The 2024 Bougainville Voice X-Plosion (BVX) was an exciting music event, featuring six talented young artists from across Bougainville. This event, which started in 2021, has become a great way to showcase new talent in the region. Since 2022, the BVX has brought together musicians from Australia, like Tjupurru and Jake Fabila, to work with young Bougainvillean artists. Together, they created songs that mix traditional and modern music. These songs, "Wan Solwara" (One Ocean) and "Pasin Tumbuna" (Traditional Ways), have helped introduce Bougainvillean music to the Pacific region. This year, the event was even more special with famous Bougainvillean musician Ben Hakalitz joining the judges. Ben, who is known for his work with the Australian band Yothu Yindi, told the young artists. "Bougainville has a unique sound and remember that your voice is also unique." He reminded them that their culture and music are precious. The other judges, including Tjupurru, Jake, and 2022 BVX winner Michael Dave, all agreed that there were no losers in this competition – everyone was a winner for sharing their music and culture. The young contestants were asked to sing both traditional songs and an original song they wrote about "Peace & Unity on Bougainville." This year’s winner was 23-year-old Cameron Mukunu from Bana District. He came first, followed by 25-year-old Solomon Kungka and 26-year-old Douglas Manasi, who finished second and third, respectively. Minister for Community Development, Morris Opeti praised the event, saying it was important to protect Bougainville's cultural music. He thanked the Governments of Australia and New Zealand for helping to make the event possible. Minister Opeti also surprised the crowd by performing Stevie Wonder's "Superstition" with the help of the musicians. The Bougainville Voice X-Plosion event was hosted by the Bougainville Youth Federation (BYF) and supported by the Australian and New Zealand governments giving young Bougainvilleans a chance to show off their music and learn about event management while working with international artists. The finalists from this year will also collaborate with the judges and other musicians to record a new song inspired by Australia's 2024 NAIDOC theme: "Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud!" This theme celebrates the strength and pride of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, which the BVX artists are also proud to share through their music.

Watching The Waterboyz, I could not help but feel a deep connection to the street vendors of Port Moresby. The film tells the story of two young men: one trying to make an honest living, while the other turns to crime to survive. Their struggles reflect the daily challenges faced by many street vendors here, who, despite their best efforts, often find themselves caught between survival and crime. In Port Moresby, life is difficult for many, and yes, the cost of living continues to rise, making essentials like basic food like rice, tin fish, sugar, flour, and fuel harder to afford. Stable jobs remain limited, with only around 30% of the population in formal employment - as a result, many people turn to street vending to make ends meet. They sell betelnut, cigarettes, snacks, and other goods on the city streets to support their families. Though this informal work helps them survive, it is not without its challenges. This year, the situation continues to get worse for many, as inflation pushes prices of goods and services even higher, while crime has risen significantly, which the current government is working strenuously on to improve the lives and livelihoods of the population. The Media Council recently revealed that in the last 12 months since October 2024, 263 deaths had been reported in local media reports, which highlights the rising violence and crime rate in the country. The government, with the assistance of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary has responded by introducing and implementing the Harim Tok and Senisim Pasin protocols to regulate street vending and maintain public order. While the intent is to reduce crime, these measures place additional pressure on vendors, restricting one of obvious ways to earn a living. The story of The Waterboyz mirrors this situation. In the movie, one-character fights to survive through honest means, while the other turns to crime for quick money. In Port Moresby, many vendors find themselves in a similar position. As the crackdown on street vending intensifies, some may resort to petty crimes like bag snatching or even armed hold-ups to survive. While the police aim to reduce crime, limiting street vending isn’t the root cause of violence. It is the lack of opportunity and the desperate need to survive that often leads people down a dangerous path. Watching the film made me think of the vendors’ daily struggles—the worry of police crackdowns, the constant risk of crime, and the pressure to earn enough to survive. Much like the characters in The Waterboyz, these vendors show resilience, doing what they must to provide for their families - some with innovative and creative ideas like zigzagging through traffic to sell, despite the challenges they face. The Waterboyz is more than just a film; it’s a reflection of the reality many people face every day. The movie speaks to the struggles of survival, the choices people make when pushed to their limits, and the resilience required to endure tough circumstances. Similarly, Port Moresby’s Street vendors demonstrate the same strength as the characters in the film. They face an uphill battle to make an honest living, but the constant threat of police crackdowns and rising crime makes their situation even more precarious. The real story of The Waterboyz is about the choices people make when survival is on the line, and it resonates deeply with the street vendors of Port Moresby. Just like the characters in the movie, these vendors have to find ways to survive, even when society and the system seem to be working against them. If we want to create lasting change, we must recognize their struggles and offer support, not just enforcement. After all, true progress comes from understanding the people we share our city with and finding ways to help them thrive.

Pepsi lovers in Papua New Guinea had another chance to win exclusive merchandise as Pacific Industries Ltd. hosted the second draw of its nationwide “Thirsty for Merch” promotion on Friday, 8th November 2024, at Boroko Food world in Port Moresby. With holiday excitement ramping up, this event is expected to draw Pepsi lovers and eager participants looking to score some incredible prizes. The “Thirsty for Merch” National Consumer Promotion has captured the interest of shoppers and Pepsi lovers throughout the country. Following the success of the first draw on 25th October at Stop N’ Shop Central Waigani, the event had more lucky winners selected to receive Pepsi merch packs valued at K2,500 each. Each pack includes 17 exclusive items, such as branded sunglasses, tote bags, socks, caps, T-shirts, Bluetooth speakers, headphones, and even a Pepsi varsity jacket. To add to the excitement, attendees can join in on the fun by purchasing two Pepsi cans (“Tupla Tasol”), spinning the Pepsi Wheel, or participating in a pass-off game for the chance to win additional Pepsi prizes instantly. With giveaways and games, the draw promised a thrilling experience for all who attend. There were 32 winners announced in NCD alone. Nathaniel Lepani, National Marketing Manager of Pacific Industries Ltd, expressed the company’s excitement about the event, saying, “We are excited to keep the campaign going strong with another draw at Boroko Food World.” “The positive consumer response has been fantastic, and we look forward to rewarding even more fans with exclusive Pepsi merchandise, bringing the community together and celebrating local talent.” The “Thirsty for Merch” promotion runs from 14th October through 20th December 2024, giving fans plenty of time to enter and win. To participate, consumers simply need to buy two or more Pepsi products, including Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7Up, Mirinda, or Pepsi Max and write their name and contact details on the back of the receipt, and drop it in an entry box at participating stores across Papua New Guinea. The campaign has three more draws scheduled, with the next event taking place on Friday, 22nd November, followed by two additional draws on 6th December and 20th December, the latter being the Grand Draw. Winners of these draws will have the opportunity to celebrate the festive season with their exclusive Pepsi merch, perfect for holiday gift-giving. Pepsi PNG encourages fans to stay connected on social media for live updates, winner announcements, and more information. The campaign’s popularity reflects the close connection with Pacific Industries Ltd. has cultivated with its consumers. Through initiatives like “Thirsty for Merch,” the company has consistently brought excitement to the community while strengthening its Pepsi brand presence in Papua New Guinea.

Donald Trump has made a historic return to the White House after winning the 2024 election, overcoming not only a four-year absence but also serious legal issues. Trump was faced with charges for allegedly encouraging the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol and has been convicted of falsifying business records, making him the first president with a felony conviction. But despite all these challenges, Trump’s win marks a major shift in U.S. politics and could lead to big changes in global relationships. Trump secured key swing states like North Carolina, Georgia, and Pennsylvania, helping him reach the necessary 270 electoral votes to defeat his opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris. This victory in battleground states, some of which he lost in 2020, helped solidify his return to the presidency. Trump’s campaign was marked by bold, often harsh language, which energized his supporters who see him as someone willing to fight the political establishment. But his style also deepened the divide among Americans, making him one of the country’s most polarizing figures. With Trump back in the White House, other countries may have to rethink their approach to the U.S. Under his leadership, changes in defense, security, and foreign policy could impact global allies. Like UK, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer may have to adjust his policies as the new American administration takes a different stance on key issues. Trump’s 2024 victory isn’t just a win for his supporters: it’s a turning point in both American and world politics. As leaders around the globe watch, Trump’s second term will shape the future for the U.S. and its relationships with countries everywhere.

City Pharmacy Limited (CPL) is excited to announce its partnership with Australian Business Volunteers (ABV) to introduce its pilot programs aiming at delivering comprehensive Business Mentoring Program tailored to support women-led businesses in Papua New Guinea that is set to run from November 2024 to April 2025. The program officially launched its 1st in-person workshop on Monday 4 November, initiated for 4 days. Designed to enhance the business acumen, leadership skills, and operational strategies of women entrepreneurs. The Business Mentoring Programs is designed to enhance the business acumen, leadership skills, and operational strategies of women entrepreneurs. The programs will be a mix of in-person workshops and online mentoring and provide personalized guidance, practical tools with opportunities to build peer network that foster business growth and sustainability. Liz Mackinlay, ABV CEO, emphasized the significance of this partnership. "The Business Mentoring Program represents an essential focus for ABV—supporting women entrepreneurs in PNG through our ABV Business mentors.” “We are proud to help bring this vision to life with CPL Foundation to further the strengths and ambitions of women business leaders across PNG." Key features of the program include: Tailored Workshops: In-person training workshops to refine business strategies and management practices, aligned with the specific needs of each participant. Personalized Mentorship: Six months of one-on-one mentoring with Skilled Business Professional Zarah de la Cruz, supported by ABV and CPL Foundation teams. Participants will work towards their individual professional and business goals. Networking Opportunities: Building peer support networks among women entrepreneurs, enabling participants to share experiences and insights both online and in-person. ABV brings over 40 years of experience in delivering business support programs across the Asia-Pacific region, aimed at strengthening communities through business. Their expertise in capacity building, combined with CPL Foundation Inc, that has been Empowering women and girls since 2014 promises to create a lasting change for the participating business. This partnership with ABV aligns with its focus on fostering economic empowerment for women, ensuring that participants are equipped with the skills and confidence to succeed in a competitive business environment. “We are proud to partner with ABV on this exciting initiative,” said Deborah Alois, CPL Foundation Manager. “This program will not only provide women-led businesses with essential tools and mentoring but will also contribute to the broader development of PNG’s economy by fostering innovation and leadership among women entrepreneurs.”

Despite facing criticism on social media following their tough loss to the Jillaroos, the crowd at the Santos National Football Stadium rallied behind the PNG Orchids throughout the entire 70 minutes of the game on Sunday 3rd November. The Orchids fell to the New Zealand Ferns with a score of 36-0, but they highlighted a much improved and resilient performance. The team spent much of the match on defense, achieving an impressive defensive stat of 81% with a total of 259 tackles. Most errors came from handling issues and a critical mistake during the fifth last kick placement, which hindered the Orchids from scoring. Nevertheless, the home crowd remained unwavering in their support, cheering for the team until the final whistle. Notably, captain Elsie Albert made a daring attempt to breach the Ferns' defense, igniting excitement among the fans. Debutant Jenny Wesley nearly crossed the line, adding to the thrilling moments that had the crowd buzzing. The crowd’s favorites, Jessikah Reeves and Emily Vievers, also made their mark with strong defensive performances, against the fast-attacking black ferns display. PNG Orchids Head Coach Tahnee Norris commended the team's effort during the post-game press conference. “You saw today, the improvement from the girls from last week to this week was outstanding.” said Tahnee Norris. Overall, this performance is a promising sign for the PNG Orchids' future, demonstrating their growth and potential as a team. The unwavering support from the crowd not only highlights their engagement, but also serves as a testament to the community's passion for women's rugby league. With this foundation, the Orchids can build on their efforts and continue to inspire both fans and aspiring players alike.

The CPL Group has officially kicked off its annual Christmas promotion, inviting customers across Papua New Guinea to participate in the Christmas Scratch and Win campaign. The launch event, held today at Waigani Central, brought together the CPL marketing team and excited shoppers to unveil the season’s prizes. This year,2024, CPL has taken an innovative approach, replacing the traditional vehicle giveaway with a range of cash prizes and essential household items. Christopher Lam, CPL’s Marketing Manager, said, “Christmas is a time of giving and celebration.” “This year, we wanted to make it extra special by adding a new twist to our holiday campaign.” HOW TO SCRATCH AND WIN? Customers who spend K50 or more at any Stop and Shop or City Pharmacy nationwide will receive a Scratch card. For every K50 spent, customers get one card, so a purchase of K150 yields three cards. Each card offers a chance to win a variety of valuable prizes. Prizes Up for Grabs The Scratch and Win promotion offer over K1 million in prizes, with highlights including: Four Major Cash Prizes: Four lucky winners will each take home K50,000. Additional Cash Prizes: 50 winners across Papua New Guinea will win K2,000 each. Winners also stand a chance to win 5,000-litre water tanks and generator sets, both essential and highly valued items for households in PNG. This year’s Scratch and Win promotion extends to all City Pharmacy locations around the country, allowing participation from major centres to remote towns. The CPL Group’s Christmas promotion underscores their commitment to creating a rewarding shopping experience while giving back to customers during the festive season. Mr. Lam added that CPL wanted to do this promotion a bit differently because times are a bit difficult, and wanted to say thank you to everyone for coming back to shop with CPL The promotion will continue through the holiday season, making this year’s Christmas shopping a little more exciting for everyone.

Despite being scoreless throughout the game, the PNG Orchids put up a good fight on home soil after going down 36-0 to the Kiwi Ferns this afternoon in the third week of the Pacific Championship at the Santos National Football Stadium. In an intense first half, the Kiwi Ferns secured four tries each in both halfs with debutant Mackenzie Wiki scoring a hat-trick in the second half. The game, played under fine weather and good ground conditions, has seen the Kiwi Ferns dominate the scoreboard with three tries and two successful conversions. The Kiwi Ferns wasted no time in taking control of the match, with Leianne Tufuga crossing the line twice in an impressive form, scoring in the 1st and 23rd minute, Angelina Teakaraanga-Katoa added to the Kiwi Ferns' tally with a try in the 26th minute, further solidifying their lead. Tyla King was successful in converting two of these tries, adding four more points to their score line. Despite the Orchids' efforts into the second half, the ladies struggled to break through the Kiwi Ferns' defensive line and remained scoreless. Kiwi Ferns Ashleigh Quinlan got away on the sideline with an outstanding touch down followed by debutant Mackenzie Wiki scoring a hat-trick for her side. Meanwhile, Orchids coach Tahnee Norris said, despite the loss, the girls performed well and put up a good defense.

In an NRL headline making move, Veteran Club Captain and playmaker Ben Hunt has officially parted ways with St George Illawarra Dragons, marking a major turning for the club as they get ready for 2025 season. The announcement came from the club on the decision to terminate Hunts contract a year early, allowing him the freedom to explore offers from other NRL clubs. Today, players without an extended contract with their current club can seek out too16 other rival clubs to secure their future in NRL. For the Dragans fans, Veteran and Captain Ben Hunt,34, was given approval by the club to terminate his contract which was to end at the end of 2025 season. Hunt’s departure follows a year of public controversial tension, this surrounds the veteran halfback’s desire for an advance release from his current contract. Hunt had expressed frustration over the stalled talks, that cooled off after the State of Origin decider. The Dragons’ head coach, Shane Flanagan, praised Hunt’s contributions over the years, acknowledging that replacing a player of his calibre will be challenging. "Ben's skill set has been invaluable, and while filling his role won’t be easy, we are confident in our club's ability to find the right solutions for our future," Flanagan shared on 7 News. The club had been exploring other player options, including Parramatta Eels Captain and Fullback’ Clint Gutherson (King Gatho), leading to a complex dynamic within the team that influenced Hunt’s standing. Now with Hunt’s contract officially terminated, the Dragons will begin their search for a new lead playmaker and captain for 2025. Dragons CEO Ryan Webb reportedly said on 7 News that, “After thorough discussions with Ben and his management, this decision is what is best for both sides.” “We extend our gratitude to Ben for his years with us and wish him well in his next chapter.” A native Queenslander, Hunt is expected to look for opportunities closer to home among the 4 Queensland NRL Clubs like Broncos, Dolphins, Cowboys, and Titans. Though his current salary that stands at 1 million per season could pose challenges for clubs seeking to accommodate him under the salary cap. Source: 7 News

A proud moment for PNG Rugby legend, Adrian Lam, as he arrives in the country to see his son Lachan Lam lead the PNG LNG Kumuls out against the Cook Island on home soil this Sunday 3rd November at the Santos National Football Stadium, Port Moresby. Lachan Lam was named PNG LNG Kumuls captain for this Sunday's Pacific Bowl match against the Cook Islands in the Pacific Championships, and to witness on game day, will be none other than father/coach, former Kumuls Captain Adrian Lam. "He's been named captain this weekend for the PNG Kumuls, which is a massive honor for him. I know how important that will be for him and a proud moment for our family," Lam said. In an exclusive interview with PNG HAUSBUNG, the legend confirmed that he will be flying in on Friday from England to attend this Sunday’s Pacific Bowl match. Lachan Lam, 26, was named captain for the PNG Kumuls side due to Rhys Martin's injury picked up from their previous match against the Fiji Bati. Following in his father's footsteps, Lachan is not only playing international rugby league but as a half-back and five-eighth for his father's beloved NRL club the Sydney Rooster in the 2020 season before moving to Super League club, Leigh Leopards where now Lachan is currently playing his best footy with his father Adrian as the Head Coach. "Yeah, I think there's been a few moments over the last couple of years, probably the one that stands out the most is him playing for the Kumuls. You know, it is obviously something I did when I was younger, and to see him representing PNG at that level has been a proud moment for me and the family." When asked about their relationship and how they manage in a professional setting, Lam said, "When I am coaching, you know, we have a good working relationship there. He respects me, understands me, and adds to my coaching side. We have been doing it together. I've coached him since he was five years old." "I just want him to have no regrets with his career and how he plays each week, really." “He is a very professional player, the way that he looks after his body and his mind. And during the week, his preparation is second to none." When asked if Lam had plans to coach the PNG Kumuls again in the future, the legend did not shy away. “It is something I will seriously consider because it is obvious that I am deeply passionate about Papua New Guinea and the Kumuls, as I had done a lot with the team in the past to bring it to where it is and yes, coaching Kumuls again is something I dream of doing in the future."

Police in the nation’s capital are concerned over the number of illegal settlements popping up in the city when executing their duties. Most of these illegal settlements have been settling on land where landowners had been identified by the courts and eviction has occurred. The Acting Metropolitan Superintendent Mazuc Rubiang confirmed that the vacant land portion at Garden Hills that was evicted in December 2021, is now being occupied by settlers that may cause threat to the genuine people residing there. Mr. Mazuc Rubiang confirmed that makeshift structures have been erected in the area, and more people are moving in to settle there. He noted that these settlers are now operating illegal markets on the roadside, creating hazards for residents traveling to their homes in the Garden Hills area. "Since the court has identified the landowners, the police assisted in evicting the illegal settlers. Now, the landowners must take responsibility for their land by preventing further trespassing and finding ways to develop it. The Garden Hills Settlement has been a major issue in the past; after the eviction, there were fewer law and order problems in Boroko, Waigani Central, and surrounding areas. However, with the return of illegal settlers, those issues are rising again. Residents have filed many complaints against the settlers," said Supt. Rubiang. Rubiang noted that Police have been receiving daily complaints from settlements in the city, including Kipo, Two Mile Hills, Morata, and some new areas popping up in the suburbs. He urged landowners who have received titles to ensure they have the proper legal documents before seeking police assistance in removing illegal settlers. “I have noticed that many street vendors come from places where they do not have permanent residence, like the 2021 eviction site in Garden Hills. Because they lack permanent homes, they can easily move around and avoid accountability. We need to stop them from occupying land that belongs to others,” Rubiang said. He then thanked his police officers for their respond to report from Garden Hills, regarding settlers' criminal activities, roadside vending, drunkards disturbing residents, and even the ones the police had put fires from the settlers. “I want the landowners to come forward so we can discuss how to best remove the settlers. If we do not act now, their numbers will increase, leading to more problems in the future,” Supt. Rubiang warned.

The next Pacific Mini Games is coming up next year and the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) is not wasting anytime in preparing to send a contingent from the country to Palau, where the games will be held. The Justification Committee has officially started the evaluation of Team PNG's sports and athletes for the upcoming 2025 Pacific Mini Games, which will be held in Palau from June 30 to July 9th. The committee aims to lay a strong foundation for the Games by ensuring that Team PNG meets eligibility and performance requirements. With 14 sports featured in the 2025 Palau Pacific Mini Games, Team PNG will participate in 11 of them: Archery, Athletics, Swimming, Basketball, Beach and Indoor Volleyball, Va’a, Table Tennis, Softball, Judo, Triathlon, and Weightlifting. However, after careful review, the Justification Committee did not endorse three sports due to non-compliance with the committee’s requirements. Full endorsements were granted to Basketball 3x3, Swimming, Table Tennis (including Para), Va’a, Beach and Indoor Volleyball, and Weightlifting. Athletics and Softball received provisional endorsements, pending the submission of executive meeting minutes and approval of their Selection Policy. Final decisions will depend on meeting these outstanding compliance criteria. National Federations must submit athlete details for preliminary endorsement before October 31st, 2024, for the committee to conduct review meetings from February 24 to 28, 2025. Although these meetings will not determine the final team composition, the first round of athlete selections will be completed by March 2025, with the final entry list confirmed by May 16th, 2025. Background checks will ensure that officials have no criminal records, and they must complete mandatory courses on Safeguarding, Anti-Doping, and Prevention of Competition Manipulation. Endorsable roles include Coaches, Assistant Coaches, Team Managers, Assistant Team Managers, and Trainers. A core component of the committee’s endorsement process is the Selection Policy, which must clearly define transparent criteria for athlete selection. Sports bodies are also required to submit high-performance plans outlining strategies to prepare athletes for competitive success. Additionally, National Federations must provide comprehensive lists of athletes and officials, along with evidence of governance and compliance with the standards and regulations of the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC). Sports not endorsed by the committee had until Friday, October 25, 2024, to appeal the decision through the Sports Disputes Tribunal. Chef de Mission, Kinivanagi Karo, will lead Team PNG at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games. Participation is contingent upon meeting all outlined requirements within the designated timelines, ensuring that both athletes and officials are fully prepared to represent the nation.