The Papua New Guinea Defence Force says the Commander's Cup is more than a sporting competition, with the tournament providing a platform to strengthen military cohesion, promote healthy lifestyles and build stronger links between the Defence Force and communities.

Speaking on behalf of PNGDF Commander Rear Admiral Philip Polewara, Commercial Support Programme and Tournament Director Colonel Thomas Melua said sport has long been part of the Defence Force, helping soldiers develop physical fitness, discipline, resilience and camaraderie.

Colonel Melua said the Commander's Cup builds on that tradition by bringing servicemen and women together while also engaging youths and communities.

“The Commander's Cup embodies these values. As the only national military sporting event of its kind in PNG, the tournament is more than a competition. It is a platform for nation building, cultural integration and international representation.”

He said the tournament also supports the development of a healthy and active society by promoting fitness and encouraging young people to embrace teamwork, discipline and healthy living.

For PNGDF personnel, Melua said participation in the competition can also contribute to military preparedness by improving fitness, resilience and injury prevention, while strengthening trust and morale among team members.

He said the tournament provides soldiers with opportunities to develop leadership skills through roles as coaches, mentors and captains.

The Commander's Cup is also being used to promote cultural integration within the Defence Force, with rugby providing a common platform for soldiers from different regions and cultural backgrounds.

“In a country rich in tribal diversity, rugby provides a common ground where soldiers unite under shared military values, transcending regional and cultural differences.”

Melua said the tournament also creates opportunities for selected PNGDF players to compete against the Australian Defence Force and other Pacific partners.

He said these sporting engagements help strengthen relationships between defence personnel across the region, extending cooperation beyond sport into broader defence relationships and mutual understanding.

The tournament also provides a pathway for PNGDF athletes to represent Papua New Guinea at international military competitions.

Melua said the Defence Force has a long history of producing athletes who have represented the country internationally, and the Commander's Cup will continue to provide opportunities for the next generation.

He said the tournament ultimately demonstrates the PNGDF's role as an institution that can work alongside communities in supporting national development.

The Commander's Cup has now progressed to the semi-final stage, with teams competing for a place in the grand final.