Papua New Guinea has released a record K30.9 billion National Budget for 2026, with a strong focus on improving services in the country including the health service to the people.Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey tabled the budget in Parliament on Tuesday, describing it as a plan designed to boost frontline services, upgrade infrastructure and improve long-term health outcomes. K858.1 million has been set aside under the Capital Investment Budget for hospital construction, district health facilities and critical medical infrastructure. He said in the health sector, there is a 15.8% increase to K3,205 million. This includes a K88 million in increase for our Provincial Health Authorities, including POM General, to K1,476 million. There is a K27 million increase in medical supplies, from K240 million to K267 million. “There are also major increases for vaccines of 73%, of malaria and TB and other key drugs of over 40%. Church and Catholic Health Services, which provide an estimated half, of all health 11 services, to our rural people, increases by 22 per cent, or K46.3 million, to K259 million,” said the Treasurer. Ling Stucky underscored the health sector as an extremely vital sector and continues to be a priority area for National Budgets to ensure a healthy population in Papua New Guinea.

BSP Life has officially launched its new endowment product, Wantok Sumatin, aimed at helping Papua New Guineans better plan for future financial needs, particularly education.BSP Life entered the PNG market in January 2018 with its flagship product, Wantok Delite, which now has more than 11,000 policy holders. Since its establishment, BSP Life PNG has paid over 2,300 claims worth K60 million and under the Wantok Delite product alone, an additional K5.5 million in survival benefits has been returned to 1,800 families. “These are not just numbers,” said BSP Life Country Manager Nilson Singh. “These are widows who could pay for funerals, retirees who could build homes, and families who trusted us and we delivered.” Mr. Singh highlighted that fewer than 3% of Papua New Guineans have life insurance, largely due to limited awareness and low trust in the insurance sector. He stressed that planning for unexpected events is crucial, especially when it concerns children’s education. “The Wantok system is the heart of PNG’s culture, but it cannot carry every financial burden.” “This is the gap that Wantok Sumatin has been designed to fulfil.” School fees remain one of the biggest financial pressures on families, often forcing parents to borrow money or conduct fundraisers. Wantok Sumatin offers a structured solution with benefits including 20% cash payouts of the sum insured during the final five years of the policy term along with annual bonuses added to the policy. Policy holders pay premiums for the first 10 years and BSP Life covers the remaining years of the term. Eligibility starts at 5 years old and extends to a maximum entry age of 59. Customers can choose from 10-year, 15-year, or 20-year policy terms. Payment options include salary deductions, direct deposit, electronic transfers, and internet banking.

Papua New Guinea is through to another MSG Prime Minister’s Cup Grand Final after defeating Fiji 2–0 in the first men’s semi-final.PNG came out strong, pushing for an early advantage. Nigel Dabinyaba sent a well-placed cross to Tommy Semmy, narrowly missing the opener. Fiji’s Thomas Dunn responded with a powerful strike, but PNG goalkeeper Dave Tomare reacted expertly to keep the match leveled. Semmy continued to trouble the Fijian defence, with one of his shots rattling the crossbar. Midfielder Emmanuel “Manu” Simon controlled play in Fiji’s half, driving PNG’s attacking rhythm. After the break, PNG returned with renewed energy. Manu Simon forced another save, while Dabinyaba delivered a series of dangerous crosses. One of those found veteran striker Raymond Gunemba, whose first attempt struck the bar before he finished on the second effort linking up once again with Dabinyaba for the opening goal. PNG maintained heavy pressure, and it paid off when Rex Naime’s strike bounced off the crossbar. Gunemba reacted quickly to tap in the rebound, giving him his second goal and extending PNG’s lead. Defensively, PNG stayed solid throughout, shutting down Fiji’s key forwards Christopher Wasasala and Josiah Sela. Daniel Joe, supported by Thomas Yangu, Shane Sakael, and Abraham Allen, anchored a disciplined backline that held firm to the final whistle. Final Score: PNG 2 – Fiji 0 The win sends Papua New Guinea into the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup Grand Final, where they will look to secure another title to add to their previous two tournament victories.

CreditBank PNG has officially opened its new Waigani Branch, further strengthening its commitment to delivering convenient and accessible banking services for its customers.Located at Moki Business Park, the Waigani branch has been designed to offer a smooth and modern banking experience. The branch features a welcoming interior, self-service kiosks for quick everyday transactions, and on-site staff for personalized assistance. Speaking at the opening ceremony, CreditBank PNG Chief Executive Officer Danny Robinson said the new branch marks an important step in the bank’s ongoing transformation. “The Opening of Our Waigani Branch is a significant milestone in our journey,” said Mr Robinson. “It represents our continued commitment to bringing accessible banking services closer to our customers and the communities we serve.” He emphasized that while CreditBank continues to expand its physical presence, it remains firmly focused on digital innovation. “While our branches help bring our services closer to the community, we know that true accessibility goes beyond physical locations.” “Our digital-first approach allows customers to open their accounts online via the CreditBank mobile App and manage their daily banking from the comfort of their homes.” He also noted the growing demand for digital services nationwide, revealing that CreditBank now serves customers across all 22 provinces. Of all new accounts opened, 68 percent are now created online through the mobile app, reflecting a strong national shift toward digital banking. CreditBank PNG currently operates branches in Downtown Port Moresby, Lae, Mt Hagen, and Kokopo, with the new Waigani Branch adding to its expanding network.

Fiji has booked their place in the inaugural MSG Prime Minister’s Cup Women’s Grand Final after overcoming a determined Vanuatu side 3–1 in the second semi-final.They will now face hosts Papua New Guinea, who cruised past Solomon Islands earlier, setting up an exciting showdown for the tournament’s first women’s title. The Fiji–Vanuatu clash was intense from the opening whistle. Vanuatu came out firing, dominating the first 10 minutes and launching repeated attacks on Fiji’s goal. Striker Leilata Simon tested the keeper early with a shot on target, followed soon after by another strong run from Rita Solomon. Despite the pressure, Fiji held their defensive line. Fiji responded late in the first half with Adi Bakanicewa leading a promising push forward, only to be denied by Vanuatu goalkeeper Amelia Reddy. The tight contest saw both teams locked at 0–0 at halftime. The second half quickly swung in Fiji’s favour. Within minutes of the restart, winger Sereana Naweni broke through to score the match’s opening goal. Moments later, Vanuatu defender Henrietta Sangu received a yellow card as the pace picked up. Fiji widened the gap when substitute Narietta Leba, brought on in the second half, found the net to make it 2–0. But Vanuatu refused to back down. Their captain, Elesi Tabunase, sparked hope when Leimata Simon scored immediately after Fiji’s second goal, narrowing the scoreline to 2–1. Fiji nearly extended their lead again with Naweni threatening for her second of the match, but Reddy produced another crucial save. Vanuatu continued pressing hard for the equalizer, with Simon sending a header over the crossbar in a tense final push. With six minutes of added time, Vanuatu threw everything forward, but Fiji sealed the match when Sema Nasau slotted home the final goal, securing a 3–1 victory. Fiji now prepares to take on PNG in the inaugural first Grand Final of the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup Women’s competition.

The Semi- final games for the MSG Prime Ministers Cup for the women’s fixture have been rescheduled to Thursday, 20th November 2025.“Today is a rest day and tomorrow is when the finals kick off,” said Tournament Director, Noel Mobiha. “The reason why we are doing this is because one team didn’t turn up and HOC (Host Organizing Committee) had only a week to prepare before the launch last Tuesday.” He commended the HOC Chairman for his leadership in putting together the tournament in a week. The pullout of New Caledonia has disturbed this whole program and the Team, Officials and HOC had to come up with a solution that will satisfy all partners and fulfil the requirements as a tier 1 tournament of FIFA. Mobiha announced at a press conference today that Semi- finals will go ahead on Thursday and the Grand final will be on Sunday. He added that this tournament is a fitting way to celebrate the Melanesian spirit especially at this time when Papua New Guinea had just celebrated its 50th Independence anniversary. Due to player welfare considerations, teams have been given a 48-hour recovery period, which prompted the postponement of the semi-finals to tomorrow. Meanwhile, PNG Football Association (PNGFA) Technical Director, Mr. Paul Isarua spoke on behalf of the PNGFA and clarified that the changes for hosting semi- finals tomorrow has been welcomed by all participants. “When you look at it, on a general perspective we are complying with FIFA safeguarding protocols.” “We had some very competitive matches, so it is only right that they are given enough rest times.” The Women's fixture Semi- finals will see PNG play against Solomon Islands while Fiji will take on Vanuatu. For the men's fixture which will be later on in the day, will see PNG challenge Fiji and Vanuatu go up against Solomon Islands. All matches will be played at the PNG Football Stadium, Port Moresby city.

The Chairman of the Host Organizing Committee (HOC) for the MSG Prime Ministers Cup, Mr. Leonard Louma, officially welcomed Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) President and FIFA Senior Vice President Mr. Lambert Maltock, who is in Port Moresby to observe the remaining matches of the tournament.Speaking at a press conference this afternoon, Mr. Louma welcomed Mr. Maltock on behalf of the HOC and the Government of Papua New Guinea. “I wish to reassure you that we are at your disposal and please feel free to have people attached to you to attend to the needs that you wish to be attended to,” Mr Louma Said. “Please take time not only to watch the games but take the opportunity to visit as many places as you can here in Port Moresby.” Mr. Louma highlighted that PNG has stepped up in hosting women’s teams in this year’s MSG Prime Ministers Cup. He also noted that New Caledonia was unable to participate in this year’s tournament; however, discussions are underway to bring an 18-man squad to Port Moresby for a friendly match against a mixed MSG team. Addressing public debate on the cost of hosting the tournament, Mr. Louma said people should look at the success of Melanesian countries in the Pacific Games, where winners are often from MSG nations. He also used the opportunity to ask the OFC President whether a non-MSG country could be invited to participate in future tournaments to help enhance player development. This would also allow future host countries to prepare for accommodating an additional team. In response, Mr. Maltock said the tournament was an initiative of the Melanesian Spearhead Group Secretariat, and any decision on expanding participation would rest with the MSG. He added that there are no restrictions on inviting external teams and noted that host countries could also benefit from indirect FIFA support to help fund the MSG Prime Ministers Cup.

The PNG Gold women’s team defeated Vanuatu in the women’s fixture in the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup Tournament on Thursday. Captain Ramona Padio wasted no time setting the pace of the match, scoring in just the 4th minute to give PNG an early lead. The team’s attacking momentum paid off as they headed into halftime with a 3–0 advantage, before sealing the victory with a fourth and final goal in the second half. PNG Women’s coach Erickson Komeng said that the girls played really well, and he was pleased with their performance. “The girl’s attitude and approach to the game today was 100% spot on,” he said. “We wanted to come here and beat the Vanuatu side.” He said that it was challenging playing on the home ground in front of fans, but the girls did very well. He added that the first game is always the toughest, but he knows that the girls can improve and work together and play well in this tournament. Komeng said that the important thing about this tournament is building relationships between players and coaches with their Melanesian counterparts. He further added that the girls have a good chance of winning the tournament as long as they work together with the right attitude and remain positive. Meanwhile, the Vanuatu Women’s Coach Jean Robert Yelou said that the PNG Women’s team was outstanding, and his team will now go back and prepare well for the next upcoming games in the tournament.

Since being diagnosed with retinoblastoma (cancer in his right eye) in 2023, four-year-old Wilchi Paddy Kapin has endured countless hospital visits and treatments.Despite the challenges, his courage and bright spirit continue to shine, offering hope to other families facing the same battle. Retinoblastoma is the second most common cancer in children, and it affects children under the age of 5. Wilchi’s mother, Normajean Gapi, said that a lot has happened since 2023 when he was diagnosed when he was just a year old. “In 2023, after Wilchi got chemotherapy for six months at the Port Moresby General hospital, we went over to the Philippines where he had almost eight weeks of intraocular chemotherapy, a procedure that delivers cancer-fighting medicine directly into the eye along with weekly examinations.” “In February 2024, Wilchi had his right eye removed and we have had about three to four visits to the hospital for his checks.” “Wilchi had his first prosthetic eye fitted in 2024 and he has had this for over a year which cost us about K2, 500 for the eye alone.” Normajean said that a few months ago, they went back to the Philippines where he was supposed to have his MRI scan, his chest X-ray and his eye examined to see that his left eye is still okay, however, was not able to have an MRI as he ended up getting sick. While there, Wilchi had genetic testing done to determine whether the cancer was caused by a gene mutation from both parents or an inherited gene from one parent. Wilchi’s genetic test results were released on Friday, November 7, 2025, confirming that he carries the RB1 gene linked to retinoblastoma. His doctor, Dr. Lingao, explained that this means Wilchi has a higher risk of developing secondary cancers such as brain, bone, or skin cancer, conditions that sometimes affect retinoblastoma survivors. The results also indicate that the gene can be passed on to his future children. The family who are just processing the news, are preparing for further testing, including a family variant test that must be completed within 150 days of Wilchi’s blood collection in July, leaving about three months to complete it. Today, Wilchi continues his journey with strength and courage. But his fight isn’t over yet. To continue his treatment and monitoring, Wilchi urgently needs to undergo several important medical tests which include eye examinations, an MRI brain scan, chest X-ray, and other follow-up procedures. The total cost is estimated at K30, 000 per trip. His family is doing everything they can but greatly needs assistance. Any contribution big or small will go a long way in helping Wilchi get the care he needs and give him the chance to live a healthy, happy life.

The injuries and even deaths from the use of the notorious wire catapult in the East Sepik province continues to be a major problem that requires a drastic and decisive action to fully address.Like any other homemade weapon, the wire catapult is also a very deadly weapon that is a major concern for the police says Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Christopher Tamari. The wire catapult, also known as ‘Silencer’, consists of a metal rod sometimes sharpened with barbs or hooks and is used in a slingshot-style mechanism to propel the rod at a target. The wire catapult was originally used by the Sepik people living along the river as a fishing rod; however, it was later adapted and used as a weapon against people. PPC Tamari when speaking to PNG HAUSBUNG, said that the wire catapult is used mainly by intoxicated youths in social disputes as it is a convenient homemade weapon. “Social issues arise in the province because there are a lot of idle youths who are unemployed and have access to home brew.” “We do not have enough manpower on ground to attend to the law-and-order issues in the province,” said PPC Tamaris. The PPC is in the process of requesting for logistical support from district administrations for reserve police officers on ground so to better address the matter of fights and the use of the wire catapult. He also wants tougher punishment imposed for people in possession and using wire catapult so to deter them from using it. PPC Tamari said he was in talks with the East Sepik Governor, Allan Bird to ban the sale and use of rubber as it is the major component in making the slingshot to launch the wire. Meanwhile, PPC Tamari said currently it has been really quiet in the province with only a few alcohol related incidents. He also said that the LLG Elections went smoothly with no major incidents reported.