A total of 36 finalists have been officially announced for the highly anticipated 2025 SP Sports Awards (SPSA), celebrating excellence across Papua New Guinea’s sporting landscape. The announcement was made today in Port Moresby by Mr. Warwick Vele, Chairman of the SP Sports Awards Selection Panel, praising the depth of talent and commitment shown by nominees from across the country. "This year, we were pleased to see a strong level of interest and participation in the nomination process. A total of 210 nominations were received across all categories 135 submitted online and 60 submitted in hard copy, with 15 of those hard copy nominations received without supporting documents. Please note that those 15 were included in the overall total," said Vele. "While this is slightly fewer than what we received last year, it nonetheless reflects continued public trust in the SP Sports Awards as a meaningful platform to acknowledge excellence in sport. It also reminds us that quality always matters just as much as quantity, and the pride Papua New Guineans take in celebrating their sporting heroes remains as strong as ever." "One notable highlight this year was the Male Athlete of the Year category, which received the highest number of nominations across all categories. We recorded a total of 49 nominations, 44 submitted online and 5 in hard copy, reflecting the vast talent and competition among our male athletes in 2024," he added. He emphasized that the vetting and selection process is a serious task where each nomination is carefully reviewed and discussed at length. "We followed a fair and transparent process, guided by the strict criteria set out for each award category. It gives me great pleasure to officially announce the finalists for the 2025 SP Sports Awards." CATEGORY FINALIST SPORT Male Athlete of the Year Morea Baru Weightlifting   Josh Tarere Swimming   Alivin Komolong Soccer Female Athlete of the Year Leonie Beu Athletics   Thelma mea Toua Weightlifting   Adrine Monagi Athletics Carbine Club: Team of the Year PNG Mosquitoes AFL   PNG Kurakums AFL   PNG Lewas Cricket Brands Pacific: National Performance of the Year Valley Hunters Rugby Union (7s)     Alotau Womens 3x3 Basketball Basketball   Iraqi Pirates Rugby Union (7s) Community Sports Initiative Roland Muluyaru - Soccer Kick Out Home Brew Soccer     Jason Lahui - Chess in the Hood Chess   Special Olympics PNG Multi-Sport Coca-Cola Europacific Partners PNG: Junior Male Athlete of the Year Gaba Frank Cricket   River Jordan Hakena Tennis   Allan Sevara AFL Coca-Cola Europacific Partners PNG: Junior Female Athlete of the Year Timonaliz Alarcos Kriebisch Squash   Colita Hakena Tennis   Ani Geua Gavera Weightlifting       CPL: Para-Athlete of the Year Manega Tapari Badminton   Haoda Agari Table Tennis   Regina Edwards Athletics Trukai Industries Ltd: Sports Official of the Year Edward Kassman Taekwondo     Victor Sarwom Rugby   Nelson Stone Athletics Trukai Industries Ltd: Sports Media of the Year Jamie Haro Sunday Chronicle     Michael Philip The National   EMTV Sports Scene EMTV Sports Scene Sports Photo of the Year Lone Child - Tony Haro     Crossfit Rope - Sibona Kala     Denied Allyoop Basket - Brenda M Kariko   Stan Joyce Awards 1. Pacific Industries Ltd     2. ExxonMobil PNG     3. Moni Plus Ltd    The announcement of the finalists also signals the official opening of public voting for the People’s Choice Award, the 13th category in this year’s SP Sports Awards.  The winner of the People's Choice Award is selected through a public vote, using the SP Sports Awards SMS and WhatsApp voting platform. The more votes a finalist gets, the more chances of them winning. Candidates for this category come from four finalists of the following: Male Athlete of the Year Female Athlete of the Year Team of the Year National Performance of the Year Voting for the People's Choice Award category will close on 30th May 2025. The Presentation Night will be held at the home of the SP Sports Awards, Crown Hotel on Saturday 14th June. The awards night will be live streamed on the SP Sports Awards Facebook page and broadcasted live on FM100.

In a major move to promote peace and justice, the Autonomous Region of Bougainville recently held its first-ever Sorcery Accusation Related Violence (SARV) Forum in Arawa, Central Bougainville. Held in April, the forum brought together community leaders, law and justice agencies, churches, and civil society organizations, all dedicated to finding sustainable, locally driven solutions to combat SARV. The forum created a platform for participants to probe into the root causes of SARV, listen to stories from survivors and law enforcers, and explore ways to strengthen legislation and policies to combat this pervasive issue. Recognizing the cultural sensitivity surrounding SARV, the forum was locally led to ensure discussions aligned with Bougainville’s traditions and community values. This approach ensured the discussions were culturally appropriate and respected local customs. Acting Secretary for the Department of Justice and Legal Services, Ms. Julianne Sapaka, underscored the urgency of addressing SARV. "Sorcery related violence has affected lives and torn apart communities in Bougainville. This forum is an important step for all of us to work together to maintain peace and order in Bougainville. We must work together—our leaders, our people, churches, and our partners—to make our communities safe," Ms. Sapaka said. Justin Borgia, Autonomous Bougainville Government Member for North Nasioi, attended the forum's first day and emphasized the critical need to address SARV before it escalates further. “SARV is affecting our communities in ways that threatens peace and security. For our communities to truly prosper, we need a serious shift in mindset and attitudes. It’s not the vast resources that will bring peace, but how we live together peacefully. Without peace, those resources can become a curse,” Mr. Borgia said. The forum, supported by the Australian Government, underscores the value of international partnerships in tackling local challenges and building resilient communities.

The National Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the displaced Manam Islanders in Madang province and has also clarified recent claims regarding funding delays. Minister for Provincial Government and Loca-Level Government (LLG) Affairs Soroi Eoe, recently confirmed that the government has fully complied with court orders and financial obligations to the Manam Resettlement Authority (MaRa). Minister Eoe said the K10 million commitment pledged by Prime Minister James Marape in May 2024 has been released and disbursed to Manam Resettlement Authority in full early April with the stringent financial guidelines to ensure transparent and accountable use on priority areas in the resettlement project. The minister has placed on record that the MaRa and DPLGA have been working closely in the resettlement efforts since 2019. He added that since K10m came in time where MaRa was in dire need of funding to settle first lot of IDPs according to the plan, the government acted in good faith and released it directly to MaRa. The Minister clarified that the K10m payment was separate from the National Court-Ordered K6m special legal liabilities. While the government leads funding efforts, Manam Project requires collaboration with Madang Provincial Government, Bogia District Development Authority (DDA) and other stakeholders to fast-track resettlement of Manam Islanders. Minister Eoe urged Madang Provincial Government and local authorities to partner with MaRa on the physical infrastructure development and service delivery as these services are not only for the Manam islanders but will benefit the communities surrounding the resettlement area. He reiterated that the affected Manam Islanders remain their top priority, and their resettlement is a complex, long-term process requiring careful planning and there is no temporary fix. He further stated that, the Marape/Roso Government through the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs remains committed to permanent solutions for the internally displaced people of Manam by volcanic eruptions. “We call on all stakeholders to unite constructively, rather than politicizing this humanitarian issue.”

Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed his government’s strong commitment to improving the lives of children and young people across the country on the eve of the country's 50th Independence Anniversary. In a recent high-level meeting in Port Moresby city with UNICEF, the United Nations, and key development partners, PM Marape emphasized the importance of delivering lasting, positive change for every child in PNG with UNICEF ready to support that mission every step of the way. The meeting brought together senior government officials, including NCD Governor Powes Parkop and Minister for Community Development, Youth and Religion Jason Peter, to discuss shared priorities in education, healthcare, nutrition, and youth empowerment. UNICEF Papua New Guinea Representative Dr Veera Mendonca PhD welcomed the Government’s commitment to building a brighter future for every child and praised the PM’s leadership. “UNICEF looks forward to working alongside the Government and our partners to help turn these commitments into tangible improvements in children’s lives,” Dr Mendonca said. “Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary presents a unique opportunity to secure a better future for millions of children and harness the country’s demographic dividend,” she said. The discussion highlighted the importance of improving access to education, immunization, protecting children from violence, and advancing the implementation of the Civil Identity Registry Act to ensure all children are registered at birth and able to access essential services. The PM highlighted the urgent need to tackle child stunting and improve access to clean water and sanitation — critical priorities for PNG, where one in two children are affected by stunting. He emphasized the vision of a healthier generation, beginning with ensuring every child grows up with proper nutrition and safe, reliable access to clean water and sanitation services. UN Resident Coordinator Dr Richard Howard commended the collaborative spirit of the meeting, saying Papua New Guinea’s children represent the nation’s greatest hope for the future. “By working together, we can ensure that every child grows up healthy, well-nourished, educated, and safe from harm. The UN stands ready to support the Government’s vision,” he added. A key outcome of the meeting was the proposal for a Parliamentary Committee focused on Children and Youth to oversee policies, funding, and accountability measures. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen partnerships between Government, development agencies, the private sector, and community organizations to create lasting, positive change for children across the country.

Arawa District Hospital, a key healthcare provider in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, has made a major stride in improving maternity care through enhanced access to clean and safe water. As part of its commitment to community well-being, the hospital has benefited from BSP Arawa’s 2024 Community Project, ensuring that patients, visitors and staff now have reliable access to clean and safe water. Additional improvements-including backfilling the surrounding area with gravel to help maintain a dry, hygienic environment. This essential upgrade strengthens healthcare standards, supporting both medical staff and the wellbeing of up to nearly 30 mothers and newborns each month. Established in the 1970s and expanded in the 1990s following the Bougainville conflict, Arawa District Hospital has long served as a vital healthcare provider for the Arawa community and its surrounding areas. However, the maternity ward faced significant challenges due to aging water tanks, restricting access to clean water and impacting the quality of care available to mothers and newborns. During the handover ceremony, BSP Arawa Branch Manager, Rosemary Seeto, emphasized the bank’s commitment to supporting health and wellbeing in rural communities. “Access to clean water is fundamental to providing safe healthcare. Through this project, we aim to support better maternity services and long-term community health outcomes for the people of Arawa,” said Ms. Seeto. Arawa District Hospital’s Acting CEO Mr. Ignatius Girana was grateful for the support. “This project is a blessing for our maternity ward. The restoration of clean water access will greatly improve the quality of care for mothers and babies. We thank BSP for their invaluable support to our community, “he said. BSP continues to implement projects that have a lasting positive impact on communities across Papua New Guinea through its Community Project Program.

Thirty-three Data Processing Officers in Kiunga, Western Province are currently participating in a week-long training program focused on data processing. The training which commenced on Friday May 16th, 2025, aims to equip Data Processing Officers (DPO) with advance skills and knowledge to update electoral accurately. Provincial Election Manager Max Paul said data processing training is important in updating electoral roll for the benefit of all villages and the people of Western Province. He said the updating of all the data is derived from the census conducted in 2024, therefore, the updated electoral roll will be used for the upcoming LLG elections. He said, “Western Province has seen a successful nomination for all its Local Level Government elections. The province has a total of 21 LLGs, 389 wards and four districts. These are South Fly, Delta Fly, Middle Fly and North Fly districts.” The ICT at Kiunga Electoral Office headed by assistant Cosmas Kawop and facilitator Trevor Mallen from the PNGEC’s ICT Department, facilitated this training to ensure efficient and accurate data entry. Mr. Paul added that training would take 2 weeks or more depending on the workload, saying each officer would be tasked to update the common roll for respective LLG’s. In supporting the Electoral Commission in the province, the Fly River Provincial Government has allocated K2.7 million budget to help deliver LLG elections successfully. “So far, peaceful nominations have been observed in the province. Counting and declaration of council wards, president seats, and ward mayor’s seat will be done in respective LLG’s within the province. We will stick to election scheduled as per notice from the main office in Port Moresby.” As election period continue, all supporters and candidates contesting for this year’s LLG elections have been urged to maintain good order for peaceful and successful election in Western Province.

Following the spectacular float parade that ended yesterday as part of the lead-up celebrations to Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence anniversary, under the leadership of NCD Governor, the program kicked off this morning at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium with the Pacific Stories festival. This was acknowledged through a vibrant display of cultural dances like the Maori Poi dance & the famous Haka, the traditional Samoan tattoo crafting method and many more with local pacific SME stalls displaying their arts & crafts and food sales as well. Present to witness and be part of the event, Miss Papua New Guinea May Hasola said, Papua New Guinea did not come this far on their own and it is only fitting to celebrate this great mile stone together. “It’s means a lot to me to be able to celebrate with our Pacific brothers and sisters, because it reinforces the idea that we did not to 50 years on our own but with the help of all our pacific community and all pour people so I think that’s the most important thing." "Just remembering that we all did this together so it’s only right that we celebrate together,” said Hasola. With the event set to come alive tonight, Miss Hasola is looking forward to watch the vibrant cultural Maori Haka and the Samoan Siva to be performed by the former Miss Pacific Islands and Miss Samoa Meomoana Schwenke. She further emphasized that, in the lead-up to our 50th anniversary celebrations, young people should embrace the spirit of unity as Pacific Islanders and be encouraged to celebrate their resilience and identity as Papua New Guineans. “At the launch of this event yesterday, Prime Minster James Marape was talking really strongly and gave good insight into how we shouldn’t take our democracy for granted and how free we are in our country.” “And I think that’s the most important thing as youths is too not just take for granted how far we’ve come as a country and our freedom.”

Building on the success of last weekend’s PNG NRL Bid Championship finals, the National Youth Competition (NYC) will kick off this weekend as a curtain raiser to the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Round 6. The first match will be this Saturday in Rabaul, East New Britain Province, where the ENB Agmark Gurias will take on the Moni Plus NCDC Port Moresby Viper in the first match. Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) Performance and Pathway General Manager Tony Archer said that this will be a historic weekend for PNG National Rugby League Competition (PNG NRLC) as NYC will have three matches played not only in Rabaul but across the country at PNG Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Round 6 matches in Port Moresby and Goroka. “The NRL Bid Championships allowed our year 7/8 and 9/10 and open females to showcase their rugby league talent and now the National Youth Competition will allow our male under 19 players to perform at the PNG NRLC standard. “ “The start of this competition this weekend is another important step forward in growing the game and our clubs." "It is creating more opportunities for our young players to develop their skills and play in a national pathway competition." "It will be exciting to see the new crop of players emerge from this seven-week competition” The PNGNRLC NYC will allow clubs, the families and our rugby league fan to see the best young talent in the country. With the support of our broadcast partner Digicel PNG, all Port Moresby Games will be televised on TVWAN Sports 2 and Round 1 match will be televised live from the Santos National Football Stadium on Sunday at 12.15pm Mr Archer stated that the Importance of the competition is that we have six pathway clubs having a youth competition that draws the talent in a combination from NRL Bid Academy, and our local Affiliate leagues. “Under the PNGRFL Community Rugby League Affiliate League, PNG NRL BID and now the NYC will Draw a direct catchment area for the Pathway clubs under PNG NRLC and onward to the SP PNG Hunters and the big dream of International Rugby League.” “The start of this competition this weekend is another important step forward in growing the game and our clubs." "It is creating more opportunities for our young players to develop their skills and play in a national pathway competition." "It will be exciting to see the new crop of players emerge from this seven-week competition.” “The introduction of this competition is another important part in delivering our PNGRFL Pathway and Performance strategy plan in creating a national youth pathway competition.” The completion of the seven-week NYC competition will culminate with a Grand Final on the weekend of Saturday 28th-Sunday 29th, June.

UNICEF is stepping up support to the Government of Papua New Guinea to ensure every child is vaccinated following the detection of poliovirus. The detection has triggered the activation of a national emergency response to protect children across the country, supported by UNICEF and partners including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Australian Government. UNICEF Papua New Guinea Representative Dr Veera Mendonca said while there’s no cure for polio, the disease can easily be prevented by ensuring every child is immunised. “This is why UNICEF is working with the Government of Papua New Guinea and other partners to stop the virus in its tracks and ensure all children are protected." “UNICEF is supporting the Government to strengthen surveillance, procure and deliver vaccines, prepare for two rounds of nationwide polio vaccination, and assist provincial health authorities to engage communities, raise awareness, and encourage parents and caregivers to vaccinate their children.” Highlighting the important role of churches, Dr Mendonca said UNICEF is actively working with church and community leaders to reach every family and protect every child. “We need their voices to promote accurate information and encourage vaccination." Dr Mendonca added that UNICEF is working closely with national taskforces on resource mobilisation, communication, and outbreak control. “Technical specialists in immunisation, cold chain, advocacy, and social behaviour change are already deployed at national and provincial levels, including Morobe and the National Capital District,” she said. “We call on community leaders, churches, media outlets, and other organisations to help share accurate facts and dispel any rumours or misinformation." Dr Mendonca noted that Papua New Guinea had been declared polio-free for 25 years, yet low routine immunisation coverage has left many children vulnerable. “While the focus right now is on stopping this outbreak, we must take this opportunity to boost routine immunisation to 90% and protect children long-term." UNICEF joins the National Department of Health (NDOH), WHO, the Australian Government and other partners in urging all parents and caregivers to bring their children for vaccination, check immunisation cards, and report any signs of illness. “Together, we can stop this outbreak and keep Papua New Guinea polio-free — for our children, for our families, and for our communities,” Dr Mendonca said.

NCD enjoyed a thrilling Grand Final Day at the PNG NRL Academy National Schools Tournament on Saturday, claiming victory in both the Years 9/10 Boys and Open Girls divisions at the Santos Football Stadium in Port Moresby city in front of a crowd of over 2,000 enthusiastic spectators. The day started with the Years 7/8 Boys Grand Final, where Central claimed a hard-fought 19-14 victory over Lae, in a match that produced some thrilling attacking play and resolute defense. Central’s victory came on the back of an excellent performance from Sam Peter in the number 7 jersey, who showed great composure in guiding his team around the field. The 9/10 Boys Grand Final was a major arm wrestle with strong defense shown by both teams, with NCD eventually edged past Lae 12-10. The match was always in the balance, with NCD forward Remexson Jocky being a standout amongst two packs that fought hard all day. The Grand Final of the Girls Open rounded out the day in style with a gritty contest that ebbed and flowed, finally going the way of NCD who edged out Goroka 8-4. NCD were indebted to an outstanding display from number 13 Georgina Michael, who had a superb match in both attack and defense and showed that she is a player to watch in the future. A number of dignitaries were in attendance on the day including Australian High Commissioner: Ewen McDonald, PNGRFL Chairman Sandis Tsaka, NRL BID CEO Andrew Hill, Orchids Chair Celestine Ove, Senior Vice-President Digicel Lorna McPherson, Deputy NCD Governor Dadi Toka and SP Hunters Head Coach Paul Aiton. PNG NRL Bid Pathways and Coaching Manager, Joe Grima was impressed with the quality of football that the day produced, stating, “This tournament has produced a superb standard of play and has really highlighted the talent coming through in the male and female game. “The teamwork and sportsmanship on display all day and the closeness of the finals shows that our players are learning how to play on big occasions in front of big crowds. “It is also great to see that the hard work being done at Academy level is paying off and that the players are learning how to transfer those skills on to the field. I’d like to thank all the players, coaches, officials and volunteers who contributed to this tournament and helped make it such a success.”  GRAND FINAL RESULTS, Year 7/8 Boys Grand Final: Central beat Lae 19-14 Year 9/10 Boys Grand Final: NCD beat Lae 12-10 Open Girls Grand Final: NCD beat Goroka 8-4

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA), under the stellar leadership of President John Kapi Natto, has extended sincere appreciation to Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) for their generous sponsorship and vision in fostering the future of football in the region. During a recent cheque presentation ceremony, OTML's Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kedi Llmbit, emphasized the significance of developing youth players from grassroots levels through a well-structured, bottom- up approach. In his remarks during the presentation, Mr. Llmbit articulated his enthusiasm for the partnership, underscoring the strategic initiatives established by PNGFA to engage players as young as five. The objective is to introduce these young athletes to the sport through a structured school competition, paving a path from primary school football to elite competition, thereby preparing them for the forthcoming Oceania Professional League launch in 2026. Establishing a player supply chain to support the demand from the Oceania Professional League is commendable and represents an exceptional strategy. "I am genuinely impressed by PNGFA's comprehensive plan to identify and cultivate talent early on. By instituting a structured competition in schools, we are instilling a passion for the game and equipping the next generation for a promising future in football," stated Limbit. The approach is to introduce and start kids to kick in futsal, graduate them to play at the school competition, and then to the Youth National Competitions. Once they are 18 and 19, they can crack the Premier Soccer League, the Premier competition on the PNGFA platform. When playing the PSL, they can be eyed to play in the Oceania Professional League. This is the player pathway. FUTSAL-SCHOOL COMPETITION-YOUTH LEAGUE -PSL -PROFESSIONAL LEAGUE With OTML's generous contribution of one million kinas, PNGFA is positioned to launch the anticipated school competition. The allocation of funds will be as follows: K150,000 to initiate the school competition. K100,000 for the Youth League. Introduction of Northern and Southern Teens to play in the PNGFA platform. K50,000 earmarked for branding, media, and publicity efforts. In partnership with local educational institutions, PNGFA's Technical, Competition, and Just Play teams will actively pilot the project across four primary regions: Southern, Northern, New Guinea Islands (NGI), and the Highlands. This initiative will empower schools to manage and execute the competition under the auspices of PNGFA, ensuring a holistic development framework for young players. Additionally, PNGFA will provide training and support for the sports teachers for each participating school, equipping them with essential skills in refereeing, coaching, and competition management. This will ensure the program's sustainability and benefit all participants. The OTML School Soccer Competition and Youth League will celebrate the talent and commitment of young footballers nationwide, as President Natto expressed: "We are delighted to partner with OTML on this significant initiative. Together, we aspire to enhance youth participation in football and promote the sport's growth throughout Papua New Guinea." With OTML's unwavering support, PNGFA is set to transform the youth football landscape within the country and inspire future generations to excel in this beloved sport. The K1,000,000 sponsorship will directly facilitate: The expansion of leagues and competitions for schools nationwide. The development and training of coaches to enhance youth engagement for sports teachers at the participating schools.      3. Resources for football academies and other developmental infrastructure. In return, PNGFA will extend to OTML the following benefits: Exclusive naming rights, with leagues and competitions designated as the OTML Youth League, OTML Futsal Competition, etc. Branding exclusivity in and around the competition venues. Opportunities for OTML to conduct educational awareness programs for youth at playing venues and schools. Access to all competition venues. Competition officials will don OTML-branded attire on competition days to promote OTML. The display of OTML pamphlets, magazines, and other marketing materials for promotional campaigns.

Minister for Health Mr. Elias Kapavore is sounding an alert to residents of both Port Moresby and Lae cities to take care of their health after announcing today of the detection of Polio virus type 2 in both these major cities in the country. Having said that, he assured that the situation is being closely assessed in collaboration with their partners, including WHO, UNICEF and the Australian Government. He said, the department’s immediate priority is to review all available information, strengthen surveillance activities, and ensure that any necessary public health is prepared and ready to be implemented. “We were declared a polio free nation in 2000 but unfortunately, the environmental samples collected in Lae and in NCD have indicated a polio virus presence in our country. It’s a serious concern with the department and we are working closely with WHO, DFAT and our partners to address this matter.” Minister Kapavore said his department will inform the Prime Minister and they have a team that is in place with serval meetings already conducted on how to address this matter appropriately going forward. He added that the main contributing factor to the re-emergence of such diseases and virus outbreaks like polio is due to low coverage of routine immunization in the country. He stressed that it’s not just the department and health workers' job, but the responsibility also falls on the parents and guardians. “It’s a big concern to us and we are dealing with our partners to escalate the immunization coverage to identify the hot spot areas to make sure they will deliver.” Minister Kapavore made a strong call to health workers and parents to do their designated roles. “Routine immunization programs are a must for every Provincial Health Authority (PHA). From the district level down to the health centers, they have health workers and nurses are there to do their job," said the Health Minister. "They have enough resources and the cold-chain equipment and there are no issues with vaccines availability in many of our health facilities. The staff must continue to conduct coverage and awareness in their respective fields. Sometimes the health workers are doing their job, but the parents and mothers need to bring their babies for routine immunization. Its everyone’s responsibility.” He further stated that the samples were collected from the sewerage system through wastewater, but no cases have been reported yet. Once the first clinical case is reported, it will be announced as an outbreak, but for now, the department is working to eliminate the virus where kids aged from 5-to-0 are at risk of contracting the virus.