The PNG Air National Athletics Champions (ANAC) saw a successful second-day event on 6th December 2024, despite a stormy weather delaying events in the first day at the Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby. The first day of the National Athletics Championship on the Thursday 5th of November was cut-short in the early evening due to consistent heavy rain and storm till late. The day began smoothly but turned south after a stormy weather took the skies. The storm had cut short the event, withdrawing only the evening 200meters track events. Athletics PNG President Mr. Tony Green told PNG Hausbung that the weather did delay but luckily extracted only one event, which was then later implemented into the Friday’s program as a washout event. Mr. Green expressed his gratitude for his committed organizing staff who were very persistent in keeping the momentum of events solid, leaving no room for error or delay. Furthermore, Mr. Green stressed his confidence in the committed athletes who were very consistent in their preparations, as they were all on time according to their events. The National Athletics Championships saw thrilling performance 280 dedicated young athletes showcasing their, speed, strength and stamina in both the Field and Track events. Today will see the last day of track and field events with the U16, u18 and Open divisions.

The highly anticipated KCK Rigo Rice Cup Tournament is set to commence this weekend on the 7th and 8th of December 2024 at Bava Park-Field 2. The KCKRRC Leg one (1) draw will kick off with 14 confirmed registered teams to participate in the highly anticipated tournament. The first official game kicks off with 3 games this Saturday from 12pm- 2pm with fans to witness 6 teams unleash their wrath following their intensive preparations leading up to the KCK Rigo Rice cup kick-off. While Sunday is set for 4 thrilling games among 8 teams from 12pm-4pm. The 14 teams represent the commitment and loyalty to fully see-through the new Rugby League season in Papua New Guinea. Following the scheduled dates for the kickoff, the KCK Rigo Rice Cup Management has extended its closing registration date to next year 2025, January 30th to accommodate more teams to participate in this inaugural event. Therefore, the KCK Rigo Rice Cup management has announced that registrations are still open till January 30th for Leg two (2), three (3) and four (4). All teams must fulfil registration requirements with all due diligence to participate. The draws for this weekend is as follows; Saturday 7th December 2024 12pm - D8 Mosquitoes Vs City Taubaddas 1pm - Tare Nation Vs Henoa 2pm - Pom Menjails Vs Pom City Watch Sunday 8th December 2024 12pm - City Rebels Vs Thunders 1314 Builders 1pm - Kagua Woodman Vs Mono Mutrus Brothers 2pm - Koita Cowboys Vs JS Coffee TI Mantas 3pm - FH Laumas Vs Aspirant Knights

The 500kg of cocaine that was seized in Papua New Guinea (PNG) back in 2020 following the crash of the black flight headed to Australia, has been finally destroyed, monitored by senior police officers from PNG and Australia. The drugs, which were seized on PNG soil but later sent to the AFP for forensic testing and storage in Australia, were incinerated on Thursday 28th November at a secure facility in Queensland, Australia. Operation Weathers was an investigation by the AFP, the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), Queensland and Victoria Police, Australian Border Force (ABF), and the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) into a criminal syndicate that allegedly attempted to smuggle the cocaine, worth about $800 million, from PNG to Queensland in July 2020. Five men in Australia and four men in PNG were charged over the alleged conspiracy after the light plane crashed north of Port Moresby city on 26th July 2020. Five days later, the RPNGC found the cocaine allegedly linked to the flight. In September 2024, the PNG National Court of Justice handed down sentences of between 18- and 19-years’ imprisonment to the men. The court also ordered the drugs be destroyed and for a senior RPNGC officer to witness the destruction. RPNGC Deputy Commissioner Donald Yamasombi and AFP Commander Stephen Jay oversaw the transport of the drugs from a secure AFP vault to a secure facility in Queensland, where they were incinerated. Commander Jay said the cocaine would have been worth about $800 million in 2020. “It is now worth nothing thanks to the cooperation and the tenacity of all the agencies involved in Operation Weathers,” Commander Jay said. Had it arrived in Australia, the cocaine could have been sold as about 500,000 street deals, which would have caused considerable damage in the community. “It was pleasing to witness the destruction with Deputy Commissioner Yamasombi, who knows all too well about the damage that illicit drugs also inflict on his country.” Deputy Commissioner Yamasombi said the seizure of the cocaine was a victory for both nations. “The illicit drug trade hurts both our countries in very similar ways,” he said. “As illicit drugs transit through PNG, our community suffers from the violence and criminality associated with this harmful trade." “As the destination country, Australia experiences these problems, along with health and societal impacts caused by drug use. Once again our nations have worked together successfully to reach a mutually satisfying outcome.” The AFP uses special waste disposal facilities to destroy illicit substances after they have been forensically tested and documented for evidentiary purposes. The drugs are typically vaporized into steam in a furnace. The remaining liquid then passes through a series of filtration systems to turn it into a harmless ash-like substance before it is released. AFP members are required to monitor every step of the destruction process and remain on site until the drugs are destroyed.

The National Government has initiated a five-day workshop at the Highlander Hotel in Mt Hagen city focusing on the review of the Police Act 1998 and the Constabulary Standing Orders (CSOs). The review, led by Assistant Commissioner (ACP) Policy and Planning Division Rigga Neggi, highlights the importance of incorporating experienced officers’ insights into these crucial documents. ACP Neggi emphasized the importance of Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) officers' contributions during the workshop, saying the aim is to gather input for the Police Act Review and update CSOs, leveraging officers' experience before retirement. The nearly 26-year-old Police Act and updated CSOs are under review to ensure they meet contemporary needs. As the workshop progresses, the contributions from these seasoned officers will help shape the future of policing in Papua New Guinea, ensuring the legal and procedural frameworks are robust and up to date. The five-day workshop concludes on Friday, 6th December 2024, with the goal of incorporating valuable on-the-ground experiences into the legislative and procedural updates for the RPNGC.

The Police Commissioner David Manning in a recent statement issued an alert that security forces are tracking the criminal Tawa Kina from Panadaka Village in Enga Province for his involvement in the brutal murders of innocent people. In response to the murder of eight people and other violent assaults in Suyan Village in the early hours of Saturday morning, this alert was given following the issuance of orders by the State of Emergency Controller. Manning stated that police have taken human remains to Apiam Hospital, with investigations ongoing and a manhunt underway. He warned Tawa Kina to surrender peacefully, as security forces are authorized to use all necessary force to arrest him. Manning also urged the people of Panadaka not to hide or aid Kina, warning that anyone obstructing security operations will be detained and charged. Commissioner Manning also added that recent murders highlight the need for the Counter Terrorism Act, which was unanimously passed by Parliament. He emphasized that violence against people, including children and women, is a form of domestic terrorism. Manning also warned that any clan engaging in terrorism activities will face the harshest terms from security forces. He noted the challenge of attackers using the internet and encrypted messaging platforms to carry out their criminal acts. He said discussions with telecommunication providers are underway to address this issue as well. Furthermore, Manning stressed that the Counter Terrorism Act will increase authority and reach to address terrorist activities. While awaiting its certification, the State of Emergency in Enga Province is in effect, and the Emergency Controller has full support to enact necessary orders.

Police Commissioner David Manning has expressed approval of the bilateral support for the Counter-Terrorism Act 2024, passed in Parliament recently. Commissioner Manning highlighted this in a recent statement, underscoring the Acts contribution to strengthen the capacity of the Police Force to proactively respond to those who terrorise communities and seek to hold government to ransom with acts of violence. Commissioner Manning emphasized that the Counter Terrorism Act 2024 modernizes the legal framework needed to address threats, enabling security to protect men, women, and children of PNG. He also highlighted the Marape-Rosso Government’s commitment to supporting the security forces, allowing them to enhance security and tackle emerging threats. Commissioner Manning praised the Minister for Police Peter Tsiamalili Jr. for successfully negotiating the legislative requirements of the Counter Terrorism Act 2024, which received support from 84 members of Parliament. He expressed satisfaction with the bipartisan backing, noting that it is encouraging to see leaders from all political sides supporting the police force in their mission to enhance public safety. Furthermore, Commissioner Manning reiterated that the Counter Terrorism Act's responsibility is to strengthen police powers and introduce tools to disrupt terrorist threats. He emphasized significant penalties for elites funding criminal activities. Manning also expressed gratitude to parliament for supporting the police force and providing crucial legal protections. He emphasized that the Counter Terrorism Act 2024 offers essential safeguards for the men and women of the RPNGC who risk their lives to protect communities and handle offenders.

As the KCK Rigo Rice Cup (RRC) embarks on its inaugural three-month season, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) McSteven Polly stands at the forefront, embodying a vision of dedication and commitment. During the official launch at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium on Sunday 24th November, Mr. Polly declared his passion for rugby league and his unwavering commitment to the tournament’s success are distinct. Polly emphasized that the KCK Rigo Rice Cup is not merely a sports event, but a significant initiative designed to foster local talent and promote community productivity. His dedication is reflected in the strategic planning and robust support from Rigo Rice, whose total winning prize of K300,000 put forth, underscores a shared commitment to corporate responsibility and local development. Polly highlighted that this partnership with Rigo Rice is more than a financial transaction, “It is a mutual journey toward growth and excellence.” CEO Polly has ambitious plans for the tournament, aiming to make it the largest grassroots platform for rugby league in Papua New Guinea. The KCK RRC focus on men’s teams to ensure smooth event coordination before future expansions to include women’s and junior teams, promoting broader participation and inclusivity to nurture young talent and provide them with opportunities to shine on both national and international stages. Polly’s standout commitment is the unprecedented prize pool, with district leg winners receiving significant rewards and the top 12 teams vying for the grand prize of K200,000, K60,000 for runner up and K40,000 for third place. This financial incentive is designed to motivate teams and elevate the competitive spirit of the tournament. Polly stressed that this prize money, the largest ever in PNG’s rugby league history, is a testament to the tournament’s commitment to excellence and growth. Furthermore, the event’s accessibility is another cornerstone of Polly’s vision, to have games be live streamed on various social media platforms, ensuring that fans across the globe can engage with the event. This move not only enhances visibility but also provides a platform for real-time interaction and transparency, crucial for maintaining the integrity of the tournament. Polly’s leadership is marked by his belief in the transformative power of rugby league. He envisions the KCK Rigo Rice Cup as a catalyst for change, fostering unity and pride within the community. The CEO is committed to making this season a foundation upon which future successes will be built. His message to the teams and supporters is clear: the KCK Rigo Rice Cup is here to stay, and with collective support and participation, it will reach unprecedented heights. As the season kicks off, McSteven Polly’s unwavering commitment and visionary leadership promise to make the KCK Rigo Rice Cup a landmark event in Papua New Guinea’s sporting calendar.

The Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru recently launched the official Website for Section Papua New Guinea (PNG) Osaka Expo 2025 on November 17th in Port Moresby city. Minister Maru said the website is a marketing platform to market PNG to the world as a country, its provinces and districts, products and services, and promote PNG as a potential tourism and investment destination. Minister Maru announced that the new website will allow users global advertising for PNG’s products and services. It will promote sectors like fisheries, agriculture, mining, petroleum, and tourism, featuring content from provinces, districts, private companies, industries, and government agencies. The site will operate 24/7, aiming to reach billions worldwide. A total of 150 countries and 25 international organizations are expected to participate in the Osaka Expo. An estimate of 28.2 million visits is projected over the course of the Expo with billions to join virtually. Minister Maru highlighted that businesses unable to attend the Expo can still promote their products and services via the new website. He commended East New Britain, New Ireland, and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville for their proactive participation. Minister Maru urged SMEs, government entities, and agencies to prepare promotional content for the site, noting a small fee for content placement. Furthermore, he emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring nationwide benefits from the Osaka Expo 2025, with K8.6 million allocated for PNG’s participation. He highlighted the new website as a key tool for maximizing exposure and urged the technical team to ensure it is user-friendly and professional. Meanwhile, Minister Maru is pushing for the Government to make sure that by January 2025, Air Niugini direct flight from Port Moresby to Narita in Japan is re-established. “We cannot go to the Expo without direct flights. How can we promote ourselves and people cannot even get here? It doesn’t make sense. As the Minister for International Trade and Investment, I want the Port Moresby to Narita flight re-opened as soon as possible,” said Minister Maru.

Pepsi PNG has announced Thirty-Two (32) winners of the full Pepsi Merch-packs in Pepsi’s “Thirsty for Merch” National Consumer Promotion, in the Third-Draw Event held on Friday 22nd November. From the 32 initial winners, the Third-Draw Event saw multiple instant prize winners from the fun activites setup by the Pepsi PNG promotion Team led by Pepsi Event Manger Darren Bondaluk such as Musical chairs, Spin the Wheel and Pass-off game. These 32 winners announced will be verified and officially announced on Wednesday on Pepsi’s Social media page to collect their full Pepsi Merchandise pack each worth of K2, 500, consisting of 17 branded items including Bluetooth Speakers, Headphones, Sunglasses, T-shirts, Varity Jackets, Towels and much more. The National Consumer promotion continues to rise with Pacific Industries limited set to draw up to K1,000,000 million worth of prizes from their promotional draws. Pacific Industries limited National Marketing Manager, Nathaniel Lepani, was pleased to express his thrill towards the participation of Pepsi consumers and supporters, encouraging more to participate in the fun activities for a chance to win a Pepsi Merch. The 32 winners were fortunate to be chosen from the major draw through purchasing two Pesi cans from RH Hypermart and enter their names and contact details to put in the entry boxes. Customers and supporters are encouraged to enter the draw through purchasing two cans of Pesi, enter name and contact details and drop into the entry box to win as the final fourth and fifth grand draw will take place on December 6th and 20th. Draws will be closed on the 15th of December 2024 while updates and announcements can be recovered on Pepsi PNG’s Facebook and Instagram Page.

The Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG), representing the Green Finance Centre (GFC), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Securities Commission of Papua New Guinea (SCPNG) to establish a thematic bond market and develop the next version of BPNG's Inclusive Green Finance Taxonomy (Green Taxamony). The MoU was established in the presence of Mr. Khwima Nthara, Country Manager for The World Bank Group as he assured the Governor of BPNG of their ongoing support in Port Moresby on November 13th, 2024. He also pointed out that Ms. Elvira Morella’s selection of PNG for her first official visit as IFC Manager highlights the country’s strategic importance to both the IFC and the World Bank Group. Under this collaboration, IFC will assist the GFC in updating the Green Taxonomy, focusing on five key sectors to clarify what qualifies as green and sustainable investment. The MoU also outlines GFC's role in working with IFC to help the Securities Commission of Papua New Guinea establish a Thematic Bond Framework for green, social, sustainability, and sustainability-linked bonds. This framework aims to attract sustainable finance, support climate projects, and help PNG meet its goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, requiring over US$1 billion in the next decade. Governor Elizabeth Genia underscored the importance of the MoU, describing it as a crucial milestone in PNG's efforts to build a sustainable and inclusive financial system. She highlighted that the collaboration with IFC and the Securities Commission is key to positioning PNG as a leader in sustainable finance, helping to achieve the country’s climate and development goals. The initiative aims to create a sustainable capital market that attracts private sector investments, supports local communities, promotes sustainable development, creates green jobs, and reduces PNG’s carbon footprint. The key deliverables, including technical screening criteria for the Green Taxonomy and Thematic Bond Framework, are expected to be finalized by 2025.

Digicel PNG brought true spirit of giving to the Light Bearers Early Childhood Learning Center housing over 150 students for this festive season on Monday 18th November 2024. The non-government Center established in 2017 is a recipient of an open-air classroom built in partnership with Digicel’s Foundation located in Bomana, Port Moresby, with this year marking its seventh year of operation in the community. The program’s official opening and prayer was welcomed by advanced grade student Tina Pele, and a moment of silence honouring the late Mrs. Florence Sam, co-founder and Head Teacher of Light Bearers Early Childhood Learning Center, who passed away in October. The event marked a meaningful visit by Digicel, which brought joy and hope to the students, parents, and teachers. Digicel team, led by Tessa Valace, gifted students Christmas presents and backpacks with school supplies, followed by a mini party with refreshments to celebrate the end of the school year. Lorna McPherson, Senior VP, shared that the joy and smiles of the children during Digicel's visits inspire the staff to in return spread that happiness. She also expressed that holidays are a time for reflection, and Digicel believes in using its resources to positively impact communities, partnering with Light Bearers Early Childhood Learning Center to do so

The creative and well-known local reggae artist Tarvin Toune will mark a milestone in his career as he set to release his first music album this year. The swaggy reggae artist launched his Extended-Play (EP) live at the Cosmopolitan in Port Moresby last night 22nd November 2024 where he performed some of his hit-singles, including 2 new songs in his new album “Raun longlong” and “Hard life”. Despite Toune’s plan to perform live four new songs among his hit-singles during his EP, he had performed only two but stressed the new songs will be available for his listeners on his social media platforms. Toune told PNG HAUSBUNG that he prepared for this moment since last year and now is ready to release his first album after releasing quite a few hit-singles throughout his music career. He emphasized that he shifted his new albums perspective, singing about his related experience in life unlike his previous singles about women and relationships. He added that he would like to voice on existential aspects in life and looks to collaborate with rap artist such as Sprigga Mek and Black Hawks challenging himself to merge rap and reggae. Along his journey to present day, challenges were always around the corner especially financial support. However, Toune stressed his enduring team spirit kept him above water to keeping moving forward. Furthermore, Toune expressed gratitude to his team and the members of Four Bloodz Young Dii, Dr Wiz, Drakes Blunt and Dee Bluntz who were very supportive during his hardship, including their live performance in Cosmopolitan on Friday night. He further thanked the loyal fans, supporters and listeners who are always attentive on his journey. Toune concluded with advice to young upcoming musicians to keep staying focused and not to get sidetracked as this journey will test you and you either give up or keep going.