Jordan VELA

The country's growing cybercrime threat is exposing critical gaps in the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary's ability to investigate digital offences, with Head of Crime Division Assistant Commissioner Hodges Ette calling for more specialist officers, improved technology, and reforms to the country's Cybercrime Act.Assistant Commissioner of Police and Head of Crime Division Hodges Ette raised the concerns during an interview with PNG Haus Bung following the official handover of Project Blue Pacific equipment to the RPNGC Interpol National Central Bureau at Police Headquarters in Konedobu on Friday, June 26.ACP Ette said the Cybercrime Unit is operating with fewer than 10 officers despite the rapid rise in cybercrime and the misuse of social media across the country."The Cybercrime Unit is very small. There are about five personnel, and that is insufficient to serve the whole nation."He said the Constabulary is working towards decentralising aspects of cybercrime investigations by building the capacity of police stations to deal with less complex digital offences, while the specialist Cybercrime Unit at Seven Mile focuses on more sophisticated investigations."We are also working in collaboration with NICTA and DICT so that certain forms of cybercrime can be dealt with at the police station."ACP Ette said police are working closely with the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA), which in March donated much-needed equipment under a memorandum of understanding (MOU). Police are also working with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to strengthen cybercrime investigations and improve the ability of frontline officers to respond to online offences.He also called for a review of the Cybercrime Act, saying the legislation requires stronger procedural provisions to better support investigators handling digital evidence while meeting constitutional requirements."We would also like to have a look at the Cybercrime Act. There are several provisions in there where the legislation does not come outright with specifications as to methods, processes and procedures."ACP Ette said the Commissioner of Police and the Minister for Police are expected to discuss possible amendments to strengthen the legislation and improve its implementation.Addressing the growing misuse of social media, he warned that many Papua New Guineans remain unaware that their online activities can amount to criminal offences."The trend of cybercrime is increasing in this country, and many of our people don't understand that when you make a post on Facebook or social media, there are consequences."He also raised concerns over weaknesses in SIM card registration and identity verification, saying stronger regulation of service providers would significantly assist police investigations."Why are we still having SIM cards without proper registration? Those are things that need to be addressed."ACP Ette acknowledged the recent donation of equipment under Project Blue Pacific, supported by the Australian Federal Police, New Zealand Police and the United Kingdom's National Crime Agency, saying the assistance would strengthen Papua New Guinea's capacity to combat transnational crime while supporting modern policing initiatives.However, he stressed that sustained investment in specialist investigators, modern technology and stronger legislation will be essential as Papua New Guinea continues to face increasingly sophisticated cyber threats in the digital age.

More than 280 newly elected ward members from across Central Province have begun a week-long induction program under the Central Province Local Level Government (LLG) Leaders Induction Workshop 2026, aimed at strengthening local governance and equipping local leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively serve their communities.Speaking to PNG Haus Bung, Central Provincial Administration District and LLG Affairs Advisor, Guma Tau, said 283 ward members from the province's five districts are participating in the workshop, which runs from June 29 to July 3.Mr Tau said Central Province has a total of 288 ward positions, with five currently vacant following failed elections and the recent passing of a ward member.Participants are being accommodated at Gateway and Ponderosa Hotels while attending the weeklong workshop.He said the induction is designed to provide newly elected ward members with a better understanding of government systems, governance processes, leadership responsibilities, and their role in planning and delivering services at the ward level.Mr Tau described the Central Province LLG Leaders Induction Workshop 2026 as the first formal induction program of its kind for ward members since the introduction of the 1995 Local-level Government reforms."According to our records, ward members have never undergone a formal induction after being elected. This is the first time the province has brought all ward members together to receive structured training," he said.Mr Tau said the workshop began the previous week with the successful induction of LLG Presidents and nominated Provincial Assembly representatives before continuing this week with ward members.He said the province intends to make the induction workshop a standard program following every LLG election to ensure newly elected leaders are properly prepared before assuming office.A total of about 320 participants, including ward members, LLG managers, District Administrators, District Local Government Advisors, National Development Commission representatives, facilitators, and provincial officers, are taking part in the workshop.Mr Tau acknowledged the support of the Central Provincial Administration and the province's five district administrations, saying the program is jointly funded through a cost sharing arrangement.He also thanked the Acting Provincial Administrator and the Deputy Governor for committing funding to ensure all elected local leaders receive the training.Mr Tau said participants who successfully complete the workshop will receive certificates of participation in recognition of their commitment to strengthening leadership and improving local governance.He expressed confidence that the knowledge gained during the week-long induction would better equip ward members to return to their communities and provide stronger leadership, improve governance, and deliver more effective services to the people of Central Province.

The National Procurement Commission (NPC) has clarified the role and authority of Special Procurement Committees (SPC), describing them as part of a broader reform aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and delivery of government projects.NPC Executive Manager Agaru Agarobe, who also serves as a newly sworn member of the NICTA Special Procurement Committee, explained the framework during a one day training session held prior to the committee’s swearing in in Yesterday June 24th.He said the training was designed to prepare members for their responsibilities before formally assuming office.“The one-day training was basically to bring the procurement committee members together and give them the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the procedures they are required to comply with before they subscribe as members of the procurement committee,” Mr. Agarobe said.He said Special Procurement Committees are established to decentralize procurement authority within government agencies, allowing faster decision making while maintaining oversight.“We have been establishing procurement committees for government departments and agencies. In this case, we give them Special Procurement Committee status at sub national level for provinces and districts,” he said.Mr. Agarobe said the SPC framework allows agencies to manage procurement within a financial threshold of K1 million to K5 million.He said procurement below K1 million remains under the authority of departmental heads or chief accounting officers, who may use the three-quotation system under the Public Finance Management Act.“Anything less than K1 million falls under the three-quotation system where the departmental head or CEO can procure directly by comparing quotations and selecting the best value option,” he said.For procurement between K1 million and K5 million, Mr. Agarobe said agencies must follow full procurement procedures under the National Procurement Act and National Procurement Commission guidelines, including public tender processes.“That range requires public tender. We advertise, we invite bids from the open market, and companies submit proposals within the specified closing date and time,” he said.He said submitted bids are then evaluated by appointed committees, with recommendations forwarded to the Special Procurement Committee for approval within its delegated authority.Mr. Agarobe also outlined the three core components of procurement, technical, financial, and compliance.He said the technical aspect involves agencies preparing specifications, scope of work, and terms of reference for projects.The financial aspect ensures that funding has been properly appropriated before any procurement commitment is made.He said compliance checks are conducted to confirm budget availability and adherence to procurement laws before processes proceed.Mr. Agarobe said the system is designed to ensure value for money, transparency, and accountability while reducing delays in project implementation.The training and subsequent swearing in of members, including Mr Agarobe, marks a key step in strengthening procurement governance within the ICT sector under NICTA’s Special Procurement Committee framework.

The National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) has formally established and sworn in its Special Procurement Committee (SPC), marking a major reform aimed at improving efficiency, accountability, and speed in the delivery of ICT and Universal Access Service projects across Papua New Guinea.The swearing in ceremony was held on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Level 7 of the Hela 1 Building in Port Moresby.The committee was officially established under National Gazette No. G456 dated 19 May 2026, in accordance with the amended National Procurement Commission Act 2021. It will operate under the Authority to Pre-Commit Committee Secretariat and is appointed for a three-year term.Previously, all procurement processes above K1 million required approval from the National Procurement Commission, a system that often caused delays in project implementation. In some cases, Universal Access Service projects were delayed between three months and two years.With the new arrangement, NICTA can now manage procurement internally for projects valued between K1 million and K5 million, reducing reliance on external approvals and speeding up delivery timelines.The SPC is mandated to manage and regulate procurement within the approved threshold, safeguard public funds, and ensure transparency, fairness, and competitiveness in supplier engagement.The committee is chaired by NICTA Director of Universal Access and Service, Mr. Warren Suti.Other members, include Mr. Flierl Shongol, Deputy Secretary for PET at the Department of Information and Communications Technology; Mr. Samson Metofa, First Assistant Secretary for FRCD at the Department of Finance and Mr. Agaru Agarobe, Executive Manager at the National Procurement Commission.In his opening remarks, Chairman Mr. Suti said the establishment of the committee represents a significant milestone for both NICTA and the broader ICT sector.He said the SPC will strengthen procurement governance and improve the efficiency of project delivery, particularly for programs aimed at expanding digital inclusion across the country.“We extend our appreciation to the National Procurement Commission and the APCC Secretariat for their guidance and support in establishing this committee,” Mr. Suti said.He congratulated the newly sworn in members and said their roles carry significant responsibility in ensuring integrity and accountability in procurement processes.“The responsibility entrusted to you is significant, and I am confident each of you will discharge your duties with integrity and professionalism,” he said.Mr. Suti also thanked the Government of Papua New Guinea for supporting the establishment of the committee, describing it as a major step forward in strengthening procurement systems within the ICT sector.Closing remarks were delivered by Mr. Geoffrey Kinibo, Executive Manager of the National Procurement Commission.The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the Common Seal, followed by a photo session and refreshments, formally marking the end of the program.

Rigo MP and Minister for National Planning Sir Ano Pala paid tribute to the descendants of Reverend Dr. William George Lawes during the opening of Hula's 150th Anniversary celebrations, thanking the Lawes family for the role their ancestor played in shaping the community's history.Speaking before thousands gathered in Hula, Central Province, Sir Ano acknowledged Reverend Anthony George Lawes, the fifth-generation descendant of Dr. Lawes, whose arrival on Hula's shores in 1876 marked the beginning of a relationship that would influence generations of people in the area."Your great grandfather's visit here is the reason we are here today," Sir Ano said.He said while much had already been written and spoken about Dr. Lawes' arrival, the anniversary was about more than the history of one family, one village or one church."This story about Lawes is not just about the Lawes family history. It is not only about the history of this village, the United Church, or even the country. It is also a story about the destiny of ourselves as a people," he said.Reflecting on the events of 150 years ago, Sir Ano said he often wondered what Dr. Lawes may have written in letters back to England after first meeting the people of Hula.He imagined the missionary describing the people he encountered as welcoming, peaceful and hospitable, qualities that helped build a lasting relationship between the missionary and the community.Sir Ano said one message stood above all others during the anniversary celebration."Today my message is just one word, thank you," he said.As the Member for Rigo, Sir Ano Pala expressed gratitude to the Lawes family for the contribution made by Dr. Lawes in bringing Christianity and education to Hula and surrounding communities.He said the encounter between Dr. Lawes and the ancestors of Hula helped shape a legacy that continues to be felt 150 years later.According to Sir Ano, the values of faith, friendship, peace and mutual respect that emerged from that first meeting remain evident in the community today.As Hula celebrates 150 years since the arrival of Dr. William George Lawes, Sir Ano said the anniversary serves as a reminder that the actions of one visitor and the hospitality of one community can leave a legacy that lasts for generations.

A powerful drama performance reenacting the arrival of Reverend Dr. William George Lawes in Hula 150 years ago has reminded Papua New Guineans that one of the country's most significant Christian milestones was made possible not only by a missionary's journey, but by the hospitality of the people of Hula.The performance was one of the highlights of the opening ceremony for the United Church's 150th Anniversary celebrations held on Monday in Hula, Central Province.Presented by local church youth, the drama transported hundreds of spectators back to 1876, recreating the events that led to the arrival of the London Missionary Society (LMS) missionary on the shores of Hula village.The performance depicted Lawes travelling along the Papuan coast when rough weather began developing at sea. Seeking shelter before the storm intensified, he attempted to take refuge near Hirupara. However, worsening conditions forced his vessel ashore at Hula, setting in motion an encounter that would help shape the future of Christianity in Papua New Guinea.Youth performers reenacted the historic meeting between Lawes and the ancestors of the Hula people, portraying the moment villagers welcomed the missionary and listened to the message he brought with him.The drama highlighted how that first encounter laid the foundation for the growth of what would later become the United Church in Papua New Guinea, spreading first throughout Central Province before reaching communities across the nation.Among those witnessing the performance was Reverend Anthony George Lawes, the fifth-generation Lawes of Dr. William George Lawes.Like his ancestor, Reverend Lawes has dedicated his life to Christian ministry. Although the Lawes family originated from England before later settling in Australia, he said the connection between his family and Hula remains strong after 150 years.Addressing the gathering, Reverend Lawes expressed gratitude for the invitation to participate in the historic celebration."On behalf of the entire Lawes family, thank you for inviting me to be part of this celebration and to be welcomed here where such an important chapter in both our family history and the history of Hula began," he said.He reminded those gathered that the anniversary was not only about remembering his ancestor, but also about recognizing the people of Hula whose ancestors welcomed a stranger and helped make possible the spread of Christianity throughout Papua New Guinea."The story we celebrate today is not only the story of W.G. Lawes. It is also the story of the people of Hula. Without your ancestors' hospitality, courage, friendship and willingness to embrace the Gospel, the work that followed would never have been possible," he said.Reverend Lawes also reflected on his ancestor's vision of empowering local people to lead the church. He highlighted efforts to translate the Bible into Motu and establish training institutions for local pastors, teachers and church leaders.He said the flourishing churches, schools and Christian communities seen throughout Papua New Guinea today are the result of generations of Papua New Guineans carrying that vision forward.As celebrations continue throughout the week, the drama served as a powerful reminder that the history of the United Church is not solely the story of a missionary arriving on foreign shores. It is also the story of a community that chose to welcome him.One hundred and fifty years later, that act of hospitality continues to be remembered as a defining moment that helped shape the spiritual, educational and cultural history of Papua New Guinea.

The 150th Anniversary celebrations commemorating the arrival of Reverend Dr. William George Lawes and the introduction of what is now known as the United Church in Papua New Guinea (PNG), officially commenced today June 23rd in Hula village, Central Province.Among the distinguished guests attending the opening ceremony today were NCD Governor Powes Parkop, Rigo MP Sir Ano Pala, the NCD City Manager, and fifth-generation descendant of Dr. William George Lawes, Anthony George Lawes, who represented the Lawes family and amongst many other special guest  The ceremony began along the road leading into Hula Market before proceeding to the village's main celebration grounds. Upon their arrival, the guests were welcomed by a marching band comprising students from Hula SDA Pathfinder, Allan Jones Primary School, Alen Jones Junior High School, and Hod Point Junior High School.The procession commenced from Allan Jones Primary School, where the students escorted the official guests through the village and towards the main celebration venue. At the entrance to the grounds, the guests were formally handed over to the Police Band, which then led them into the main arena for the official opening proceedings.The celebration showcased the unity and strong faith of the Hula community, particularly within the United Church denomination, while honoring a significant milestone in the country's Christian history.This year's anniversary marks 150 years since Reverend Dr. William George Lawes of the London Missionary Society arrived on the shores of Hula in 1876, an event that paved the way for the establishment and growth of what is today known as the United Church in Papua New Guinea.The week-long celebrations officially began on June 23 and will continue with church services, cultural performances, historical commemorations, and community activities highlighting the enduring legacy of the church and its impact on generations of Papua New Guineans.A key presence at the opening ceremony was Anthony George Lawes, representing the Lawes family and the fifth generation of descendants of Dr. William George Lawes, whose missionary journey to Hula became a defining moment in the spiritual and social history of Papua New Guinea.

Chairlady of the 2026 Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary Promotion Board, Dame Jean Lucilla Kekedo, DBE, DBStJ, CSM, has backed the challenge by Minister for Police Sir John Pundari for promotions within the force to be based on performance, integrity and merit rather than personal connections while also calling for recognition and inclusion of women within the Constabulary.Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the 2026 Promotion Board at Police Headquarters as the board’s chairlady, Dame Jean said the board will remain committed to ensuring deserving police officers are recognized through a fair and transparent process.She acknowledged the Minister's call for the board to select officers based on their record of service and contribution to policing rather than connection or influence.“One thing you will know, Minister and Commissioner, is that I do not know any of those names on the list, the only way I assess those officers is by reading what they have done, reading their history and asking questions about their service.” Dame Jean said.Dame Jean said her role as Chairlady was to ensure the process remains impartial and focused on identifying officers who have demonstrated professionalism, leadership and commitment to duty.She said the board would carefully assess each recommendation to ensure deserving officers are not overlooked during the promotion process.The Chairlady also highlighted the importance of public trust in policing and said communities expect police officers who demonstrate integrity, discipline and professionalism.“As a woman, we want police officers we can trust, officers we can approach and speak with confidently, whether they are men or women,” she said.Dame Jean also called for greater recognition and inclusion of women within the Constabulary, noting that significant progress has been made over the years but more work remains to be done.She said government agencies and institutions must continue to consider the needs of women when planning facilities, accommodation and workplace environments.The Chairlady acknowledged the support of the Australian Government towards policing development and the advancement of women in leadership and professional roles within Papua New Guinea.Reflecting on her long association with the Constabulary, Dame Jean said she had witnessed significant changes in policing over the years and was encouraged by ongoing efforts to modernize the organization.She also praised the discipline displayed by officers and staff at Police Headquarters, saying discipline remains one of the foundations of an effective police force.Dame Jean said the Promotion Board carries a significant responsibility and pledged to work with fellow board members, Deputy Commissioner and Chief of Administration Dr Philip Nitma and Assistant Commissioner of Police for Policy and Planning Regga Neggi, to ensure promotions are assessed fairly and professionally over the coming months.The 2026 Promotion Board is expected to oversee promotion assessments across all ranks of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary during its 12-month term.

Minister for Police Sir John Pundari has challenged members of the newly sworn-in 2026 Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) Promotion Board to ensure police promotions are based on merit, performance and integrity rather than personal connections.Speaking during the recent swearing- in ceremony, Sir John Pundari said the ranks within the Constabulary must be earned through service, commitment and professional conduct.He reminded board members that their responsibility over the next 12 months would directly influence the future leadership of the RPNGC.“Rank is not a gift, it is trust,” the good minister said.“If you promote politics over patrols, you don't just insult one officer, you insult every cop in the country, even the one sleeping in a bush station with one bullet and no backup.”Sir John urged the board to recognise officers who consistently perform their duties and uphold the values of the Constabulary.“Promote the officer who arrests, not the one who attends. Promote the constable who says no to bribery. Promote the leader who bleeds with his men, not the one who hides in Port Moresby,” he said.The Minister said the country needed the right people in leadership positions within the police force to maintain public trust and improve policing standards.“Rank must mean safety for the people of Papua New Guinea, not seniority, not connections,” he said.“I challenge you, board members, every officer promoted must be promoted because he is the best, not because he knows the best.”Sir John said the Government continues to make significant investments into the Constabulary and expects those investments to result in stronger leadership, improved discipline and better service delivery throughout the country.He acknowledged the efforts of Police Commissioner David Manning and senior police leadership as well in driving police modernisation and strengthening training standards across the organisation.Reflecting on his childhood growing up in a police family, Sir John recalled the discipline and professionalism displayed by police officers during the years leading up to Independence.He said those standards should continue to guide the Constabulary as it works to strengthen public confidence and professionalism across the organisation.The Minister also reminded board members that deserving officers serving in remote and rural locations should not be overlooked during the promotion process.“I know there is one out there in the bush, working hard with the community and doing the best that he can. I pray that no one who deserves promotion is overlooked,” Sir John said.The Promotion Board was sworn in on Friday, June 19th at Police Headquarters, Konedobu, Port Moresby. The board is chaired by Dame Jean Lucilla Kekedo, DBE, DBStJ, CSM, and includes Deputy Commissioner and Chief of Administration Dr Philip Nitma and Assistant Commissioner of Police for Policy and Planning, Regga Neggi.This board will oversee promotion assessments across various ranks of the RPNGC over the coming months.

After over a decade of not hosting a cultural show, the current Student Representative Council (SRC) of the country's oldest all boys school- De La Salle Secondary School, are reviving it with this year's event aimed at raising K350,000 for much needed infrastructure improvements.The cultural show is scheduled for July 18, 2026, and is being organised by the current Student Representative Council (SRC) as part of its "Give Back to the School" program. The event will be held at Sir John Guise Stadium under the theme "United In Culture, Strong In Brotherhood."The event marks the return of a major cultural gathering that has not been held at the school since the 2016 Lasallian Cultural Show involving Jubilee Secondary School, La Salle Technical College, and other Lasallian institutions from across the country. Before that, the school's previous cultural show was held in 2014 and organised by the SRC then.In an interview with De La Salle Secondary School Principal Ms. Annette Ingirin, she told PNG HAUSBUNG that the initiative reflects the students' commitment to leaving a lasting contribution to the school."The SRC has a Give Back to the School program. The purpose is to raise money to accomplish a certain project in the school," Ms. Ingirin said.She said the students have set a fundraising target of K350,000 or more, with the main project focused on constructing covered walkways connecting various sections of the school."Their project involves building shelters to connect different sections of the school to each other, so when it comes to rain or sunlight, we're able to move freely and go to the classroom, and teaching and learning can continue," she said.Ms. Ingirin said part of the funds raised will also support other priority projects, including upgrades to the school's assembly hall, which has served generations of students and continues to be used during National Examinations."The second reason is to complete other projects that we need to complete, such as putting a new roof on the assembly hall that's been around for more than half a century," she said.In addition to celebrating the country’s rich cultural diversity, the event will also provide an opportunity for former students to select the new heads of the school's alumni.Ms. Ingirin said the cultural show will serve as a time for the De La Salle alumni to establish a formal alumni leadership structure."They're going to elect the alumni leaders, and then all these leaders will come together and assist the school in our projects," she said.This year's cultural show will run from 8:00am to 3:00pm and is expected to attract students, parents, alumni, businesses, and supporters from across Port Moresby and beyond.Admission has been set at K20 for adults, K10 for students, and K5 for children under 12 years old.Businesses and organisations are also being encouraged to participate, with SME stalls available for K200, corporate stalls for K1,000, and vehicle passes costing K30 per vehicle.The event will showcase Papua New Guinea's cultural diversity through traditional performances, displays, food, and entertainment while supporting the school's fundraising goals.As the countdown to July 18 begins, the return of the De La Salle Cultural Show represents more than a celebration of culture, it is a student-led effort to reconnect alumni, strengthen school spirit, and invest in projects that will benefit future generations of students for years to come.

Outgoing Correctional Service Commissioner and newly appointed Deputy Commissioner for CS Corporate, Bernad Nepo, has called on media organizations to uphold ethical reporting standards, particularly on social media, while urging Correctional Service personnel to support newly appointed Commissioner Noel Sarei.Speaking during the official handover ceremony on Tuesday, June 16th, Nepo welcomed Sarei's appointment by the National Executive Council (NEC), describing it as a government decision that should be respected by all officers and stakeholders.Nepo used the occasion to address public speculation and misinformation circulating online following the recent arrest of 20 uniformed Correctional Service officers by police on June 12. The officers were reportedly intercepted at Rainbow Waigani while allegedly travelling toward the residence of the newly appointed commissioner.In his remarks, Nepo distanced himself from the incident and emphasized that he supports the government's decision regarding the leadership transition."I want to dispel some of that misinformation going out on Facebook or wherever," Nepo said."Correctional Service is in good hands."He urged officers throughout the organization to unite behind the new commissioner and continue supporting the institution's objectives."The same government that appointed me is the same government that brought him in. So, we have to have this kind of understanding with respect." Nepo highlighted.Addressing media representatives present at the ceremony, Nepo challenged journalists and social media users to report responsibly and accurately, warning against the spread of unverified information that could undermine public confidence in the Correctional Service.During his address, Nepo reflected on his two-year tenure as commissioner, highlighting what he described as key achievements despite limited resources. He said maintaining prison security and preventing major prison escapes remained among the Correctional Service's most significant accomplishments during his leadership.According to Nepo, those achievements were made possible through cooperation between Correctional Service officers, their families, prisoners, and the wider community.He stressed that effective leadership and unity within the workforce were essential to the organization's success and encouraged staff to continue working together under the new administration.Nepo concluded by assuring Commissioner Sarei of his support and the backing of senior Correctional Service officers, saying the organization would remain united as it transitions into a new leadership era."The public deserves the best from Correctional Service," he said. "We will stand as a united force with our new commissioner.”

The three member 2026 Police Promotion Board has been officially sworn in and will now begin its work reviewing and assessing officers for promotion across the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) for the next 12 months.The swearing- in ceremony was officiated by Police Commissioner David Manning today at the Police Headquarters at Konedobu, Port Moresby city.The Promotion Board will be chaired by Dame Jean Lucilla Kekedo, DBE, DBStJ, CSM, who was appointed by Minister for Police, Sir John Pundari.Joining her on the board are Deputy Commissioner and Chief of Administration Dr Philip Nitma and Assistant Commissioner of Police for Policy and Planning Regga Neggi, both appointed by the Chairlady.Giving the keynote address, Minister for Police Sir John Pundari reminded the board members of the responsibility entrusted on them and the need for integrity in all promotion decisions.“You have taken an oath of office for the next 12 months. Remember, board members and the esteemed Chairlady, that the nation will be watching you.Ask yourself one question before you stamp that file. If my daughter was kidnapped in Lae tonight, is this the officer I want hunting that kidnapper? If the answer is no, Chairlady and board members, do not promote him,” he said.Sir John also called on police officers nationwide to remain committed to duty regardless of recognition or visibility.“To every policeman right across this nation, you must know this. The oath of service that you have taken is to serve your people.Your Commissioner may not see the service that you provide. Your immediate boss may not see you doing the right thing and ensuring justice for those who deserve it.But you must know one thing. There is a God in Heaven who loves this country and its people. He is watching you, and in His own way, He will reward you,” he said.He further urged officers to maintain integrity in service and ensure promotions are based strictly on merit.“Rank must mean safety for the people of Papua New Guinea, not seniority, not connections,” Sir John said.“I challenge you, board, every officer promoted must be promoted because he is the best, not because he knows the best.”He said the Government continues to invest heavily in policing and expects ongoing improvements in professionalism, standards, and service delivery across the Constabulary.Commissioner Manning reaffirmed that promotions will be conducted in line with established criteria and through a structured assessment process covering all ranks.He said the Constabulary remains committed to building a modern, transparent and accountable police force capable of meeting national expectations.The ceremony marked the formal commencement of the Promotion Selection Board’s work, with members now tasked to assess officers under the Constabulary’s 2026 promotion cycle, including reviewing existing promotion recommendations and selection documentation.Commissioner Manning said the promotion process will be conducted in stages, with officers assessed based on merit, performance and demonstrated service.“It is about delivering a police force in which this country can be proud of; a police force that is modern, transparent and accountable,” he said.He stressed that promotions will not be automatic, but awarded only to officers who consistently demonstrate discipline, commitment and professional conduct.With the board now sworn in, it will begin reviewing promotion assessments and recommendations under the 2026 promotion cycle in the coming months as part of the Constabulary’s ongoing reform agenda.