Port Moresby came alive as Miss Bird of Paradise Iampela Popena touched down at Jacksons International Airport, greeted by cheering supporters, family members, and Governor Powes Parkop.

Fresh from her success at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant, where she was crowned 2026 First Runner-Up, Popena returned home to a hero’s welcome. Though narrowly missing the crown, she captured regional attention and brought pride to Papua New Guinea with her outstanding performance and special awards.

“We may not be crowned, but we won the hearts of many and showed them what PNG can do!” Popena said proudly.

Governor Parkop praised her achievement, declaring that while she may officially hold the First Runner-Up title, “to us, you are the winner — our queen of PNG.”

Supporters packed the arrival hall, waving flags and bilums as cheers erupted when she walked through the gates.

Emotional family members embraced her, while young fans eagerly lined up for photos with the returning beauty ambassador.

Popena expressed heartfelt gratitude to Papua New Guineans for their unwavering support.

“I was scared at times, but it was your support that gave me the confidence to win the Best Traditional Dress,” she said.

She also shared an encouraging message for the nation’s youth: “You can do anything — you just have to believe in yourself and keep going.”

Her arrival transformed an ordinary afternoon into a celebration of culture, resilience, unity and national pride — proving that sometimes, the true queen is the one who wins the hearts of her people.