Chief Executive Officer of PNGFM, Ms. Esther Gegelagi, has officially launched the 20th Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards, describing the two-decade milestone as a significant achievement for Papua New Guinea’s local music industry.Speaking during the launching at the Lamana Gold Club in Port Morsby this morning, Ms. Gegelagi welcomed sponsors, artists, members of the media, and invited guests. She said this prestigious event has for two decades recognised and supported Papua New Guinea musicians, producers, songwriters and groups. “Twenty years is a significant milestone for any event in Papua New Guinea, especially one dedicated entirely to supporting local music and local artists,” she said. This year’s awards theme, “From Haus Lain to the Stage,” reflects the journey of many Papua New Guinean artists who begin performing in villages, churches, schools and family gatherings before reaching national audiences. “Many of our musicians today begin with very little, singing in the village, at church, at school, around the house line, just holding the guitar and singing with family,” Ms. Gegelagi said. “And with nothing more than talent, passion and a dream, through music they rise up to bigger stages, reaching audiences across the country and beyond.” She said the journey of local artists deserves recognition and continued support from both the public and private sectors. Ms. Gegelagi also highlighted Yumi FM’s ongoing partnership with the Australasian Performing Rights Association (APRA) and the Australasian Mechanical Copyright Owners Society (AMCOS), which ensures royalties are returned to registered artists whose music is played on the station. “To us, supporting local artists should be more than just playing their songs on radio. It is also about recognising and valuing the work that they create,” she said. She encouraged more organisations across Papua New Guinea to invest in local music and entertainment, adding that supporting PNG music also means supporting PNG culture, stories and identity. The CEO thanked artists for continuing to trust Yumi FM with their music and acknowledged performers who will take part in this year’s event. Special appreciation was also extended to sponsors and partners including Rapid Phones and Samsung, the Office of Censorship, Able Home and Office, Niugini Ice, Trans Pacific Assurance and Trutru Wara, along with supporting sponsors Trophy Haus, Budget Rent A Car, Trends Beauty International and Lamana Hotel, and also supported by Nau FM, Legend FM, Magic Factory, PNG Haus Bung and managed by the Total Events Company. Ms. Gegelagi said this year’s awards night will celebrate 20 years of PNG music, culture and talent. The 20th Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards will take place this Saturday, the 23rd of May at the Party Capital, the Lamana Gold Club.

The Moni Plus NCDC Port Moresby Vipers secured a hard-fought 12-10 victory over the Kroton Hela Wigmen during Round 6 of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup 2026 at the National Football Stadium on Saturday afternoon.In a tightly contested encounter, both sides battled fiercely from start to finish, with the Vipers eventually holding on to claim a narrow two-point win in front of home supporters. The Wigmen opened their account through a penalty goal by Solomon Pokare in the 35th minute before extending their lead with a try to Joseph Kora in the 52nd minute. Pokare successfully converted to give the visitors valuable momentum. However, the Vipers responded strongly through Jeremiah Ben, who kicked an early penalty goal in the 14th minute and later added a successful conversion. The decisive moments came late in the match when Stafford John crossed for a crucial try in the 72nd minute, giving the Vipers the edge. Despite a late penalty goal from Pokare in the 69th minute, the Wigmen were unable to reclaim the lead before fulltime. Both teams made several interchanges throughout the game as they looked to maintain intensity in humid conditions at the National Football Stadium. The victory gives the Port Moresby Vipers an important boost in the standings as the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup season continues, while the Wigmen will look to regroup ahead of their next fixture.

The ENB Agmark Gurias produced a clinical attacking performance to defeat the PRK Gulf Isou 38-26 in Round 6 of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup at National Football Stadium on Saturday afternoon.Gulf Isou made the perfect start when Jack Peter crossed over in just the third minute to give the home side an early lead. But the Gurias quickly responded through a dominant attacking display led by star back Ephron Achim, who turned the match with a sensational four-try performance. Achim opened his account in the seventh minute before adding further tries in the 17th, 39th and 64th minutes as the visitors repeatedly exposed gaps in the Isou defensive line. William Tirang also delivered a major contribution with a second-half double, scoring in the 60th and 63rd minutes to extend the Gurias’ advantage. Despite the defeat, Gulf Isou remained competitive throughout the contest. Jeremiah Karavo crossed in the 25th minute before Smith Pamundi and Adam Joe scored quick successive tries to keep the scores tight heading into halftime. Kenny Laho added another try shortly after the restart as Isou attempted to fight back. The Gurias, however, proved more efficient in finishing opportunities, with late tries from Mark Alunga — including one in the dying moments of the match — sealing the 12-point victory for the visitors. Goal-kicking also proved important, with Emmanuel Alfred converting three of five attempts for Gulf Isou, while Felix Beki and Mark Alunga combined for three successful conversions for ENB. Both teams used their benches heavily during a physical encounter, but the Gurias maintained stronger attacking discipline and composure in key moments to secure an important Round 6 victory in Port Moresby.

The SP PNG Hunters suffered a 20-30 defeat to the Souths Logan Magpies at Santos National Football Stadium on Sunday despite a spirited late comeback in front of their home fans.The Hunters struck first in just the second minute when Bruce Bawase crossed over to give the home side an early 4-0 lead. However, the Magpies quickly responded through a dominant first-half performance, with Teapo Stoltman bagging a double in the 8th and 16th minutes to swing momentum the visitors’ way. Souths Logan continued to pile on the pressure as Byron Johnson and Kienan Tempest added tries midway through the half before Callum Eggerling crossed in the 29th minute. Accurate boot work from Kylem Vunipola, who slotted three conversions and two penalty goals, helped the Magpies build a commanding 30-10 advantage before halftime. The Hunters showed resilience late in the first half with Bawase grabbing his second try in the 24th minute. Clent Lama added the conversion to keep the hosts within reach heading into the break. Carlos Lung sparked hopes of a second-half comeback when he scored back-to-back tries in the 37th and 39th minutes. Lama converted one of the attempts to reduce the deficit to 30-20, but the Hunters were unable to add further points after the break. Both sides endured disciplinary setbacks in the second half, with Hunters forward Manisa Kai sent to the sin bin in the 61st minute, while Magpies try-scorer Kienan Tempest was also temporarily dismissed late in the match. Despite the loss, the Hunters showed attacking promise with four tries, including doubles to both Bawase and Lung. The Magpies, however, proved too strong early, crossing for five tries to secure the victory in fine conditions at the Santos National Football Stadium.

Sydney Roosters utility Connor Watson travelled to Papua New Guinea today, as discussions continue over a possible future move to the PNG Chiefs franchise.He stated that players considering a move to PNG’s proposed NRL franchise must be motivated by more than money, with the New South Wales Origin representative highlighting the opportunity to make a genuine impact on the country. The 29-year-old, who is contracted with the Roosters until the end of next season, was granted permission by the club to visit Port Moresby and speak with Chiefs officials about a potential deal for 2028. The experienced utility travelled with his wife following the conclusion of Magic Round in Brisbane and is expected to return to Sydney on Monday ahead of the Blues’ State of Origin camp. PNG Chiefs officials confirmed discussions have taken place with Watson and his management, as well as Roosters assistant coach Willie Peters, regarding the possibility of the versatile playmaker joining the franchise in the future. While no agreement has been finalised, the Chiefs said conversations remain ongoing as they continue building their roster for their planned entry into the NRL competition. Speaking during the visit, Watson said financial incentives may help begin negotiations, but long-term success in PNG would depend on players embracing the broader experience and the chance to contribute positively to the nation. “The money helps start the conversations,” Watson said. “But to come over here and see the impact you can have on a country, I think that goes a long way as well.” “You can not just come here for money or you are not going to enjoy the experience.” “For us, everything has to work holistically. We want to come to a place where we can make a change if we can.” Watson was joined by members of the delegation promoting rugby league opportunities in PNG, although one travelling companion revealed another guest had been unable to attend due to overseas commitments. “Shamus can’t be here. Otherwise, he would have been here with Connor because he is off to the UK,” a member of the group said. “The two of them are having to put up with me for the weekend, but I am going to enjoy showing them around Port Moresby." "It is going to be a hot holiday for us.” Another member of the travelling party, Jenna, said she was excited to experience Papua New Guinea for the first time. “It is my first time, and I am excited to see it,” she said. Watson’s visit is being viewed as a significant step in the growing relationship between the player and the PNG-based franchise, with the Chiefs eager to attract established NRL talent ahead of their inaugural seasons. Furthermore, Papua New Guinea continues to strengthen its push for a future NRL franchise, with rugby league remaining the nation’s most popular sport and a central part of the country’s identity.

Classes have continued at Vakuta Primary School on Vakuta Island in the Trobriand Islands, Milne Bay Province, despite the impact of Cyclone Myla and ongoing infrastructure challenges affecting the school community. Head Teacher Tommy Sabuima, said the school did not receive official instructions from education authorities to suspend classes due to communication difficulties caused by poor network coverage in the area. According to Mr. Sabuima, the school experienced minor damage during the cyclone, with some structures and surrounding property affected by strong winds. However, classes have continued as normal. The school currently has 180 students, seven teachers, and five classes covering grades 3 to 8. Mr. Sabuima said the school continues to operate using aging infrastructure, with many of the classrooms believed to date back to the colonial era. He said classrooms and facilities are in poor condition and urgently require maintenance. Among the school’s immediate needs are desks, chairs, tables, kitchen materials, and funding support to repair deteriorating classrooms. He also confirmed that no direct assistance had been received from provincial education authorities following the cyclone. The school reportedly received its first-quarter Government Tuition Fee Subsidy (GTFS) allocation, which was partly used for maintenance work on one classroom building. However, uncertainty remains over second-quarter payments. Meanwhile, he also revealed he had recently been removed from payroll after transferring from Central Province to Milne Bay province, although other teachers at the school continue to receive their salaries. He said documentation and administrative processes linked to the transfer may have contributed to the payroll issue. Limited communication services remain another major challenge for the school with staff often travelling to specific locations on the island to access network coverage and make phone calls. Furthermore, school leaders are now appealing for assistance to improve classroom conditions and support ongoing maintenance work as the community continues recovering from the cyclone’s effects.

The SP PNG Hunters are remaining optimistic despite a difficult start to the season, with Head Coach Paul Aiton praising his players’ resilience as the team prepares for a crucial Round 10 clash against the Souths Logan Magpies. Now in his third season at the helm, Aiton admitted the Hunters’ campaign has been heavily impacted by injuries and constant squad reshuffles, with the side managing just two wins so far this season. “Surprisingly, we’re handling it pretty good,” Aiton said. “Obviously we want to win, but the biggest thing hurting us at the moment is our injuries. We haven’t been able to put the same squad out in back-to-back weeks.” The Hunters have again been forced into multiple changes this week, with several key players unavailable through injury and suspension. Youngster Hercules Kondo is set to make his debut, while Carlos Lung has been named despite carrying an ankle injury. Aiton said the constant disruption has made it difficult for combinations to develop. “You’ve probably seen week-to-week there’s players missing or switching positions because we don’t have the manpower,” he explained. “We’ve got guys who can play different roles, which is good, but it’s not their preferred positions or what we trained for during pre-season.” Despite the setbacks, Aiton believes there are encouraging signs within the group, pointing to noticeable improvements in defence and overall performance in recent weeks. “Against the Falcons we went from over 40 missed tackles to 18, so we fixed that,” he said. “The following week we only had 20 missed tackles and worked on our attack. There are small wins there, and we hold onto those.” The Hunters pushed competition leaders close in recent rounds, with Aiton praising the squad’s determination despite mounting pressure from outside criticism. “There’s a lot of outside noise, but the boys keep their heads down, stay positive and train hard,” he said. “We can see improvement every week and our numbers show that. That gives the boys confidence that we’re heading in the right direction.” The inclusion of experienced forward Sylvester Namo is expected to provide added strength and leadership to the side. Aiton said Namo had already shown maturity and strong intent since re-joining the squad. “He’s here to prove something. He’s not here just to play — he wants to achieve something this year,” Aiton said. The Hunters also welcome back Seal Kalo this week, while Lynchill Kiap has been named to start at hooker. Although the team remains outside the top eight, Aiton insists finals football is still within reach. “It’s a very tight competition and we still have a chance to make the eight. That’s the goal right now — to make sure we’re in that eight and fighting in the finals.” The SP PNG Hunters will host the Souths Logan Magpies this weekend in a must-win match for the PNG side.

Sydney Roosters utility Conor Watson is set to visit Papua New Guinea (PNG) this weekend as discussions continues over a possible future move to the PNG Chiefs franchise.Watson, who is contracted with the Roosters until the end of next season, has been granted permission by the club to travel to PNG and speak with Chiefs officials about a potential deal for 2028. The New South Wales Origin representative will travel to Port Moresby with his partner, Kiara, following the conclusion of Magic Round in Brisbane. He is expected to arrive on Sunday before returning to Sydney on Monday in time for the Blues’ State of Origin camp. PNG Chiefs officials confirmed discussions have taken place with Watson and his management, as well as Roosters assistant coach Willie Peters, regarding the possibility of the experienced playmaker joining the franchise in the future. While no agreement has been finalized, the Chiefs said conversations remain ongoing as they continue building their roster for their planned entry into the NRL competition. Watson’s visit is seen as a significant step in the relationship between the player and the PNG-based franchise, with the Chiefs eager to attract established NRL talent ahead of their inaugural seasons.

A major mangrove educational boardwalk and resource centre project is nearing completion in the Bautama mangrove forest, inside the proposed Bootless Bay National Marine Sanctuary, just outside Port Moresby.The project led by The Nature Conservancy and the Central Papua Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, began construction in early 2023, and is expected to officially open in July 2026 with the aim to establish PNG’s first purpose-built mangrove boardwalk and education facility. The boardwalk forms part of a broader mangrove restoration initiative aimed at rehabilitating degraded coastal ecosystems while promoting environmental education and eco-tourism opportunities. The site protects approximately 27 hectares of intact mangrove forest, supporting biodiversity, coastal protections and important ecosystem services for the surrounding communities. According to The Nature Conservancy Research Assistant Duncan Bellet, the site will also feature a resource centre designed to support conservation awareness and community engagement activities. “Once completed, the facility is expected to offer experiences similar to Port Moresby Nature Park and Adventure Park PNG, providing visitors with opportunities to learn more about mangrove ecosystems and coastal conservation efforts in Papua New Guinea.” The boardwalk plays an essential role as a platform for visitors and locals to explore and appreciate the remarkable biodiversity of the area and its traditional value to the coastal communities.

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) used its presence at the 2026 Melanesian Ocean Summit to promote community-driven conservation approaches and share lessons from its environmental work across Papua New Guinea.Speaking during the summit, Research Assistant Duncan Bellet said the event provided an important platform for conservation organizations to exchange ideas and experiences. “There are a lot of good things that other organizations are doing. I think sharing our experience and what we do is particularly important,” Bellet said. Bellet noted that while many non-government organizations are active in the conservation sector, each group applies different approaches in working with communities and protecting natural resources. A key focus for The Nature Conservancy during the summit was its Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) process, which the organization uses to engage communities in conservation planning and sustainable resource management. According to Bellet, the process plays a central role in helping communities establish conservation sites and manage natural resources more effectively. “At TNC, we have a community engagement process called the CBNRM process.” “It is a community-based natural resource management process that we use to engage with communities,” he said. He added that the organization hopes the summit will encourage greater collaboration among conservation partners across the region while increasing awareness of community-led conservation efforts. Meanwhile, the summit brought together environmental groups, government representatives, researchers, and community organizations from across Melanesia to discuss marine protection, climate resilience, and sustainable development.

The Kroton Hela Wigmen are riding high with confidence after their commanding five-try victory over Asila Waghi Tumbe and are now preparing for another major challenge against the NCD POM Vipers this Saturday in Port Moresby.Fresh from an outstanding performance at the Santos National Football Stadium, the Wigmen showcased their attacking strength and defensive discipline in a match that firmly announced their intentions for the season. Shadrich Walo starred with two brilliant tries, while Joshua Handare, Kopu Piju, Abraham Nop, and Salika Matthew all crossed the line in a dominant team display. Solomon Pokare also delivered a perfect kicking performance, converting all five tries to cap off a memorable afternoon for the Hela side. The Wigmen’s bench players provided crucial impact throughout the game, helping maintain the intensity and momentum that overwhelmed Waghi Tumbe from start to finish. Now the attention turns to what promises to be another blockbuster encounter as the Hela Wigmen prepares to face the NCD POM Vipers in the nation’s capital. With both sides eager to strengthen their positions in the competition, fans are expecting a fierce battle packed with physicality, speed, and attacking football. The Wigmen will be hoping to carry their winning momentum into Saturday’s clash, while the Vipers are expected to use home advantage to challenge one of the competition’s most in-form teams.

University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) Milne Bay Students Union leaders are calling on the government to establish a dedicated disaster relief standby fund, saying such a system is critical to ensure faster response when natural disasters strike.The students’ union president Jemimah Togumagoma, a final-year law student, said disaster preparedness should include a pre-allocated emergency budget so assistance can be delivered immediately when crises occur, rather than relying heavily on donor partners. “I really do think there needs to be a standby budget or plan in place in the event that disaster strikes,” Togumagoma said. “Nature doesn’t give warnings, so the government should already have a set fund ready to respond.” She said provinces such as Milne Bay, which consists of scattered and remote island communities, are particularly vulnerable and require stronger emergency planning and funding mechanisms. “In Milne Bay, our islands are far apart in the vast ocean. We need emergency funding and a proper response plan so the government can act first before reaching out to donors,” she said. Union secretary Emmanuella Davies echoed the call, saying disaster management planning and early warning systems must be strengthened for remote communities that are often hardest hit. “It is very important to have standby plans and systems in place,” Ms. Davies said. “Milne Bay is easily affected by changing weather conditions, and most of the affected communities are in remote outer islands.” She also referenced reported cyclone impacts on islands including Misima, Woodlark, Kiriwina, and other outer island communities, saying improved warning systems would help residents better prepare ahead of disasters. “We need proper disaster warnings so our people can be aware and prepare before these events happen,” she said. The student leaders made the comments following their recent Cyclone Maila relief donation drive, which raised over K1,600 in cash and in-kind support for affected communities.