Jordan VELA

Pacific Corporate Security (PCS) and Limu Oil PRL 15 Consolidated Holdings Ltd have signed a Joint Venture (JV) Agreement that will see PCS provide security services for the Limu Oil PRL 15 project, creating employment and business opportunities as well for seven landowner groups in the Gulf Province.The agreement was signed on Thursday, Aug. 13, at the PCS six-mile base in Port Moresby under the theme, “Partnership for Sustainable Development, Landowner Participation and Shared Economic Growth.”The partnership brings together PCS and the seven landowner groups of the UHE Tribe through Limu Oil PRL 15 Consolidated Holdings Ltd.PCS Managing Director and Group Chairman Jacob Kaupa said security is the company’s core business and PCS is committed to supporting the Limu Oil project through the joint venture.“I want to give you assurance that security is in my space. My team and I are serious. We want to have the JV continue to see the results,” Kaupa said.Kaupa said PCS would provide personnel to work with the landowner company and the developer as the project progresses.“Your service will be limited to us and I will provide people that will help us, help you, help me and help the developer to progress this very project forward,” he said.Kaupa said PCS is locally owned and started with one vehicle more than 30 years ago before expanding its operations and investing in personnel, logistics, communications, GPS tracking, uniforms and training.He said PCS would use its experience and resources to support the joint venture and contribute to opportunities for the landowners.Limu Oil PRL 15 Consolidated Holdings Chairman and UHE Tribe Chief Aku Lare thanked Kaupa and PCS for entering the agreement with the landowners.Lare said the seven landowner groups come from remote parts of Gulf Province and see the Limu Oil project as an opportunity to create development and economic benefits for their communities.“I want to say thank you, and you know that I am signing this agreement for you to help us from the bushes,” Lare said.Lare said the landowners may not have extensive experience in major business arrangements but are placing their trust in the joint venture.A representative of the UHE Tribe said the landowners come from some of the most remote parts of Gulf Province, where communities have limited access to government services.The representative said the resource development has created an opportunity for the communities to participate in economic activity and support development in their villages.PCS Country Security Manager Paul Young outlined the company’s security capabilities, including static security, K9 operations, cash-in-transit services, GPS tracking and monitoring, risk assessment and drone technology.Young said PCS would apply its security experience and technology to the Limu Oil project.Former Army Commander Walter Inua congratulated the seven landowner groups for coming together under a single business structure.Inua said the relationship between the landowners and PCS had taken years to develop and highlighted PCS’ more than 30 years of security experience.“PCS brings more than 30 years of security experience, including leadership, management, logistics and security expertise,” Inua said.Former Police Commissioner Anthony Wagambi urged the seven landowner groups to remain united as they pursue opportunities associated with the development.“The most important thing is that the seven clans remain united. You must maintain good relationships and work together,” Wagambi said.Wagambi said Papua New Guinea was made up of many tribes but operated as one country, using the example to encourage the seven groups to work together.PCS Country Manager Ron Bell compared the partnership to a marriage, saying the two sides had spent time building their relationship before formally entering the agreement.“Today we are signing the agreement. We hope this partnership will produce benefits for both sides over many years,” Bell said.Limu Oil PRL 15 Consolidated Holdings Deputy Chairman Victor Patrick and Secretary Edwin Muriki outlined the background of the seven landowner groups and their interests in areas associated with the wider Papua LNG development.They said the partnership would help the landowners participate in economic opportunities while creating employment and business opportunities for their communities.Master of ceremonies Pastor Jack Edward said the landowners had taken a proactive approach by coming together and establishing the partnership with PCS.He said the agreement provided an opportunity for the landowners to participate in economic activity associated with resource development in their area.The ceremony concluded with the exchange of signed joint venture documents, presentation of commemorative certificates and official photographs involving the partners and stakeholders.Under the joint venture, PCS will provide security services for the Limu Oil PRL 15 project, while Limu Oil PRL 15 Consolidated Holdings Ltd represents the seven participating landowner groups in the partnership.

Divine Word University (DWU) is marking 30 years of service to Papua New Guinea with anniversary celebrations taking place across the country, including a series of activities in the nation’s capital.The celebrations are being held under the theme “Serving the Nation with Quality Education for 30 Years”, recognizing the university’s contribution to education and national development since its establishment in Papua New Guinea.The university operates four campuses across the country, with its main campus situated in Madang, alongside campuses in Port Moresby, Rabaul and Wewak providing education and training in various fields.Divine Word University says more than 15, 000 students and alumni have passed through the Port Moresby campus alone, with graduates now working in leadership, management, health, education, and other sectors across Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.Port Moresby Campus Administrator Dr. Jerome Oko stated that the capital-city campus has developed a role as a hub for flexible learning and professional development.The campus caters mainly for working professionals seeking to upgrade their qualifications through flexible learning, while also offering a full-time Business Studies program.It currently has approximately 850 students, including flexible and full-time students, supported by full-time staff and part-time lecturers.Dr. Oko noted that the university’s flexible learning model demonstrates its commitment to innovation and creating opportunities for Papua New Guineans who may not be able to pursue conventional full-time study.He emphasized that Divine Word University remains strongly service-oriented, with its graduates contributing to sectors such as health, education, and leadership, including in rural and remote communities.The university has also built partnerships with government, churches, the private sector and international universities, supporting its broader role in national development.The Port Moresby anniversary program will begin on Friday, August 14, with a Mass, followed by a series of activities leading into the main celebrations.On Saturday, August 15, the Port Moresby Campus will host a colourful motorcade through the capital, featuring vehicles decorated to represent Divine Word University’s past, present, and future of the institution’s growth over the past 30 years.The public is encouraged to come out and support the motorcade as it travels through the streets before returning to the campus for formal acknowledgements and a cake cutting ceremony.The major public event in Port Moresby will be held on Friday, August 21, at the Taurama Aquatic Centre, with an Exhibition and Entertainment Day.The exhibition will run from 9:00AM to midday, which will bring together sister institutions, financial institutions, and other organizations. More than 20 sister institutions have accepted invitations to participate.According to the university, the exhibition will also provide opportunities for students to connect with institutions and financial organizations on areas including internships, professional development, and financial literacy.The afternoon program will celebrate Papua New Guinea’s cultural diversity, with students representing different provinces taking part in performances.In addition, a major feature will be a student skit taking the audience through Divine Word University’s journey from its establishment to its present-day programs and campuses, and into its vision for the future.The Exhibition and Entertainment Day is open to the general public.Celebrations in Port Moresby will conclude on Saturday, August 22, with a corporate gala dinner at Dynasty Restaurant at Vision City.The dinner will also serve as a fundraising event, with tables available for K5, 000 to assist the Port Moresby Campus with infrastructure development as student numbers continue to increase, as well as supporting the need for additional teaching and administrative staff and improving accommodation.Alumni, corporate organizations, and business houses are being encouraged to support the fundraising dinner.The event will include entertainment, guest speakers, a presentation on the history of Divine Word University, and finally, an alumni discussion panel.As Divine Word University celebrates three decades, the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on its contribution to Papua New Guinea while looking ahead to the role education will play in developing the country and the Pacific.For the Port Moresby Campus, the anniversary activities provide an opportunity for the capital city community to celebrate the university’s history, its students and alumni, and its continuing commitment to serving the nation through education.

Pacific Corporate Security (PCS) and Limu Oil PRL 15 Consolidated Holdings Ltd have signed a joint venture agreement that will see PCS provide security services for the Limu Oil PRL 15 project while creating employment and business opportunities for seven landowner groups in Gulf Province.The agreement was signed Thursday, Aug. 13, at the PCS six-mile base in Port Moresby under the theme, “Partnership for Sustainable Development, Landowner Participation and Shared Economic Growth.”The partnership brings together PCS and the seven landowner groups of the UHE Tribe through Limu Oil PRL 15 Consolidated Holdings Ltd.PCS Managing Director and Group Chairman Jacob Kaupa said security is the company’s core business and PCS is committed to supporting the Limu Oil project through the joint venture.“I want to give you assurance that security is in my space. My team and I are serious. We want to have the JV continue to see the results,” Kaupa said.Kaupa said PCS would provide personnel to work with the landowner company and the developer as the project progresses.“Your service will be limited to us and I will provide people that will help us, help you, help me and help the developer to progress this very project forward,” he said.Kaupa said PCS is locally owned and started with one vehicle more than 30 years ago before expanding its operations and investing in personnel, logistics, communications, GPS tracking, uniforms and training.He said PCS would use its experience and resources to support the joint venture and contribute to opportunities for the landowners.Limu Oil PRL 15 Consolidated Holdings Chairman and UHE Tribe Chief Aku Lare thanked Kaupa and PCS for entering the agreement with the landowners.Lare said the seven landowner groups come from remote parts of Gulf Province and see the Limu Oil project as an opportunity to create development and economic benefits for their communities.“I want to say thank you, and you know that I am signing this agreement for you to help us from the bushes,” Lare said.Lare said the landowners may not have extensive experience in major business arrangements but are placing their trust in the joint venture.A representative of the UHE Tribe said the landowners come from some of the most remote parts of Gulf Province, where communities have limited access to government services.The representative said the resource development has created an opportunity for the communities to participate in economic activity and support development in their villages.PCS Country Security Manager Paul Young outlined the company’s security capabilities, including static security, K9 operations, cash-in-transit services, GPS tracking and monitoring, risk assessment and drone technology.Young said PCS would apply its security experience and technology to the Limu Oil project.Former Army Commander Walter Inua congratulated the seven landowner groups for coming together under a single business structure.Inua said the relationship between the landowners and PCS had taken years to develop and highlighted PCS’ more than 30 years of security experience.“PCS brings more than 30 years of security experience, including leadership, management, logistics and security expertise,” Inua said.Former Police Commissioner Anthony Wagambi urged the seven landowner groups to remain united as they pursue opportunities associated with the development.“The most important thing is that the seven clans remain united. You must maintain good relationships and work together,” Wagambi said.Wagambi said Papua New Guinea was made up of many tribes but operated as one country, using the example to encourage the seven groups to work together.PCS Country Manager Ron Bell compared the partnership to a marriage, saying the two sides had spent time building their relationship before formally entering the agreement.“Today we are signing the agreement. We hope this partnership will produce benefits for both sides over many years,” Bell said.Limu Oil PRL 15 Consolidated Holdings Deputy Chairman Victor Patrick and Secretary Edwin Muriki outlined the background of the seven landowner groups and their interests in areas associated with the wider Papua LNG development.They said the partnership would help the landowners participate in economic opportunities while creating employment and business opportunities for their communities.Master of ceremonies Pastor Jack Edward said the landowners had taken a proactive approach by coming together and establishing the partnership with PCS.He said the agreement provided an opportunity for the landowners to participate in economic activity associated with resource development in their area.The ceremony concluded with the exchange of signed joint venture documents, presentation of commemorative certificates and official photographs involving the partners and stakeholders.Under the joint venture, PCS will provide security services for the Limu Oil PRL 15 project, while Limu Oil PRL 15 Consolidated Holdings Ltd represents the seven participating landowner groups in the partnership.

People who continue to possess illegal firearms after the National Firearms Amnesty and Guns Buy-Back Program ends on Sept. 16 will face life imprisonment, while the government is pursuing tougher penalties for people who sell or supply illegal firearms.Police Minister Sir John Pundari said the government is seeking amendments to increase penalties for illegal firearm offences, including consideration of the death penalty for illegal firearm possession.He said life imprisonment is already the penalty for illegal firearm possession, while proposed amendments would extend life imprisonment to people who sell or supply illegal firearms, including those operating across international borders.“Let me warn you that the laws of you ending up with the life sentence also applies to you for selling that gun,” Sir John said.“You are responsible for the many lives that this country has lost already through the use of illegal guns.”Sir John said the proposed penalties would target people involved in the illegal firearm trade both inside and outside Papua New Guinea, including suppliers operating across international borders.He also warned members of the Police, Correctional Service and PNGDF that they could face the same severe penalties if found moving or trading illegal firearms and ammunition.The minister said authorities are also targeting people who financially support the purchase of high-powered weapons used by criminal groups.With the amnesty deadline approaching, Sir John urged people holding illegal firearms to surrender them before Sept. 16 rather than risk arrest and prosecution.The National Firearms Amnesty and Guns Buy-Back Program began on Feb. 28 and will conclude on Sept. 16.Sir John said preliminary reports show that more than 200 firearms have already been surrendered in Enga.He said authorities in Kokopo had also reported significant progress in the surrender of homemade firearms.“In Kokopo, I am very happy to know that they have filled up a container of homemade guns, and that is really encouraging,” Sir John said.He said the surrender effort was also gaining momentum in Jiwaka.Sir John said Police Commissioner David Manning had directed provincial police commanders to submit reports on the progress of firearms amnesty operations across the country.During the amnesty period, people can surrender illegal firearms without being arrested for possession, with cash incentives available for surrendered weapons.However, Sir John stressed that the amnesty does not provide immunity for crimes committed using illegal firearms.He said that once the amnesty ends, security forces will rely on intelligence-led operations, targeted enforcement and weapons tracing to recover illegal firearms and prosecute those responsible.“After that date, there will be no leniency and our nation will not tolerate illegal firearms under any circumstance,” he said.Sir John also warned politicians, candidates and their supporters against using illegal firearms during the 2027 National General Election.“No one should support a candidate who uses illegal firearms, for he is a criminal. You will be a criminal too if you support them,” Sir John said.He said candidates who rely on illegal firearms to influence or win elections should not contest, while security forces would maintain a zero-tolerance approach to election-related gun violence.The minister also urged communities to consider using any financial return from surrendered firearms for education, agriculture or small business activities.He said police are responsible for collecting and registering surrendered firearms and recording the information required to process payments following verification.A nationwide day of repentance and forgiveness is also scheduled for Aug. 28 as part of the government's campaign against illegal firearms.Sir John called on churches, community leaders, businesses and other organizations to encourage people to surrender illegal firearms before the amnesty deadline.“Enough is enough and we all have to rise up as a people to remove this evil in our society, in our communities and in our families,” Sir John said.He said the illegal firearm problem extends beyond the Highlands, with firearms increasingly being reported in coastal and island communities.Sir John said reducing the number of illegal firearms remains a national public safety priority, particularly as Papua New Guinea prepares for the 2027 election.He said authorities would continue using targeted enforcement, intelligence-led operations, community engagement, weapons tracing, command reporting and prosecution support to recover illegal firearms and hold those responsible accountable.

The reigning queen Iampela Popena has used her platform to advocate for children with special needs, calling for greater access to education, facilities and essential services.Speaking during the inaugural Miss Bird of Paradise Talent Show at the APEC Haus Port Moresby, Popena reflected on her journey when contesting for Miss Western Highlands and all the way in becoming Miss Bird of Paradise, saying the title has given her a platform to speak for people facing barriers in their daily lives.Advocating for and supporting children with disabilities is one of the key areas of the Miss Bird of Paradise brand, with Popena using her reign to highlight the barriers children with special needs face in accessing education, facilities and services.Popena said her advocacy for children with special needs began during her project week, when she focused on the barriers faced by children with disabilities, particularly in accessing schools.She recalled visiting a disability organization located near Mt. Hagen General Hospital and meeting children and adults who faced difficulties accessing education, facilities, services and economic opportunities.“When I walked into that room, I saw people just like you and me, children just like our children, but they have issues and barriers that stop them from getting education and accessing facilities and services,” Popena said.She said the experience reinforced her belief that the Miss Bird of Paradise platform could be used to bring greater attention to people living with disabilities.Popena said her visits to schools in Port Moresby, including St. Paul’s and her former school, St. Charles Luwanga further highlighted the need for schools to improve accessibility.“They had children with special needs, and I had a couple of them. They were amazing. They were warm, they were funny, they had personality and they had so much energy,” she said.However, she said inadequate facilities remained a concern.Popena said accessibility infrastructure such as ramps is important in ensuring children with disabilities can attend school alongside other children.“Our children with special needs deserve to go to school, regardless if they don’t walk, talk, speak or hear,” she said.Popena also used the talent show to raise funds for projects supporting children with special needs.Following her speech, she invited attendees to have photographs taken with her in exchange for donations, with proceeds directed toward her advocacy work and projects supporting children with disabilities.She encouraged sponsors and members of the audience to contribute to the initiative and become part of efforts to improve opportunities for children with special needs.“I take myself, as a charity organization and also the Miss Bird of Paradise platform, to stand and to be a voice and an image to reflect these people,” Popena said.She said the fundraising initiative would support projects in schools in her home province of Western Highlands, Port Moresby and other parts of the country.Popena said she hoped the initiative would continue beyond her reign and encourage future Miss Bird of Paradise titleholders to take up similar projects, keeping advocacy for children with disabilities as part of the Miss Bird of Paradise brand.

With weeks counting down to the September 16 deadline for the national gun amnesty, Police Minister Sir John Pundari has warned political candidates, their supporters and accomplices against using illegal firearms during the 2027 National General Election.Sir John says police will be on the ground to protect what he describes as “the people’s election”, stressing that the election belongs to citizens and not politicians or candidates.“Police operation in the elections will be this. We respect, we consider it as a people’s election, not a candidate’s election” said Sir John Pundari He warned candidates against disrupting the electoral process, saying police would be working to ensure the election remains peaceful and fair.“Candidates must not disrupt peaceful elections because it is not your election; it is the people’s election,” he said.“We will be out to protect the people’s election, to make sure that it is peaceful and fair.”Sir John says the RPNGC, together with other members of the security forces, will operate independently and respect the rights of every citizen throughout the election.“ensuring that we operate independently and fairly and respect to every citizen’s right in this country,” he said.The Police Minister has issued a strong warning to anyone planning to use illegal firearms to influence or disrupt the election.“And therefore be assured, be assured, you will be enemy number one if you want to win the election with an illegal gun,” Sir John said.He extended the warning to those who may assist or support candidates involved in the use of illegal firearms.“Accomplices, supporters, including candidates. So surrender your gun, and don’t be tempted by it to think that you will use it at the time of elections,” he said.The minister says police will rely on technology and intelligence to identify and respond to threats during the election period.“We will use technology. We will use information. It will be intelligence-driven,” Sir John said.The RPNGC’s 2027 election security strategy will focus on maintaining police neutrality, supporting safe and lawful elections, warning disruptors and criminals, and countering misinformation, rumours and election-related tensions.Specially trained police personnel are also being deployed nationwide to support polling, counting and declarations, with security operations coordinated with the Electoral Commission and provincial authorities.Sir John says community leaders, churches and youth groups will also have an important role in maintaining peace.The minister has urged candidates and their supporters to respect the democratic process and allow citizens to exercise their right to vote freely.“We want to ensure free and fair elections for all our people, and we will all do the right thing,” Sir John said.

The wings of an Oro butterfly became the centrepiece of a much bigger idea.At the inaugural Miss Bird of Paradise (MBOP) Talent Show, George Kurokuro turned Papua New Guinea's diverse cultural identity into fashion, winning the first ever MBOP Sarong Category before a packed audience that included Prime Minister James Marape and the wife of Governor General Sir Bob Dadae, who was among the night's judges.Following the event, PNG Haus Bung caught up with Kurokuro to learn the story behind the winning design and the creative thinking that brought it to life.For Kurokuro, the sarong was more than a costume on a stage, it was his way of bringing Papua New Guinea's diverse cultures together through fashion.The idea began with a simple story.A tourist arrives in Papua New Guinea and travels through the country's regions, discovering the different designs and cultural expressions along the way."We took them through the four regions. We got one design from each region and we put them on the cloth," Kurokuro explained."Everything that you saw there was representing the entire Papua New Guinea on the sarong."The finished piece brought together cultural elements from different parts of the country. The grass skirt represented the Momase region, the top came from East New Britain, while the wings drew inspiration from Oro Province and a Bilou feature was also incorporated to represent the islands. But among all those elements, the Oro butterfly became the heart of the design.Kurokuro said the butterfly immediately gave him the visual direction he needed."Oro was the main topic, the butterfly. Just looking at the butterfly, I thought, wings and Oro. So that's why the main highlight was the wings and the Oro butterfly," he added.Turning the idea into something that could actually walk onto a pageant stage, however, was not as easy as imagining it. The cloth had to be printed, assembled and eventually given to the contestant to tie according to the design."The main thing was the cloth itself, getting it printed and all of that," Kurokuro said."We had our own difficulties on the side, but putting it together and then giving it to the contestant to actually tie according to those designs was the difficult part of it. But we managed to pull it off."For Kurokuro, the effort reflects something he has always believed about Papua New Guinea's culture. Art and culture are not things that belong only in traditional settings. They can be reimagined through fashion and presented to new audiences without losing their identity."I've always loved all of this, and fashion is a really good place to output all of this," he said. "I really wanted to put our culture on a sarong and see how good it looks."That instinct has shaped much of Kurokuro's creative journey.With a background in Arts from the University of Papua New Guinea, he has developed interests across fashion, dance, choreography and digital content, creating a style that brings contemporary influences together with Papua New Guinean culture.His work has already found a place in the country's pageant and creative industry.Kurokuro was involved in the designs and choreography behind Iampela Popena during her Miss Western Highlands campaign before she went on to become Miss Bird of Paradise and represent Papua New Guinea.His creative work is now continuing with the Miss Bird of Paradise platform, where he will be part of the 2026 to 2027 creative team as the PNG queen prepares for the Miss Pacific Islands pageant.Away from the pageant stage, Kurokuro has another creative outlet that has become part of his professional life. He is a content creator, using social media to promote people, businesses, fashion and events.In a previous role, his work helped BMBN Hardware strengthen its marketing presence and gain significant attention online.For Kurokuro, content creation is not simply about posting pictures or videos. It is another form of performance."Content creation is also one of my biggest hobbies, and I make a living out of it too," he said.He believes social media has changed how creatives can connect with audiences, particularly in Papua New Guinea."The biggest way to get to people is through content creation," he said.That belief has encouraged him to use his own platforms to showcase the creative work happening around him."What I do for my hobby, for fashion and all that stuff, I also do the same, and I put the same energy into content creation."His background in dancing has also naturally found its way into his work. Choreography was part of the presentation, drawing on a skill he developed through his passion for dance."Dancing is part of my hobby, so choreography was part of that process as well," he said.For Kurokuro, these creative disciplines are not separate worlds. Fashion gives culture a visual form, choreography gives it movement, content creation gives it an audience and together, they provide him with a way to tell Papua New Guinea's story in a language that feels both modern and familiar.His journey also challenges an assumption about who belongs in the creative and fashion industry.While much of the beauty and pageant space is often associated with women, Kurokuro's growing body of work shows that there is room for men who are willing to design, create, choreograph and tell stories through fashion.His work is not about competing with anyone; it is about finding a space where his own talents can speak.And perhaps that is what makes the Oro butterfly on his winning sarong so fitting. Its wings became the visual center of a design that brought different parts of Papua New Guinea together.Kurokuro is doing something similar with his own career, he is bringing together art, fashion, dance, culture and digital media, creating a path that is uniquely his own.From a piece of cloth carrying the colours and symbols of Papua New Guinea to the stage of the inaugural MBOP Talent Show, George Kurokuro is showing that culture does not have to remain frozen in the past to be preserved

The National Department of Health, through its Standard wing is working with the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) Health Ministry to assess health facilities standards and strengthen health system as Bougainville prepares for greater autonomy.Deputy Secretary for Health, Compliance and Standards Dr. Dora Lenturut said the discussions are focused on determining how the national department can support the development of Bougainville's health system.She said the National Department of Health and the ABG are discussing health facility assessments and standards that could provide a stronger foundation for the region's health services.“We are just trying to help them do an assessment for the health facilities in AROB just to help them set a platform for them for the future when they have their own autonomous government, then at least the health system is already in place. So there has already been ongoing discussion between the ABG government health ministry and our Standards Wing to help them properly to setting up” Dr. Lenturut said.Dr. Lenturut said the work would help establish a stronger platform for Bougainville's health system as the region progresses toward greater autonomy.Meanwhile, the Health Ministry is also considering a proposal to extend the retirement age for health professionals to 70.Meanwhile, Dr. Lenturut briefly highlighted some discussion in development on whether the retirement age for health professionals could be extended to 70.However, she stressed that no decision has been made and the proposal is still at an initial discussion stage.“That is not official yet. It is not yet formal, and it is still on the table for discussion, but hopefully we can make some fruitful progress in this discussion” she said.Dr. Lenturit said the proposal is being considered because experienced health professionals could continue contributing their knowledge and skills beyond the current retirement age.She said retaining experienced doctors and other health professionals could help the health system make better use of their expertise.The proposal remains under discussion and has not been formally adopted by the Health Ministry.

Rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society will become the cornerstone of Papua New Guinea's Correctional Service under Commissioner Noel Sarei, who says prisons must do more than simply detain offenders.During his inaugural Commissioner Welcome Parade at Bomana Correctional Service Staff Training College on Friday, August 7th, Commissioner Sarei identified rehabilitation as a central priority of his reform agenda, outlining plans to reshape how the Correctional Service prepares detainees for life after prison.His administration will re-establish the position of Assistant Commissioner Welfare and Rehabilitation while introducing a comprehensive Rehabilitation and Reintegration Policy to guide offender management across the country.The policy will cover education, vocational training, counselling, community reintegration and post release support, with the aim of equipping detainees to return to society as productive and law abiding citizens."This policy will redefine and rebrand rehabilitation within PNGCS, ensuring that every detainee is provided with genuine opportunities to change, develop practical skills and return to society as a productive and law abiding citizen," Commissioner Sarei said.He said rehabilitation is not only about reducing reoffending but also about strengthening families, improving community safety and contributing to national development.Commissioner Sarei's vision also extends to Prison Industry, which he plans to transform into a commercially viable arm of the Correctional Service that provides detainees with practical work experience and employable skills while serving their sentences.He said prisoners should also benefit directly from legitimate prison industry activities to help support their transition back into the community after release."A portion of revenue generated through these commercial activities can be returned to the Government through the Consolidated Revenue Fund, while also strengthening the financial sustainability of the Correctional Service," he said.Supporting the rehabilitation agenda will be reforms to the Correctional Service Training College, where Commissioner Sarei plans to modernize officer training by introducing nationally and internationally recognized qualifications and updating the curriculum to reflect contemporary correctional practices.Training will place greater emphasis on rehabilitation, offender management, intelligence operations, leadership, ethics, human rights and correctional administration.Commissioner Sarei said rehabilitation should remain at the heart of the Correctional Service's mission."As the Commissioner, I pledge to lead with integrity, fairness, transparency and accountability. Together, we will restore confidence in the service, strengthen rehabilitation, modernize our operations and build a Correctional Service that is respected both nationally and regionally and of course the employer of choice," he said.He said a modern Correctional Service must not only provide secure custody but also create meaningful opportunities for offenders to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society after their release.

Correctional Service (CS) Commissioner Noel Sarei has unveiled a four-point reform agenda aimed at modernizing the agency, strengthening governance, improving rehabilitation, transforming prison industries and raising professional training standards.Speaking during his inaugural Commissioner Welcome Parade at Bomana Correctional Service Staff Training College on Friday, Aug. 7, Commissioner Sarei told government leaders, members of the Law and Justice Sector, development partners and correctional officers that his leadership would be built on transparency, accountability and institutional reform."We are built on strong values and we must never lose sight of the principles upon which this Service was established," he said."Under my watch, transparency and accountability is nonnegotiable. These values must guide every decision we make and every action we take."Commissioner Sarei announced four key priorities that will guide his administration over the coming years.The first is a comprehensive review of the Correctional Service Act 1995, which he said no longer adequately supports the evolving responsibilities of a modern correctional system.He said the legislative review will strengthen governance, clarify operational responsibilities, improve accountability and provide the legal foundation for future institutional reforms.The second priority places greater emphasis on rehabilitation and reintegration by developing a comprehensive Rehabilitation and Reintegration Policy and reestablishing the position of Assistant Commissioner Welfare and Rehabilitation.His third priority seeks to transform Prison Industry into a commercially viable business arm of the Correctional Service through stronger governance, sound policies and strategic partnerships.Commissioner Sarei said the initiative would equip detainees with practical employment skills and income generating opportunities while contributing to the financial sustainability of the service.The fourth reform focuses on modernizing the Correctional Service Training College through accreditation with the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, allowing officers to obtain nationally and internationally recognized qualifications.The reforms will also expand Technical and Vocational Education and Training opportunities for detainees while strengthening continuous professional development for correctional officers.Commissioner Sarei called on officers across the country to unite behind the reform agenda."As the Commissioner, I pledge to lead with integrity, fairness, transparency and accountability. Together, we will restore confidence in the service, strengthen rehabilitation, modernize our operations and build a Correctional Service that is respected both nationally and regionally and of course the employer of choice," he said.

Minister for Police and Internal Security Sir John Pundari has outlined seven key national security priorities that will guide policing and public safety efforts as Papua New Guinea prepares for the 2027 National General Election and responds to emerging challenges facing the country.Speaking during a media conference at the Parliament Haus State Function Room on Thursday, August 6, Sir John addressed seven significant matters concerning national security and the future direction of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.The priorities include the National Firearms Amnesty, election security, Pacific policing cooperation, El Niño preparedness, police performance, provincial police accountability and efforts to move Papua New Guinea beyond the Financial Action Task Force grey list.Firearms AmnestySir John said the National Firearms Amnesty and Gun Buy Back Program remains one of the Government’s major priorities, with the amnesty period running from February 28 to September 16, 2026.He said the program allows people to surrender illegal firearms without arrest while supporting efforts to reduce illegal weapons through intelligence-led operations, community engagement, weapons tracing and prosecution.The Minister called on all levels of government, churches, businesses, non-government organisations and citizens to take responsibility in addressing the threat posed by illegal firearms.“I make a call across this nation that everyone must rise up and make it your business to say we have had enough of illegal guns because it is a beautiful country and it is a blessed country.”“It is a time that all of us make peace and order in this country our number one priority.”Sir John said removing illegal firearms from communities is a shared responsibility and requires cooperation from all sectors of society.2027 National General Election SecurityLinking the firearms issue to the upcoming election, Sir John said the RPNGC will lead security operations to ensure the 2027 National General Election is conducted in a safe, fair and credible environment.He said police will work to maintain public confidence, protect the electoral process, prevent criminal activities, counter misinformation and work closely with community leaders, churches and youth groups to promote peace.The Minister warned that candidates or individuals who attempt to use firearms to influence the election process must face the consequences.“Sitting members wishing to contest the 2027 elections who rely on the barrel of a gun are unworthy and should consider themselves criminals.”Pacific Policing PartnershipSir John said Papua New Guinea will continue strengthening its policing partnerships with Pacific nations as the country prepares for the 2027 National General Election.He said regional cooperation will play an important role in supporting election security, with Pacific partners ready to assist PNG during this important national event.“When Papua New Guinea goes into election, our brothers will help us.”He said an estimated 300 regional security personnel could support election security operations.Sir John said PNG’s involvement in the Pacific Policing Initiative and its election to the INTERPOL Asia Regional Committee demonstrates the country’s commitment to strengthening regional law enforcement cooperation.He said these partnerships will also support efforts to address transnational crime across the Pacific.El Niño PreparednessThe Minister warned that Papua New Guinea could be facing one of its most serious El Niño weather events and urged communities to prepare for possible impacts.He said possible consequences include prolonged drought, delayed wet seasons, water shortages, power rationing, increased bushfires, food insecurity and social tensions.Sir John said police are working with the PNG Defence Force, disaster authorities, provincial governments and regional partners to prepare for emergency responses.He called for unity and cooperation across the country during challenging conditions.“Right around this country, we must show the true Melanesian culture. The water that runs throughout the country is not owned by the landowner; it is owned by the State and belongs to every Papua New Guinean.”Police Performance ReportSir John also provided an update on police performance and reforms, saying the Government’s law and order priorities are becoming more aligned with the operational direction of Police Commissioner David Manning.He said ongoing reforms are focused on increasing police numbers, improving investigations and prosecutions, strengthening accountability, expanding forensic capability, modernising infrastructure and supporting Provincial Police Commands.The Minister said continued investment in the Constabulary is necessary to ensure police are equipped to meet future national security challenges.Provincial Police Commander AccountabilitySir John called for stronger performance and accountability from Provincial Police Commanders and senior police leaders.He said Government investment in policing must be matched by effective leadership and delivery of services at the provincial level.The Minister expressed confidence in Commissioner David Manning and his deputies to address underperformance and ensure police commanders remain focused on serving communities.Moving Beyond FATF Grey ListingSir John said removing Papua New Guinea from the Financial Action Task Force grey list remains a key national priority.He said addressing the issue requires cooperation between law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, government departments and regulators.The Minister said financial institutions must strengthen reporting of suspicious transactions so authorities can investigate, freeze and confiscate proceeds linked to criminal activity.He warned that organisations failing to meet their legal responsibilities could face prosecution.Sir John said the Government remains committed to strengthening PNG’s financial integrity and working with stakeholders to remove the country from the FATF grey list.

Western Highlands Province (WHP) is set to become the first province to host the Miss Bird of Paradise (MBoP) Papua New Guinea National Pageant under a newly introduced provincial hosting model announced by the organization.Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Chairlady Anna Bias said future national pageants will no longer be held at a fixed location but will rotate annually to the home province of the reigning Miss Bird of Paradise PNG.Western Highlands, home of reigning queen Iampela Popena, will host the 2026 National Pageant Week from November 22nd to December 3rd, culminating in the national crowning on December 3rd.According to Ms. Bias, the decision is aimed at creating opportunities for provinces while promoting tourism, culture, and local economic development.“Instead, the honour of hosting the National Pageant will rotate annually to the province of the reigning Miss Bird of Paradise PNG.”“This strategic decision is about much more than changing a venue. It is about creating opportunities for our provinces.”“It is about boosting local tourism. It is about stimulating provincial economies.”“It is about showcasing the rich cultures, traditions, arts and hospitality that make Papua New Guinea one of the world’s most culturally diverse nations.”She said the pageant has grown into a national movement since its establishment in September 2023, promoting leadership, creativity, culture, opportunity, and inclusion among young Papua New Guineans.“Miss Bird of Paradise has never been simply about crowning a queen.”“It is about discovering potential, creating opportunities, building confidence, nurturing leadership and inspiring young people.”The organization has intentionally continued crowning its national queen on December 3rd each year to coincide with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, reflecting its commitment to inclusion and equal opportunities.“Our crown has always represented more than beauty. It represents service. It represents inclusion. It represents hope. It represents opportunity,” Ms. Bias added.The official announcement was made during the launch of the countdown to the inaugural Miss Bird of Paradise Talent and Fashion Show, which will be held at APEC Haus in Port Moresby on Saturday, August 8th.