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.

PNG’s rugby league super star Judah Rimbu has officially returned to the SP PNG Hunters club for the remainder for the 2025 Hostplus Cup season. Rimbu, the 2024 recipient of the QRL’s prestigious Petero Civoniceva Medal for the competition’s best and fairest player, returns to Papua New Guinea after a short stint with English Super League side Castleford Tigers. The Tigers released Rimbu as part of a midseason restructuring of their playing roster. Head Coach Paul Aiton welcomed his return: “I am happy to have Judah back for the rest of the season. He’s a quality player; he brings energy to the club and the boys love to have him around. This is his home, we’re like family, and his presence will definitely make an impact on the squad.” Rimbu said his is happy to return home. “While things didn’t work out as planned in the UK, I’m determined to come back home, work hard and help the team have another successful season, hoping to build on what we did last year.” SP PNG Hunters CEO, Scott Barker, also welcomed Rimbu’s return, stating: “Judah’s not only a good player but a genuinely good guy. I understand that sometimes things like this happen and we are more than happy to have a quality player like him back in our squad. He’s young and he’s got more to give. We will keep on pushing him to help reach his full potential.” Rimbu is currently in transit and is expected to arrive in Papua New Guinea later this week, where he will rejoin the team and resume training in preparation for the upcoming Hostplus Cup matches. His return comes at a crucial stage in the Hunters’ 2025 campaign, bringing with him valuable experience, power, and depth to bolster the squad as they navigate the second half of the season.

For the first time in the history of the Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Competition, all games of the Amazing Round will be held in Port Moresby during the 2025 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup. The event will take place over the weekend of Saturday, 21st June, and Sunday, 22nd June, featuring triple-header matches on both days at the Santos National Football Stadium. Stanley Hondina, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL), said: "At PNGRFL and PNGNRLC, we continuously explore new ways to grow Rugby League in PNG, and this year brings several exciting firsts." “Our vision is Better People, Better Sport, Better Nation. Each season, we strive to improve the experience for fans and players alike. The Amazing Round is a fantastic addition to this season, and we look forward to making it even bigger next year.” “Amazing Round will provide a great opportunity for fans to support their teams in one venue. Sponsors and partners will also be hosting family-friendly activities at the stadium, making it a safe and fun environment for all to enjoy a weekend full of rugby league.” Tickets for the Amazing Round will be priced at K15 for outer stands and K25 for the grandstand. Corporate Hospitality packages will also be available.

Pacific International Hospital (PIH) has extended its Free Basic Health Check program to Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to the health and well-being of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC). Following successful implementations in Kokopo and Port Moresby cities, PIH recently concluded a two-day health screening initiative for police personnel in Goroka, held on Thursday, June 12 and Friday, June 13. A total of 44 officers participated in the screenings, receiving essential health evaluations designed to support their physical readiness for public service. The Free Basic Health Checks conducted by PIH’s medical team at the newly opened PIH Medical Centre in Goroka, included assessments of blood pressure, blood sugar levels, Body Mass Index (BMI), and general wellness advice. This initiative is part of PIH’s broader workplace wellness campaign and reflects its strategic partnership with the RPNGC to enhance the long-term health of frontline officers. “The health and well-being of our police force is crucial to ensuring they can continue serving our communities effectively. By providing free health checks, we are reinforcing our dedication to their welfare,” said Ramesh Palani of PIH Medical Centre, Goroka. John Kale, the Provincial Police Commander for Eastern Highlands, also emphasized the importance of the program. “Most police personnel rarely do these checks due to work and other commitments, and we are pleased to be a part of this initiative as this will encourage all of us to start prioritizing our health.” The PIH Medical Centre in Goroka is the latest addition to PIH’s expanding network of facilities and is now open to serve the community in the Eastern Highlands Province.

The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) Women’s XIII will take on the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Women’s Rugby League team this Sunday in an international invitational match, forming part of an exciting double-header ahead of the Hostplus Cup Round 13 fixture between the SP PNG Hunters and the Sunshine Coast Falcon Jets. The current squad in camp includes standout players from the 2024 Santos Cup and NRL Bid Championships, many of whom are considered national prospects. Head Coach Tahnee Norris today announced Belinda Gwasamun and Leila Kerowa as co-captains for the upcoming match, expressing confidence in their leadership. “Belinda and Leila bring valuable experience to the squad and will be instrumental in guiding our younger players. I’m confident in their ability to lead the team on and off the field,” said Coach Norris. The match serves as an important opportunity for the Women’s XIII to gain competitive game time ahead of the 2025 Santos Cup preseason, which begins in August. The team has been in camp since last Sunday, also participating in the PNGRFL’s BETTER Program—an initiative aimed at player development both on and off the field. “As a coaching unit, our focus is on developing this group of athletes and reinforcing the fundamentals they are learning through the BETTER Program and the NRL Bid Academy. This match will help translate that learning into performance,” Norris added. The international clash between the PNGRFL Women’s XIII and the ADF Women’s Rugby League team will be broadcast live on TVWan 2 at 1:00 PM on Sunday. The Women XIII are also scheduled for another international fixture next weekend against the Brisbane Broncos NRLW team, set for Sunday, 22 June 2025. PNGRFL Women’s XIII Squad List: Mala Mark Jenny Wesley Belinda Gwasamun Jecinta Garry Lyiannah Allen Gail Manove Delailah Ahose Rondah Joseph Meli Joe Yolanda Taute Martha Molowia Leila Kerowa Josephine Howard Deborah Kitipa Skaylin Sil Ruth Gende Tasha Storm Benitha Paka Seroge Sabumei Joyce Hobert

The Eastern Highlands Provincial Administration has made notable progress in restoring government services and rebuilding public confidence following a prolonged political deadlock that spanned from 2012 to 2018. This development was underscored by Provincial Administrator Mr. Allen Los during the official handover of the 2024 Annual Provincial Performance Report (APPR) to the Department of Provincial and Local-Level Government Affairs yesterday. The submission of the report fulfills a statutory obligation under Section 119 of the Organic Law on Provincial and Local-Level Government (1995). Mr. Los acknowledged that the extended political impasse had significantly disrupted the delivery of essential services, displaced public servants, and caused the breakdown of key sectors, including health, education, transport and infrastructure, primary industries, law and justice, and governance. Prior to 2012, “Eastern Highlands was once among the top five performing provinces in Papua New Guinea. However, the political turmoil during those years caused a sharp decline in our service delivery capacity, including a lapse in submitting Section 119 reports,” Mr. Los said. He emphasized that under new political leadership and with the appointment of a new Provincial Administrator, the province has experienced a steady recovery. Public service morale has significantly improved, internal revenue collection has seen a notable increase, and several major impact projects have been successfully implemented across the region. “Between 2012 and 2018, the province was embroiled in numerous legal disputes that led to frequent changes in key administrative positions, including the Provincial Administrator and divisional heads,” Mr. Los explained. He noted that service delivery was severely hindered by the failure to implement an updated government structure. “Eighty percent of public servants should be stationed at the local level government (LLG), with only 20 percent based at the provincial headquarters,” he added. Recovery efforts began in earnest in 2023, with notable achievements in governance and service delivery. Key Impact Projects Implemented Infrastructure Development: Sealing of Goroka Town roads. Reconstruction of the Yanepa Building (Prime Minister’s commitment) Maintenance of the Okapa Road in partnership with the Department of Works and Highways (DOWH), with funding of K7 million (K2 million from the provincial administration and K5 million from DOWH). Construction of Mt. Michael Local Level Government Chamber, funded through internal revenue. Agriculture and SME Development: Development of the Agriculture Economic Development Plan, incorporating Korea’s Saemaul Undong (SMU) Rural Development Model, focusing on SME and SMI development. · EHP Government has been funding SMU since 2013. Support for agriculture and SME initiatives across 175 SMU-aligned villages. Coffee and cattle project funding, along with solar lighting installations. Livestock Development: Construction of 700 meters of perimeter fencing for cattle pickets. Cattle crossing bridge construction. Procurement of 28 weaners from Sialum. Ongoing negotiations with the Markham Cattle Ranch Project. Establishment of an instant coffee processing plant. Continued development and distribution of coffee nurseries. Governance and Strategic Planning: Development of the Eastern Highlands Provincial 5-year Integrated Development Plan. Updated the provinces corporate plan and Developed a comprehensive provincial education plan  “These achievements reflect our commitment to restoring good governance and delivering meaningful development to our people. Eastern Highlands is now on its way to reclaiming its position as a model province,” Mr. Los said. He reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and inclusive development. National Oversight and Compliance “These are positive indicators of a province that has reset its course under a new political and administrative leadership. These initiatives were financed through the province’s internal revenue” said Secretary Leo. Upon receiving the report, Department Secretary Philip Leo emphasized the importance of provinces fulfilling their legal responsibilities by submitting the Annual Provincial Performance Report (APPR) to the Department of Provincial and Local-Level Government Affairs (DPLGA). “It would be ideal for both the Section 114 and Section 119 reports to be submitted to DPLGA for review and onward transmission to the Department of Finance. Alignments such as these are essential for enhancing and reinforcing accountability mechanisms. The two reports should be considered together,” Mr. Leo stated. He also noted that, nearly 30 years since the enactment of the Organic Law on Provincial and Local-Level Government (OLPLLG) in 1995, the DPLGA is in the process of developing enabling legislation under the Provincial and Local-Level Services Monitoring Authority (PLLSMA) to further strengthen the law’s implementation and operational effectiveness.