The United States Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Harriet Lane has arrived in Rabaul, East New Britain Province, to embark Papua New Guinean maritime security officials for joint bilateral maritime law enforcement operations conducted under the 2023 U.S.–Papua New Guinea “Shiprider” Agreement.This mission highlights Papua New Guinea’s regional leadership and steadfast commitment to enhancing maritime security in the Pacific, with a particular focus on combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. These joint patrols are a clear demonstration of the strong and growing partnership between the United States and Papua New Guinea. Together, both nations reaffirm their shared commitment to strengthening maritime governance, preserving regional stability, and protecting ocean resources within Papua New Guinea’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). 

Ten suspects have been arrested by police in Kiunga, North Fly District, for smuggling drugs into the district last month.The suspects were found guilty of trafficking cannabis (marijuana) and have been sentenced to a combined total of 86 years in prison for possession and transportation of the drugs.Police in North Fly confirmed that the group smuggled the drugs into the district via flights from Tari and Western Highlands, as well as through remote bush tracks.The convicted individuals are:· Jackson Sandy, 42, from Hagen Central, sentenced to 20 years· Peter Taá, 39, from Wapia village, Hela Province, sentenced to 5 years· Brian Albert, 30, from Mamales village, Enga Province, sentenced to 5 years· Ben Danis, from Erecta, North Fly, sentenced to 5 years· Wilson Joe, 31, from Anglim village, Jiwaka Province, sentenced to 5 years· Channel Kini, 27, from Olsobip LLG, North Fly, sentenced to 5 years· Ako Immabalu, 24, from Yakulda village, Tari, Hela Province, sentenced to 5 years· Alex David, 35, from Handa village, Kagua Erave, Southern Highlands, sentenced to 10 years· Angupe Mepin, 26, from Wapia village, Hela Province, sentenced to 16 years· Matthew Kumbiako, 34, from Yakalda village, Hela Province, sentenced to 16 yearsAll ten convicts will serve their prison terms at Ningerum Correctional Service in North Fly District. Acting Provincial Police Commander for North Fly Command, Inspector Anjap Minata, said the suspects were caught with the intention to sell the drugs during the Independence celebrations, but quick action by police led to their arrest in Kiunga.“They are locked up for transporting the drugs. They were all arrested and charged under Section 3 (1) (d) of the Dangerous Drugs Act (DDA). The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which drug-related offences are treated in North Fly Command,” Inspector Minata said. He added that the actions of the individuals have tarnished the name of North Fly and caused fear in the community. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of their crimes and serves as a warning to others not to get involved in illegal activities. We ask the public to help us maintain law and order in the district. Policing is everyone’s business for a safer community,” he said.Meanwhile, police in Kiunga said court proceedings have been affected due to the absence of a District Court Magistrate since last month.They are now calling on relevant authorities in Western Province to urgently reinstate a permanent magistrate to handle ongoing and future cases.                                                                       

The Royal Port Moresby Golf Club came alive recently as Buk Bilong Pikinini (BbP), with the support of Ela Motors, hosted its annual Education Charity Golf Tournament; an event combining sport, community spirit, and a shared commitment to early childhood education.The tournament drew strong participation from the corporate community, with teams competing for a range of prizes and bragging rights on the greens. Kumul Petroleum Holdings Team #1 emerged as the overall champion, taking home four 40-inch Smart TVs donated by Ela Motors, along with hampers and Meat Haus vouchers. Air Niugini finished in second place, winning a flatscreen TV donated by NWTL, solar light kits from PNG Solar Supply, and hampers from BbP. Kumul Petroleum Holdings Team #2 claimed third place, receiving another 40-inch TV from Ela Motors, stationery hampers, and Meat Haus vouchers. All three top teams received custom-made trophies sponsored by Trophy Haus. Fun awards also added colour to the day, including: • Longest Drive: Vagi James (Moni Plus) • Closest to the Pin: Rosalind Taufa (Air Niugini) • Nearest to the Pin: Agnes Bayang (MVIL) • Tarzan Award (ball into the trees): Peter Davies (Ela Motors) • Crocodile Award (ball into the pond): Vincent Tinoi • Best Dressed Buggy: Theodist Hole sponsors such as 2 Fast Motors, Trukai Industries, The National, Ilimo Dairy, Deloitte, and The Corps helped create a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for players and guests. The event concluded with a lively evening raffle, featuring prizes from major supporters including Hilton Hotel, BNBM, Meat Haus, Vodafone, Waterfront Foodworld, and Crown Hotel. Participants also enjoyed meals and refreshments sponsored by a range of partners, including 9 Mile Farm, Zenag, Sanitarium, Lae Biscuit Company, and CPL Group. Budget Rent-A-Car and Black Swan International provided vehicle support throughout the day. BbP Founder and Vice Chairperson Anne-Sophie Hermann thanked all sponsors and participants for their continued generosity. “We are grateful to our Diamond Sponsor, Ela Motors, for the amazing opportunity to host our third Golf Tournament in support of our programs and services for children’s education.” Participants described the tournament as one of the best-organized and most enjoyable events they had attended. Funds raised from the tournament will go towards expanding BbP’s free Early Childhood Education program in 2026, enabling more children across the country to access quality learning opportunities.

The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCD PHA) has officially launched the second round of the nationwide polio vaccination campaign in the National Capital District and Motu Koita communities.The campaign, which runs from 13th to 31st October, aims to reach the national target of 95% immunisation coverage among children aged 0 to 10 years.In the first round of the campaign earlier this year, NCD PHA successfully vaccinated 133,000 children, achieving a 97.8% coverage rate — a result made possible through the support of partners, health workers, volunteers, and the wider community.NCD PHA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Robbin Oge, thanked all stakeholders for their efforts and urged families to bring their children forward for vaccination during the second round.“With the continued presence of the poliovirus in Papua New Guinea, it is vital that every child under the age of 10 is vaccinated and protected,” Dr. Oge said.“I assure the public that the polio vaccine is safe, effective, and free. It is our shared responsibility to protect our children’s health and future.”NCD Governor Powes Parkop also commended the health authority’s performance during the first phase and encouraged residents in both NCD and Motu Koita villages to participate fully in the current campaign.Dr. Oge extended his appreciation to Governor Parkop for his continued leadership and support in the health sector. He also acknowledged Health Minister Elias Kapavore and Acting Health Secretary Mr. Ken Wai for their ongoing assistance during the campaign and other health initiatives in the capital.NCD PHA has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering effective and accessible health services to the people of NCD and Motu Koita, with a focus on disease prevention and community wellbeing. 

The Nasfund Contributors Savings and Loans Society Limited (NCSL) has announced the first group of winners in its “Apply & Win” Loan Promotion, launched as part of the organization's 22nd anniversary celebrations.The promotion, introduced in September, aims to reward loyal members across Papua New Guinea while promoting access to affordable and flexible loan options. Five winners, one from each region of Southern, Highlands, Momase, New Guinea Islands, and the National Capital District (NCD) were selected through an online draw. Each received K1,000, credited directly to their NCSL Poro Accounts. Among the first winners was Martha Gani from Buka in the New Guinea Islands Region, who expressed her surprise and gratitude. “I couldn’t believe it when I got the call. This is such a blessing for me and my family,” she said. Another winner, Emmalyn Sapak from Port Moresby, shared similar excitement. “I’m so happy to be one of the winners. Thank you, NCSL, for this amazing promotion!” she said. According to NCSL, members automatically qualify for the draw when they apply for a loan of K1,000 or more. The promotion will continue until the end of November, with additional regional draws offering members more chances to win cash prizes. NCSL has also recently reviewed its loan interest rates to make borrowing more affordable and competitive for its members. Members are encouraged to apply for a loan through NCSL’s online or in-branch services for automatic entry into the remaining draws.

Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra has clarified that the fee linked to the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT-P) applies only to certain Grade 12 students applying for specific higher education programs, and not to national examinations.Dr Kombra said the fee is solely for the administration of the STAT-P test, which is required by some universities as part of their entry process. “This fee does not apply to the national examinations that are conducted for Grades 8, 10 and 12,” he said. He explained that the fee is not collected by the Department of Education or the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST), but is instead connected to the institutions that have made the STAT-P a condition for admission. “It is very important that all students, parents, and schools understand this is a selective fee,” Dr Kombra said. “Only a minority of students applying to programs that require the STAT-P test will be affected.” Most higher education institutions in Papua New Guinea do not require the STAT-P test, meaning the majority of Grade 12 students will not need to pay any additional fee when applying. The Education Department has urged students to use the official online Application System, which clearly indicates which programs require the STAT-P test. Programs that do not list the test as a requirement will not have any associated fee. The clarification comes amid public concern and confusion regarding examination and application fees for Grade 12 students nationwide.

Governor for NCD and Chairman of the Special Parliamentary Committee on Children and Youth, Powes Parkop, has urged stronger government leadership and accountability in protecting Papua New Guinea’s children and young people.Governor Parkop made the call following serious concerns raised during the Committee’s first-ever public inquiry held on Tuesday, 14 and Wednesday, 15 October 2025. The inquiry exposed major gaps in child protection services, revealing that the National Office of Child and Family Services (NOCFS) has been largely non-functional for the past decade. “The government must be at the frontline providing the basic services for our children and the public at large. NGOs are there to complement, not replace, the role of the state.” The inquiry heard that the lack of coordination and effective leadership from NOCFS has left many children across the country vulnerable to abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Parkop noted that while Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) such as ChildFund PNG have stepped in to fill the gap, the government must reclaim its core responsibility for child welfare. ChildFund PNG highlighted its 1-Tok Kaunselim Helpim Lain (7150 8000) — the country’s only 24-hour, toll-free national service for survivors of gender-based violence and child abuse — which has received over 87,000 calls since 2015. The organization noted, however, that this essential service operates mainly through donor support, particularly from the Government of New Zealand. Governor Parkop commended ChildFund PNG for its contribution but reaffirmed that the NOCFS must lead and coordinate nationwide child protection efforts. The Committee will finalize recommendations for Parliament to ensure child welfare becomes a top national priority. During the inquiry, the Committee also received a comprehensive submission from the Simbu Provincial Government, led by Governor Noah Kool MP, and heard presentations from the Departments of Health, Community Development, Education, and Treasury. However, the Western Highlands, Enga, and Hela Provincial Governments failed to appear despite being invited. Governor Parkop warned that if provincial governments and state agencies continue to ignore future summons, the Committee will be compelled to enforce attendance through parliamentary powers. He emphasized that the establishment of the Committee reflects Parliament’s recognition that more investment is needed in the welfare and development of children and youth. “For too long, we have neglected the foundation of our future. This Committee will ensure that every responsible department and agency plays its role in giving the children of Papua New Guinea a strong foundation for a better future.”

The Papua New Guinea Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) is preparing to lead an investment mission to Japan in collaboration with the Pacific Islands Center (PIC) in Tokyo and the PNG Embassy Tokyo.The mission includes an investment conference to be held at the ANA International Hotel in Tokyo on the 4th of November 2025. Themed as “50 Years of Partnership: Forging the next chapter in trade, investment and shared prosperity”, the one-day program will feature senior government officials, industry leaders, exporters, development partners, and Japanese investors discussing possibilities of elevating trade and investment collaborations in the next fifty years. This year marks PNG’s fifty years of bilateral relations with Japan, and the investment mission focuses on how the partnership can be further improved for the mutual benefits of both countries. The engagement builds on the momentum of Prime Minister James Marape's official visit to Japan in July 2025, where he held high-level business dialogues with Japanese government officials and private sector leaders. It also follows the reciprocal visit of a Japanese business delegation to Port Moresby in February 2024, led by PIC. The highlights of the mission include; • Targeted Business-to-Business (B2B) and Government-to-Business (G2B) meetings • Direct engagement with Japanese companies and institutions • Sectoral presentations and investment opportunity showcase • Networking opportunities with key stakeholders The IPA is extending an invitation to PNG businesses and exporters who are keen on exploring the Japanese market, Japanese investors and trade representatives, development agencies, business chambers and media outlets to join the mission. Interested parties can contact the following IPA officers to register, Mr. Kamis Yalakun, Manager Investment Promotion, on email: kyalakun@ipa.gov.pg, Mr. Ken Pep, Acting Manager Marketing and Export Promotion on email: kpep@ipa.gov.pg, or Stewart Rom, Senior Marketing Officer on email: stewartr@ipa.gov.pg.

Eastern Highlands Provincial Member Sia has acknowledged the concerns raised by Eastern Highlands students attending the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) regarding delays in the provincial government’s education subsidy program.Governor Sia said the students’ concerns were genuine, noting that they are legally entitled to receive the funds allocated under the subsidy initiative. Since taking office, Governor Sia said the Eastern Highlands Provincial Government (EHPG) has invested more than K30 million into education programs across the province — including tuition fee subsidies for tertiary students and infrastructure improvements in schools to enhance the quality of education. “No Governor in Eastern Highlands Province has started a subsidy program. I began this initiative in 2023 after seeing how rural farmers struggle to support their children’s education. “Many dig deep into their pockets to pay school fees, and I felt it was important to help.” He refuted claims that Eastern Highlands students at UPNG were sidelined for two consecutive years, clarifying that the delay in 2024 was due to UPNG’s new policy prohibiting bulk payments. According to Governor Sia a cheque of K339,900.00 was raised to deposit. “They missed out because of their policy. Our officers contacted the university’s bursar’s office to find alternative options, but we received no response. So, who is at fault?” Governor Sia also rejected proposals from student leaders to transfer the subsidy funds into their association account or distribute them individually, calling such suggestions “daylight corruption.” “Those suggestions don’t follow my way of doing things. We don’t have any issues with other universities and colleges, so why is UPNG the only one with this policy?” The Governor explained that delays in 2025 payments were caused by a Department of Finance directive to transition to a new cloud-based financial management system, which required additional time for officers to learn and adapt to. Despite the challenges, Governor Sia confirmed that payments have now been processed online, and student leaders are asked to check with their Finance Team. A total of K343,500.00 was paid for 173 students who applied and met all the requirements. “Student leaders should check with the UPNG Finance Team and confirm with the school bursar that the remittance advice shows the funds deposited into the university’s account.” Governor Sia concluded by apologizing to students and their families for the delays and reaffirmed his government’s ongoing commitment to supporting education in the province. “We must continue to support you with your school fees.”

The villagers at Sirinumu in the Central province are finally getting a clean water supply system for the first time despite hosting a massive dam on their land that was commissioned nine years prior to Papua New Guinea’s independence in 1975.The new water supply system is set to launch tomorrow Thursday 16th October at the Berebei village, made possible solely through the Koiari Local Level Government (KLLG) Special Purpose Authority (SPA) funding. The water supply system, which is in line with the National Government’s Medium-Term Development Plan IV, will benefit Berebei and the surrounding villages with clean fresh water for people’s uses. The new water supply comes as a relief for mothers and daughters whom over the years have had to struggle to walk long distances to fetch clean water with saucepans and containers on their heads. A struggle they had to endure daily. The Sirinumu Dam was commissioned in 1963 by the then Prime Minister of Australia Sir Robert Menzies. The dam supplied the city of Port Moresby with water and electricity over the years. Despite this vital service on their land, the locals in the area had no proper water supply up until now. Koiari SPA Chairman Mr. Paul Noe said the water project was captured under the authority’s Community Development Plan to bring hope to the Sirinumu community and the surrounding communities. The Koiari SPA also plans to create this opportunity for more villagers in Sirinumu. “The Koiari SPA stands ready to partner with the Sirinumu Development Company (SIDCO), the local landowner company representing the local landowners, to carry out more water supply projects to other villages along the lake,” he said. Meanwhile, the launching tomorrow is expected to be attended by dignitaries from the government, the departments, the provincial government and stakeholders.

The Western, West Sepik and East Sepik provinces will soon see the rollout of the Lighting up The West (LTW) initiative to expand rural electrification into the communities in the three provinces.This was made possible when Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) and the National Energy Authority (NEA) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) recently to advance the LTW, a transformative program aimed at expanding access to reliable, affordable, and clean energy into communities.The MoA, signed by Ok Tedi Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kedi Ilimbit, and NEA Managing Director Ronald Meketa, establishes a framework for regulatory cooperation, licensing, and stakeholder engagement to deliver rural electrification through decentralized renewable energy (DRE) solutions in the short- to medium-term, and hydropower in the long- term.Mr. Ilimbit said: “The Lighting Up the West initiative is a cornerstone of our Growth 2050 Energy Transition strategy, and this MoA with NEA marks a major step toward delivering clean, reliable electric power to communities across the Western Province and beyond.” The initiative aligns with Papua New Guinea’s national goal to achieve 70% electricity access by 2030 and 100% by 2050, prioritizing renewable energy sources such as solar and hydro.Ok Tedi, through its subsidiary Ok Tedi Power, will champion the deployment of DRE solutions to anchor communities, with feasibility studies underway in Western, West Sepik, and East Sepik Provinces. The program is designed to deliver social, economic, and environmental benefits, including improved quality of life, local enterprise development, reduced emissions, and enhanced energy independence.This partnership underscores Ok Tedi’s commitment to responsible mining and energy transition, and NEA’s mandate to support inclusive, sustainable electrification for all Papua New Guineans.

The canonization of Blessed Peter ToRot is confirmed for Sunday, 19th October 2025, at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, and prominent Catholic leaders of Papua New Guinea (PNG) took time to reflect on what this significance occasion meant for Catholic faithful in the country. These leaders are His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat, MSC, Archbishop of Port Moresby, Bishop Otto Separy, President of CBCPNGSI, Bishop Rozario Menezes, SMM, Vice President of CBCPNGSI, and Fr. Lawrence Arockiaraj, General Secretary of CBCPNGSI. His Eminence Cardinal Sir John Ribat, MSC, highlighted the importance of the canonization, describing it as a pivotal moment for both the country and the Catholic Church globally. He noted that Blessed Peter ToRot, a lay catechist who died for his faith, will become a saint of the universal Church. Cardinal Ribat emphasized that this momentous occasion reflects the maturity of the Christian faith in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific region. “The canonization of Blessed Peter ToRot reveals the universality of the Catholic Church and reminds us that holiness is not reserved for the extraordinary.” “It can be lived each day in our families, workplaces, and communities.” Bishop Rozario Menezes, SMM, underscored the role of Blessed Peter ToRot’s life as a witness to Christian marriage and family life. He pointed out that the sanctity of marriage, particularly the bond between one husband and one wife, is increasingly under threat in today’s world. The bishop highlighted that Blessed Peter ToRot’s official portrait, which depicts him holding two rings in his palms, serves as a powerful symbol of the protection of the sanctity of marriage. He believes that the canonization will shine a global spotlight on the country and offer an example of strong family values to the world. Bishop Otto Separy, President of CBCPNGSI, described the canonization as a significant milestone that would inspire Christians to live out their faith despite challenges. “In today’s world, many external influences challenge our Catholic and Christian faith. Blessed Peter ToRot is an example for us all,” said Bishop Separy. “He never compromised his faith, even in the face of persecution.” Fr. Lawrence Arockiaraj, General Secretary of CBCPNGSI, presented the detailed canonization program, including the national celebrations that will accompany the event. A delegation of approximately 17 bishops from Papua New Guinea and other countries will travel to Rome for the canonization ceremony, along with additional pilgrims from around the world. In addition to the official ceremony in Rome, national celebrations will take place in dioceses across Papua New Guinea, particularly in the Archdiocese of Rabaul, the birthplace of Blessed Peter ToRot. From 11–14 December 2025, daily Masses will be celebrated by bishops and clergy, including His Excellency Maurizio Bravi, Apostolic Nuncio to Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, Cardinal Ribat, and Archbishop Rochus Tatamai MSC, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Rabaul. In recognition of the canonization, the Archdiocese of Port Moresby will hold a thanksgiving Mass on 26th October 2025, celebrating the elevation of Blessed Peter ToRot to sainthood.