This afternoon five new Ministers were sworn into the Government Cabinet at Government House in Port Moresby. The ceremony was witnessed by Prime Minister James Marape, and members of Cabinet with Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso. PM Marape further expressed his joy and confidence in the new Minsters, stating that they are overqualified for their duties and bring exceptional experience to the table. The new Ministers are: Wapenamanda MP Miki Kaeok - Finance Minister, Unggai Bena MP Kinoka Feo - Higher Education Minister, Vanimo Green MP Belden Namah - Culture and Tourism Minister, Tewaii Siassi MP Dr Kobby Bomareo - NHC Minister and Kerema Open MP Thomas Opa - Caretaker Energy and Petroleum Minister.

The Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Round 13 saw the Lae Snax Tigers claim second victory in Port Moresby (Pom) and against GULF Isou, but this time at the National Football Stadium (NFS), Port Moresby, 24-10. The Snax Tigers made a strong impression in the first half scoring 4 tries. The forwards opened the score board and the backline securing with a strong lead. Tigers second rower Reynolds Tai scored the first opening try in the 7th minute followed by another into the 11th minute by prop Jordan Steve. Fullback Douglas David score Tigers third try with Dickson Otto sealing their lead, all in the first half. While Gulf Isou Centre Eliakim Lukara break the ice and score first try for Gulf Isou in the 29th minute followed by a failed conversion, trailing the Snax Tigers into half time, 4-24. The Gulf Isou struck in the 43rd minute scoring a try and a successful conversion, trailing the Snax Tigers a 14points difference. The remaining minutes saw tremendous defense from both teams as the Tigers defend their score, while the Gulf Isou desperate to score. Both teams developed a fair amount of drop balls and silly mistakes until the full 80 minutes were counted. The Lae Snax Tigers once again claim their second win over Gulf Isou in Round Two Lae League, Gulf Isou lost 14-21 while conquering their battle in NFS following their win over the Moni Plus NCD Vipers in Round 10 34-18. This makes the Lae Snax take their 3rd Out-of 5 successful wins in their home away games. The Snax Tigers have now made eight wins, three loses and two drawn matches.

South Pacific Brewery (SP Brewery) announced its partnership alongside the thrilling National Mask and Warwagira Festival committee, aiding K5000 for the planning and staging of the exciting festival. The festival celebrates diverse mask cultures of East New Britain and set to take place from July 10th to 13th. The announcement was attended by SP Brewery’s Regional Sales Manager of NGI Mr. Leon Schulz and the National Mask and Warwagira Festival committee. Mr. Schulz, expressed the company’s delight in supporting such significant cultural celebrations. "For many years, SP Brewery has been a proud advocate of promoting and preserving the diverse cultural traditions that make our nation so unique." "This contribution is a testament to our commitment to supporting cultural events that celebrate our heritage and bring communities together,” he said. "The National Mask and Warwagira Festival holds a special place in our hearts, as it showcases the vibrant traditions and talents of our people." "We thank the organizers of the National Mask and Warwagira Festival for their dedication and hard work in preserving our cultural legacy." The donation will guarantee the festival's continued existence and help it succeed. From July 12–13, 2024, SP Brewery will setup a booth at the festival to promote their agenda for responsible alcohol consumption. Those older than the legal drinking age (18+) are encouraged to visit the booth.

Four police officers from the National Capital District (NCD) and Central commands were served with their administrative charges by the Internal Investigation Unit police officers just recently. The Acting Commander of NCD/Central, Assistant Commissioner (ACP) of Police Peter Guinness confirmed that three officers were attached to the NCD command while the other one was attached to Central province command. He said two of the police officers who were arrested and charged, were involved in the death of another police officer, late Constable Vianey Yembinaro on June 15th. The two policemen were arrested and charged with wilful murder and are detained in the police cell awaiting their court dates. He said that apart from being criminally charged they were also served with three administrative charges. ACP Guinness further added that the other police officer attached to the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) was also arrested and charged under the Firearms Act for misplacing a police-issued firearm that was in his possession. He said the police officer was also served with two administrative charges. “The fourth policeman was served with four administrative charges for unlawfully discharging firearms after the victims agreed to sort the matter out of the court. Therefore, the policeman was served with the administrative charges, and he was given fourteen days to respond to his charges”, ACP Guinness said. While praising the NCD Internal Investigation Unit for their efforts in handling the four police officers, ACP Guinness stated the Unit will keep up its work to ensure that police officers in the various commands do not cross any lines while carrying out their assigned responsibilities. “We are police officers, and we must act and do things as police officers while on or off duty. When we consume alcohol or have arms or vehicles in our possession, we must always think and act as police officers. We are peacemakers and not trouble or lawbreakers. Our actions will affect our children and families if we are dismissed from the force,” ACP Guinness said. He indicated that certain police officers are acting improperly; these actions are being observed and would be addressed appropriately. Meanwhile, ACP Guinness added that several police officers had previously received notices of dismissal in addition to being presented with criminal and administrative proceedings.

The South Sydney Rabbitohs have continued their mid-season revival with a 32-16 win over Parramatta to notch their fifth-straight victory. The Rabbitohs have moved to within one win of the top eight, however their for-and-against leaves them on the back foot as they attempt to make headway on a cluttered ladder. South Sydney halfback Cody Walker was superb as he directed his team around a wet CommBank Stadium, turning the Eels around with his astute kicking game. The Rabbitohs defence formed the basis of the victory, with Parramatta generating multiple attacking opportunities but finding it difficult to turn possession into points. South Sydney opened the scoring after a pair of Eels errors, with Walker executing a scrum set play to put Jacob Gagai over in the corner. A Cameron Murray error from the ensuing set of six provided the Eels with a chance to hit back and they peppered the South Sydney line for an extended period of time to no avail. As the game entered the midway period of the first half, it was Parramatta's turn to deny a near-certain try, with Clint Gutherson and Reagan Campbell-Gillard producing try-saving tackles in back-to-back plays. The desperation allowed the Eels to gain the upper hand, with the hosts spending extended periods of play camped in the attacking 20 metre zone. The Rabbitohs, however, held firm and eventually extended their advantage to 10-0 with a long-range try to Jack Wighton against the run of play. The double-digit lead did not last long, with Blaize Talagi putting Dylan Brown through a hole before crossing for a try a couple of tackles later to make it 10-4. The first half had another twist left in it, Walker capitalising on some tired Eels defenders to extend his team's lead in the final minute of the period. Driving rain fell as the teams emerged from half time, with Parramatta quickly gaining the ascendancy. The pressure eventually led to points, with Campbell-Gillard crossing from short range to cut the deficit to four. For everything the Eels threw at their opponents, the Rabbitohs had a response, with South Sydney doing enough to keep their noses in front throughout the second half. This time it was Latrell Mitchell who found the line, the fullback making the most of the wet conditions to dive early and beat the Parramatta goal-line defence. Gagai then made it 26-10 with 10 minutes to play when he crossed for his second. Bryce Cartwight scored for the Eels to give his side some hope, however it was quickly extinguished when Wighton sliced through to put the game to bed. Source: NRL.com

The Kukawi Primary School in West Yangoru LLG officially received a new 4-in-1 classroom on Wednesday 26th June. Despite the school closing in 2023 due to faction fights, Kukawi Primary School in West Yangoru LLG of Yangoru-Sausia District East Sepik Province opened its doors once again this year with development investments projects funded by the District Development Authority (DDA) through the leadership of local MP and Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru. Minister Maru was thrilled to officially open the new K300, 000 worth 4-in-1 classroom. Kukawi Primary School was established in 2011, serves 10 communities. The school was only able to enroll 150 students in the past but with the new 4-in-1 classroom that was officially opened, the school can now enroll over 300 students. The DDA will also fund a new staff house worth K50, 000 with construction work to start in two weeks. “I thank God for his power in convicting the people of Kukawi to reopen the school this year." "You have done well and as your MP I say thank you and praise God for the good decision you have made,” said Minister Maru. “This is to show my gratitude to the community for re-opening the school,” said Minister Maru. Minister Maru challenged Inspectors, school board, head teacher, teachers and students to deliver academic results with these investment including previous projects promote a fruitful environment to produce results. “Classrooms will not deliver the results." "It is the students, teachers, and the communities who will deliver the results." "We cannot have schools for the sake of schools; we must have schools to deliver quality education." I want to see academic excellence from Kukawi Primary School from here onwards." In the future we will only reward the schools that perform well academically,” said Minister Maru. Minister Maru further challenged the head teacher to tighten discipline including not compriomising with discipline if you want your school to produce top students, and terminate students involved in drinking homebrew and coming to school. Furthermore Minister Maru announced phase one involving payment already being made for power lines to be pulled through from Karapia to Kumun junction. “For phase two we will pull through the power lines to Pomalmal High School." "I want all schools in the district to have access to electricity,” said Minister Maru.

Mohonji Four Square Primary School opens a very modern 4-in-1 classroom worth K290, 000 thanks to the Yangoru-Saussia District Development Authority (DDA) recently, in the East Yangoru LLG of Yangoru-Saussia District, East Sepik Province. The official opening of this 4-in-1 classroom funded by the Yangoru-Saussia District Development Authority (DDA) follows the recent approval by the National Education Board for Four Square church to be a member of the education system agency. The Mohonji Four Square Primary School is the only school in the district run by the Four Square church and established in 2013, to provide early childhood education and received its primary school code last year. The Minister for International Trade and Investment and Yangoru-Saussia MP, Hon. Richard Maru expressed gratitude to the Mohonji Four Square Primary School for their commitment and purpose to early childhood education in Yangoru Saussia District. “The Yangoru-Saussia DDA and Four Square Church will now be partners in the development of our district." "We never know where the LORD will lead us in this journey- it could mean other schools or health centres in the future.” Minister Maru emphasized his observation in his 12 years as the Member for Yangoru Saussia District top Primary schools seem to be only church schools in the district. “As a leader, this speaks volumes." "This shows that where God is the students perform better." "This is why I am leaning towards church schools, and I will give priority to funding them because I want the people of Yangoru-Saussia District to be godly people.” Minister Maru further stated that the Yangoru-Saussia DDA under his leadership will start rewarding only the schools that perform academically. He also added there are only 8,000 spaces available for tertiary Institutions in the country while our country produces over 30,000 grade 12 students every year and the rest become shool leavers. “If we as a district do not focus on godliness and excellence, then we will only be producing school leavers.” "This is why I want godly schools and those that are focused on academic excellence, and they will be given priority in district funding while I am the Member for Yangoru-Saussia District,” said Minister Maru. Minister Maru further made a commitment of K150,000 to build two new staff houses for Mohonji Four Square Primary School next year, and he also assured them of his continuous support.

Transparency International PNG (TIPNG) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) to present its annual report for the year 2023 to its members on Saturday 29 June 2024. Members of the AGM conducted the election of directors and office bearers, the results of the elections were that Mr. Peter Aitsi was re-elected as Chairperson by the financial members of TIPNG. Following that with Mrs. Stephannie Kirriwom-Sawong elected as Secretary of the Board. A further addition of eight individuals were also elected to serve on the board including Jerome Sesega, Mary Udu, Evah Kuamin, Richard Kassman, William Koregai, Christopher Elphick, Bill Doa-Neill and Michael McWalter. Chairman Peter Aitsi in his welcoming address to the TIPNG Board of Directors, emphasized how much he anticipated their dedication, participation, and input. The Association's long-standing partnerships with the public and private sectors will be deliberately strengthened, with a focus on robust governance prioritized by the Board. This is particularly important given the current climate, which is characterized by a lack of civic space, a growing sense of impunity for corruption, and a lack of public confidence in state agencies. “The 2024 Board will seek to advance a number of key priorities including advocacy on electoral reform.” “We will also be rolling out our civic engagement activities through the Youth against Corruption Association and our on-going partnership with the Community Coalition against Corruption,” said Mr. Aitsi. “TIPNG is also setting a new course in our Strategic Plan 2024 – 2028 to not only empower like-minded individuals and organizations, but influence them so that we can realize meaningful, collective action in stopping corruption.” Directors of TIPNG serve on a volunteer basis and are not compensated for their work. The Board is responsible for establishing the organization's mission, defining its goals, overseeing TIPNG's overall performance, financial performance, and adherence to legal requirements.

The crime of Grand Theft Auto has increased recently in the National Capital District according to reports provided by the police. National Capital District (NCD) Metropolitan Superintendent Silva Sika confirmed that more than three Stolen Motor Vehicles (SMV) cases are reported weekly, although most of the stolen vehicles that were reported to police had been recovered. NCD Met Supt Sika expressed his gratitude to his relentless officer for their hard work, locating and returning the stolen vehicles safely to their owners. He added his thanks to the local knowledge from the police officers, vehicles are located within hours. Met Supt Sika acknowledged the NCDC reservist for their bravery and active involvement in the policing duties in the city. “I was pleased with one of the reservist units who recovered two vehicles last week at two different locations in the city” Sika said. He said one of the vehicles was recovered at Siraka while the other was at Hanuabada. The owner of the vehicle located in Hanuabada confirmed a different plate number affixed the vehicle. Met Supt Sika also added that the other police units had also recovered two taxis that were stolen in the city plus some others. He said most of the vehicles that were stolen and reported to police were taxis and small vehicles that are driven around the city during the night. “When dealing with such crimes it's important to report it as soon as possible to the main operation Centre or any police officers you know.” “We all can help each other by reporting crimes that happen in our respective areas to the police.” “I am calling on the public moving in vehicles and those witnessing such crimes to report quickly to the police with accurate information so they will respond immediately.”

The CPL-Hardware Haus Limited is excited to announce the appointment of Alvin Prasad as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1st, 2024. From his initial position and recruitment in 2018 as the Hardware Haus Business Development Manager, overseeing the Brand’s Operations across Papua New Guinea, Alvin than transitioned into the General Manager, Hardware Haus role in 2018 where he remained until the announcement to Chief Executive Officer – Hardware Haus in this announcement. With a proven track record of driving growth and innovation, Mr. Prasad is an ideal leader to steer Hardware Haus. Under his Leadership will navigate a future of expanded services and customer-centric solutions. “We are pleased to have Alvin continue to lead our Hardware Haus Division, now in his capacity as CEO HHL, and look forward to supporting him and his team in his new chapter”, said Stan Joyce CSM, CPL Board Chairman. Hardware Haus Papua New Guinea’s leading supplier of quality building, home and industrial products, continues to operate and serve in over 12 locations nationwide, offering quality building, home and industrial products at affordable prices.

The Gas Resource Central Dabaris take a strong win over the Asila Waghi Tumbe in round 12 of the 2024 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup at the National Football Stadium (NFS), Port Moresby. Central Dabaris remained too strong and fast for Waghi Tumbe, winning in a 6-points difference with 10-4. Despite Waghi Tumbe opening the score board in the first half, the Central Dabaris were relentless not to give in and retaliated with two tries followed by one 1 out of 2 successful conversions. Asila Waghi Tumbe were determined to win round 12 following their loss in round 11 last weekend against the East New Britain Agmark Gurias 20-14. Round 12 saw the Waghi Tumbe's Jonah Moti scored the first try in 9minutes of the first half but failed to sink his conversion. Following the first try, prompt an intense 14 minutes of hard runs from both team’s strong defense and forced penalties. In the efforts of the Central Dabaris to regain possession of the ball, Stanford John scored the first try opener for Central Dabaris in the 23rd minute, followed by a successful conversion by Nicky Hasu leading into half time, 6-4. The second half saw both teams awarded close to equal amounts of penalties but were misused through silly mistakes including drop balls, offside and high tackles. With only a 2point lead, the game grew intense and full of excitement as the two teams had an appetite to score the winning try. The intensity and momentum encouraged rushed plays encouraging frequent mistakes in playing the ball that gave away the advantage awarded. Finally, in the 63rd minute the Central Dabaris Lega Baita scored the final try of the game for his team in with an unsuccessful conversion. The Central Dabaris now claimed their fourth win following a draw in round 8 against the Lae Snax Tigers in Lae League Ground in Lae on Sunday 2nd June. Gas Resource Central Dabaris Coach Steven Guana expressed his gratitude to his team’s efforts to secure a win in the round 12 and aims to work with team closely to minimize on silly mistakes and penalties for round 13 against the East New Britain Agmark Gurias in the NFS, Port Moresby.

The Internationally known Rhodes Projects –Better Building was excited to announce their new product “KCC Paint” on Saturday 29th June 2024, at the Hasuples Expo at the Sir John Guise Stadium Indoor Complex. The Rhodes Project has taken a step forward into the market with the new KCC Paint with already a hand full of deliveries during its initial launching. The KCC paint is used for interior and exterior, varying from the small to large quantity in various colours. Rhodes Projects specialized in supplying Comprehensive building designs and prefabricated Buildings with no regards for colour but durability and quality, Rhodes embraced its KCC Paint as it hits the market this year. Rhodes Sales and Marketing Coordinator Ms. Cindy Tibola was pleased to tell PNG HAUSBUNG in an interview that Rhodes project has been successful in its aim to provide strong and sustainable materials, components and homes including full scale-homes and classrooms. “We provided full scale dormitories, double and four-in-one classrooms, libraries, conference rooms, self-contained accommodation, design accommodation to customer recommendations.” With development arising everywhere in the nation especially in the Highlands Region, Rhodes formed a branch in Lae 2021 for the convenience of its loyal clients to reduce time of transporting supplies, creating convenience for itself and valued customers. “Our most frequent sales of full scale-homes are the G432 product, which is the 3bedroom high post home, over 60 self-contained buildings have been sold within this year and counting.” With the high demand in Lae, the KCC Paint will definitely compliment the material products and components that is set in store. Rhodes Project formed by two successful family businesses in Australia and Papua New Guinea 2011, initially engaging in designs, compliance and project management has grown and evolved to once again fulfil their duty to provide quality and genuine products to its valued customers and clients to this day.