Five police officers were seriously injured in a nasty road accident at Barakau village along the Magi Highway in Central Province on Saturday and are now admitted to a hospital in Port Moresby for medical treatment. Central Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Inspector Joseph Salle confirmed the five officers, all members of the Central Highway Patrol Unit, were conducting a routine patrol when the accident occurred at around 2PM. The collision involved a police Toyota Land Cruiser vehicle traveling from Port Moresby city towards Gaire and a 10-cubic dump truck belonging to Kana Construction Company heading in the opposite direction. Both vehicles were damaged in the crash. The driver of the dump truck reportedly fled the scene, while all five officers sustained serious injuries. “The dump truck is higher than the Toyota Land Cruiser, so the impact on the police vehicle was serious and affected the police officers. They were rushed to the hospital by St. John Ambulance. Police units from both NCD and Central Province responded, managing to identify eyewitnesses and take possession of the police officers' property. I want to thank the police units for their quick response,” PPC Salle said. Police traffic officers have launched an investigation and are now searching for the dump truck driver, who remains at large. PPC Salle urged the driver to surrender to the authorities immediately. He also extended gratitude to Commander NCD/Central Benjamin Turi and NCD Met. Supt. for their support in ensuring the injured officers received prompt medical attention. He then further thanked the people of Barakau village and members of the public who assisted during the emergency.

The first week of the PNG Resources Golden Exhibition, themed "Building PNG for 50 Years," wrapped up yesterday, Saturday, July 12, at APEC Haus in Port Moresby after six days of vibrant activity, corporate showcases, and school participation. Held from July 7 to 12, the event brought together leading resource companies and students from across the capital, creating opportunities to explore Papua New Guinea’s industrial development, innovation, and career pathways. While the official theme guiding this year’s exhibition is “Unlocking Opportunity Through Partnership,” this first week placed strong emphasis on building industry-education connections as PNG marks 50 years of independence. During the first week, students from seven Port Moresby schools toured interactive booths, observed historical displays, participated in career‑talks, and engaged with industry experts. They explored energy, mining innovations, STEM exhibits, and networked with company representatives to learn about career pathways in PNG’s resource sector. Participating schools included Don Bosco Technical School, Gordons Secondary School, Tokarara Secondary School, Koiari Park Adventist Secondary school, Port Moresby National High School, Jubilee Catholic Secondary school, and De La Salle Secondary School. Although numerous mining, engineering, safety, and logistics companies were present, these are a couple during Week One. XCMG, one of the world’s largest construction machinery manufacturers, featured prominently. Founded in 1943 in China, the company has established strong operational footprints in Lae, Port Moresby, Mount Hagen, and Tabubil. “Our presence in PNG is focused on helping build a better nation,” said XCMG exhibition spokesperson Celestine Kabilu. “From bridges to roads, we are committed to supporting infrastructure and empowering local capacity through training and partnerships.” Pacific Safety Limited, trading under the brand PNG Embroidery, also attracted attention with its display of industrial safety wear, corporate uniforms, and custom apparel tailored for PNG’s mining and construction industries. The company has grown steadily over the past decade to become a trusted name in the industry. “We are proud to supply garments that protect the hardworking people of PNG’s mining and industrial sectors,” said a PNG Embroidery sales representative. “Safety, durability, and quality define everything we produce.” Santos, one of PNG’s key energy developers, used the exhibition to reflect its long-standing presence in the country. Founded in 1954 in Australia, Santos has expanded its footprint throughout the region, including significant investment in PNG’s oil and gas sector. During Week One, Santos focused on presenting its corporate history and achievements in PNG. The company will use Week Three of the exhibition to unveil its community initiatives, educational support programs, and environmental sustainability efforts. The exhibition continues into Week Two, with a new group of schools scheduled to attend and further corporate presentations planned. Organizers have stated that the goal is to educate, inspire, and connect young Papua New Guineans with the industries shaping the country’s future.

In a powerful show of youth, identity, and national pride, students from the University of Papua New Guinea opened New Guinea Islands Day at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby city, leading float parades and cultural showcases that launched the region’s contribution to PNG Story Month. Draped in traditional attire from Manus, Bougainville, New Ireland, and East and West New Britain, the students brought colour and purpose to the day’s celebration by setting the stage for a historic and emotional program commemorating 50 years of Papua New Guinea’s independence. NCD Governor Powes Parkop in delivering the keynote speech, praised the energy of the youth and reflected on the rich cultural roots of the New Guinea Islands. “Our people have existed on these islands since time immemorial, from the western part of Manus to Motlock and Buin. We are ancient people with ancient culture, and our story must be told, amplified, and celebrated,” he said. Parkop highlighted the role New Guinea Islands leaders played in the lead-up to independence in 1975, describing their contribution as “defining and critical” to PNG’s national identity. “As we approach our Golden Jubilee in just nine weeks, we must understand and celebrate the road that brought us here so that we can shape the road ahead.” He called on young Papua New Guineans to reflect on what story they will be telling in the next 50 years. “What lessons will you learn from the last 50 years? How will you redefine and recreate our nation for your children, your families, and your future?” The Governor also reminded the nation of the peaceful nature of PNG’s independence—a rarity in the global context. “We did not fight a war for our freedom. We gained it peacefully. That is a powerful legacy we must honor.” The event, running throughout the day, features cultural performances, string band music, local SME stalls, and traditional food, all highlighting the diversity and unity of the New Guinea Islands region. Governor Parkop thanked the UPNG students, cultural groups, and the event team who have worked since May delivering the Pacific, Asian, and Australian stories leading into the PNG Story Month finale. “Today, we are all New Guinea Islanders, because we are one nation, one people, on one journey together.”

Over 100 students from Divine Word University (DWU) took part in a major town clean-up this morning, Saturday, the 12th of July 2025, as part of a community service initiative organised by the DWU Student Representative Council (SRC) through its Pageant and Community Service Committee. SRC President McKoi Malt said the clean-up was part of efforts to promote and support the upcoming DWU Pageant Show, which will be held later this year. Malt told PNG HAUSBUNG that “The clean-up was organised by the SRC Pageant and Community Service Committee, with full support from the SRC executives.” He said students gathered at the Student Services car park around 7:00 AM before being transported to the Water Board area. From there, they were divided into smaller groups and assigned to clean different locations, including the fish market, the main market, and roads leading to Brian Bell, parts of Kalibobo Oval, and areas near the Water Board. Malt said, “The SRC and Student Services provided gloves, rakes, and garbage bags, and arranged two fleets of vehicles for rubbish collection and disposal.” He also mentioned that during the clean-up, students came across officers from the Madang Police and the Community Policing Unit (CPU), who were also cleaning parts of the town. “Although the initiative of the police and CPU was separate, both groups collaborated on the day to clean the area,” Malt said. He confirmed that the activity ran from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, beginning at the Water Board and ending near the fish market and Memorial Lutheran Church. SRC Vice Female President Tess Duri also spoke about the Cleanathon, explaining that it is an initiative designed to engage students in promoting the values of community engagement, respect, and learning for life. Duri stated, “The Cleanathon is formulated to engage students of Divine Word University to promote and demonstrate the values such as community engagement, respect, and learning for life.” She added, “In this Cleanathon, we also aimed to have students interact with locals and provide students the understanding and need of promoting a clean environment externally, where the students can step out of the boundaries of the university to experience doing something for the community, which is not frequently done.” According to Duri, the Cleanathon is usually organised annually by the SRC to promote volunteering among students and to build character. “It is usual that the SRC of the University conducts a school Cleanathon as an activity that not only promotes a clean environment but to help students to develop the character of active volunteering,” she said. She explained that Madang Town was chosen for the clean-up because it is where many people, including students, access goods and services. Duri said, “In Madang Town, this is where most of the people travel to make incomes and provide basic services, and for the students, this is where we come to shop, to make transactions, and to have access to services.” “We encourage students to participate as this shows our pride in having to share a place of common interest,” she added. She also pointed out that the Cleanathon was the first for the year and was organised as a lead-up to the Pageant Night. “This Cleanathon is the first of the year 2025, and because it encouraged teamwork among the students and demonstrated unity among the student body. "It also helps students to develop civic responsibility." She said the activity fulfilled two of the Pageant’s objectives: “Encouraging Involvement and Cooperation among the students, staff, and DWU community,” and “Providing an opportunity for networking and connections.” Duri described the Cleanathon as a success. “There were more students who showed up than anticipated, meaning there were three rounds of drop-offs by three separate vehicles." "We covered more ground due to the large number, and there was an overwhelming sense of participation and commitment." “Students were excited to do something for the community and picked rubbish, raked and packed them away in garbage bags enthusiastically."

Port Moresby and Long Beach City in California have officially signed a historic Sister City Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking a new chapter of cultural, educational, and community exchange between Papua New Guinea and the United States of America (USA). The signing ceremony was held at City Hall and was attended by key dignitaries including Chair-Elect of Sister Cities International Mr. Carlo Capua, Chargé d’Affaires of the US Embassy Mr. Andy Covington, NCD Governor Powes Parkop, Port Moresby City Manager Mr. Ravu Frank, and Director of Community Engagement for the City of Long Beach Mr. Jeff Williams. Governor Powes Parkop said the agreement was a significant milestone in Port Moresby’s efforts to connect globally and foster people-to-people partnerships. “Port Moresby has benefitted immensely from sister city ties in the past, and without a doubt, we will benefit in a big way through this association with Long Beach City,” Parkop said. “This relationship will promote cultural understanding, educational enrichment, community engagement and peace, all essential components of development.” Governor Parkop noted that despite the challenges of urbanization, the city remains committed to learning from more established cities like Long Beach, especially in areas such as disaster resilience, city planning, and inclusive development. Mr. Capua described the event as the culmination of years of groundwork and said the agreement symbolized “destiny” rather than coincidence. “Sister Cities International was founded by US President Dwight D. Eisenhower after World War II to promote peace through friendship. Today, Port Moresby and Long Beach became part of that mission,” Capua said. “This moment has been in the making for years which from my first visit to Papua New Guinea in 2001, to recent discoveries like the WWII plane wreck in Madang, it all led us here.” Mr. Andy Covington said the Sister Cities agreement reflects the strength of grassroots diplomacy. “Some of the most enduring diplomacy happens not in government halls but through everyday people — students, artists, community leaders. This agreement is not symbolic, it’s real and lasting,” Covington said. Also in attendance was a delegation from Poplar, Wisconsin, who signed a similar Sister City agreement with Madang earlier this week. The agreements come as Papua New Guinea and the United States celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations and approach PNG’s 50th independence anniversary in September. Mr. Jeff Williams said Long Beach and Port Moresby shared many similarities as port cities with diverse communities and emerging tourism industries. “Every event this week has been a reminder of how connected our cities are. We are excited to grow this partnership,” Williams said. As the ceremony concluded, Governor Parkop extended an invitation to the delegation to attend PNG’s Independence celebrations in September, promising a vibrant showcase of the country’s more than 800 cultures. “We are the gateway to all of Papua New Guinea. This is only the beginning,” Parkop concluded.

Papua New Guinea’s national men’s cricket squad sharpened their competitive edge yesterday 10th July 2025 in a crucial 50-over trial match held at Amini Park in Port Moresby city. The session was part of the final evaluation phase for the Barramundis Train-On Squad, ahead of two major international tournaments: 50-over ODI tournament in Jersey, United Kingdom this August ICC T20 World Cup Qualifiers in Muscat, Oman. The match brought together 25 top players under the national selection radar. The squad will soon be narrowed to 20 contracted athletes, and from there, the final 14 will be chosen to represent PNG on the global stage. “This trial match was particularly compelling,” said Mr. Hudson Api Leka, Chairman of the Cricket PNG National Selection Panel. “New and vibrant players displayed gutsy performances, challenging the established names and proving that every position in the squad is hotly contested.” The past two months of intense training have seen seasoned Barramundis and fresh talents push each other to peak form. According to Mr. Leka, this internal competition is essential for team growth and international success. “This healthy competition is exactly what we want,” he said. “It keeps players on their toes and ensures that only the best earn the right to wear our national colours.” Since gaining ODI status in 2014 and appearing at their first ICC T20 World Cup in 2021, Papua New Guinea has steadily grown its presence on the world cricket stage. The current squad aims not only to qualify for upcoming tournaments but also to build a long-term elite core for future competitions. “The final 14 will not only represent our country but will also form the core group that we will continue to develop,” Mr. Leka said. “With the talent, determination and fighting spirit displayed yesterday, I am confident we will assemble a formidable team that will make our nation proud.” The announcement of the contracted 20-player squad is expected in the coming weeks, followed by the final 14-player lineup who will carry the red, black and gold to international grounds once more.

Two young leaders from Papua New Guinea’s Special Olympics program have returned from a regional leadership training in Singapore, equipped with fresh knowledge and determination to promote inclusion and challenge the stigma faced by persons with intellectual disabilities. Japheth Narrey and Eunice Wanjumoe, accompanied by mentor Jenny Luff, completed a three-day leadership and advocacy training organized by Special Olympics Asia Pacific. As members of the Regional Athlete Leadership Council (RALC) and the Regional Youth Leadership Council (RYLC), the trio represented Special Olympics PNG (SOPNG) at the international workshop. Special Olympics is a global movement that uses sport, leadership, and health programs to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities. Active in over 190 countries, including PNG since 2010, it works to break down social barriers and create inclusive communities. Narrey, who lives with an intellectual disability, spoke candidly about the challenges he faced growing up in a school environment that did not understand or support him. “I was teased and bullied a lot in school because of my condition so I left school and joined Special Olympics PNG,” he said. “Leaving school affected my learning. I tried my best and now I can read, but I still struggle with writing. But I’m not giving up. I’m still trying.” The training focused on building the leadership capacity of youth with and without intellectual disabilities, giving them tools to become advocates and role models in their communities. Narrey shared that he now feels more confident in speaking out and hopes to raise awareness on the rights and dignity of people like him. Wanjumoe, a youth without intellectual disability, emphasized the importance of what Special Olympics calls “Unified Leadership.” “Unified leadership is about creating spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, is accepted and empowered to lead together,” said Wanjumoe. “This approach can break down barriers and ensure equal access to basic services such as education, health care, employment, and social participation. “As a youth without intellectual disability, I am passionate about working alongside Japheth to amplify the voices of those with ID, making sure they are seen, heard, and valued in our society.” Mentor Jenny Luff echoed their commitment, saying that the training strengthened their vision for inclusion in Papua New Guinea. “We will continue our work under SOPNG by organizing events and sports programs to promote inclusion and acceptance in communities across PNG,” she said. “Don’t be quick to judge someone just because their abilities do not meet your expectations. Show empathy and respect to everyone, whether you know them or not.” The Special Olympics leadership model encourages diversity and peer-to-peer collaboration, helping create a more inclusive future led by the youth of today.

Port Moresby Nature Park has made history as home to the 17,000th species photographed for the world-renowned National Geographic Photo Ark project — Papua New Guinea’s own Raggiana bird-of-paradise. National Geographic explorer and photographer Joel Sartore visited the Nature Park in April as part of his mission to document 25,000 animals in human care to promote biodiversity awareness and inspire global conservation. “Birds-of-paradise are living works of art,” said Sartore. “We preserve art in museums. These species deserve the same level of protection.” The announcement coincides with Papua New Guinea’s 50th year of independence, making the national bird’s selection even more symbolic. The milestone image has already reached an audience of more than 500 million via National Geographic’s media platforms and Sartore’s own global channels. Johnpaul Houston, CEO of Port Moresby Nature Park, said the team was honored to host Sartore. “To have our kumul recognized as the 17,000th species is a proud moment for PNG and the Nature Park. We look forward to sharing these images with our visitors soon.” The Photo Ark project emphasizes the urgent need to protect species facing environmental and human-driven threats. Its milestone moment in PNG underscores the country’s vital role in preserving the world’s natural heritage. More information and the full story are available at joelsartore.com.

Queensland Maroons captain Cameron Munster delivered one of the most emotionally charged performances in State of Origin history last night, leading his side to a series victory just days after the passing of his father. After going down one game to nil to the New South Wales Blues in Game One in Brisbane, the odds were firmly stacked against the Maroons. The Blues featured a powerful halves pairing in four-time NRL premiership-winning halfback Nathan Cleary and 2024 Origin-winning halfback Mitchell Moses, widely regarded as two of the best in the game today. In a bold move, Queensland coach Billy Slater made a significant leadership change following the Game One defeat, replacing veteran captain Daly Cherry-Evans with Munster. The decision was based on Munster’s proven Origin pedigree, including being named Player of the Series in 2020 and Man of the Match in Game One of 2022, along with his strong working relationship with Slater through 16 Origin appearances. Heading into Game Two in Perth, Queensland unveiled a new halves combination, with Munster partnering rising star Tom Dearden. Although Mitchell Moses was sidelined with a knee injury, New South Wales still fielded a strong spine including Jarome Luai and the returning Cleary. Queensland responded with grit. While they scored one try fewer than New South Wales, Valentine Holmes' accurate goal-kicking proved decisive, securing a narrow two-point victory to keep the series alive. Before the decider, Queensland suffered another setback. Fullback Kalyn Ponga was ruled out with injury, prompting Slater to shift Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, also known as The Hammer, to fullback and hand a debut to Brisbane Broncos centre Gehamat Shibasaki. Veteran forward Josh Papali’i also returned to the side, riding strong form as the Canberra Raiders sat at the top of the NRL ladder. Tragically, just days before Game Three, Munster’s father passed away. The news shocked the NRL community. Slater initially released Munster from the squad, but on Sunday morning, Munster sat with his coach and told him quietly, “I’m playing.” At the post-match press conference, an emotional Slater, who also lost his father in January, reflected on that moment. “I knew his father would have wanted him to play, so I had to let him,” Slater said. “Over my four years as coach, this is my proudest moment. The bloke on my left is the most courageous and bravest man to captain this special squad. I do not know how he did it.” The Maroons turned the game into a tribute. Their first half was clinical. Queensland completed sets with precision, made fewer errors, and built a twenty-point lead by halftime. It was a stunning and dominant performance. In the second half, the Maroons sustained pressure, particularly on the left edge that had been exposed in Game Two. Valentine Holmes and Murray Taulagi kept Latrell Mitchell and Brian To’o in check. Tom Dearden even saved a certain try from To’o, adding to his standout night. The Blues crossed for a late try, but it was not enough. Dearden went over for his second try, sealing the Maroons' emotional series win. As the full-time siren sounded, Munster and Slater embraced in a tearful captain and coach moment, embodying the spirit and resilience of their side. At the press conference, Munster held back tears as he thanked the wider rugby league community. “I am thankful to the NRL community for your support, to Billy and the Queensland coaching staff, and to my brothers who stood with me.” He concluded by dedicating the victory to teammate Josh Papali’i. “This one is also for Papa. It is his last year in the comp. We got this one for him too.”

National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop has strongly condemned the violent unrest that erupted in Port Moresby on Tuesday, calling it a serious threat to law and order and demanding urgent reform of the city’s public transport system. The violence, reportedly led by Public Motor Vehicle (PMV) drivers and their relatives following the fatal stabbing of a crew member, saw parts of the capital descend into chaos, causing widespread fear and disruption for city residents. Governor Parkop expressed sympathy for the victim’s family but firmly denounced the retaliatory attacks, stating: “While I share the public’s grief and outrage... it does not in any way justify the reckless and tribal violence that followed.” He stressed that such disorder is unacceptable in modern society and has tarnished the image of Port Moresby as a peaceful and investment-ready city. In a call to action, Parkop urged police to identify and arrest those responsible for the riots and called on the Road Traffic Authority (RTA) to suspend licenses of the PMVs involved. He also proposed that the RTA’s regulatory role be reviewed and possibly transferred to the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) for stronger oversight. “This incident must be a turning point,” he said. “We must now urgently de-tribalize the public transport system... The culture of tribal identity and revenge has no place in our public services.” Governor Parkop further appealed to the Minister for Transport to enact sweeping reforms to restore order and professionalism in the sector. The Governor concluded by reaffirming the city’s commitment to public safety and rule of law: “We must act – swiftly and decisively – to restore confidence.”

The Governor for National Capital District (NCD) Powes Parkop highlighted the significance of 'One City, One Country, One Future' at the official launching of the PNG Story Month celebration at the Sir Hubert Murray stadium in Port Moresby city in the lead up to the 50th independence anniversary, beginning with the Southern Region. The month-long celebration is part of a broader national storytelling initiative that began in May and continues through to September, exploring PNG’s cultural and historical journey through the voices of its diverse regions and communities. Addressing crowd in attendance, Governor Parkop reflected on the Southern Region’s deep-rooted significance. “Southern Region is where the PNG story began. In Hanuabada, the Union Jack was first raised in 1884, and from here, the journey to nationhood took root.” He shared personal memories from his youth, starting school in 1968, witnessing his parents vote during the early days of self-governance, and singing the national anthem in 1973. “We imagined a united country, despite our thousand tribes and languages.” Calling on young Papua New Guineans to take ownership of the nation’s future, Governor Parkop posed a challenge to them. “Our time is almost up, but your time is now. Where do you see your city and country in 2075?” He reminded the nation of key Southern Region milestones, from Yule Island, where the national flag was first designed, to the Haus of Assembly, where leaders voted for independence. “We achieved independence peacefully. Let’s keep that spirit of unity alive.” Traditional songs, dances, and cultural displays from Central, Gulf, Oro, Milne Bay, and Western provinces became the heartbeat of the day, each performance offering a powerful narrative of identity, resilience, and unity. Governor Parkop extended heartfelt thanks to the performers, the audience, and the organizing teams from the National Capital District Commission and Amazing Port Moresby for staging the successful launch event. The spotlight now shifts northward, with New Guinea Islands Day set for Saturday, July 12, featuring cultural showcases from East and West New Britain, New Ireland, Manus, and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. The PNG Story Month continues, honoring the past, celebrating the present, and shaping a future grounded in unity.

Nathan Cleary is once again at the center of controversy ahead of tomorrow's State of Origin decider. At just 27, he has already accomplished more than many of the game's greatest names, including several NRL Immortals. Yet, despite his accolades, critics continue to argue that Cleary will never match the legacy of Andrew Johns, widely regarded as New South Wales’ greatest ever halfback. But unlike Johns, who debuted in Origin in his late 20s and only reached his peak in his 30s, Cleary is still years away from what many believe could be his prime. The Penrith playmaker already has four NRL Premierships under his belt and led the Blues to back-to-back Origin series wins in 2021 and 2022. The debate surrounding Cleary’s legacy intensified during Monday night’s episode of 100% Footy on Nine’s Wide World of Sports, where Phil Gould, Paul Gallen, and Cameron Smith weighed in. Gould passionately defended Cleary, dismissing claims that he isn’t an Origin great. “This kid has already achieved so much, and he’s only 27,” Gould said. “His focus, determination, and dedication to the game already make him an Immortal in my eyes." "Unfortunately for the Maroons, he hasn’t even reached his peak yet — most Origin greats don’t until their late 20s or early 30s.” Both former Origin captains, Cameron Smith and Paul Gallen, strongly backed Gould’s comments, agreeing that Cleary’s best is still yet to come. As the decider looms, all eyes will be on Cleary. And if history is any guide, the best may truly be yet to come.