Building on the success of last weekend’s PNG NRL Bid Championship finals, the National Youth Competition (NYC) will kick off this weekend as a curtain raiser to the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Round 6. The first match will be this Saturday in Rabaul, East New Britain Province, where the ENB Agmark Gurias will take on the Moni Plus NCDC Port Moresby Viper in the first match. Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) Performance and Pathway General Manager Tony Archer said that this will be a historic weekend for PNG National Rugby League Competition (PNG NRLC) as NYC will have three matches played not only in Rabaul but across the country at PNG Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Round 6 matches in Port Moresby and Goroka. “The NRL Bid Championships allowed our year 7/8 and 9/10 and open females to showcase their rugby league talent and now the National Youth Competition will allow our male under 19 players to perform at the PNG NRLC standard. “ “The start of this competition this weekend is another important step forward in growing the game and our clubs." "It is creating more opportunities for our young players to develop their skills and play in a national pathway competition." "It will be exciting to see the new crop of players emerge from this seven-week competition” The PNGNRLC NYC will allow clubs, the families and our rugby league fan to see the best young talent in the country. With the support of our broadcast partner Digicel PNG, all Port Moresby Games will be televised on TVWAN Sports 2 and Round 1 match will be televised live from the Santos National Football Stadium on Sunday at 12.15pm Mr Archer stated that the Importance of the competition is that we have six pathway clubs having a youth competition that draws the talent in a combination from NRL Bid Academy, and our local Affiliate leagues. “Under the PNGRFL Community Rugby League Affiliate League, PNG NRL BID and now the NYC will Draw a direct catchment area for the Pathway clubs under PNG NRLC and onward to the SP PNG Hunters and the big dream of International Rugby League.” “The start of this competition this weekend is another important step forward in growing the game and our clubs." "It is creating more opportunities for our young players to develop their skills and play in a national pathway competition." "It will be exciting to see the new crop of players emerge from this seven-week competition.” “The introduction of this competition is another important part in delivering our PNGRFL Pathway and Performance strategy plan in creating a national youth pathway competition.” The completion of the seven-week NYC competition will culminate with a Grand Final on the weekend of Saturday 28th-Sunday 29th, June.

UNICEF is stepping up support to the Government of Papua New Guinea to ensure every child is vaccinated following the detection of poliovirus. The detection has triggered the activation of a national emergency response to protect children across the country, supported by UNICEF and partners including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Australian Government. UNICEF Papua New Guinea Representative Dr Veera Mendonca said while there’s no cure for polio, the disease can easily be prevented by ensuring every child is immunised. “This is why UNICEF is working with the Government of Papua New Guinea and other partners to stop the virus in its tracks and ensure all children are protected." “UNICEF is supporting the Government to strengthen surveillance, procure and deliver vaccines, prepare for two rounds of nationwide polio vaccination, and assist provincial health authorities to engage communities, raise awareness, and encourage parents and caregivers to vaccinate their children.” Highlighting the important role of churches, Dr Mendonca said UNICEF is actively working with church and community leaders to reach every family and protect every child. “We need their voices to promote accurate information and encourage vaccination." Dr Mendonca added that UNICEF is working closely with national taskforces on resource mobilisation, communication, and outbreak control. “Technical specialists in immunisation, cold chain, advocacy, and social behaviour change are already deployed at national and provincial levels, including Morobe and the National Capital District,” she said. “We call on community leaders, churches, media outlets, and other organisations to help share accurate facts and dispel any rumours or misinformation." Dr Mendonca noted that Papua New Guinea had been declared polio-free for 25 years, yet low routine immunisation coverage has left many children vulnerable. “While the focus right now is on stopping this outbreak, we must take this opportunity to boost routine immunisation to 90% and protect children long-term." UNICEF joins the National Department of Health (NDOH), WHO, the Australian Government and other partners in urging all parents and caregivers to bring their children for vaccination, check immunisation cards, and report any signs of illness. “Together, we can stop this outbreak and keep Papua New Guinea polio-free — for our children, for our families, and for our communities,” Dr Mendonca said.

NCD enjoyed a thrilling Grand Final Day at the PNG NRL Academy National Schools Tournament on Saturday, claiming victory in both the Years 9/10 Boys and Open Girls divisions at the Santos Football Stadium in Port Moresby city in front of a crowd of over 2,000 enthusiastic spectators. The day started with the Years 7/8 Boys Grand Final, where Central claimed a hard-fought 19-14 victory over Lae, in a match that produced some thrilling attacking play and resolute defense. Central’s victory came on the back of an excellent performance from Sam Peter in the number 7 jersey, who showed great composure in guiding his team around the field. The 9/10 Boys Grand Final was a major arm wrestle with strong defense shown by both teams, with NCD eventually edged past Lae 12-10. The match was always in the balance, with NCD forward Remexson Jocky being a standout amongst two packs that fought hard all day. The Grand Final of the Girls Open rounded out the day in style with a gritty contest that ebbed and flowed, finally going the way of NCD who edged out Goroka 8-4. NCD were indebted to an outstanding display from number 13 Georgina Michael, who had a superb match in both attack and defense and showed that she is a player to watch in the future. A number of dignitaries were in attendance on the day including Australian High Commissioner: Ewen McDonald, PNGRFL Chairman Sandis Tsaka, NRL BID CEO Andrew Hill, Orchids Chair Celestine Ove, Senior Vice-President Digicel Lorna McPherson, Deputy NCD Governor Dadi Toka and SP Hunters Head Coach Paul Aiton. PNG NRL Bid Pathways and Coaching Manager, Joe Grima was impressed with the quality of football that the day produced, stating, “This tournament has produced a superb standard of play and has really highlighted the talent coming through in the male and female game. “The teamwork and sportsmanship on display all day and the closeness of the finals shows that our players are learning how to play on big occasions in front of big crowds. “It is also great to see that the hard work being done at Academy level is paying off and that the players are learning how to transfer those skills on to the field. I’d like to thank all the players, coaches, officials and volunteers who contributed to this tournament and helped make it such a success.”  GRAND FINAL RESULTS, Year 7/8 Boys Grand Final: Central beat Lae 19-14 Year 9/10 Boys Grand Final: NCD beat Lae 12-10 Open Girls Grand Final: NCD beat Goroka 8-4

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA), under the stellar leadership of President John Kapi Natto, has extended sincere appreciation to Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) for their generous sponsorship and vision in fostering the future of football in the region. During a recent cheque presentation ceremony, OTML's Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kedi Llmbit, emphasized the significance of developing youth players from grassroots levels through a well-structured, bottom- up approach. In his remarks during the presentation, Mr. Llmbit articulated his enthusiasm for the partnership, underscoring the strategic initiatives established by PNGFA to engage players as young as five. The objective is to introduce these young athletes to the sport through a structured school competition, paving a path from primary school football to elite competition, thereby preparing them for the forthcoming Oceania Professional League launch in 2026. Establishing a player supply chain to support the demand from the Oceania Professional League is commendable and represents an exceptional strategy. "I am genuinely impressed by PNGFA's comprehensive plan to identify and cultivate talent early on. By instituting a structured competition in schools, we are instilling a passion for the game and equipping the next generation for a promising future in football," stated Limbit. The approach is to introduce and start kids to kick in futsal, graduate them to play at the school competition, and then to the Youth National Competitions. Once they are 18 and 19, they can crack the Premier Soccer League, the Premier competition on the PNGFA platform. When playing the PSL, they can be eyed to play in the Oceania Professional League. This is the player pathway. FUTSAL-SCHOOL COMPETITION-YOUTH LEAGUE -PSL -PROFESSIONAL LEAGUE With OTML's generous contribution of one million kinas, PNGFA is positioned to launch the anticipated school competition. The allocation of funds will be as follows: K150,000 to initiate the school competition. K100,000 for the Youth League. Introduction of Northern and Southern Teens to play in the PNGFA platform. K50,000 earmarked for branding, media, and publicity efforts. In partnership with local educational institutions, PNGFA's Technical, Competition, and Just Play teams will actively pilot the project across four primary regions: Southern, Northern, New Guinea Islands (NGI), and the Highlands. This initiative will empower schools to manage and execute the competition under the auspices of PNGFA, ensuring a holistic development framework for young players. Additionally, PNGFA will provide training and support for the sports teachers for each participating school, equipping them with essential skills in refereeing, coaching, and competition management. This will ensure the program's sustainability and benefit all participants. The OTML School Soccer Competition and Youth League will celebrate the talent and commitment of young footballers nationwide, as President Natto expressed: "We are delighted to partner with OTML on this significant initiative. Together, we aspire to enhance youth participation in football and promote the sport's growth throughout Papua New Guinea." With OTML's unwavering support, PNGFA is set to transform the youth football landscape within the country and inspire future generations to excel in this beloved sport. The K1,000,000 sponsorship will directly facilitate: The expansion of leagues and competitions for schools nationwide. The development and training of coaches to enhance youth engagement for sports teachers at the participating schools.      3. Resources for football academies and other developmental infrastructure. In return, PNGFA will extend to OTML the following benefits: Exclusive naming rights, with leagues and competitions designated as the OTML Youth League, OTML Futsal Competition, etc. Branding exclusivity in and around the competition venues. Opportunities for OTML to conduct educational awareness programs for youth at playing venues and schools. Access to all competition venues. Competition officials will don OTML-branded attire on competition days to promote OTML. The display of OTML pamphlets, magazines, and other marketing materials for promotional campaigns.

Minister for Health Mr. Elias Kapavore is sounding an alert to residents of both Port Moresby and Lae cities to take care of their health after announcing today of the detection of Polio virus type 2 in both these major cities in the country. Having said that, he assured that the situation is being closely assessed in collaboration with their partners, including WHO, UNICEF and the Australian Government. He said, the department’s immediate priority is to review all available information, strengthen surveillance activities, and ensure that any necessary public health is prepared and ready to be implemented. “We were declared a polio free nation in 2000 but unfortunately, the environmental samples collected in Lae and in NCD have indicated a polio virus presence in our country. It’s a serious concern with the department and we are working closely with WHO, DFAT and our partners to address this matter.” Minister Kapavore said his department will inform the Prime Minister and they have a team that is in place with serval meetings already conducted on how to address this matter appropriately going forward. He added that the main contributing factor to the re-emergence of such diseases and virus outbreaks like polio is due to low coverage of routine immunization in the country. He stressed that it’s not just the department and health workers' job, but the responsibility also falls on the parents and guardians. “It’s a big concern to us and we are dealing with our partners to escalate the immunization coverage to identify the hot spot areas to make sure they will deliver.” Minister Kapavore made a strong call to health workers and parents to do their designated roles. “Routine immunization programs are a must for every Provincial Health Authority (PHA). From the district level down to the health centers, they have health workers and nurses are there to do their job," said the Health Minister. "They have enough resources and the cold-chain equipment and there are no issues with vaccines availability in many of our health facilities. The staff must continue to conduct coverage and awareness in their respective fields. Sometimes the health workers are doing their job, but the parents and mothers need to bring their babies for routine immunization. Its everyone’s responsibility.” He further stated that the samples were collected from the sewerage system through wastewater, but no cases have been reported yet. Once the first clinical case is reported, it will be announced as an outbreak, but for now, the department is working to eliminate the virus where kids aged from 5-to-0 are at risk of contracting the virus.

Friends of Port Moresby General Hospital (FOPG), the official charity of the hospital, turned community kindness into action this Mother’s Day with a heartfelt donation drive at the maternity ward on Sunday, May 11th. Over 300 care packs were prepared and distributed to mothers across all maternity wing — from those who had just welcomed their babies to those still awaiting delivery, and others receiving care for underlying health conditions. Each mother also received a beautifully decorated cupcake, as a small but meaningful reminder that they are seen, valued, and celebrated. The initiative, led by FOPG, aimed to bring a moment of joy and comfort to mothers spending the day in hospital, while highlighting the power of community support. FOPG has been supporting the patient care needs of the hospital since its establishment in 2022 and still continues with the help and support from donors and supporters. “It was wonderful to see the smiles on the mothers’ faces — knowing they felt remembered on a day like this,” said FOPG Manager Grace Roland Minga. “These are the moments that remind us why we do what we do.” FOPG extends its heartfelt gratitude to all donors, volunteers, and supporters whose generous contributions made the event possible. “Your ongoing support helps us celebrate occasions like this, even in one of the busy wards at PMGH (Port Moresby General Hospital),” added Ms. Minga.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has acknowledged Dr. Osborne Liko’s dedicated leadership and service as Health Secretary, thanking him for his contributions over the past five years. Dr. Liko steps out as the Secretary for Health, handing the role over to Mr. Ken Wai who is now the new Acting Secretary for Health. Dr. Liko, a respected neurologist and anthropologist, has led the department through unprecedented challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and has overseen significant improvements in the delivery of health services across Papua New Guinea. Under his stewardship, the department has made strides in strengthening primary healthcare, improving vaccination coverage, and initiating reforms in health workforce development. “On behalf of the government and people of Papua New Guinea, I thank Dr. Osborne Liko for his tireless commitment and achievements during his tenure,” said Prime Minister Marape. “His expertise and leadership have been invaluable, and we wish him the very best in his future endeavours.” The PM reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a transparent and merit-based appointment process for senior public service positions. “All appointments, including that of the new Health Secretary, must be strictly on merit,” he said. “We are working closely with the Department of Personnel Management (DPM) and the Public Services Commission (PSC) to ensure that only the most qualified and capable individuals are appointed to lead our vital public institutions.” Marape also raised concerns about the high number of vacancies within the health sector, noting that these gaps hinder the effective delivery of essential services. “It is unacceptable that so many positions remain unfilled in our health department. We must urgently address this issue and ensure that all vacancies are filled by competent professionals,” he stated. The PM also set an ambitious target for the sector. “By the turn of this decade, we must fill all vacancies in the health sector. This is essential for building a resilient and responsive healthcare system for our people.” The government remains committed to supporting the health workforce and ensuring that Papua New Guinea’s health system is equipped to meet current and future challenges.

To mark international Nurses today, the Metoreia Health Centre in Port Moresby city paused for an hour to celebrate and acknowledge the selfless dedication, service, and vital contributions of its nurses, with a small but significant ceremony this morning. Acting Manager and Health Extension Officer (HEO) Ms. Regina Wuri said before any patient sees a doctor, nurses are there to attend to the patient first which makes them the frontline workers who provide firsthand service and care and therefore, it is important to celebrate the day to remember those who had once served and those who are currently serving. “For Metoreia, it’s our first year of operation and celebration and our key workers in the country who are at the forefront of the country, province vital services. Before you see a doctor or anyone else, nurses are there,” said Ms. Wuri. “We acknowledge their service and dedication to the country with the theme: Our Nurses, Our Future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies.” Metoreia has a total of 18 nursing officers, 8 community health workers and 9 midwives who have helped delivered over 137 babies since the opening of the health center in January 2025. She urged the government and leaders to come in and support the nurses in any way possible as frontline workers. “We also need to engage more nurses to serve our communities because over the last 6 months of operation, we’ve served over 10, 000 people and the challenge continuous to increase and so as demand for service." Hence, she said the addition of more nurses is required to address these issues.

There has been some progress in the police investigation into the assault and abuse of a girl and her mother in Madang that went viral on social media. The Office of the Madang Provincial Police Commander wishes to acknowledge the swift and overwhelming public response following the circulation of a video on social media showing the alleged assault of a woman and a young girl. Key developments in the investigation include: · The shop alleged to be the location of the incident has been identified. · Persons of Interest (POIs) have also been identified. · Police are preparing to locate the victims for formal interviews. · Arrests are expected to be made today, with formal charges to follow. The office of the Madang Provincial Police Commander (PPC) has thanked the public for their assistance, particularly those who shared information and tagged police in social media posts. "Your engagement has directly contributed to progress in this investigation," said the PPC Robert Baim. A full briefing on the incident will be provided soon through official media channels. To recap, the video that went viral online showed a woman and a small girl being physically assaulted by shop employees. The police are currently verifying all facts as part of an ongoing investigation. The shop alleged to be involved has been named by community members as Yaho Supermarket in Madang, and police are actively pursuing the case. The PPC further encouraged all to work together to make Madang a safer place for everyone

PNG HAUSBUNG’s emerging journalist, Miss Aseneth Waide took home the prestigious "Best Blog" award for her Movie Reviews at the 2025 PNG Media Awards held over the weekend at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby city. At just 26 years old, Miss Waide holds a degree from the University of Papua New Guinea, majoring in Creative Arts specifically Theatre Arts and minoring in Literature. She hails from a mixed parentage of Northern and East Sepik provinces. Expressing her joy in receiving the award, Miss Waide expresses that the award was deeply fulfilling, as it aligned with her genuine love for writing, stating that her passion and love for writing made the recognition especially meaningful. “I felt satisfied. I like writing reviews and when they gave me that award, I was genuinely glad. The award I received doesn’t necessarily have to do with news. So, it could be something that’s informative but also entertaining and not conventional.” Her journey began during a news assignment at the Paradise Cinemas, where she attended the premiere of the PNG film Ples Man. Drawing from her university background, she critically evaluated the film and published her first review last year for PNG HAUSBUNG. Miss Waide’s inspiration dates back to her time as a Grade 7 student at Coronation College in Lae city, where she wrote her first two film reviews. Recognizing her potential early on, she nurtured her talent over the years. Miss Waide, who is also a poet, released her first book called “Random Thoughts”, published in 2023 and contains around 50 poems. She is also now juggling work and in the process of writing her second book. “Currently, I’m working on my second book called Quarter Life Crisis and it's also a poetry book. It’s a struggle to juggle writing and work at the same time, but I’m halfway done.” Encouraging aspiring writers, Waide advised them to stay true to their unique voice and avoid imitating others. “Stop trying to copy other people’s writing. Be honest with yourself. It’s good to be inspired but if you know that you are not good at writing fictional stories, don't write them. Be yourself and don’t try to be someone else and you will grow,” said Miss Waide.

Former journalist and Divine Word University (DWU) lecturer, Patrick Matbob, has lauded the Media Council PNG (MCPNG) for reviving the prestigious Media Awards after more than a decade of dormancy. In a recent statement, Matbob emphasized that the awards play a crucial role in recognizing the hard work of journalists in sharing impactful stories, while also showcasing exemplary journalistic achievements from local winners. He believes these awards will serve as valuable teaching tools for university students pursuing careers in media. “The Media Awards not only acknowledge the dedication of journalists but also highlight local excellence, providing students with a clear example of what they should aspire to,” said Matbob. "As a lecturer, I want my students to see award-winning local work and understand what they should strive for, rather than relying solely on foreign examples." Matbob expressed confidence that the reintroduction of the awards would raise the standards of journalism in Papua New Guinea. He believes it will inspire both current journalists and the next generation by rewarding quality work and strengthening the credibility of the profession. “The return of the awards after so many years is a significant step forward for journalism in PNG. It will uplift industry standards, recognize excellence, and motivate younger journalists, particularly those in journalism schools," Matbob added. He also called for the awards to be held on a regular basis to ensure continuous improvement in journalistic practices across the country. “It will improve practice, recognize excellence, and inspire younger journalists, especially those in journalism schools,” he said. The revival of the Media Awards marks an important turning point for PNG’s media industry, as it balances traditional values with the modern challenges posed by online news metrics and AI-driven content. The Media Council PNG's decision to bring back the awards is expected to significantly impact the future of journalism in the country, providing a platform for recognizing the vital role of local journalists in shaping public discourse. The MCPNG Media Awards night was held on Saturday 3rd May at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby city.

The National St John Ambulance (NStA) Council has officially commissioned seven new officers during a ceremony at the Headquarters, conferring upon them Warrants of Appointment that signify their authority and responsibilities within the national ambulance command structure. ​ The Warrant of Appointment is a formal instrument issued under the authority of the Commissioner, who is delegated this responsibility by the Governor General of Papua New Guinea. Acting on behalf of the Crown and the National St John Council, the Commissioner commissions officers to act in leadership roles that carry the full confidence of the organization and reflect the expectations of public service to the nation. Each commissioned officer has been appointed to a rank reflective of their responsibilities and the trust placed in them by the Crown. The ranks signify more than seniority—they represent a binding commitment to uphold the principles of integrity, discipline, public duty and service above self. The officers commissioned are responsible for leading functions across operations, clinical governance, logistics, education, and emergency coordination. As officers of St John, they are accountable for: Upholding the values, code of conduct and operational standards of the National St John Ambulance Council; Leading and maintaining professional standards of discipline, performance and service; Acting as custodians of the chain of command and ensuring accountability within their areas of responsibility; Making decisions that safeguard the wellbeing of patients, staff and the broader community; and Representing the State in the lawful execution of their duties under the St John Council Incorporation Act. Commissioner Matthew Cannon CStJ, Chief Executive of the National St John Ambulance, said: “The Warrant of Appointment is a tangible expression of public trust. It is not simply a promotion—it is a commission to serve with distinction. These officers are entrusted with the authority of the State to lead a professional ambulance service, and to act with fairness, courage and resolve in service to all people and tribes of Papua New Guinea.” This commissioning strengthens the formal leadership structure of the National St John Ambulance and supports its mission to deliver consistent, accountable and professional emergency care across the nation.