Papua New Guinea began their OFC Women’s Nations Cup 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Samoa, thanks to a first-half brace from star striker Marie Kaipu. Despite a late push by the Samoan side, led by the Salanoa sisters, the defending champions held on to secure three points in Group A. The match, played in front of a vibrant crowd, showcased two rising forces in women’s football. Papua New Guinea, boasting several players from the OFC Women’s Champions League finalists Hekari Women’s FC, faced a youthful and determined Samoa squad, whose U-17 side is preparing for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup™ in Morocco later this year. From the opening whistle, PNG’s talisman Marie Kaipu was central to the action. After an early challenge from Samoa captain Alisa Tuatagaloa left her briefly sidelined for treatment, Kaipu returned with renewed intent. She nearly opened the scoring in the 17th minute, narrowly missing the target after a quick burst down the right wing. Moments later, her persistence paid off. Capitalizing on a loose ball, Kaipu initiated a swift one-two before outrunning Tuatagaloa, rounding goalkeeper Kamy Anaya, and calmly slotting home to give PNG a 1-0 lead. PNG nearly doubled their advantage shortly after through Keren Kalapai, whose strike rattled the upright. Captain and 2022 Golden Boot winner Ramona Padio also came close in the 26th minute and later had a goal disallowed after setting up Kaipu, who finished well but was flagged offside. Samoa responded with resilience. Oteta Kitiona surged forward on the wing, testing PNG’s backline, while a low cross from Xevani Salanoa almost found the equaliser before the break. However, it was Kaipu again who struck before halftime. Set up by Michaelyne Butubu, she shrugged off her marker and curled a clinical finish past Anaya in the 40th minute to make it 2-0. She nearly completed a first-half hat trick just before the whistle, unselfishly laying off to Butubu, whose shot was tipped onto the crossbar by Anaya. The second half saw Samoa regroup and find momentum, particularly through the impact of the Salanoa sisters. Goalkeeper Xeyana Salanoa entered the match at the restart and played a key role in keeping PNG at bay with a series of vital saves. Samoa’s growing confidence paid off late in the game when Xevani Salanoa looped a well-placed header over PNG goalkeeper Lavina Hola, cutting the deficit to 2-1 and raising hopes of a comeback. With renewed urgency, Samoa pushed forward in the final minutes, but PNG’s defence held strong. A brilliant one-handed save by Xeyana Salanoa in the dying moments denied PNG a third goal and kept Samoa within touching distance until the final whistle. Despite the loss, Samoa impressed with their tenacity and tactical discipline. For PNG, the victory reinforces their title credentials, while also highlighting areas for improvement ahead of their next group match.

The Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources and Energy (PNG CORE) has congratulated New Porgera Limited (NPL) for its impressive first-quarter performance in 2025, describing it as a strong sign of renewed confidence in resource development and national ownership. In a statement recently released, PNG CORE President Anthony Smaré praised NPL’s early achievements since the mine resumed full operations, noting both the economic impact and the company’s commitment to local communities and workforce development. “New Porgera has made an excellent start,” Mr. Smaré said. “This result is a credit to the hard work and resilience of its management, employees, shareholders, and partners. It’s encouraging to see the mine once again delivering value to Enga Province, the Highlands, and the nation.” Among the key outcomes highlighted were the production of 84,800 ounces of gold, a declared dividend of USD $80 million, and the payment of USD $48.9 million in corporate tax. Mr. Smaré said these achievements not only strengthen PNG’s economy but also reflect the potential of responsible, well-managed resource projects. He also commended the successful connection of the Mulitaka Bypass Road, calling it a major logistical improvement and a sign of NPL’s commitment to solving infrastructure challenges in remote areas. Workforce development was another standout, with 97 percent of NPL’s 2,811 employees being Papua New Guinean nationals. Additionally, the company has provided training opportunities to 43 industrial trainees, helping to build future local expertise in the mining sector. However, PNG CORE also expressed concern over ongoing law and order issues in the region. In the same period, NPL reported 33,499 illegal intrusions into the mine site, 11 armed robberies, and the shooting of a staff member, along with frequent disruptions along critical access routes. “These serious incidents threaten not only the company’s operations but the broader benefits flowing to communities and the nation,” Mr. Smaré said. “We support the government’s consideration of a Security Tax Credit Scheme and a Highway Tax Credit Scheme to help address these challenges and enhance protection for both company assets and local people.” Mr. Smaré concluded by reaffirming PNG CORE’s commitment to working with all stakeholders to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the Porgera project and other resource developments across the country.

Prime Minister James Marape has extended heartfelt congratulations to President Donald J. Trump, the Government of the United States, and the American people on the 249th anniversary of U.S. Independence. Speaking from St. Louis, Missouri, where he is attending the 62nd General Conference Session of the Seventh-day Adventist Church as an official guest, PM Marape reflected on the shared values of liberty, democracy, and faith that connect PNG and the United States. As part of the event’s opening session, PM Marape has been invited to speak on “PNG for Christ 2024,” a national Christian outreach initiative aimed at strengthening faith and unity across the country. Reflecting on the occasion, PM Marape described the United States as “the world’s greatest free-market economy, the greatest democracy, and the greatest Christian nation.” “As we celebrate the 249th birthday of the United States, we also reflect on the global spread of Christianity and the renewal of faith across nations,” he said. “America stands as a beacon of freedom, opportunity, and faith — a country built on enduring values that empower individuals to become the best versions of themselves.” He emphasized the powerful symbolism of holding such a large religious gathering on U.S. Independence Day, noting the strong connection between national identity and religious freedom — a principle also deeply rooted in Papua New Guinea’s Constitution. “Our Constitution, especially Section 43, guarantees religious liberty and freedom of conscience,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Like the United States, Papua New Guinea is a diverse nation — not due to immigration, but through our many indigenous cultures.” “We, too, embrace unity in diversity and uphold the values of freedom and faith.” The PM praised the nearly 250 years of American nation-building and said that the U.S. model of democracy, free enterprise, and religious tolerance continues to inspire nations around the world — including Papua New Guinea. “As PNG prepares to celebrate 50 years of independence in September 2025, we look to long-standing partners like the United States as sources of inspiration and guidance.” PM Marape concluded by sending Papua New Guinea’s warmest wishes to President Trump, the U.S. Government, and the American people on this important national celebration.

The Grand Final of the inaugural PNG National Youth Competition (NYC) will be hosted in Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province, at the National Sports Institute (NSI). This milestone event marks the first-ever youth rugby league grand final in PNG, as the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) and the PNG National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC) move to take major fixtures beyond Port Moresby, promoting inclusivity and extending social and economic benefits to other regions. PNGRFL CEO Stanley Hondina congratulated the grand finalists and reaffirmed the league’s commitment to its vision of Better People, Better Sports, Better Nation. He emphasized that the NYC, as a sanctioned under-19 competition, provides development and pathway opportunities for young rugby talent across PNG. “Firstly, I’d like to congratulate the NYC grand finalists — the U19 Bintangor Goroka Lahanis and the U19 Wamp Nga Mt Hagen Eagles. Both teams have performed exceptionally, and the Grand Final promises to be a thrilling encounter,” said Mr. Hondina. “To the other four franchises that participated, you have made history as part of PNG’s first-ever U19 rugby league competition. The skills, experience, and discipline gained over the seven rounds of competition will influence your future decisions and create new opportunities in the sport.” Mr. Hondina also acknowledged the support of the National Government and the Eastern Highlands Provincial Government in developing the facilities at NSI, enabling the hosting of national-level competitions. “We intentionally selected Goroka to make it easier for families and supporters of both highland teams to attend and cheer on their young players,” he added. The NYC Grand Final will serve as a curtain-raiser to the Round 12 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup match between the Bintangor Goroka Lahanis and the Asila Waghi Tumbe on Sunday, 6 July. Unlike the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, the NYC is a development-focused competition. The winning team will make history as the first-ever champions of the PNG National Youth Competition.

Express Freights Management (EFM) has reaffirmed its commitment to community development through a generous donation of sanitary pads, bath soaps, and cleaning detergents to the Metoreia Health Centre (MHC) in Port Moresby city, as part of its community initiative program. EFM’s Safety Manager, Mr. Chauka Molen, handed over the supplies on behalf of the company’s management and Mr. Nathan Brooks. Mr. Molen stated that the donation is a way for EFM to give back to the community and support essential health services. Receiving the donation on behalf of the clinic, Metoreia Health Extension Officer (HEO), Ms. Regina Wuri, expressed her gratitude to Mr. Nathan Brooks and the EFM team. She highlighted that the health facility, now six months into operations, has encountered various challenges and that such support would greatly assist in maintaining basic healthcare services. “The Metoreia Health Centre operates a 24-hour birthing facility, with nearly 200 babies delivered by our skilled midwives. Items like sanitary pads, soap, and cleaning supplies are crucial in ensuring a clean and safe environment for both staff and patients,” said HEO Wuri. Dr. Robin Oge, CEO of the NCD Provincial Health Authority, also extended his appreciation to the management of EFM on behalf of the Board and Management. He emphasized that such timely donations play an important role in supporting the Authority’s mission of delivering effective health services across the National Capital District.

Eight-year-old Undialu Philip from Tari, Hela Province, has been given a second chance at life after successfully undergoing open-heart surgery at Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH). The complex operation was carried out by a collaborative team of local cardiac specialists and visiting experts from Singapore. Dr. Noah Tapaua, Cardiothoracic Surgeon and Surgery Coordinator at PMGH, confirmed the successful repair of Undialu’s heart defect. The operation involved a dedicated multidisciplinary team—including surgeons, anaesthetists, perfusionists, and nurses—working seamlessly in the operating theatre. “Undialu is the first paediatric patient in a series of ten scheduled for open-heart surgeries this week,” said Dr. Tapaua. “The youngest is just 4 years old, and the oldest is 11. Three of the children have travelled from Tari, Rabaul, and Alotau, while the rest are from Port Moresby.” Dr. Tapaua expressed deep appreciation for the returning team from Singapore, whose last mission to PMGH was in 2015. “The Singapore Heart Health team has not only helped us save lives, but they’ve also been instrumental in training and empowering our local cardiac professionals,” he said, noting that several members of the PMGH cardiac team received training at Singapore’s National Heart Centre between 2012 and 2014. PMGH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Paki Molumi echoed the gratitude, highlighting the importance of the ongoing collaboration. “We are committed to strengthening this partnership so our local team can eventually perform open-heart surgeries independently,” Dr. Molumi stated.

Team PNG added another medal to their tally on Day 2 (1st July) of the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau, thanks to a strong performance in Va’a. The Men’s V6 500m crew claimed bronze with a time of 1 minute 53.24 seconds, finishing behind gold medallists Tahiti and silver medallists Wallis & Futuna. PNG’s paddlers showed great determination in what was a fiercely contested race. In the pool, Team PNG swimmers were back in action. In Event 11 – Men’s 100m Butterfly – Nathaniel Noka posted a time of 59.72 seconds. In the Women’s 100m Butterfly (Event 12), Abigail Ai Tom clocked 1 minute 11.65 seconds. Event 13 – Men’s 50m Breaststroke – saw three PNG swimmers compete: Noka returned with a time of 32.16 seconds, Haoda Loi finished in 32.20 seconds, and Troy Oates swam 33.76 seconds. The swimmers are now focused on improving in today’s events (2nd July). On the basketball court, PNG’s 3x3 teams came out strong. The women’s team secured a commanding 21–7 win over host nation Palau in their opening match, while the men’s team battled to a 22–14 victory against Vanuatu. Later in the day, both teams faced tougher opposition in their second matches — the men fell to the Marshall Islands, and the women lost to Fiji. Despite the setbacks in Conference 1’s first round, both squads are resetting with determination ahead of today’s games (2nd July). Looking ahead to Day 3, Team PNG will continue competing across multiple sports including table tennis, swimming, va’a, indoor volleyball, softball, basketball 3x3, beach volleyball, and weightlifting.

Westpac NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley is considering a major pre-game change for next week's State of Origin decider in order to prevent a repeat of their slow start in Game Two. Rather than using the underground tunnel that connects the NSWRL Centre of Excellence to Accor Stadium, the side is likely to complete a traditional warm up and enter to the field via the western tunnel. The Blues produced a lacklustre first half at Optus Stadium to trail 26-6 at half-time. While they came roaring back in the second 40, it was ultimately too little too late and Queensland held on to set up a decider next Wednesday night. The performance triggered a detailed review by the NSW coaching staff and prompted Daley to look into adjusting the side's pre-game routine. The Blues have warmed up at the adjacent NSWRL Centre of Excellence before entering Accor Stadium via an underground tunnel for the past six years. The four-minute walk to the ground was one of the most spectacular entrances in Australian sport and led to scenes reminiscent of US college football as the tension built before the side ran on to the field in front of more than 80,000 screaming Blues fans. Daley, however, is eager to simplify the pre-game schedule and the unique arrival is unlikely to be used next Wednesday night. The Blues are now set to travel straight from the team hotel to the ground and complete their warmup inside the dressing sheds at Accor Stadium before entering through the standard tunnel. The change was first floated prior to the start of the series and Daley hopes it helps the players focus purely on their preparation. "We just want to get over there and be a part of it instead of walking over there [after the warmup]," Daley told NRL.com. "I like getting on a bus and going to a game rather than walking to a game. "That's what it is. I'd rather jump on a bus, leave the hotel and go from there and hopefully it's a smoother preparation." The Blues entered the second game of the series as heavy favourites, however they were blown off the park early by Queensland. While Brian To'o opened the scoring in the sixth minute, the Maroons went on to score four straight tries to take a 20-point lead heading into half-time. NSW made seven errors and conceded eight penalties in a 40-minute performance that ultimately cost them the game. Back-rower Angus Crichton conceded Queensland got the jump on the Blues at Optus Stadium and declared it won't happen again next week. "That was where we lacked in that last game," Crichton said. "We need to make sure we're ready to go and we need to be more emotional. We need to be more aggressive in that first half." Crichton played a key role in the Blues' drought-breaking victory in last year's decider at Suncorp Stadium, however, much has changed since that win. Daley has returned for his second stint in charge after Michael Maguire left to join the Broncos. While he won two deciders as a player, the Blues legend lost all three deciders during his initial five-year tenure as coach, and he is under plenty of pressure heading into next week's game. Daley acknowledges there is a lot riding on the result but is focused on ensuring the team peaks on Wednesday night. "I’d be lying to you if I said I wasn’t nervous, but it’s more excitement than nerves," Daley said. "Probably anxious is the right word. "You’re just hoping that you’ve nailed your prep for the week which we’re about to do, and that’s all we can do is nail what we can control, which is the preparation. If we do that then we’ll give ourselves every chance to win a game of footy. "Because it’s a big build up, you’ve got to be careful that you don’t play the game before you get there. You don’t want to be sky high today or tomorrow – you want to gradually increase the build up and increase the intensity of everything you do. "The first couple of days for us is about trying to stay calm, have a bit of fun and to get that camaraderie going again, and then we start to build into the week." Source: NRL.com

Samara-Murua MP Isi Henry Leonard is calling for a district-driven “revolution” to spark transformative national development, emphasizing the need for bottom-up change through strategic local action. Speaking at a recent gathering in Port Moresby, MP Leonard emphasized the need for collective action and strategic partnerships to unlock the district's potential in key sectors such as mining, fisheries, and tourism. "The country will never change if the districts won't change," MP Leonard asserted, highlighting his core belief that national progress hinges on district-level transformation. "The only way forward for the country to change is for the districts to change." A key theme in the meeting was political alignment. Leonard introduced the OUR PATI, a new political movement formed by leaders who broke away from the Pangu Party. He stressed that the party was not about repeating the old cycles, but about driving meaningful reform. "OUR stands for Our-United-Revolution—a movement that focuses on real change starting at the district level,” he said. “We are crossing 50 years of independence. What do we have to show for our people?” The party, led by Mining Minister Rainbow Paita, is already gaining traction and backing key development projects, including the designation of Woodlock Island as a national tourism hub, under a recent National Executive Council (NEC) resolution. MP Leonard announced major strides in fisheries, including the launch of a licensed factory fishing vessel “Kekesi” through a partnership with Thai investors. This initiative, supported by the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) and NMSA, aims to build a sustainable export pipeline, especially for frozen whole fish. "Through proper data collection and strategic partnerships, we now have the foundation for export operations,” Leonard said. “Vietnamese partners are ready to come in for downstream processing—right here in Misima or Port Moresby." Mining was another central focus, with Ambassador Joshua Kalinoi introduced as the advisor for Eastern Mineral Resources. Leonard emphasized the importance of reclaiming ownership over the district’s rich mining history, referencing the now-defunct Misima mine. "Let’s not repeat history. This time, our people must own the mine," he urged. To streamline development and attract investors, Leonard unveiled Kubana Investments Ltd, the district’s new investment arm under the DDA (District Development Authority). It will serve as an umbrella company managing multiple subsidiaries across various sectors. Land mobilization efforts are also underway. District Land Officer Gilbert Misa and marine law expert Patricia Oii are spearheading the legal and technical groundwork to register and lease lands appropriately. This work includes securing customary and state land to support infrastructure, tourism, and industrial development. MP Leonard identified Jomard Passage, a strategic maritime corridor, as a key national asset that has been neglected by provincial leadership. To unlock its full potential, he proposed linking it with a deep-sea port project, a move that could attract international shipping, trade, and government attention. “Provincial Government has failed to act. We must take initiative and tie the passage to a deep-sea port to create economic value,” Leonard said. The district is already tapping into carbon trade and tourism partnerships through international links, especially with investors from Dubai. Young people in the region are currently working on data collection and environmental mapping as part of a climate-focused trade program. With programs spanning mining, fisheries, tourism, carbon trade, and infrastructure, Leonard’s message was clear: the time for change is now. “As a mandated leader, I have five years to act. I cannot wait. We have to start something different—something bold—if we are to secure a better future for our district and our people.”

The Papua New Guinea women’s national football team departed for Fiji this morning at 10am to compete in the 2025 Oceania Women’s Nations Cup, set from July 4–19. Returning as reigning champions after their 2022 title win, the team is focused and determined to defend their crown. Head Coach Erickson Komeng said the squad has been undergoing intense training over the past month in preparation for the tournament. “We’re going there to defend the title, and we know it’s going to be tough. But the team has made good progress, and we’re looking forward to the challenge,” Komeng said. The team comprises 23 players—20 outfield players and 3 goalkeepers. Coach Komeng noted some exciting changes in the squad, including the addition of both fresh faces and experienced players. “We’ve got some young girls joining the team, but the good thing is they bring experience and energy that will help us move forward,” he added. The Oceania Nations Cup is considered the highest level of women’s football in the Pacific, and PNG’s participation plays a vital role in the development of the sport back home. “This tournament gives our players valuable experience at the top level in the region. It’s a big opportunity for women’s football in PNG,” said Komeng. He also shared a word of encouragement for aspiring players across the country. “Stay disciplined, work hard, and listen to your coaches and senior players. If you do that, and one day, you’ll be like the girls.” Match Schedule – Oceania Women’s Nations Cup 2025: · July 4 – Papua New Guinea vs Samoa · July 7 – Papua New Guinea vs Tahiti · July 10 – Papua New Guinea vs Cook Islands These group stage matches will determine PNG’s path to retaining the title as they aim to bring the trophy home once again.

Over 8,000 elementary students and their teachers across 31 schools in seven districts of Morobe Province are now benefiting from improved learning environments and better access to clean water. This progress has been made possible through a K6 million investment from the Australian Government, supported by a K500,000 contribution from the Morobe Provincial Administration. Through this partnership, 930 new desks and 90 rainwater tanks have been delivered to schools across the province. These resources are helping to ensure safer drinking water and more conducive classroom conditions for both students and teachers. The official handover took place on Monday, 30th June 2025, at Blessed Peter To Rot Elementary School in Lae, where Australian Consul-General Brenton Kanowski presented the assets to the Morobe Provincial Administration. This initiative is part of the broader Water Security Project, which not only improves essential services but also promotes stronger governance and collaboration. The Provincial Working Group, made up of representatives from the Morobe Provincial Administration and key stakeholders, has played a crucial role in overseeing the project’s delivery. “Australia is proud to work in close partnership with Morobe Province to bring about meaningful change,” said Consul-General Kanowski. “Together, we are improving access to clean water, enhancing learning conditions, and laying the groundwork for stronger, more resilient communities.” Morobe Deputy Provincial Administrator Robin Bazzinuc, speaking at the handover, expressed gratitude for Australia’s continued support. “Today’s event clearly shows what strong partnerships can achieve,” Mr. Bazzinuc said. “We are sincerely thankful to the Australian Government for its ongoing commitment to the people of Morobe and for being a dedicated partner in reaching our shared goals.” This partnership stands as a testament to how collaborative action can create lasting impact, improving lives and building a brighter, more resilient future for communities across Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) got off to a strong start at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau, securing two silver medals on the opening day of the competition. The first medal came in the Va’a (outrigger canoeing) V12 Mixed 500m sprint final. Team PNG crossed the finish line in 2 minutes and 0.67 seconds, earning second place behind Tahiti, who claimed gold with a time of 1:58.16. Fiji took bronze with a time of 2:02.61. This podium finish marks a promising beginning for PNG’s Va’a team as they continue competing throughout the week. Later in the day, PNG’s second silver came from the swimming pool, courtesy of Jhnayali Tokome-Garap in the women’s 50m backstroke final. After qualifying in the morning heats with a time of 30.43 seconds, Tokome-Garap returned in the evening to clock 29.88 seconds—earning her the silver medal and setting a new national record in both the 17-year-old and women’s open categories. Elsewhere in the Games, PNG’s men’s volleyball team opened their campaign with a commanding 3–0 win over Nauru. The women’s softball team also impressed, edging out Northern Marianas 7–6 in a tightly contested match. Team PNG continues competition across multiple sports on Day Two.