A coastal village in the Balopa Local Level Government (LLG) area of Lorengau district in Manus province, has been left isolated and facing a humanitarian crisis after massive volcanic pumice covered its shores, making it impossible for the people to travel by sea since Wednesday, June 03rd.This situation is the direct result of a recent underwater volcanic eruption that occurred in the Bismarck Sea causing large sums of floating rocks out into the sea.Volcanic pumice is a highly porous, lightweight volcanic rock formed from gas-rich, rapidly cooled magma during explosive eruptions.For the residents of Baon village, the physical appearance of this eruption has effectively brought daily life to a complete standstill, locking down their main transportation and cutting off vital lifelines.The amount of pumice along the Baon shoreline has reached a thickness of approximately 2.5 meters, extending outward into the sea with a radius of 40 to 50 meters.This barrier has trapped local watercraft, leaving the community entirely landlocked.Communications have also broken down severely, drastically complicating efforts to coordinate relief or relay messages to authorities from the affected area.A community member of Baon village Mr. Simion Siwer, told PNG HAUSBUNG that since Wednesday, the people have been unable to travel with a dingy out to sea and back.“We are just stuck on land, and communication is also a major problem. On the shores, the water is filled with thick pumice that covers the sea starting from the shores out to a radius of 40 to 50 meters.”For the people of Baon, the inability to launch their dinghies hits at the very core of their survival.Maritime travel is a daily necessity, and this causes a huge challenge for residents attempting to access health care, secure store goods, and engage in commerce.With the coastal waters completely obstructed, the community is facing an immediate crisis regarding medical emergencies and essential travel to town.Beyond the transport lockdown, the volcanic debris has affected the local economy as well as nutritional security.The village relies heavily on fishing as its primary source of food, financial income, and market trading.Because no rightful authorities have yet arrived to inspect the water quality or sample the marine life, villagers are terrified to fish near their own reefs, uncertain if the sea or the fish stocks have been dangerously contaminated by toxic volcanic elements.“Since dinghies are our main transport and traveling by sea is our daily travel, seeking medical care or travelling to town is going to be a huge challenge for us.”“In terms of fishing, we cannot travel by canoe or even hook because we do not know if the sea or the fishes are infected because a team has not yet come to assess the situation.”To secure protein and keep families fed, the villagers are forced to trek over land to neighboring areas such as Solang ward.Located within the same LLG but situated roughly two to three kilometers away, Solang remains uninfected by the pumice drifts, allowing for safe line and canoe fishing.However, transporting fish back to Baon over land adds physical labour to a community already under immense strain.The financial burden worsens each day since being affected by the volcanic pumice. Normally, the sale of garden produce in the Lorengau town market provides the cash necessary to purchase the protein and other necessary household good they need.Now, to get crops to market, farmers must carry their garden produce all the way to Solang ward, negotiate with local residents, or hire boats at a high cost to get their produce to town to sell and back which adds more restraints.“We survive on fish for food, marketing, and income,” Mr. Siwer emphasized.“Since we are stranded, cannot travel into town to sell our garden produce and receive cash to at least buy ourselves protein, we have to carry our garden produce all the way to Solang.“We have to negotiate with them or hire a boat to bring those produce to town and then return, which all costs money.”On behalf of the community, Mr. Siwer has issued an urgent public appeal to provincial disaster management authorities and rightful national leaders for immediate intervention.While garden staples remain available for the time being, the community’s nutritional balance is affected without access to marine protein or affordable market routes.In addition, the community is also calling for immediate logistics and transport assistance to handle medical emergencies, alongside direct food and protein relief.The people of Baon have stressed that until an assessment team officially arrives to clear the water or declare the local fish safe for consumption, they will continue to face these daily challenges, hoping to receive assistance soon.

The formalizing of the strategic partnership this week between the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) and WaterAid, aims to drastically improve water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure and maternal health services across the Nation’s Capital.Speaking on the vital role of external stakeholders, NCDPHA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Robin Oge highlighted that collaborative efforts are the backbone of the authority’s operational success.“Half of our work is done through the support of our partners,” Dr. Oge stated. “Our partners contribute immensely to the outcome of our services and to our performance.”“Working with our partners and donor agencies, including both government and the private sector, and NGOs, is critical for the health services that we give to our members and our community.”Dr. Oge emphasized that the authority actively seeks credible partners who can align themselves with established policy directions to streamline service delivery.NCDPHA currently coordinates with over 35 local partners across various health sectors, but the specific focus of WaterAid addresses a critical, overarching national priority.“We are pleased to see that WaterAid is specifically focused on WASH. So, WASH is a crucial government agenda,” Dr. Oge explained, noting its prominence across state planning.“In almost all government documents, WASH is there. All the donor documents, WASH is there. Every World Bank report annually reports on the WASH outcomes for the country.”“So, WASH is a crucial program for this country, and it is a developmental indicator.”The significance of reliable water access directly correlates with clinical outcomes and institutional performance standards. Dr. Oge referenced national metrics, pointing out that the presence of safe and quality water is a fundamental developmental benchmark.“This is why one of the indicators in the Sector Performance Annual Review (SPAR) report is that there must be fresh water, running water in every health facility, without which it impacts on the performance of the theatre.”While noting that the National Capital District is fortunate to have comparatively robust piped water infrastructure compared to other districts, allowing local health facilities to perform well, Dr. Oge stressed that the focus must now expand beyond clinic walls.The next critical step for the authority and its partners is to ensure that the surrounding communities enveloping these health facilities gain equal access to clean, safe water.Beyond basic infrastructure, the collaboration arrives at a time of intense national focus on broader healthcare challenges, particularly surrounding mothers and newborns.“I also see that this is a program that focuses on maternal health, and maternal health has been a discussion, and has been a subject of debate this week and last week, even in Parliament and all-over social media,” Dr. Oge noted, affirming that NCDPHA is actively working to aggressively improve outcomes in that specific space.Acknowledging the internal driving forces that brought the agreement to fruition, the Chief Executive thanked the NCDPHA Director and the dedicated public health team for elevating the dialogue into an actionable strategy.With a formal signing on the horizon, the partnership is poised to move from discussion to immediate implementation.“I look forward to the work that we will engage together in improving the WASH, strengthening the WASH activities in NCD.”“We will look forward to the support that WaterAid will bring and how we can work together to achieve our common objectives,” Dr. Oge concluded.

The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) has signed a Terms of Reference (ToR) with WaterAid Papua New Guinea, working in partnership to implement the “WaSH Improvement for Maternal Health” project currently underway across NCD. The signing ceremony marks the continuation of long-standing support provided by WaterAid to the NCDPHA, an organization well-established in the healthcare and infrastructure landscape. WaterAid PNG Country Director Annemarie Paul explained that while WaterAid’s portfolio spans three core platforms including health, schools, and communities, this specific collaboration focuses heavily on one of the organization’s key deliverables: Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WaSH) in public health. According to Ms. Paul, this initiative builds on a recent foundation laid out when WaterAid began providing targeted support to the Government of Papua New Guinea through the National Department of Health (NDoH), with a primary focus on the NCDPHA through the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene in Maternal Health (WIMH) project. “We are not new in this space,” Ms. Paul noted, highlighting that WaterAid has collaborated with the National Department in previous years to support the health ministry with official WaSH Care Guidelines. The current project serves to operationalize those guidelines, with the NCDPHA serving as a vital launchpad. Moving forward, WaterAid’s support will focus heavily on governance and institutional strengthening. The organization plans to work alongside the PHA to integrate essential WaSH components into the clinical governance of the existing provincial committee on Infection Prevention and Control (IPC), recognizing how heavily clean water and sanitation underpin effective infection management. Furthermore, the WIMH project will see the two entities working hand-in-hand to develop specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for WaSH and IPC within healthcare facilities. The provincial WaSH IPC committee will then be responsible for cascading these guidelines down to local healthcare facilities, a process that begins fundamentally with capacity building. To effectively roll out these programs, WaterAid is building the capacity of both the PHA and the government using the World Health Organization’s (WHO) WASHPIT tools which is a facility improvement framework developed by the government and the WHO to successfully integrate WaSH into IPC spaces. In addition, WaterAid trained 21 NCDPHA staff members over the last two years as Trainers of Trainees (TOTs), with the aim to use the WASHPIT tool to develop customized facility improvement plans. These plans provide a framework to prioritize action across five key WaSH domains: Water Sanitation Hygiene Environmental Cleaning (both internal and external, focusing on empowering staff to enforce infection control) Waste Management Operationally, WaterAid is working with the PHA at Nine Mile to establish critical extra WaSH water storage systems. The partners are also evaluating options to expand the facility to ensure reliable running water is constantly available, with the ultimate goal of establishing a functional vetting and maternal services center at Nine Mile. Closing her remarks, Ms. Paul reaffirmed WaterAid's long-term commitment to the government across multiple sectors. In the health sphere, she stressed that WaterAid stands committed to a partnership model of co-planning and co-designing alongside the NCDPHA and other health authorities.

Opposition Leader James Nomane, has spoken out in a Press Conference held this afternoon following viral allegations of nepotism and tribalism within the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) recruitment process.Nomane described the unfolding scandal as a direct threat to national sovereignty, warning that the integrity of the country’s primary disciplinary institution is at a breaking point. The Opposition’s concerns follow a series of videos circulating on social media which purportedly show impropriety and bias in the selection of new recruits. He argued that these allegations suggest a breakdown of merit-based systems in favor of tribal lines and personal favors. “We have just celebrated our independence, yet we are already seeing a total loss of trust in our recruitment processes,” Nomane stated. He emphasized that the PNGDF plays a critical role in ensuring the sovereignty of the country, noting that as a disciplinary force, they have to apply the highest standards in the recruitment process and in their conduct.Nomane questioned why Prime Minister James Marape has remained silent while ministers reportedly implicated in the scandal remain in their portfolios. He demanded that any leadership involved be sidelined immediately to ensure a transparent investigation. “It raises a lot of questions as to why the Prime Minister has been so quiet about bringing in ministers that are implicated in such scandal,” Nomane said. He further insisted that the Prime Minister must absolutely put them aside to allow an independent inquiry to commence forthwith to confirm or deny whether there's been some impropriety. The Opposition is calling for this formal, independent inquiry to address the serious questions raised by the viral footages. Nomane emphasized that without a swift and credible investigation, the public’s faith in the PNGDF-and the government’s ability to manage national security- will be permanently damaged. He concluded that the inquiry is essential to investigate the whole selection and recruitment process and restore the standards of excellence the nation expects from its military. Meanwhile, Member for Ialibu-Pangia and former Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill, has joined the chorus of other Opposition leaders demanding immediate accountability following allegations of corruption and tribalism within the PNGDF recruitment process. O’Neill warned that the government’s refusal to address the scandal is actively eroding the morale and discipline of the nation's most critical security institution. He expressed deep concern over the public and parliamentary debates regarding the force’s falling standards, stating that the PNGDF holds a unique place and unique role to play in our country, where its responsibility is to protect the nation and its people. He criticized the executive's response to the crisis, noting that the concerns of the public appear to be falling on deaf ears while the Prime Minister continues to offer statements that do not make any sense whatsoever. The former Prime Minister emphasized that the integrity of the force is being compromised by provincial and tribal interests, which threatens the very fabric of national security. “We must not allow this Defence Force of ours to be tribalized and to be regionalized,” O’Neill said. He argued that it is quite evident that the recruitment process has been compromised and insisted that the only path forward is for leadership to take responsibility. “The right thing for the Defence Minister to do is to step aside and resign and save his dignity and try and restore some common sense and some decency in the Defence Force.” While acknowledging the benefits of the new security alliance with Australia for training and development, O’Neill questioned why the government would allow corruption to creep into this recruitment process at such a pivotal time. He accused the Prime Minister of failing to discipline his own cabinet while targeting the weakest people in the public service. “This country doesn't belong to the Prime Minister and the Defence Minister; it belongs to every citizen,” O’Neill concluded, urging the government to finally put an end to the controversy by making the right decision.

In a moving Holy Thursday mass held last night at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Parish, the congregation was called to rediscover the inseparable bond between the Eucharist and the Priesthood- two sacraments woven together by the threads of love and humble service.Reflecting on the profound mysteries of the Last Supper, the main celebrant, Father John Auram CP in his homily, emphasized that to follow Christ is to live a life “bound by the stol and the towel.” Drawing inspiration from the late Bishop Tonino Bello, who dictated a powerful pastoral letter from his deathbed in 1993, the homily introduced the central imagery of the Stol (stole) and the Towel. These two items symbolize the dual nature of the Christian calling: The Stol (Stole): Represents the dignity of the priest and his union with Christ in the Eucharist. It is the symbol of holiness and the authority to convey God’s forgiveness and salvation. The Towel: Represents the duty of the priest and his union with humanity. It symbolizes the ministry of service, modelled by Jesus when he knelt to wash the feet of his disciples. Fr. John Auram stated that there is no priesthood without the Eucharist, and there is no Eucharist without the priesthood. However, both become deficient without love, and love itself is incomplete without the “towel of service.” The homily reminded the faithful that on this night, Jesus transformed the ancient Jewish Passover into the New Testament Passover. He replaced the roasted paschal lamb with his own Body and Blood, offered under the appearances of bread and wine. This was not merely a ritual change, but a “gesture of love bound in service.” By instituting the Eucharist, Jesus provided spiritual food and drink for the journey, inviting his followers to imitate his self-giving model. We realize this sacrifice today by offering our own talents, time, and blessings in a spirit of sharing with others. In addition, a highlight of the reflection was the story of Bishop Fulton Sheen, who was famously inspired not by a Pope or a fellow prelate, but by the courage of an eleven-year-old girl in communist China. In the late 1940s, after soldiers desecrated a church and scattered thirty-two consecrated hosts on the floor, this young girl returned secretly every night for thirty-two nights. Each night, she spent an hour in prayer before consuming a single host with her tongue. On the final night, she was discovered and martyred by a soldier’s rifle. This child’s devotion moved Bishop Sheen to promise an hour of daily prayer before the Blessed Sacrament for the rest of his life, noting that “the power of the priesthood comes from the Eucharist.” Moreover, the parishioners of St. Joseph’s were challenged to become “Christ-bearers” and “Christ-conveyors.” The command to “wash each other’s feet” is an invitation to be kind, caring, and understanding- offering humble service for the good of humanity both within and beyond the church walls. “Tonight, our Lord Jesus Christ showed us that he loved us so much.” “Let us allow Jesus to open our hearts so that we can welcome him warmly, as we journey with him tonight, tomorrow, and then celebrate with him on his Resurrection Day.”

Divine Word University (DWU) in Madang province is entering the 2026 academic year with a focus on stability and growth.Following a period of intense preparation and a dedicated staff retreat, the university is set to begin its official enrolment and registration period this Monday, February 2nd. The registration will remain open until February 13th, marking the formal start of a year that university officials expect will be defined by growth and celebration. While students in the MBBS medical program have already returned to their studies, the rest of the student body will follow as per scheduled. According to DWU President, Professor Fr. Philip Gibbs, a special church mass dedicated to the opening of the academic year is scheduled for Friday, February 6th, serving as a spiritual cornerstone before the official commencement of classes. “Week One lectures will official begin on Monday, February 9th after all registrations have concluded.” In a move likely to be welcomed by families across the country, Fr. Gibbs confirmed with PNG HAUSBUNG that school fees will remain unchanged for 2026. By maintaining the same rates as the previous year, the institution aims to support parents amidst broader economic pressures. However, the university clarified that any continuing students with outstanding fees from the previous year must settle those accounts before they are permitted to register for the new term. He noted that while a small minority of students still carry debt, the majority of accounts were cleared following the receipt of government scholarships and HELP loan funds toward the end of last year. The university is preparing for a significant influx of students across its multiple campuses. The Madang main campus is expected to host just over 2,000 registered students, an increase from the approximately 1,950 students who attended last year, while the regional campuses in Wewak and Rabaul are projecting 625 and 573 students, respectively. The Port Moresby campus is set to welcome 133 students, with additional enrolment expected through the university’s flexible learning programs. Regarding the Tertiary Education Student Assistance Scheme (TESAS), Fr. Gibbs confirmed they have received the list of eligible student names from the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST). Although the documentation is finalized, the actual transfer of funds to the university is still pending. “We remind students and parents that all travel and transportation arrangements for those on TESAS are managed directly by DHERST rather than the university.” Looking ahead, the university community is eagerly anticipating August, which will mark the 30th anniversary of the institution. Plans are already underway to celebrate three decades of academic excellence and service in Papua New Guinea. Staff have been on the ground for two weeks finalizing preparations to ensure a smooth transition for both new and returning students as this landmark year begins.

In light of the festive operations officially launched by the NCD police on December 19th at the Unagi Oval in Port Moresby, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) for the NCD/Central Command Benjamin Turi, announced that police will be relying heavily on neighborhood watch and community initiatives.Police units from both the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province, have signaled a unified front against crime and disorder by officially launching this joint Christmas and New Year operation. In his address, Commander Turi emphasized that the operation is already underway, with officers from both commands focusing on the safety and security of all residents. He highlighted that this strategy has already seen significant success; over the past weekend, several suburbs reported a total absence of community fights due to local street-level cooperation. “It is not just about the police; it is about the public.” “We have city wardens and neighborhood watch groups in every corner, especially from Waigani Drive to Tokarara.” “We encourage those areas that have not yet organized, to come together and look out for one another.” This initiative follows a month of specialized training for city wardens at Kuriva, who have now been deployed back into the suburbs to curb petty crime and “bag-snatching” activities. As part of the festive crackdown, the public can expect a high-visibility police presence targeting the following key enforcement areas: Drunk Driving: A strict zero tolerance policy is in effect. Offenders will be detained at the Waigani or Boroko police cells. Public Drinking: Drinking five meters away from a person’s home is already on public property and is strictly prohibited, regardless of whether it is a main highway or a small suburban street. Noise Pollution: Police have the authority to enter premises and seize sound systems if residents disturb the peace. He urged citizens to stay indoors, drink indoors, and cut the music by 10:00 PM. Misuse of Government Property: Any government vehicles found being used for non-official purposes or during late-night hours will be impounded immediately. Furthermore, the police also issued a stern warning against the practice of burning tires and blocking roads during New Year celebrations, labeling it a “primitive style” of celebration that causes damage to infrastructures. “Our governors have worked hard to build good roads. Burning tires melts the bitumen, and when the rains come, it destroys our roads.” Neighborhood watch groups have been tasked with preventing residents from dragging rubbish, old drums, or car parts onto public streets for bonfires. He further called on all citizens to respect one another and to ensure that the true meaning of the season is expressed.

Police in Port Moresby city have launched the festive security operation this morning with a show of force parade to the public at the Unagi Oval in Gordons.The NCD/Central Commander’s parade showed the police force’s readiness for the Christmas and New Year period. Addressing the assembly of officers, city wardens, and international partners, the NCD Governor Powes Parkop, delivered a stirring call for peace, inclusivity, and national unity. Reflecting on the nation’s “momentous and historical” journey since 1975, the speaker praised the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) for remaining at the forefront of progress despite five decades of challenges. “Your service, dedication, and loyalty to our city and country in 2025 has been exemplary,” Governor Parkop noted, describing the police force as one of the highest honors of the capital. Following parliament’s recent resolution to declare Papua New Guinea a Christian country, the NCD Governor highlighted the spiritual significance of the season. “The core gospel values of peace and goodwill were framed as fundamental pillars of nation-building.” While the majority of citizens are expected to celebrate peacefully, the RPNGC has been given a clear mandate, and that is to ensure that the few who exceed their limits, do not disrupt the harmony of the law-abiding majority. In addition, Governor Parkop acknowledged several key partners for their support. They include: • Local Leadership: Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) for the NCD/Central Command Benjamin Turi, and NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab. • Indigenous Oversight: The Motu Koita Assembly, ensuring the involvement and respect of the city’s traditional landowners. • International Partners: The Australian Federal Police (AFP), led by Superintendent Ross Williams. • Private Sector & Community: Support from Telikom, private firms like Pacific Corporate Security and Guard Dog Security, and the newly trained City Wardens under the Port Moresby City Watch program. Meanwhile, a significant portion of the address by the governor also focused on maintaining the capital’s image. “Market places are the designated places for vending. We must ensure vendors stick to these areas to keep our city clean and safe.” Looking ahead, plans are already in motion for 2026 to address informal market “hotspots” areas ensuring the capital remains accessible for both pedestrians and motorists. Furthermore, Governor Parkop stresses that as the heart of a nation where 860 languages meet, Port Moresby has been described as the place where this dream must become reality. “By fostering a city that is inclusive and safe, the capital sets the standard for the rest of PNG.” “When we show unity here in our capital, that is when the entire nation will come together so let us work towards a prosperous 2026.”

Stop & Shop (SnS) has officially launched the festive season with its annual “Light Up Christmas” event in Port Moresby. The dazzling Christmas Light launch took place at the SnS Waigani Central outlet on Friday, November 21, 2025, marking the start of holiday cheer across all SnS locations in the city. In addition to the launching, this year, Stop & Shop is enhancing its holiday offerings by selling its own branded gift cards for the first time, moving away from the previous practice of selling them under the parent company, City Pharmacy Limited (CPL). The gift cards can be purchased at any of the seven Stop & Shop outlets in Port Moresby, including Airways, Badili, Boroko, Downtown, Waigani Central, Rainbow, and 8Mile. The cards are available in convenient values of K20, K50, and K100. According to SnS Marketing and Promotions Manager Marjorie Singu, the gift cards offer a great alternative for customers to give a valued gift to loved ones and friends this Christmas. Meanwhile, in another addition to the light launch and new gift cards, SnS is also running a major Christmas promotion where customers can win a share of K60, 000 in prizes. How to Enter: 1. Spend K100 or more at any of the seven SnS outlets in Port Moresby. 2. Write your personal details on the back of your receipt. 3. Drop the receipt into the designated Promo Entry Bin. Exciting prizes include A Family Getaway to Loloata Island Resort, K1, 000 Cash, Seven Small Pigs, Trolley Dashes, A 55-inch Smart TV and Food Hampers. The promotion began on November 3, 2025, and will close on December 14, 2025. For more information, can visit the nearest Stop & Shop outlet and have a chance to feel the festive spirit this Christmas.

The University of Goroka at Eastern Highlands province has been thrust into chaos after violent clashes erupted between students and local community members, leaving over 30 students injured, several critically. The conflict, which began as an altercation between the students and the locals that turned into an eight-hour fight starting this morning. Student Representative Council President Justin Muna who spoke to PNG HAUSBUNG, said that the incident was sparked last night when a non-residential student, attending a function hosted by a particular student association, was reportedly attacked by drunk locals while making his way to the event. The victim alerted fellow students who rushed to his aid, initiating a major confrontation with locals living near the Ato Market area. During this initial fight, students reportedly retaliated by destroying some local properties. The situation dramatically worsened this morning as locals regrouped and launched a large-scale retaliatory attack. The group headed straight for the campus, attacking students with various objects, including bows and arrows. The fighting continued for eight hours before police arrived to intervene, eventually deploying tear gas to disperse the crowds and restore order. “At this moment, we are able to confirm that over thirty students sustained injuries, including ten who suffered serious injuries and about five to six students who are in critical condition. They are currently receiving treatment at Goroka General Hospital.” Muna also confirmed that there are no deaths reported at this time. “The situation on campus remains extremely tense at this time as students, many of whom are scattered and living in fear, are awaiting further direction.” Muna also stated that the violence has had an immediate and severe impact on academic life. “The university is currently in its second week of exams, which are now badly affected and will have to be postponed indefinitely.” Students are awaiting an official statement and decision from the university administration regarding the future of the academic term under these strained circumstances. Meanwhile, the University's Vice Chancellor Dr. Teng Waninga is currently Kavieng, New Ireland province and is expected to return to the campus tomorrow to attend to the situation. Also, PNG HAUSBUNG was unable to get any updates from police on the situation after numerous calls made to the police high command in Goroka went unanswered.

As part of promoting tourism in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, the community of Hanpan village in the Haku Constituency of Buka offered a truly special welcome, blending rich culture with historical interest.The ceremony, led by the Puna group at the Hanpan Resource Centre, began with the traditional foot washing ceremony, "tsutsu". Following the welcome, a series of vibrant bamboo band traditional dances were performed. The leader and group representative, Anna Sapur, guided her bamboo band through several emotional performances, including a powerful singsing that reflected on the history of the Bougainville Crisis. Sapur also demonstrated the preparation of "Menaka" (tamatama), a traditional dish reserved for special occasions. She described how the traditional dish is made which consists of taro and pure coconut cream. “After the taro is boiled, it is mashed and mixed with coconut cream, which is squeezed after the coconut is scraped. No water is added into the coconut; just pure coconut cream.” “The mixture is then rolled into round balls and drizzled with more coconut cream before being served.” After the cultural demonstration, the experience continued with a tour to the Japanese Bunkers from World War II. Located at base of Kangu hill, the area is scattered with numerous relics throughout the jungle, each marking stories from the war. Sapur explained that this site was where the Japanese military would sit to mind the ships and planes that come in whilst looking out Kangu beach. The bunkers are a significant draw for international visitors such as tourists, particularly those from Australia and New Zealand who visit the site regularly. “They come to Bougainville for a range of interests, including the historical significance of the Japanese Bunker, eco-tourism, bird watching, and the experience of shipping/sea travel.”

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) Doctor Paki Molumi, said that the hospital has made a definitive decision, based on the advice of its clinical team, to not provide a referral letter for the conjoined twins under their care to be sent to an overseas facility.The hospital management, administration, and board have unified in their position, stating that referring the patients at this stage poses a “huge risk” due to the severity and complexity of their congenital anomalies. “The primary reason for the decision is the clinical assessment of the twins’ condition.” The twins who were born at the Angau Memorial General hospital in Morobe province, were admitted to PMGH on October 15 where they are now receiving critical care. He emphasized that the decision is “purely based on medical conditions,” not financial constraints. In terms of risk assessment, the clinical advice is that transferring the babies is a risky path. “The hospital is unwilling to take on the risks and responsibilities associated with a referral, especially considering the likelihood of the outcome remaining the same, whether the surgery is performed or not.” He further suggested that pushing for a referral, knowing the potential outcome, would give the parents false hope. Dr. Molumi said that the twins present multiple shared and defective vital organs, making any intervention extremely challenging outlining the shared organs, explaining them in layman’s terms to the parents: • One single kidney • Very small lungs (both twins) • One liver • One bladder • Shared portions of the gastrointestinal tract and rectum • One of the twins has a congenital heart disease • Spinal lesions “The babies are quite small, with a combined weight of less than three kilograms at three weeks old.” In addition, clinical advice, including consultation with Australian specialists, suggests immediate surgery is not a priority. “The twins need time to grow, be fed, and mature before any separation surgery can be considered.” He also confirmed that even before the babies arrived from Angau Memorial Hospital in Morobe province, there had already been discussions about sending them to Sydney. The hospital continued these discussions with its Australian counterparts, including teams from the Sydney Children’s Hospital and visiting professor Trevor Duke from the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne. After taking into consideration the discussions and assessment, the hospital reached the decision that referral was a significant risk. “We have also escalated the matter to the Secretary of Health and the Australian Government, who are ready to assist if the hospital decides to proceed with a course of action like surgery that would require their support.” Despite the hospital’s official position against a formal referral, he stated that PMGH is happy to support any organization or any non-government organizations (NGOs) who are willing to take on this case and refer the twins to facilities anywhere in the world. He also stated that PMGH is willing to communicate with suitable hospitals, doctors, and surgical teams and also provide the necessary clinical information, medical reports, and medical images to support any led referral. The twins remain under the care of PMGH. They are currently tolerating feeds, with the stronger twin (Twin Two) taking up to 30ml of milk via a tube. The clinical team is managing infection and providing other appropriate treatment, such as oxygen, when needed. The parents have undergone continuous counselling by a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, paediatric anaesthetists, and social workers. The goal is to ensure the parents fully understand the complexity of the twins’ condition and the likely outcomes.