday, 20 June, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, and continued on Saturday, 21 June, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The event saw strong community engagement, with many local residents attending for cancer consultations, screenings, and health education sessions. At the heart of the outreach was PIH Cancer Specialist Dr. Suresh Raghunath, whose presence offered a rare and valuable opportunity for residents of East New Britain — a province that currently lacks a resident cancer specialist. For many attendees, receiving expert care close to home meant avoiding the considerable cost and complexity of traveling to Port Moresby for similar services. “We’re honored to bring these vital services to Kokopo,” said Maxwell Kababa from PIH Medical Centre, Kokopo. “Our aim was to bridge the healthcare gap and ensure that even in the provinces receive the attention they deserve.” The outreach focused on early detection and prevention, with families, schools, churches, and local businesses playing a key role in spreading awareness. Their support helped extend the program’s reach and reinforced the importance of community-led health initiatives. PIH thanked the Kokopo community for their warm reception and participation. As emphasized throughout the event, taking charge of your health can be lifesaving. For follow-up consultations or more information, residents can contact the PIH Medical Centre in Takubar, Kokopo at 7031 5017 or email pihmckokopo@pihpng.com.

Ambitious pledges at Bali Forum target cervical cancer prevention for girls and women globally. Governments, donors, multilateral organizations, private sectors, and other partners convened at the 2nd Global Cervical Cancer Elimination Forum in Bali to unveil significant policy, programmatic, and financial commitments aimed at eliminating cervical cancer; one of the world’s most preventable cancers. With over 300 participants, including Ministers and Vice Ministers of Health from diverse regions, the forum highlighted a strong political commitment to expand access to HPV vaccination, screening, and treatment, working toward making cervical cancer the first cancer ever to be eradicated. The World Health Organization (WHO) Global Strategy sets clear 2030 targets: · 90% of girls fully vaccinated with HPV vaccine by age 15 · 70% of women screened with high-performance tests by ages 35 and 45 · 90% of women with cervical disease receiving appropriate treatment WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, highlighted the urgent need to act faster and ensure equity, stressing that every unvaccinated girl and unscreened woman is a call to intensify efforts. Despite being preventable, cervical cancer claims a woman’s life every two minutes in which 94% of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Many LMICs face barriers like limited health systems, costs, and logistics, with less than 5% of women screened. HPV vaccination prevents the majority of cervical cancer cases, saving lives at a high rate. However, by 2024, only 46% of low-income countries have introduced the vaccine nationally, compared to 98% of high-income nations. Building on momentum from last year’s commitments in Cartagena, which secured nearly US$600 million to scale up elimination efforts, the Bali forum highlighted key innovations such as single-dose HPV vaccines and self-sampling for screening. These advances are improving access and affordability, particularly in Africa, where first-dose vaccination coverage rose from 28% in 2022 to 40% in 2023. Additionally, Indonesia’s Ministry of Health is rapidly expanding its national HPV vaccination and early detection programs, providing free vaccinations to school-age girls and enhancing screening through DNA HPV tests combined with visual inspection. Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stressed that prevention, including vaccination and regular screening, is crucial to reducing cervical cancer mortality. Across many countries, national screening and treatment programs are being scaled up to ensure timely care for women diagnosed with cervical disease. This coordinated global effort aims to prevent cervical cancer deaths from rising above 410, 000 annually by 2030. Donors are urged to fully support Gavi’s target of vaccinating 120 million additional girls by 2030, a move expected to save 1.5 million lives. Meanwhile, WHO Regional Director Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, described the initiative as a movement for justice, ensuring every woman, regardless of her location or income, has access to lifesaving care while breaking down barriers, stigma, and advancing women’s health globally. Moreover, the forum concluded with the Bali Declaration, calling on countries to set ambitious national targets, align with global health commitments, and strengthen collective efforts toward a cervical cancer-free world by 2030.

In a strategic move aimed at enhancing player development and game time, the SP PNG Hunters and the Rockhampton Capras have agreed to a player swap involving Hostplus Cup talents Khaiya Waiembi and Morea Morea. The agreement, confirmed by both clubs, will see Waiembi join the Hunters while Morea heads to the Capras. The switch is expected to take effect as early as next week. Coaches from both sides described the move as a mutually beneficial opportunity to support the growth of the young athletes within the highly competitive Hostplus Cup competition. “This arrangement gives both players a fresh environment to gain valuable match experience and continue their development,” said a joint statement from the coaching teams. The clubs have expressed confidence that the transition will be smooth, with both players set to integrate into their new squads in the coming days.

After several years without representation, the people of Central Bougainville once again have a voice in Parliament. This comes following the official welcome of newly elected MP Jim Miringtoro by OUR PATI leader and Mining Minister Rainbo Paita, along with members of the party, at Jacksons Domestic Terminal. Minister Paita expressed his congratulations and praised Miringtoro’s return, highlighting the wealth of experience he brings as a former senior leader. He noted that the election result was a clear mandate from the people, reflecting their confidence in a proven and capable representative. “His a very senior member, a former member and a former minster in different capacities, including, the capacity that I’m holding as Mining Minister, communications and so has been in different portfolios,” said Minister Paita. Minister Paita also emphasized the importance of Miringtoro’s role in ongoing discussions about Bougainville’s future, particularly regarding the issue of independence. He said Miringtoro’s insight and leadership will be valuable as the government works towards addressing this significant national matter. He also acknowledged Miringtoro for the joining the team, boosting their numbers from 14, to a15 members now. With his return to Parliament, MP Miringtoro is once again in a position to lead and advocate for the people of Central Bougainville. Miringtoro acknowledged Minister Paita and his people’s support for trusting him to take on the role and serve his people. He said that while a lot of money usually goes into such efforts — and it takes a lot of hard work — he didn’t run any campaigns because the people’s support and trust were already with him. “I want to work with the government, where Rainbo is leading. Where the issue for Bougainville is central and we will follow the peace agreement.” “The process is there, and we will follow it until we will find a solution for the Bougainville problem.”

SP Brewery this week launched a special limited-edition packaging for its iconic SP Lager, commemorating Papua New Guinea's upcoming 50th anniversary of independence. The commemorative cans and bottles, designed to evoke national pride and unity, are hitting the market now and will be available until after the independence celebrations. At a press conference held at the SP Brewery brew kettle Wednesday afternoon, SP Brewery Managing Director Mr. Ed Weggemans highlighted the significance of the milestone. "The year 2025 marks a defining milestone in Papua New Guinea's history: 50 years of independence, identity, and growth," Mr. Weggemans stated. "In celebration of this milestone, the national beer of Papua New Guinea, SP Lager, is pleased to present a limited-edition packaging for cans and bottles inspired by this joyous occasion, bringing our diverse nation together as one." SP Lager, first brewed in 1952, predates PNG's independence and has been an integral part of the nation's journey, fostering a sense of national pride and togetherness. Accompanying the new packaging is the "Born and Raised" campaign. "It's an open invitation for Papua New Guineans to come together, rooted in unity and pride.” "It frames SP Lager as more than just a beer; it's a cultural connector shared across generations and raised to moments that matter.” The distinctive new packaging features a fully green can with the SP stencil revealing vibrant imagery of memories and joyous occasions, symbolizing the rich history and shared experiences of Papua New Guineans. Lawrence Acanufa, SP Brewery Marketing Manager, explained the design choice was aimed at "disruption in the market" and capturing "all the joy that is involved in the occasions through the liquid." The limited-edition design will be applied to both green cans and stubby bottles, as well as on secondary packaging like six-packs and cartons, offering a full visual transformation for the celebratory period. This limited-edition packaging is just one of several activations planned by SP Brewery to engage consumers in the independence celebrations. Starting in the first or second week of July, market activations across all regions will give Papua New Guineans the chance to win prizes. The "Born and Raised" campaign will also be widely aired on social media, TV, billboards, and in retail outlets, aiming to leverage social and joyous occasions deeply ingrained with the SP Lager brand. Mr. Weggemans emphasized the forward-looking aspect of the celebrations. "While we look to the past, that's why we say, 'cheers to the next 50 years,' because we are forward-looking and we want SP Lager to continue playing this connecting role of bringing this diverse nation together." He concluded with a powerful message of unity, stating that while Papua New Guinea is diverse in backgrounds and customs, "one of those things that really brings us together as a nation is SP Lager: Bungim Yumi."

Ok Tedi Mining Limited has signed a partnership agreement with the Rumginae School of Nursing, offering students vital hands-on training at the Tabubil Hospital. The agreement, formalized in April, allows nursing students to gain practical clinical experience at the Level 5 hospital, which serves both the Ok Tedi workforce and surrounding communities. “Ok Tedi is a responsible miner with a long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship, community engagement, and social responsibility.” “Our support for the Rumginae School of Nursing reflects our ongoing efforts to create lasting positive change in the areas we operate,” said Mr Raymond Singamis, Manager Health Services for Ok Tedi. “Tabubil hospital is a level 5 facility, and services the Ok Tedi workforce and patients from the surrounding communities.” “Thus students doing their training will enhance their capacity building and theories learned in the classroom,” said Mr Singamis. He noted that students will benefit from exposure to a range of services including surgery, obstetrics, paediatrics, internal medicine, and more, especially as the hospital continues its upgrade. Mr. Singamis also acknowledged key partners like the Catholic Health Services, Evangelical Church of PNG Health Services, and Kiunga District Hospital for their shared role in advancing health education and delivery in Western Province. The initiative comes after Ok Tedi representatives attended the school’s graduation ceremony and responded to the urgent need for practical placements. “Partnerships like this ensure more well-trained health workers for PNG, in line with Ok Tedi’s Vision 2050.”

The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) is currently into its fifth day of Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus vaccination campaign, aiming to protect women aged 15 to 44 and pregnant women across the Moresby South area in the Nation’s Capital. The campaign, which commenced on Tuesday, June 10th, is making strides in reaching communities through various avenues. Other areas including the Moresby North West and Moresby North East areas will be conducted after. NCDPHA HEO & Acting Deputy Director of Public Health Family Health Services Janet Pongone, confirmed that teams are actively rolling out the Maternal, Neonatal, Perinatal (MNP) and Measles campaign, which integrates the tetanus vaccination, to all 27 health facilities within NCD. Beyond the clinics, dedicated teams are also reaching out to communities, as well as visiting schools and conducting public awareness in business houses and other public places. "We have teams set up at the health facilities and teams going out to the community as well, reaching out to their catchments and also the schools." "We're also combating public awareness to all the business houses and the public places, and also into the community." While specific data on the total number of individuals vaccinated for tetanus was not immediately available, Janet confirmed that vaccination efforts in schools have begun. Butuka Academy was vaccinated last Friday, June 13th, with two other schools in Moresby South also having received vaccinations. The campaign specifically targets females aged 15 to 44 years old and pregnant women, highlighting the importance of protecting this vulnerable group. Janet urged the public and citizens of NCD to utilize the ongoing vaccination drive. "Whoever can go to the health facility, they can go to all the health facilities in NCD," she stated. "And also for those who are set in the community, we have teams coming around the houses and setting up their sites." "So whenever our team come, they can always make themselves available, those are eligible ones from 15 to 44 years old, female and also the pregnant women." The tetanus vaccination initiative is a key component of the broader MNT campaign, underscoring the NCDPHA's commitment to improving maternal and child health outcomes in the region.

BSP Financial Group has enhanced its reconciliation system through a partnership with SmartStream Technologies, bringing faster, more accurate transaction processing to its over two million customers across Papua New Guinea and the Pacific. The upgrade is a major step in BSP’s digital transformation, streamlining workflows, improving financial oversight, and reducing dispute resolution times. The new system includes SmartStream’s Affinity module — an AI-driven tool that uses observational learning to automate and optimise decision-making. BSP Group Chief Operating Officer, Nuni Kulu, said the deployment reinforces the bank’s commitment to adopting advanced technologies to drive innovation and efficiency. “With over two million customers across PNG and the Pacific, BSP is focused on future-proofing our operations and delivering exceptional service." "The integration of advanced matching, AI-driven insights, and automated exception management has significantly improved our reconciliation processes." "This not only strengthens our risk and compliance frameworks but also reduces manual workloads, enabling our staff to focus on higher-value strategic tasks." She noted that the upgraded system is opening new doors for staff development and enabling greater operational scalability. SmartStream’s APAC Regional Director, Radha Pillay, praised BSP’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence. “We are delighted to support BSP on its innovative journey." "Their strategic commitment to automation and operational control positions them as the leader in the Pacific banking sector." "We look forward to helping BSP further optimise their systems and services.” As part of the upgrade, BSP has implemented SmartStream’s Affinity module, an AI-driven tool that leverages observational learning to enhance automation and enable intelligent, data-based decision-making.

The New Ireland Provincial Government (NIPG) has entered a strategic three-year partnership with two key rugby union bodies, marking a major step forward in the development of the sport across the province. A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was officially signed on Friday, 6 June 2025, between NIPG, the New Ireland Rugby Union (NIRU), and Capital Rugby Union (CRU). The agreement aims to strengthen rugby union’s grassroots and elite programs in New Ireland by combining resources, expertise, and funding. Under the MoU, the NIPG has committed a total of K450,000 in funding to NIRU over a three-year period, with annual disbursements of K150,000. The first installment for 2025 has already been deposited into NIRU’s BSP account. Beyond financial support, the partnership outlines key focus areas, including: Enhancing sports infrastructure, talent development pathways, and community engagement through joint initiatives; Delivering training programs, competitions, and outreach activities aligned with the shared vision of regional sports growth. The MoU was signed by New Ireland Governor Walter D. Schnaubelt, acting Provincial Administrator Apelis Benson, NIRU President Charlie Melachon, and CRU President Kori Chan. Governor Schnaubelt, himself a former national athlete, highlighted the importance of sport in shaping young lives. “As someone who has represented New Ireland and Papua New Guinea on the world stage, I believe strongly in the power of sport to develop character, discipline, and potential,” he said. He praised the agreement as a model of effective public-private partnership that will contribute to the province’s broader social and economic goals. Governor Schnaubelt reaffirmed his government's commitment to making New Ireland the future home of Rugby 7s and 9s, with annual district-origin competitions offering prize money of K100,000. He also extended an open invitation to administrators of other sports—including soccer, rugby league, volleyball, and basketball—to seek similar support. “This is not just about rugby—it’s about using sport as a platform to build stronger communities and offer meaningful opportunities for our youth." He concluded by emphasizing the importance of transparency, accountability, and sustainability in implementing the agreement alongside NIRU and CRU.

Prime Minister James Marape has conveyed his warmest wishes to His Majesty King Charles III, King of Papua New Guinea and Head of the Commonwealth, in celebration of His Majesty’s Official Birthday, which will be observed across the country with a national public holiday today, Tuesday, 17 June. “On behalf of the Government and People of Papua New Guinea, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to His Majesty King Charles III as we join the wider Commonwealth in honouring this special occasion,” Prime Minister Marape said. “His Majesty represents unity, continuity, and dedicated service. Papua New Guinea remains a proud member of the Commonwealth under his leadership.” Prime Minister Marape reflected on the King’s historic relationship with Papua New Guinea, recalling his first visit in 1975 as Prince Charles, when he represented Queen Elizabeth II at the country’s Independence Day celebrations. “His Majesty witnessed our first steps as a new nation, standing with us as our national flag was raised for the very first time." "That moment remains deeply significant in our national memory,” said the Prime Minister. He also highlighted the King’s return in 1984 to officially open the National Parliament House - further deepening his longstanding connection with the country. “These ties are not merely symbolic—they reflect a genuine relationship." "His Majesty has shared in the key milestones of our national journey.” The Prime Minister also commended King Charles III’s global advocacy on critical issues such as climate change, Indigenous rights, and youth empowerment—priorities that align strongly with Papua New Guinea’s own development goals. “As we celebrate 50 years of independence this year, we reaffirm our loyalty to the Crown and our place in the Commonwealth." "We wish His Majesty continued health and wisdom as he leads into the future.”

Port Moresby is grappling with a recently detected polio emergency, leading to a focused vaccination campaign in the Moresby South electorate with the aim to curb the spread of the virus, which was identified approximately three weeks ago. The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) has confirmed that polio vaccination for children under five years old is being integrated into the ongoing Maternal & Neonatal Tetanus Elimination (MNTE) Campaign, specifically targeting Moresby South. This strategic focus is a direct response to the detection of poliovirus in this area, including the Joyce Bay locality, as confirmed by health surveillance teams and officially released by the Health Department. Janet Pongone, the acting Deputy Director of Public Health Family Health Services & HEO for NCDPHA, explained the prioritization: "Because of the polio emergency in Moresby South, we are starting with Moresby South.” “Our health surveillance team detected the virus in the sewerage where Joyce Bay is, in the Moresby South area. So, we are responding to the affected area first." She noted that a prior 10-day standalone polio routine immunization drive in Moresby South saw a "good turnout from the parents." Under the current integrated campaign, NCDPHA teams are reaching out to health facilities and communities. When parents, particularly mothers attending MNT services, bring their children under five, their clinic books are being checked for complete vaccination, and polio booster doses are administered as needed. This integrated approach maximizes reach and ensures children receive vital protection. While Moresby South is currently only conducting the MNTE program, Moresby North East and North West electorates will be concluded in a nationwide polio campaign that is anticipated in July. This broader rollout will cover the entire country, including the remaining electorates in NCD, as per the advice from the National Department of Health. Health authorities are appealing to parents and guardians in Moresby South to bring their children for vaccination when teams visit their communities or to attend the nearest health facility. The urgent response underscores the government's commitment to protecting the nation's children from the debilitating effects of polio.