The Defence Rugby Union Club's return to the Capital Rugby Union (CRU) competition in Port Moresby city is about more than just rugby, it’s about rebuilding a stronger more disciplined community. The club’s interim president Lt Col. Ezron Dekaetavara says the focus is now on creating pathways for younger players while strengthening the club from within. “Our message to our supporters and families is that Defence is back,” he said. “We’re rebuilding as a club, creating pathways for younger players, and continuing to use rugby as a tool for development in the community.” Following a two-year suspension, the club lost a number of players. However, the emphasis is now on those who remained committed during the difficult period. “The players who stayed are now taking the club forward. This is their opportunity to step up, show their talent and become leaders, both on and off the field.” Rather than actively recruiting, the club is prioritizing internal growth and development. “We’re not necessarily looking for players, we already have talent. What we need is the opportunity for them to prove themselves on the field,” he said. At the same time, the club remains open to welcoming new members. “We’re rebuilding from within, but anyone who wants to join us is welcome.” As Defence Rugby Union Club begins this new chapter, the focus remains on discipline, opportunity and building a sustainable future through its players and community.

The Defence Rugby Union Club is making a long-awaited return to Capital Rugby Union (CRU) competition, marking a fresh chapter after two years outside. Chief Warrant Officer Abraham Sarufa, Regimental Sergeant Major with the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) 4th Support Battalion at Murray Barracks, has been part of the club for more than two decades as both a player and mentor. He says the comeback is deeply significant for the team. “It means a lot for the boys,” Sarufa said. “We lost many players during that time, but those who stayed loyal are coming back, and we’re rebuilding and preparing for the season.” Defence marked their return with a tough opening match against Moni Plus Nova, going down 19–12 in a competitive contest that showed plenty of promise despite the loss. The time away from competition proved challenging, with the club facing strict conditions for re-entry and the loss of respected mentor Sydney Wesley. Despite the setbacks, Sarufa says the period became a time of reflection and growth. “The biggest lesson was discipline. We’ve been raising awareness among players, families, and supporters about respecting the game and representing the Defence name properly.” To ensure past issues, particularly with crowd behaviour are not repeated, the club has introduced internal disciplinary measures, strengthened its structure, and met key CRU requirements, including establishing a formal constitution. There is also renewed focus on developing young talent, with more junior players stepping up during the rebuild. “The hunger is there, especially from the juniors. Our role is to mentor them and build a more disciplined team culture,” Sarufa said. Support from PNGDF leadership has been instrumental in guiding the club through its rebuilding phase and preparing players for their return to competition. As Defence continues its comeback campaign at Bava Park, regaining trust and respect within the rugby community remains a top priority. “It’s very important for us to change our mindset and attitude,” Sarufa said. “A win for us is coming back and playing clean rugby.” Despite the opening loss, the return itself signals a new beginning for the club, one built on discipline, resilience and a renewed commitment to community pride.

The Papua New Guinea Government will roll back fuel prices to March levels effective midnight tonight, as part of an urgent response to the global fuel crisis triggered by the ongoing U.S.–Iran conflict.Minister for Rural and Economic Development and Chairman of the High-Level Cabinet Taskforce on Fuel Shortage, Joseph Lelang, announced the measures during a media conference today, confirming that the State will absorb 100 percent of the recent fuel price increases.Lelang said the global conflict has severely disrupted fuel supply, with around 40 oil facilities across nine countries in the Arabian Gulf either destroyed or partially damaged, leading to widespread shortages and rising costs worldwide.“Papua New Guinea, like every country, is experiencing this supply shock. The immediate result is rising inflation and increased prices for goods and services, especially fuel,” he said.He warned that without swift government intervention, the rising fuel costs would have serious flow-on effects across the economy, impacting transportation, food prices, and everyday goods.To cushion the impact, the government has released an initial K100 million subsidy through the Treasury to offset the rising fuel costs. Lelang described the move as necessary to protect both the economy and citizens from escalating living expenses.“As a responsible government, we must protect our people from paying high prices for transport, food, and other essential goods,” he said.The Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) will formally announce the adjusted fuel prices, which will take effect from midnight.Lelang also issued a strong warning against price gouging, stressing that strict enforcement measures will be implemented to ensure the subsidy benefits are passed down to consumers.“Those found engaging in price gouging will be dealt with under the law,” he said.The Minister explained that the announcement was delayed by one day to allow the government to finalize consultations with fuel importers and industry stakeholders, ensuring a clear understanding of how the subsidy program will operate.He acknowledged the efforts of the ICCC, fuel importers, and industry groups including the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources and Energy and the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Commerce and Industry for their collaboration in finalizing the subsidy mechanism.To ensure transparency and accountability, the subsidy funds will be managed through the Bank of Papua New Guinea, with oversight from a private accounting firm. The firm will work alongside key state agencies, including Treasury, Internal Revenue Commission, Customs and the Prime Minister’s Department, to monitor fund disbursement.Lelang assured the public that these measures are designed to maintain trust and ensure funds are used appropriately.Looking ahead, the government will closely monitor global oil prices and currency fluctuations over the next six months, while ensuring a steady fuel supply to support the country’s economic stability.“We must act decisively to protect our economy and our people from the impact of rising fuel prices,” Lelang said.

The National Capital District (NCD) and Central Police Commander, Benjamin Turi has clarified that police have not issued any directive for shops to close, despite growing public concern and reports of businesses shutting their doors early across parts of Port Moresby.Speaking to PNG HAUSBUNG in an interview, Commander Turi said decisions by shops to close were being made independently by management as a precautionary measure.“I think the management themselves are reacting to the situation. There are fewer people moving around, many are staying home and even schools are closing. But we did not give any instruction for businesses to shut down,” he said.His comments come amid rumours of increased coordination between police and military personnel, and heightened activity around key locations including Murray Barracks and the PNG Motors area.Commander Turi confirmed that police presence has been significantly ramped up across the city, with all units deployed to maintain order.“Police are out in full force. Every unit, including mobile squads, is on the ground for service. Anyone who tries to do anything unlawful will face the full force of the law,” he warned.He added that officers are closely monitoring public movement, particularly youth gatherings and have stationed support units at major roadblocks to control access to sensitive areas.“All station commanders are overseeing their respective areas, including major shopping centres. We are monitoring any group movements and suppressing any potential disturbances as a precaution,” he said.The Police Commander is urging the public to remain calm but vigilant and to avoid unnecessary movement, particularly near restricted zones.“Stay away and do not join any gatherings. Police are monitoring the situation closely,” he added.Authorities say the situation remains under control, with ongoing surveillance and enforcement measures in place to ensure public safety.

Fuel prices across Papua New Guinea (PNG) will reset back to March levels effective midnight tonight following the government’s full subsidy intervention.Speaking at an important media conference today in Port Moresby city, the Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Roy Daggy, confirmed that the long-awaited fuel relief will take effect from 12am on April 16, bringing significant price reductions at the pump for consumers and businesses nationwide. “This is great news for all our stakeholders and consumers. The fuel price will revert from the April 8th rates back to March levels,” he said. Under the new pricing, petrol will drop from K6.10 to K4.39 per litre, diesel from K7.69 to K4.44, and kerosene from K7.44 to K4.09. Daggy said the price surge was driven by global supply disruptions caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has impacted key crude oil supply routes. As an import-dependent economy sourcing fuel mainly from Asia, Papua New Guinea has been heavily affected. “We are a price taker. About 65 to 70 percent of the fuel cost is determined by global factors beyond our control,” he explained. He credited the government’s swift intervention through a comprehensive relief package—covering taxes, GST, excise, and direct subsidies—as the key reason prices are now being fully offset. A total of K100 million has already been transferred into a trust account at the Bank of Papua New Guinea to begin subsidy disbursements to fuel importers, with systems now in place to ensure funds flow through the entire supply chain. “The subsidy covers 100 percent across the value chain—from importers to distributors and retailers—so that the benefits are felt at the pump,” Daggy said. He emphasized that the Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) will work alongside key state agencies, including Treasury, Customs, IRC, and the central bank, to strictly monitor compliance and ensure the reduced prices are passed on to consumers. “We will monitor this right down to the last mile to make sure everyone complies. Non-compliance will not be tolerated,” he warned. Public Motor Vehicle (PMV) operators have also been urged to immediately adjust fares in line with the reduced fuel costs, with Daggy cautioning against overcharging. Businesses and traders were similarly reminded to pass on the cost reductions to consumers, noting that fuel is a major input cost that directly affects the price of goods and services. “We want to see this relief translate into lower prices in shops and across services,” he said. The fuel subsidy program will run for the next six months, during which authorities will continue monitoring global oil prices and the local economic impact. Daggy acknowledged the patience of citizens and stakeholders during the past week of uncertainty and thanked the government and taskforce for their coordinated response. “We appreciate everyone who has stood with us during this time. Now is the moment where people will begin to feel the real benefit of this relief,” he said.

Prime Minister James Marape has called for a temporary halt to eviction notices issued to residents in the Wildlife area and surrounding communities, following an inter-agency meeting aimed at resolving the matter.Speaking at a press conference yesterday in Port Moresby city, the Prime Minister said relevant government agencies had convened to assess the situation and agreed to engage directly with the developer through the Chief Secretary.Mr. Marape revealed that the developer, a local company, has held legal land titles since 2012 and 2013 and secured court orders in 2018 which have since been upheld.Despite the legal standing of the developer, the Prime Minister said he personally appealed on humanitarian grounds for a stay on the enforcement of the eviction orders.“We’ve asked the developer to hold off while we work through immediate solutions,” he said.As part of those solutions, the government is proposing a land swap arrangement. The Department of Lands, in collaboration with City Hall, will identify and allocate land of equivalent size elsewhere in the city for the developer to continue its projects.At the same time, authorities will begin properly identifying and registering residents currently occupying the affected areas. This includes mapping out settlements and working toward formal suburban arrangements in the medium to long term.Mr. Marape emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring those facing eviction are treated fairly, particularly those living along key infrastructure corridors such as roads and utility lines, who may need to be relocated.He also warned that, if necessary, he is prepared to challenge the enforcement of the court orders to protect affected residents.“For the sake of our people, I’m willing to go to court and face the consequences if it means giving time for proper intervention,” he stated.The Prime Minister noted that the developer is an established local entity with a proven track record, having already developed more than a thousand allotments. He said the government is willing to support the company by providing alternative land to ensure development continues without displacing communities abruptly.Mr. Marape also highlighted ongoing efforts to address land access issues, including government support that has enabled the allocation of over 5,000 land blocks in recent years.He urged citizens not to settle on land without proper titles, acknowledging longstanding challenges within the lands system while reaffirming the government’s commitment to reform.Appealing directly to residents in affected areas, including those near Kennedy Estate, Mr. Marape called for calm and cooperation, stressing the importance of maintaining law and order.“Government will step in, but people must also respect the rule of law,” he said.The Prime Minister reiterated his vision of transforming Port Moresby into a modern, livable city by 2028, where all Papua New Guineans can coexist and benefit from planned urban development.

Prime Minister James Marape has announced a K1 billion government intervention to cushion the impact of rising global fuel prices, as tensions in the Middle East threaten supply and drive-up costs worldwide.Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Marape confirmed that a high-level Cabinet committee, chaired by Minister Joseph Lelang, has been established to address the looming fuel crisis. The committee will work closely with the Treasurer and key economic agencies to manage the situation.The Prime Minister said Cabinet acted following advice from the Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC), which indicated global fuel prices have surged significantly, with import costs rising by as much as 70 to 80 percent.“To protect our people and economy, government has allocated a billion kina to support fuel importers so that the increased cost is not passed on to consumers,” Marape said.He explained that the subsidy will ensure Papua New Guineans continue to pay fuel prices at March 2026 levels, despite global increases. The ICCC has been directed to review current pricing and adjust it back to March rates for petrol, diesel, kerosene and jet fuel.Marape described the move as a necessary intervention during extraordinary times, stressing that Cabinet was unanimous in its decision.“This is a big call, but in tough times, government must step in,” he said.Funding for the subsidy will be sourced through a combination of tax relief measures, including GST, import duties and potential tax credit arrangements with fuel importers.The Prime Minister also confirmed that the government is working with international partners, including the United States and Australia, to secure fuel supply, while monitoring developments in key global shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.He said Papua New Guinea currently has sufficient fuel supply until May, but efforts are underway to ensure continued access beyond that period.Marape urged citizens to use fuel wisely and avoid unnecessary consumption, while encouraging greater reliance on locally produced food to reduce the impact of global inflation.“We are also prepared to subsidize the transportation of local produce to major urban centres like Port Moresby to ensure food security,” he said.The Prime Minister added that an initial K100 million will be made available immediately to assist importers with the full K1 billion facilities to be rolled out as needed.He assured the country that government agencies, including Treasury, the Central Bank and the ICCC, are working together to deploy both fiscal and monetary measures to stabilize the economy.Marape said the revised fuel pricing is expected to be announced within the next week as authorities finalize the adjustments.“We are doing everything possible to shield our people from the full impact of this global crisis,” he said.

Prime Minister James Marape has announced a high-level investigation into ongoing recruitment issues within the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, describing the situation as a matter of national security.Speaking at a press conference this afternoon in Port Moresby city, Marape confirmed that a three-member investigation team will be appointed, led by the Chief Secretary and supported by the State Solicitor. He said an Australian Defence advisor will also be included with Australian Defence Force asked to provide a senior official to assist in the probe.The Prime Minister said the investigation will focus on recruitment practices at Murray Barracks, where repeated allegations of misconduct and conflicts of interest have surfaced over the years.“This is not the first time. We’ve had similar issues five years ago and ten years ago. Recruitment at Murray Barracks has become problematic, with claims of nepotism and personal interests influencing selection,” Marape said.He stressed that the integrity of the defence force must be protected as the government works to modernize and expand it into a 7,000-strong force capable of operating across land, sea, air and cyber domains.Marape warned that serious penalties, including possible charges related to sedition, could be imposed on those found responsible, noting that defence matters directly impact national sovereignty.The Prime Minister confirmed that the Defence Minister has stepped aside, while defence leadership, including the commander and secretary, have been given seven days to respond to the allegations. He aims to have the investigation completed within two weeks.“I want the country to know exactly what has happened and at what level these issues occurred,” he said.Marape also outlined plans to reform recruitment processes, including introducing provincial quotas and implementing a more transparent, merit-based system using digital technology. He suggested recruitment should be conducted directly through schools to ensure fairness and equal opportunity across all provinces.He reassured personnel not involved in wrongdoing that they have nothing to fear, but warned that those responsible, at any level will be held accountable.“This is bigger than any individual. It is about the integrity of our defence force and the security of our nation,” Marape said.The Prime Minister added that further details of the investigation will be announced soon, as the government moves to address long-standing issues and restore public confidence in the recruitment system.

The Minister for Defence, Dr. Billy Joseph has announced his decision to step aside from his role following ongoing allegations linked to the recent Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) recruitment exercise.Speaking at a press conference at the PNGDF Headquarters at Murray Barracks in Port Moresby city this afternoon, Dr. Joseph said the move was necessary to preserve the integrity of the Defence Organization and the Government while investigations are carried out.He clarified that PNGDF recruitment is a structured and disciplined process conducted solely within the Defence Force, stressing that neither the Minister, Secretary nor civilian officials are involved in the selection and screening of recruits.Dr. Joseph raised concern over what he described as attempts on social media to politicize the recruitment process, suggesting that such narratives are driven by political interests aimed at undermining both his leadership and that of the PNGDF Commander, as well as ongoing recruitment reforms.He also condemned the illegal filming and circulation of video footage allegedly showing the abuse and intimidation of recruits. According to the Minister, the actions represent a serious breach of military discipline and ethics and were deliberately carried out by certain recruitment officials with vested political motives.“Such actions are unprofessional and intended to serve political propaganda purposes,” he said.The Minister warned that any form of political interference in defence matters, including influencing recruitment or using military personnel for personal purposes, poses a serious threat to the integrity of the Defence Force.Dr. Joseph confirmed that following the issue being raised in Parliament, he ordered a full review in his capacity as Chairman of the Defence Council. He said a report will be made public once the review is completed.In explaining his decision to step aside, he said the seriousness of the allegations required transparency and accountability, adding that it was important he be cleared before continuing his duties.He noted that the move would also allow the Prime Minister to independently assess the allegations and take any necessary remedial action, while ensuring continuity in key defence initiatives.Dr. Joseph highlighted ongoing collaborations with international defence partners, including the recently signed Pukpuk Treaty with Australia, as critical work that must not be disrupted.He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to upholding the integrity of the Defence Force and the Government as the review process continues.

The Department of Works and Highways Secretary, Gibson Holemba, has called for stronger collaboration, innovation and capacity building within Papua New Guinea’s construction industry at the opening of the Inaugural Construction and Contractors Conference 2026.Speaking at the event today in Port Moresby city, Holemba acknowledged the support of development partners, including the Australian High Commission, World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB), JICA and other stakeholders, as well as local contractors, engineers and suppliers participating in the conference.He stressed that infrastructure development, particularly road construction, is a shared national responsibility involving government, private sector players and technical professionals.“Building roads is not the responsibility of government alone. It is a collective national effort,” Holemba said.The Secretary highlighted the significance of the 1995 National Executive Council (NEC) Decision 4195, which shifted road maintenance responsibilities from government to private contractors, laying the foundation for today’s local contracting industry.He said the conference, themed “Building the Nation through Innovation, Collaboration, and Sustainable Infrastructure,” aims to drive long-term transformation in the sector, focusing on research, practical solutions and industry-led innovation.Holemba also outlined ongoing institutional reforms under the department’s “Reform and Transformation Initiative,” which seeks to modernize infrastructure delivery over the next 50 years through:Policy reform and evidence-based decision-making Investment in human capital and workforce development Improved business processes and infrastructure systems A key concern raised was the lack of capacity among local contractors, particularly in handling large-scale projects and future maintenance of the country’s expanding road network.“We are building thousands of kilometres of roads, but the challenge is whether we have enough capable local contractors to maintain them in the future,” he said.He urged contractors to invest in training, including climate-resilient construction and modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, noting that many firms lack qualified design engineers for complex projects.Holemba also highlighted the need for fair competition between local and international contractors, pointing out that global companies often have stronger financial backing, making it difficult for local firms to compete equally.To address this, the government is working on a contractor classification system to ensure companies bid for projects aligned with their capacity, while also supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).The conference will now become an annual event, with future sessions expected to feature technical presentations from contractors showcasing solutions to real industry challenges.Holemba encouraged participants to use the platform to share ideas and move away from simply highlighting problems.“We don’t want to sit down and complain. We want to be creative and provide solutions,” he said.The initiative aligns with national development frameworks, including Vision 2050 and key transport and infrastructure strategies, aimed at strengthening Papua New Guinea’s construction sector for sustainable growth.

The Gorobe Panthers have received a major boost ahead of their 2026 campaign, with Bizprint stepping in as the team’s first-ever official organization sponsor.Team Manager Daniel Basse Dau described the sponsorship as a historic milestone for the side, now in its second year competing in the Moresby South Rugby League and JT Tournament.“This is our first sponsor from an organization… firstpla sponsor blo mipla,” Dau said, adding that the support will significantly lift team morale and help develop players’ skills.He highlighted that the Panthers are focused not just on competition, but on building and guiding young players within the community.“We’re trying to build up the boys and groom youths. Some are in school; some are not. We want to keep them away from bad habits and engage them in sports that empower them,” he said.Dau also revealed that several players have already been identified as potential prospects, with hopes they could progress into elite pathways such as the PNG NRL system and development academies.Meanwhile, Remington Group General Manager Operations Bryan Wareing said the sponsorship reflects Bizprint’s commitment to giving back to the community.“It’s important. Everyone loves rugby, and it’s a great opportunity for us to support our youths and give back,” Wareing said.He noted that the initiative also holds personal significance, with a long-serving employee connected to the team.“We want to acknowledge the work they’ve done for us over many years and give back not just to her, but to the boys as well.”Wareing added that while Bizprint has supported various community initiatives in the past, including festivals and sporting teams, each sponsorship is considered on a case-by-case basis.Despite economic challenges, he said the company was pleased to be in a position to assist the Panthers.“We just hope the boys do well. Win, lose or draw, it’s about playing in the right spirit, with passion, pride and representing themselves the right way.”The sponsorship is expected to provide a timely boost for the Gorobe Panthers as they continue to develop young talent and compete in local rugby league competitions.

The PNG Bilums, are gaining momentum in their preparations for the OFC Women’s Qualifying Semi Finals with technical officials confident the team is on track for a strong performance.Acting Technical Director Paul Isorua said preparations have been progressing well, with the coaching staff delivering solid results following a successful campaign in Fiji.He praised the technical team led by head coach Eric, alongside assistant coach Edna Thomas, goalkeeper coach David Cora, and technical attaché David Muta, describing them as a cohesive unit driving the team forward.“From a technical point of view, I am very satisfied with the preparations so far. The coaches have been very good, and the team is building on the momentum from the last tournament,” Isorua said.He added that the team is expected to be fully prepared ahead of their trip to New Zealand, where they will compete in the next stage of the qualifiers.Isorua also called on stakeholders and the wider public to rally behind the team, emphasizing the importance of national and corporate support in sustaining sporting success.“Sport in PNG relies heavily on corporate backing. We encourage more stakeholders to come forward and support the team, just as Remington has done,” he said.Remington Group General Manager Operations Bryan Wareing echoed the importance of such partnerships, noting that sport has the power to create life-changing opportunities.He said the company was proud to contribute to the women’s team, describing the support as an investment in the athletes’ future.“Sport is a big leveller in PNG, and supporting these young women as they chase World Cup qualification is important to us. We’re thrilled to play a small part,” Wareing said.With preparations nearing completion and support growing, the PNG Bilums are now focused on delivering a competitive performance and proudly representing the nation on the regional stage.