Forensic Upgrade: Police Minister Sir John Pundari officially opened a new National Forensic Laboratory at Gordons, with more forensic hubs planned across PNG to strengthen evidence-based policing and justice. Correctional Service Unity: Correctional Service Portfolio Minister Joe Muli urged unity after Noel Sarei took over as substantive Commissioner, stressing public servants must keep delivering policy through the lead-up to the 2027 election. Bougainville Tensions: Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama accused PNG’s National Parliament of breaching the Melanesian Agreement after it adopted a sessional order on referendum results without the Bougainville Speaker’s consent. Regional Fisheries Transparency: Fifteen countries signed the Mombasa Declaration to boost fisheries transparency and crack down on illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, including PNG. Education Access: The Education Department is rolling out EDUNEX, using Starlink and strict online safety controls, to expand digital learning nationwide. Health Training Boost: Divine Word University opened and blessed a Medical Program Student Dormitory at ANGAU Memorial Hospital in Lae to support future doctors. Anti-Corruption Push: Transparency International PNG is mobilising for the 16th Sir Anthony Siaguru Walk Against Corruption on 21 June in Port Moresby. Climate Impact on Children: UNICEF warned that half of the world’s children face multiple climate threats, highlighting PNG cases where children risk dangerous river crossings to reach school. Economic/Industry Update: Nickel 28 reported stronger Q1 performance at the Ramu nickel-cobalt operation, with higher production and sales and improved capacity use.
AGP Executive Report
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Bougainville Peace & Referendum: Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama says Papua New Guinea’s National Parliament breached the Melanesian Agreement after adopting a draft sessional order on the 2019 referendum results without the Bougainville Speaker’s consent, warning it undermines the peace process and the negotiated majority threshold. Anti-Corruption Drive: Transparency International PNG is mobilising for the 16th Sir Anthony Siaguru Walk Against Corruption on Sunday 21 June at Sir John Guise Stadium, with organisers stressing it as a peaceful, structured push for transparency. Education & Digital Safety: The Education Department is rolling out EDUNEX using Starlink, but only for schools that meet strict online safety standards, including secure gateways and blocking harmful social media content. Health Workforce Boost: Divine Word University has opened and blessed a medical student dormitory at Angau Memorial Hospital in Lae to strengthen training and future healthcare delivery. NCD Governance & Jobs: NCD City Manager Ravu Frank is continuing merit-based public service reforms, while NCDC steps up preparations for PNG’s 2028 NRL entry and Port Moresby’s urban growth pressures. Climate Risk to Children: UNICEF reports PNG children are facing escalating overlapping climate threats, including a case where students must swim across a crocodile-infested river after a bridge washed away in 2012. Financial Abuse Response: Bank of Papua New Guinea launched “Empower Finance Kibung” to tackle financial abuse through sector-wide prevention, awareness, and a voluntary code of practice. Customs Crackdown: PNG Customs warned smugglers after destroying illegally imported cigarettes worth about K3.54 million and charging a suspect, citing major tax losses.
Bougainville & Panguna: Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama says the ABG will award the Panguna redevelopment licence to a Bougainville-owned mining company, with landowners and local participation central—while legacy issues tied to Bougainville Copper Limited must be addressed first. Climate & Children: UNICEF warns PNG children are being hit by overlapping climate hazards—highlighting cases like Rigo district students forced to swim a crocodile-infested river to reach school after a bridge washed away in 2012. Education & Digital Safety: The Education Department rolls out EDUNEX using Starlink, with strict online safety requirements for schools, including secure gateways and blocking of social media and harmful content. Public Service Reform (NCD): NCD City Manager Ravu Frank is reappointed, pledging merit-based recruitment and performance reforms to improve service delivery in Port Moresby. Justice & Governance: PNG Customs cracks down on illegal imports and smuggling after a major cigarette seizure and destruction, warning offenders will face prosecution. Correctional Service Leadership: Noel Sarae is appointed substantive Commissioner of the PNG Correctional Service, with a push for rehabilitation and institutional stability ahead of 2027. Election Readiness: With less than a year to GE27, the Electoral Commission plans to use ward recorder population data to identify eligible voters, spotlighting long-neglected ward-level records. Finance Abuse Prevention: BPNG launches “Empower Finance Kibung” to help financial institutions prevent and respond to financial abuse through a voluntary code and coordinated sector action.
NRL Expansion: PNG Chiefs’ push to join the 2028 NRL is moving ahead, but early backlash flared after management floated an “international-style” school for relocating players’ families—critics called it segregation—before momentum picked up following Jarome Luai’s Port Moresby visit and signings including Alex Johnston and others. SOE Reform: Ground has been broken for the K148 million Kumul Haus office complex at Portside, set to become headquarters for key PNG state-owned enterprises and support government reform of public enterprise performance. Bougainville Peace Process: Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama urged national leaders to understand Bougainville’s history “in full” as Parliament debates the next steps after the 2019 independence vote. Climate & Services: UNICEF warns half of the world’s children face multiple climate hazards, highlighting PNG school access problems after a washed-out bridge left children swimming to class. Digital Government Payments: DPMNEC launched an Electronic Funds Transfer payment system to replace cheque payments and improve accountability in government spending. Green Finance Push: Bank of PNG Governor Elizabeth Genia says green finance must shift from policy to real investment as France backs green lending for PNG SMEs and renewables. Public Safety Online: PNG’s Office of Censorship rolled out website restrictions aimed at reducing children’s exposure to harmful content and improving internet safety. Health Training: DWU opened a medical student dormitory at Angau Memorial Hospital in Lae to strengthen healthcare training and workforce capacity.
Pangu Party Politics: Prime Minister James Marape has been unanimously retained as Pangu leader, with the party backing his seven-year record ahead of the 2027 election and also signalling leadership renewal talks. Bougainville Peace Process: Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama urged Parliament to understand Bougainville’s history and democratic will, as MPs debate the 2019 referendum and the next steps for independence. Election Readiness: A new warning says PNG’s election system still has major trust problems, with the Common Roll and funding delays flagged as urgent risks for 2027. Government Payments Modernisation: DPMNEC launched an Electronic Funds Transfer payment system to move agencies off cheque payments and improve accountability. Public Service Delivery: A water crisis in Port Moresby is being blamed on planning and oversight failures, with calls for a clear fix plan and better management of State-owned services. Digital Safety & Cyber Risks: PNG’s Office of Censorship rolled out internet safety restrictions, while officials warned agencies not to upload sensitive data to public AI tools. Green Finance Push: Bank of PNG Governor Elizabeth Genia urged implementation of green finance, as France pledged K75 million to expand green lending for SMEs, renewables and sustainable agriculture. Justice Cooperation: PNG and Solomon Islands are starting a twinning programme to strengthen prosecution services, including cybercrime, financial crimes and corruption.
Government Payments Upgrade: DPMNEC has launched an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) payment system, moving away from cheque payments to improve efficiency and accountability. Green Finance Push: Bank of PNG Governor Elizabeth Genia says PNG must shift green finance from policy to real investment as climate risks hit communities; France also pledged K75m to expand green lending for SMEs, renewables and sustainable agriculture. Election Readiness Alarm: With less than a year to 2027, concerns are rising over election trust—especially the Common Roll and funding delays—while PNGTUC warns any failure to fund the Electoral Commission could fuel fears of vote rigging. Pangu Leadership Confirmed: Pangu Pati has unanimously retained PM James Marape as leader, backing his seven-year record and calling for a stronger next generation of party leadership. Bougainville Peace Process: Parliament debate continues to reopen old wounds, with Bougainville leaders urging respect for the independence journey and PNG’s next steps. Justice Sector Cooperation: PNG and Solomon Islands are starting a twinning program to strengthen prosecution services, including cybercrime, financial crimes, corruption and family/sexual violence. Climate Diplomacy: Pacific COP31 envoys were appointed, including PNG’s Ruel Yamuna for access to climate finance and Fiji’s Inia Seruiratu for ocean priorities. Security & Regional Presence: The US Coast Guard announced Operation Blue Pacific to deter illegal maritime activity across Oceania, including patrols involving PNG. Party Governance Message: Marape urged political parties to become functional, policy-driven institutions that can last beyond elections.
Bougainville Independence Dispute: Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama rejected National Government claims that the region is not ready for independence, arguing autonomy was always meant as a transition and urging respect for Bougainville’s history and democratic will. Parliament Process Fight: Bougainville Speaker Simon Pentanu challenged how PNG’s sessional order on the independence referendum was drafted and adopted, while PNG insists the voting threshold is a constitutional requirement needing 89 votes. Public Finance Accountability: The NMCA says PNG’s K30.9b budget push has an implementation crisis, with serious flaws in Public Investment Programme spending under Marape’s seven-year term, including gaps between warrants issued and actual expenditure. Right to Information Push: NEFC joined agencies, partners and civil society to validate PNG’s National Right to Information policy, hosted by DICT with Transparency International PNG and EU support. Digital Governance & Education: The Bilum Digital Platform aims to make SIP spending traceable and improve transparency, while UPNG and schools expand Starlink and IT programmes to connect remote learners. El Niño Warning: NOAA says El Niño is expected to worsen, with PNG’s Disaster Minister urging preparedness for drought and food security risks. Regional Security Cooperation: PNG Defence Force input featured in an Indo-Pacific Health Security summit in Malaysia focused on civil-military resilience. Maritime Conservation: Fiji moved to fully protect 15% of its ocean territory by end-2026, highlighting regional cooperation with PNG and Vanuatu through the Melanesian Ocean Corridor of Reserves.
Right to Information Push: The National Economic and Fiscal Commission joined DICT, Transparency International PNG and EU-funded partners to validate PNG’s National Right to Information policy in Port Moresby, aiming to strengthen openness in government. Bougainville Independence Row: Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama rejected National Government claims that the region is not ready for independence, while Bougainville Speaker Simon Pentanu challenged how PNG’s parliamentary sessional order on the 2019 referendum was drafted, keeping the independence dispute firmly in the spotlight. Digital Accountability: Rural and Economic Development Minister Joseph Lelang promoted the Bilum Digital Platform to make Service Improvement Programme spending more traceable, with real-time public access to project information and monitoring. Budget Delivery Concerns: A review by NMCA and Deloitte flagged serious weaknesses in Public Investment Programme spending under Marape’s seven years, with large gaps between warrants issued and actual expenditure. Education Connectivity: Starlink has reached Kerema Coronation Secondary School in Gulf Province through PNG GAQ and donors, boosting access for teachers and students. El Niño Warning: NOAA says El Niño is expected to worsen, raising drought and food security risks for PNG as government prepares mitigation plans.
Bougainville Political Crunch: Bougainville Speaker Simon Pentanu has challenged PNG’s National Parliament over how the sessional order for the 2019 independence vote was drafted, while PNG insists the voting threshold is a constitutional requirement—setting up fresh tension as the referendum result heads back into parliamentary handling. Public Finance Accountability: PNG’s National Monitoring and Coordination Authority says K57.2b in Public Investment Programme funding over Marape’s seven years saw only K32b in warrants issued and K38.1b spent, exposing major control weaknesses and pushing reforms under the Reset @ 50 agenda to track every kina to delivery. El Niño Preparedness: NOAA warns El Niño is set to worsen, with PNG facing drought and food security risks; Disaster Minister Billy Joseph says government is assessing “El Nino watch” provinces to coordinate preparedness and response. Digital Delivery Push: The Bilum Digital Platform is being promoted as a way to make Service Improvement Programme spending traceable in real time, aiming to tighten transparency and accountability in development delivery. Education Connectivity: Starlink has been installed at Kerema Coronation Secondary School in Gulf, boosting access to high-speed learning while the school commits to ongoing subscription costs. International Cooperation: India and PNG held virtual Foreign Office Consultations, reviewing development, political engagement, economic ties and Indo-Pacific cooperation, with the next round expected in Port Moresby. Maritime Protection Warning: Oro Governor Gary Juffa calls for stronger protection of PNG’s ocean territory, warning against deep-sea mining and urging the precautionary principle.
Bougainville Referendum Process: Bougainville Speaker Simon Pentanu has challenged PNG National Parliament claims over the sessional order for the 2019 independence vote, arguing key issues were never agreed and the final motion differed from talks—while PNG insists the voting threshold is a constitutional requirement needing 89 of 118 MPs. Public Finance Accountability: PNG’s National Monitoring and Coordination Authority says K57.2b in Public Investment Programme funding over seven years saw only K32b in warrants issued and K38.1b spent, exposing major weaknesses and prompting a push for stronger tracking and cash-flow controls. Rural Service Delivery Transparency: The Marape-Rosso Bilum Digital Platform is being promoted as a way to make Service Improvement Programme spending traceable “every kina” and improve oversight of project delivery. Digital Connectivity for Schools: UPNG-backed Starlink and IT programmes are expanding access, including a Starlink rollout at Kerema Coronation Secondary School in Gulf, with fast internet now operational. Infrastructure and Aviation: Kagamuga Airport in Mt Hagen is moving into runway upgrade works to position the Highlands as an agriculture export hub for Asia-Pacific markets. Maritime Environment Warning: Oro Governor Gary Juffa calls for stronger protection of PNG’s seas, warning against deep-sea mining and citing past seabed exploitation failures. Indo-Pacific Diplomacy: India and PNG reviewed bilateral ties and reaffirmed Indo-Pacific cooperation during Foreign Office Consultations. Health Security Cooperation: A 20-nation Indo-Pacific Health Security summit in Malaysia highlighted civil-military collaboration, with PNG Defence Force participation noted. Security Operations: Operation Render Safe in East New Britain disposed of 400 unexploded ordnances safely in its second week. Education Sector Milestone: IEA PNG marks 50 years since its 1976 formation, focusing on teacher development and digital learning, including guidance on responsible AI use.
Indo-Pacific Health Security: Twenty countries met in Kuala Lumpur for the 3rd Indo-Pacific Health Alliance summit, pushing civil-military cooperation on health security, biosurveillance and disaster readiness, with PNG Defence Force input. Public Finance Accountability: The NMCA says K57.2b in Public Investment Programme funds over Marape’s seven years faced serious control gaps—only K32b in warrants issued and K38.1b spent—prompting calls for stronger tracking and value-for-money reforms. Bougainville Independence Process: A fresh dispute erupted after Bougainville Speaker Simon Pentanu questioned how the PNG Parliament sessional order on the 2019 referendum was drafted, while PNG insists the 89-vote threshold is a constitutional requirement. Used Vehicle Imports: A citizen urges tighter rules on used vehicle imports—age, condition, roadworthiness and spare parts—to prevent unsafe, unmaintainable “dumping ground” vehicles. Digital Governance & Education: The Bilum Digital Platform aims to make SIP spending traceable in real time, while UPNG and schools roll out Starlink to expand connectivity and IT learning. Security Operations: Operation Render Safe disposed of 400 UXOs in East New Britain, with partners and media observing safe detonation work. Health & Development: WHO released a practical manual to strengthen antimicrobial resistance control, and Morobe reported over 150,000 children vaccinated in polio round three. Infrastructure & Economy: Budget implementation remains a concern as a K30.9b budget faces delivery gaps, while Kagamuga Airport runway works target Mt Hagen as a Highlands agriculture export hub.
Bougainville Independence Process: Bougainville Speaker Simon Pentanu has challenged claims in PNG Parliament over how the sessional order for the 2019 independence vote was drafted, while PNG insists the 89-vote (three-quarter absolute majority) threshold is a constitutional requirement, not a political choice. Public Finance Accountability: NMCA says K57.2b in Public Investment Programme funding over Marape’s seven years saw only K32b in warrants issued against a revised K51.4b allocation, yet spending reached K38.1b—prompting renewed calls for tighter tracking of every Kina. Security & Justice Cooperation: Operation Render Safe in East New Britain disposed of 400 UXOs safely, and PNG and Solomon Islands signed a prosecution-services MoU to boost capacity in financial crime, corruption, cybercrime and family/sexual violence. Health & Development: UNFPA reports major gains in maternal and reproductive health and population data collection despite funding cuts. Regional Mobility & Diplomacy: UAE–PNG visa-free arrangements are now in force for up to 90 days (extendable), and Israel plans to open a representative office in PNG. Environment & Disaster Response: Manus province remains choked by pumice from an undersea volcano, with officials assessing when and how help can reach affected communities. Sports & Community: OFC Pro League finances are secured for three years, while Apex Park barbecues have been relocated to Forbes Pool as part of sustainability-minded upgrades.
Bougainville Referendum Process: Bougainville Affairs Minister Manasseh Makiba says Parliament now has the “final steps” to consider the 2019 independence vote, with a sessional order tabled and a supermajority of 89 MPs needed by Aug 30. IMF Support for PNG: The IMF approved about $163 million for PNG after programme reviews, including $82m under the EFF/ECF and $81m under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility. PNG LNG Landowners Push Back: Hiri-Koiari MP Keith Iduhu tabled a petition seeking greater control of PNG LNG Kroton Equity Option benefits for plant-site landowners, arguing they were excluded from decision-making. Governance and Accountability Pressure: PM James Marape ordered ministers and agencies to publicly report seven-year achievements, spending and challenges, while MPs and commentators continue to question execution and corruption. Digital and AI Skills: DICT and ITI signed a five-year MoU to build AI and digital skills, with a working group to oversee delivery. Health and Sports: Morobe reported surpassing polio vaccination targets in round three, while East New Britain’s Kalabond Oval upgrade is 60% complete. Regional Diplomacy: Israel says it will open a representative office in PNG, and Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale hints Bougainville independence could be discussed with Marape. Environment and Community: A GEF/FAO-backed project aims to protect 700,000 hectares of PNG highlands by putting Indigenous communities at the centre.
Bougainville Referendum Process: PM James Marape urged Parliament to handle the 2019 Bougainville independence result with maturity and respect, saying the vote (97.7% in favour) is constitutionally mandated under the Bougainville Peace Agreement and Part XIV of the National Constitution. Regional Diplomacy: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale said Bougainville independence may be raised in talks with Marape in the coming weeks ahead of Pacific leader meetings in Palau. IMF Support for PNG: The IMF approved about $163 million for PNG after programme reviews, including $82m under the EFF/ECF and $81m under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility. PNG LNG Landowners Petition: Hiri-Koiari MP Keith Iduhu tabled a petition seeking greater control of PNG LNG Kroton Equity Option benefits for plant site landowners, arguing they were excluded from decision-making. Drugs and Policing Pressure: Police Minister Sir John Pundari warned PNG could become the Pacific’s weakest link on narcotics, saying agencies must work together and seek support from the US and Australia. El Niño Watch: PNG’s Highlands provinces have been placed under “El Niño Watch,” with drought risks flagged. Digital Skills Push: DICT and the International Training Institute signed a five-year MoU to expand AI and digital skills, research and innovation. Party Politics: Marape opened the Pangu Pati Convention in Port Moresby, stressing internal democracy and leadership succession ahead of 2027. Fisheries Outrage: PNG is investigating claims that a Filipino purse seiner caught dolphins illegally in Manus Province. Disaster Update: Volcanic pumice rafts from a Bismarck Sea eruption are blocking boats and raising food-shortage fears for Manus coastal communities.
ICT & Skills: PNG’s DICT and the International Training Institute (ITI) have signed a five-year deal to boost AI and digital skills through curriculum upgrades, internships, corporate training and staff upskilling, with a technical working group to oversee delivery. Government Accountability: PM James Marape has ordered ministers, departments, provincial governors and district MPs to publicly report detailed results, spending and challenges from the past seven years after tabling the Marape-Rosso Seven-Year Performance Report. Energy Investment: PNG is set to drill its first ultra-deepwater well, Mailu-1, within two months offshore between Central and Milne Bay, with TotalEnergies and PETRONAS presenting plans and safeguards to provincial stakeholders. Public Service Education: SILAG says it has completed key accreditation documents and governance frameworks to move closer to university status by 2027, aiming to strengthen leadership and workforce development. Bougainville Referendum Process: Marape urges Parliament to handle the 2019 independence result with maturity and respect as the matter moves into formal parliamentary consideration, while Bougainville leaders warn about a high ratification threshold and question consultation. Diplomacy: Israel says it will open a representative office in PNG after talks with PM Marape, following moves to deepen Pacific ties. Disaster & Food Security: Volcanic pumice rafts from an undersea eruption are disrupting Manus Island livelihoods and sea transport, raising fears of food shortages.
Bougainville Independence Process: Bougainville Vice President Ezekiel Masatt says PNG’s National Government is making ratification harder by pushing a 75% threshold, arguing it exceeds constitutional requirements and undermines the Melanesian Agreement framework. Parliament Procedure: Bougainville Regional MP Peter Tsiamalili Jr urges MPs to back a sessional order first, saying Parliament should agree on the process before debating the 2019 referendum outcome. Health Funding Accountability: Health Minister Elias Kapavore faces mounting pressure over K1.5b in health allocations as hospitals report overcrowding and shortages; leaders and citizens want clear releases and detailed spending acquittals. Prison Overcrowding: The Government’s performance report warns overcrowding is driving health risks, security incidents and breakouts, citing deteriorating facilities and delays in court decisions. Rural Isolation in Focus: A Rai Coast student calls for urgent road links to end dangerous sea travel that blocks services and cash-crop markets. Port Moresby Development: The K400m Noble Centre in downtown Moresby is set to open tomorrow, with PM Marape expected to cut the ribbon. International Diplomacy: PM Marape welcomed Malaysian investment interest in PNG’s oil palm, livestock and downstream agriculture to boost jobs and food security.
Bougainville Independence Process: Bougainville Affairs Minister Manasseh Makiba is set to table the draft sessional order to bring the 2019 independence referendum result into PNG Parliament for ratification, with the Bougainville vote figures showing overwhelming support for independence (176,928) versus greater autonomy (3,043). Law and Order Push: The government says it has poured K11.8 billion into the law and justice sector since 2019, while Southern Highlands authorities launch a confidential hotline to help communities report illegal firearms and armed criminals. Child Protection: NOCFS says it is working with police after a viral video of alleged child abuse in Porgera, calling for the suspect’s arrest and protection for the child. Infrastructure Funding Pressure: Connect PNG faces a K3.9 billion funding gap, with the Works Department reporting major shortfalls between requested capital funding and appropriations. Climate-Resilient Planning: Australia-backed workshops in Morobe help validate a climate-resilient green growth strategy, aiming to turn priority projects into bankable investments by 2027. EU-PNG Business Ties: The EU and PNG held a 5th EU–PNG Business Forum in Port Moresby with 300+ participants and 170+ B2B/B2G meetings to boost investment and trade. Natural Disruption: Floating pumice rafts are causing havoc for Manus Island, with an urgent government assessment underway.
Bougainville Independence in Parliament: Bougainville Affairs Minister Manasseh Makiba is set to table a draft sessional order to bring the 2019 referendum result into PNG Parliament for ratification, with Bougainville MPs urging a facts-based debate. IMF Funding Boost: The IMF approved PNG’s latest EFF/ECF review, unlocking about US$163m (A$231m) in disbursements, with growth easing to 3.8% in 2026 and inflation expected around 4.8%. PNGDF Recruitment Fallout: Kerowagi MP Francis Kikin Siune challenged PM James Marape in Parliament over mass dismissal of military recruits during a recruitment scandal investigation. Disability Services Act Still Not Implemented: At an NCD disability sector dialogue, officials said the Disability Services Act 2025 still awaits implementation, with provinces and NCDC urged to coordinate. Digital Government Push (Morobe): PNG DataCo signed agreements with Morobe to expand telecom access and roll out a digital government services platform to modernise public systems. Bank of PNG on Oil Shock: The central bank says it is monitoring global oil supply shocks and may take policy action if inflation pressures rise, while maintaining the KFR at 5%. Regional Cybercrime Cooperation: Pacific legal officials in Fiji are finalising a regional cybercrime handbook to strengthen laws and defenses, including PNG’s participation. Sports & Community: PNGOC approved a 520-strong Team PNG for the 2023 Pacific Games, while Madang United beat NCD FC 4-1 in the Premier Soccer League. Environment & Finance: Green Finance Summit 2026 drew 240 delegates and new investment commitments, and Ok Tedi marked World Environment Day with tree planting and sustainability work. International Disaster Watch: A 7.8 earthquake struck Mindanao, triggering tsunami warnings across the region including Papua New Guinea.
Cybercrime & Justice: Legal experts from across the Blue Pacific, including PNG, are meeting in Nadi, Fiji to finalise a regional handbook to strengthen cybercrime laws and digital border protection. Disaster Response & Regional Safety: A 7.8 quake struck southern Philippines’ Mindanao, killing at least 15–35 people (figures rising), injuring hundreds, collapsing buildings, and triggering tsunami warnings and coastal advisories across the Pacific including Papua New Guinea. Youth & Elections: Eastern Highlands became the first Highlands province to complete the NYES 2025–2029 socialisation program, while in Port Moresby youth forums urged young voters to enrol, verify the roll, and vote with integrity for the 2027 National General Election. Energy & Investment Prep: PM James Marape led a delegation to Kikori, Gulf Province to consult landowners and leaders ahead of the Papua LNG Development Forum, aiming to align venue and infrastructure plans. Governance & Service Delivery: NCD Governor Powes Parkop marked World Environment Day with a push for practical climate action, including tree planting and expanding urban green space. Appointments & Industry: PNG CORE appointed Richard Kassman as executive director, bringing long experience in energy and governance advocacy.
Philippines Earthquake & Tsunami Watch: A powerful 7.8 quake off Mindanao has killed at least 19 people and injured more than 100, with buildings collapsing in General Santos and tsunami waves reported up to about 1.4 metres; authorities across the Philippines, Indonesia, Palau, Taiwan and Papua New Guinea issued evacuation warnings. NCD Environment Day: NCD Governor Powes Parkop urged Port Moresby residents to take personal responsibility for climate action, backing tree-planting and practical steps under the World Environment Day march. Bougainville Independence Process: Bougainville Affairs Minister Manasseh Makiba is set to table the draft sessional order to bring the 2019 referendum results into Parliament for a decision, as debate continues. PNG Budget Reality Check: A report says PNG’s record K30.9b budget faces a long-standing gap between allocations and actual spending, with implementation and service delivery still struggling. Energy & Governance Appointments: PNG CORE has appointed Richard Kassman as executive director, while PM Marape told Parliament Porgera dividends have reached about K1.7b and outlined progress on major projects. Local Service Delivery: National Volunteer Service will deploy 16 volunteers across Central Province’s LLGs to support agriculture, SMEs and cash-crop programs. Youth & Elections: A Port Moresby youth forum pushed students to register, verify their details and vote responsibly ahead of the 2027 National General Election. Infrastructure Push: Government says it has spent about K11.93b on infrastructure since 2019, with Connect PNG driving upgrades including the Port Moresby–Lae–Highlands corridor.
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