The much-anticipated final of the Pacific Bowl Championship relegation for the Pacific Cup Championships is set to take place on November 10th, at CommBank Stadium in Sydney. The showdown will feature the favoured team, the New Zealand Kiwis, going head-to-head against the PNG Kumuls, with kick-off scheduled for 5:20 pm on Sunday. The PNG Kumuls have had an impressive performance throughout the tournament, culminating in a decisive 42-20 victory over the Cook Islands Aitu in their last match. The PNG Kumuls resilient performance, characterized by strong offensive play and strategic defense, has earned them a spot in the final and set the stage for what promises to be a thrilling encounter against the Kiwis. On the other hand, the Kiwis have also shown formidable form, making their way to the final with a series of dominant performances. The PNG Kumuls are set for a crucial dog fight as the Kiwis have the advantage of playing on familiar soil, leveraging it with the support of their fans to secure the championship title. The PNG Kumuls will need to focus on maintaining their momentum and executing their game plan with precision. While the Kiwis's arsenal of talented players, will undoubtedly pose a significant challenge. With everything on the line, the stage is set for an epic showdown that will determine the champions of the Final Pacific Bowl Championship Relegation. The fans and supporters can expect an exhilarating final, filled with thrilling action and memorable moments.

The 2024 Papua New Guinea (PNG) Woman Prime Minister XIII representative and PNG Orchids Foward Second-rower Emily Vievers remains focused on game day tomorrow against the Kiwi Ferns. While interviewed by PNG Hausbung during the PNG Orchids Captains-run today, Emily warmly expressed her gratitude towards the opportunity to play with the PNG Orchids and is focused on playing good footy tomorrow in this 2024 Pacific Cup Championship. Emily also shared the personal history of her mother who spent an adequate amount of her life in Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province and she aims to share that experience through rugby league. Despite a devastating loss against the Australian Jilaroos 84-0 in game of week-1, the Second rower shared that the Orchids companionship, sisterhood and teamwork has kept alive the team spirit and now look give it all tomorrow. Emily highlighted her primary focus is to prepare and focus on the team to boost their game as time counts down. Furthermore, she encourages fans and supporters to show support when it's needed as the PNG Orchids set their eyes on game day tomorrow against the New Zealand Kiwi Ferns at 12:55pm at the Santos National Football Stadium (NFS) in Port Moresby city. From the stance, the warm and positive charisma circulated during the PNG Orchid team management has kept the torch burning for the Orchids as they prepare to face the Kiwi Ferns. Meanwhile, the Orchids looked more comfortable and at ease while exercising the captains run today at the Santos NFS. Fans and supporters can expect a thrilling and exciting match tomorrow with reinforcements implemented into the week-3 lineup.

The PNG Kumuls are gearing up for their crucial Pacific Bowl Championship clash against the Cook Islands Aitu this Sunday, November 3rd at 3:00 PM, at the Santos National Football Stadium (NFS) in Port Moresby. The match is set to be a thrilling encounter as the second-placed Kumuls face off against the third-placed Aitu. Following a strong performance in their previous match, which saw the Kumuls triumph 22-10 over the Fiji Bati, the Kumuls are eager to maintain their winning momentum. However, the team welcomed additional changes including Benji Kot, Finley Glare, Morea Morea, and Sanny Wabo, who are expected to bring fresh energy and skills to the squad. The inclusion of these players will likely add depth and versatility, enabling the Kumuls to maintain their competitive edge and build on their strong performance from the previous match against the Fiji Bati. These changes reflect the team's strategy to strengthen their roster in absence of skipper Rhyse Martin, who is out due to personal reasons. On the other hand, the Cook Islands Aitu remain consistent making no changes from the previous round. This could be seen as a vote of confidence in their current squad, despite the heavy defeat to the Fiji Bati. The Aitu's decision to keep their lineup unchanged suggests that they believe in the potential of their players to bounce back and deliver a stronger performance against the Kumuls. With experienced players like Alex Glenn and promising talents such as Malachi Morgan in the reserves, the Aitu will be looking to capitalize on their stability and cohesion to pose a significant challenge to the Kumuls. As the PNG Kumuls prepare for this pivotal match, their primary focus will be on executing a solid game plan and capitalizing on their strengths. The addition of fresh faces to the squad is expected to inject new energy, while the team's adaptability and resilience will be put to the test against a determined Cook Islands side. With the support of their passionate fans and the advantage of playing at home, the Kumuls are poised to deliver an exciting and competitive match as they aim for a spot in the Pacific Championships top tier.

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Orchids are gearing up for redemption in a crucial match against the New Zealand Kiwi Ferns tomorrow, Sunday 3rd October at the Santos National Football Stadium (NFS) in Port Moresby city. In tomorrow's Pacific Championships Cup match, the Orchids aim to bounce back from their recent 84-0 loss to the Australian Jillaroos in their first match. The Orchids have made several changes to their squad, bringing in new faces and making strategic adjustments. Shae Yvonne De La Cruz steps into the fullback position, pushing Mala Mark to the wing following Jenny Wesley making her Test debut at centre, replacing La-Toniya Norris-Addo, who suffered an injury against the Jillaroos. Ua Ravu moves from hooker to halfback, with Therese Aiton starting at No.9. Leila Kerowa earns a starting spot in the second row, and Sareka Mooka starts at lock. Following their heavy defeat to the Jillaroos, the Orchids have focused on improving their defensive strategies. Coach Tahnee Norris has implemented rigorous training sessions to address their weaknesses, particularly their ruck speed and completion rates. The team has shown significant improvement, especially in their defense, which has boosted their confidence ahead of the match against the Kiwi Ferns. Despite facing challenges such as language barriers with newer players, the Orchids have maintained a positive atmosphere within the camp. The integration of new players like Jenny Wesley and Therese Aiton has been smooth, thanks to the familiarity among the squad members from previous competitions. The Orchids are eager to prove themselves on their home turf and secure a spot in the Pacific Cup final. With the support of their fans and the determination to make a change, the Orchids are ready to face the Kiwi Ferns and show their resilience and growth as a team. The match promises to be an exciting clash, and all eyes will be on the Orchids as they strive to turn their fortunes around and make a statement in week 3 of the Pacific Championships Cup. The match between the PNG Orchids and the Kiwi Ferns will kick off at 1pm.

The 2024 National Kenu and Kundu Festival starts today in the vibrant town of Alotau in the beautiful Milne Bay Province. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Milne Bay Tourism Authority, Mr. Modakula Kunuyobu, revived the festival back to life after four years of absence due to COVID- 19 pandemic and poor management. The festival from November 1st to the 3rd, is a grand celebration of the rich cultural heritage and customs that thrive in this region, bringing together local communities, cultural groups, businesses, and government agencies in a colorful display of tradition, art, and unity. The first day of the festival will feature a spectacular parade of over 80 canoes representing 16 Local Level Governments (LLGs) in the province. These beautifully decorated canoes will sail into the town center, showcasing the craftsmanship and maritime heritage of Milne Bay. The canoe sail will then await the arrival of dignitaries, including Alotau MP Ricky Morris, Minister of Arts and Culture Tourism MP Belden Nama, National Council Commission Director Steven Enomb Kilanda, and New Zealand High Commissioner Peter Zwart, who will officially open the festival at the main arena in the centre of town. Saturday's highlights include the launch of a collaborative film by the Passama group of sailors and their Australian partners. Following this will be the symbolic loading of yams from the Yam Haus to the Win Haus, reflecting the traditional agricultural practices and trade in the region. The final day will culminate in a grand feast at the Shelter Haus, where the community will gather to enjoy a spread of traditional dishes, fostering a sense of unity and celebration. The festival will see over 350 cultural dance groups, involving more than 1,000 participants, performing traditional dances and rituals. The cultural performances will be a dazzling showcase of the diverse heritage of Milne Bay Province. A significant investment of over K800,000 has been made to promote arts and culture, with an additional K200,000 allocated for the feast. Prizes and giveaways will add to the festive atmosphere, celebrating the collective efforts of the participants and the community. The National Kenu and Kundu Festival is a testament to the enduring spirit of Milne Bay's cultural heritage. It not only serves as a platform for cultural expression but also promotes tourism and community engagement.

The Australia Awards PNG 2025 cohort has been designated the "Somare-Whitlam Scholars" to honor Papua New Guinea’s 50th year of independence, announced at the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby on the 24th of October 2024. The historic and official launch of the Somare- Whitlam name was announced at the Australia High Commision, in the presence of significant leaders, including members of Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare’s family, Kinoka Feo the Minister for Higher Education, Joe Sungi the Minister for Public Service, and Australian High Commissioner to PNG, John Feakes. In their remarks, Australia’s Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Pat Conroy MP, and members of the Whitlam family conveyed messages of encouragement to the 90 selected scholars, underlining the program’s significance in fostering a close PNG-Australia relationship. During the ceremony, Minister Feo noted that this educational exchange, involving family members of awardees, promises a rich, cross-cultural experience. High Commissioner Feakes emphasized that naming the 2025 cohort after Somare and Whitlam acknowledges the leader’s legacy in shaping the PNG-Australia partnership, a sentiment Prime Ministers Marape and Albanese jointly expressed in early 2024. This legacy-based initiative highlights Australia’s ongoing support and deep-rooted friendship with PNG, recognizing mutual aspirations and shared history. The Australia Awards program established in 1975, has supported thousands of Papua New Guineans in developing skills through education in Australia and PNG, with many alumni making valuable contributions upon returning home. Furthermore, Dulciana Somare-Brash expressed her family’s gratitude, acknowledging the program as an esteemed opportunity for PNG’s emerging leaders. Whitlam’s family also added that Whitlam viewed PNG’s independence as a crowning achievement of his career, making this dedication especially meaningful. Moving forward, the Australia Awards PNG program will continue to provide long-term and short-term scholarships to address critical workforce needs and professional development within PNG. This prestigious initiative is set to further strengthen PNG's future leadership in alignment with both nations’ shared vision for a brighter, cooperative future.

The Fiji Bati clinched a dominant 56-6 victory on home soil over the Cook Islands Aitu in Week 2 of the Pacific Bowl Championship in an exhilarating showdown at HFC Bank Stadium, Suva. With fine weather and on excellent field conditions, the Fijians showcased their power and precision, outscoring their opponents with a staggering 10 tries to 1. Despite an early breakthrough by Cook Islands’ Rua Ngatikaura who crossed the try-line in the 10th minute following a successful conversion by Steven Marsters to give Cook Islands an early 6-point edge, this was quickly countered with Fiji Bati scoring four (4) tries in the second half. Fiji's fullback Sunia Turuva scored the first try at the 14-minute mark, sparking a series of continuous drives from the Fiji Bati. Michael Jennings proved to be a standout, securing two tries within 8 minutes (19’ and 27’), complimented by successful conversions from Taane Milne, who played a key role in the team’s conversion accuracy. Fiji took a 24-6 lead into halftime, setting the tone for an explosive second half. The second half saw an even stronger Fijian offense scoring six (6) tries in the second while the Cook Islands struggled to maintain their defensive form. Fiji showcased a standout performance from Semi Valemei, Ben Nakubuwai, and Maika Sivo, who each added to the try count, further solidifying Fiji's lead. Jennings added another try at the 60-minute mark, and Sivo’s consecutive tries in the 69th and 71st minutes effectively sealed the game. With eight conversions from ten attempts, Fiji displayed exceptional accuracy, particularly from Milne, who converted six of the team’s points. By full-time, the scoreline was a resounding 56-6 in favor of Fiji Bati scoring 10 tries and six (6) successful conversions, marking a significant boost in their Pacific Bowl campaign. The victory not only underscores Fiji’s attacking prowess but also places them in a strong position moving forward in the championship. The Cook Islands Aitu are left with the challenge to regroup ahead of their next matchup against the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Kumuls in week 3 of the Pacific Championship on Sunday 3rd of November in PNG at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby a 3pm.

7 suspects involved in the shootout massacre on Tuesday 22nd of October in Sirunki surrendered to police yesterday at Tambitanis area near Surinki, Enga Province. The local leader in Surinki yesterday surrendered 7 suspects involved in the shootout in Surinki resulting in 6 people being instantly killed on the 22nd of October. The Enga Provincial Police Commander chief Inspector Fred Yakasa told PNG HAUSBUNG that investigation carried out is slowly making progress. The Enga Police personnel under the command of the PPC Yakasa on Friday paid a surprise visit to Tambitanis community to collect suspects involved in the recent shootout and were answered through the cooperation of the local leaders. Despite local leaders insisting on collecting suspects from previous incidents, PPC Yakasa remained firm with the intention to recover suspects from the most recent incident, which he was pleased to see cooperate with local leaders. According to PPC Yakasa, 8 suspects were to be arrested and charged but one suspect was very ill unable to unfit to endure the condition of jail. However, an agreement was reached with the local leaders to later collect the individual suspect after his recovery. The seven suspects are believed to be from Mulitaka, Surinki and Laiagam are currently locked away in Wabag police station. Law enforcement officials are currently carrying out mediating peace talks with local leaders from various tribes while police maintain their objective to suppress and disperse any potential conflict that may occur. Enga Police Personnel are now camping in Surinki High school to adequately ensure and maintain public safety and security in Surinki.

PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNG Ports) delivers a net profit of over K100 million, for the third consecutive year exceeding K100million. The State-Owned Enterprise reported a Net Operating Profit after Tax (NOPAT) of approximately K110,053,586 for the 2023 fiscal year, indicating a notable recovery following the severe effects of the COVID pandemic on the maritime sector. PNG Ports has declared a dividend of approximately K27.5 million to Kumul Consolidated Holdings for the 2023 fiscal year, contributing to nearly K320 million in total profits over the past three years, including K102.6 million in 2021 and K104.5 million in 2022. According to CEO Neil Papenfus, PNG Ports' 2023 profit is credited to increased vessel traffic and enhanced efficiency, along with effective financial management of key revenue sources such as wharfage, berthage, storage, pilotage, and terminal leasing. PNG Ports operates in a demand-driven industry where an increase in the demand for trade causes higher vessel calls and greater cargo volumes in and out of a port. However, PNG Ports’ overall capacity to generate a profit is impacted by its requirement to operate and look after its 12 Community Service Obligation (CSO) ports, which all run at a loss. “These CSO ports,” says Mr. Papenfus, “are essentially subsidized by the profitable ports of Lae, Port Moresby and Kimbe.” “To continue to generate profits and simultaneously operate and maintain all 15 ports, PNG Ports is developing new revenue streams such as a Pilotage School, embarking on a program of process improvement and re- engineering, with plans to overhaul its IT system." Mr. Papenfus stated that these initiatives aim at enhancing efficiency and customer experience will position PNG Ports to meet current and future industry demands. He also paid tribute to the late Kiniafa for the decisions made which were now producing results, and the guidance of the Board, as well as the management and staff for the hard work and commitment in PNG Ports’ ongoing profitability and success. He further praised Chief Commercial Officer Ian Hayden-Smart for his leadership following the unexpected passing of former CEO Fego Kiniafa in 2022. He added that the 2024 fiscal year had started off strong, with good results also expected as the SOE reviews its corporate strategies to strategically align itself to continue serving this nation.

Papua New Guinea Women’s Rugby League (PNGRFL) naming rights of sponsor Santos celebrated 70 years of operation and announced its continued support through a 3-year multimillion-kina sponsorship signing to the PNG Orchids on Friday at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. The event was attended by the Santos Country Chair PNG Mr. Leon Buskens, PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer Mr. Stanley Hondina and PNG Orchids Chairlady Celestine Ove. The sponsorship by Santos will focus on junior and school rugby league development coaching and staff, technical, travel and accommodation including international fixtures for the Orchids leading up to the 2026 World Cup. Mr. Buskens on behalf of Santos acknowledged the sponsorship as a partnership and is proud to work with the Women game in PNG to empower women, in line with its values in building a better future. Furthermore, Buskens emphasized the purpose behind the partnership to deliver positive outcomes for a better world, with the PNG Orchids as a platform for young women and girls to realise their full potential to grow to be better individuals and citizens. “Our sponsorship looks beyond the jersey, it's about advocating for all women and girls in our family, our communities and country through our national sports.” Starting with their sponsorship in 2017 under Oil Search, Santos has been a leader in the elite women’s rugby league in PNG. This year Santos became the naming rights sponsor to the first national women’s game. PNGRFL CEO Mr. Hondina expressed gratitude to Santos' Board, Management, and staff for their ongoing support of women’s rugby in PNG, emphasizing that partners like Santos help improve the game and enhance PNGRFL programs. Celebrating 70 years in 2024, this highlights the long-term investment in Papua New Guinea, marked by strong partnerships with communities, local employment, healthcare, disaster relief, sustainable agriculture, infrastructure, and literacy programs, alongside empowerment initiatives for women, youth, and landowners.

The United Nations Papua New Guinea (UNPNG) celebrated United Nations Day 2024 today with a discussion panel and theme, “United for you, how you can work with the United Nations to a better PNG.” The event had the attendance of Primary and High school students, student representatives of the University of Papua New Guinea, including the United Nations Resident Coordinator (UNRC) Mr. Richard Howard, UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Nicholas Booth and esteemed heads of UN Agencies, at the Sir John Guise Stadium, Port Moresby. The event shared significant discussions on challenges in all aspects of local community-based issues in PNG. The discussions were shared by significant senior UN colleagues and representatives from the different UN agencies. Opening the event Mr. Howard expressed his gratitude and acknowledgment to students and senior colleagues for their presence and support, stressing that the organization is nothing without support. United Nations Fund for Population Activities Coordinator and Advocate Edwin Terwel Ningal conducted a discussion panel with significant UNPNG agency heads on their experience within the agency and role and contributions under the UNPNG. The discussions elaborated on ongoing issues in PNG such as, Violence against women, Illegal Gun Violence, Tribal Violence, Underage Drinking and Smoking, Climate Change, Development in Agricultural, etc, each topic was adequately discussed leaving room for queries from the full house audience. According to students, the discussions were intriguing, informative and captivating moments as all aspects and perspectives were discussed with precise and accurate explanations to properly handle common challenges on a formal level and public level The day was filled with attendance of youth, parents and interested individuals who share the common goal for future wellbeing, especially in PNG.

The recent violent payback attacks along the Laiagam-Sirunki Highway have resulted in nine individuals dead and many others severely injured in Enga Province, triggered by an unresolved death case. This is according to the Acting Assistant Commissioner for Police (A/ACP) Joseph Tondop and Command Highland Western End. According to a recent statement from A/ACP Tondop on the 22nd of October, these incidents mark a revenge plot in tribal violence. The recent conflict on Tuesday 22nd of October is tied to the death of Mulapin Kulyapane in March 2024, who was brutally killed, sparking a cycle of retaliatory violence that is unprecedented in the region’s history. The key suspects in this earlier case have reportedly gone into hiding, complicating efforts to restore peace. In response to the rising violence, A/ACP Joseph Tondop mobilized the Investigation Task Force (ITF) and Criminal Investigation Departments (CID) to conduct thorough investigations into the events. Tondop's directives include immediate investigations, increased security measures, and a temporary curfew to deter further escalations. He committed to documenting each case meticulously and has called on the community for cooperation. The recent event on Tuesday 22nd of October triggered violence due to the suspended case in March, with an empty attempt to apprehend the man responsible. The first incident began with an ambush by gunmen from the Mulapin tribe on October 18, targeting a vehicle carrying passengers from the Sakare clan. The attack, which occurred near Tambitanis Health Centre, led to the death of a woman and serious injuries to others. Just hours later, in retaliation, members of the Sakare clan ambushed a public vehicle, resulting in the driver and crew sustaining fatal injuries. Amidst this turmoil, the leadership of the Kunalin and Lyain tribes, known for their advocacy of peace, have called for restraint and urged their communities to avoid further violence. They are actively cooperating with law enforcement to ensure justice prevails, emphasizing the need for suspects from both tribes to surrender peacefully. The situation remains dire, with the most recent attack on October 22 resulting in six deaths, including that of a bus driver, during an ambush by the Lyain clan. With two individuals on life support and the status of others unknown, the urgency for action has intensified. A/ACP Tondop has urged community members to avoid roadblocks and cooperate with authorities as the investigations unfold, reaffirming that there is no refuge for those involved in the violence. This tragic series of events underscores the need for immediate interventions to restore peace and security in Enga Province, as community leaders and law enforcement work together to prevent further loss of life.