Five men will face court to defend the charges against them after being released yesterday, charges in relation to the looting of a cash machine in Waigani on 20th January. Commissioner Manning after his recent reappointed stressed the release was due to the unacceptable administrative shortcoming that are being resolved as part of ongoing reforms in the NCD/Central Command. “This situation is unacceptable and my directives to NCD command are clear.” “The court has to follow its process and the RPNGC takes responsibility for the factors contributing to this situation, but the accused should not be back in the community.” “In a time, the NCD/Central police command was an effective policing beacon but has been left to decline by operational command in recent years.” “Reforms to operational effectiveness are continuing in the NCD/Central Police Command to end shortcomings which have developed after years of decaying on the ground leadership.” “Transport problems prevented the suspect form the court proceedings in Waigani, they were held on remand in Bomana Prison.” “They’ve been advised that they will be charged and arrested in relation for their involvement in the looting on 10th January this year,” said Commissioner Manning. Court facility in Bomana is currently not being used for court, forcing transport to be provided dependent on court cases loads. Transportation of prisoners is one among several issues that plague the NCD/Central Command over the last three years. Many cases under remand involve desperate individuals that will use any means to escape custody. Commissioner Manning stressed directives have been addressed for the immediate strengthening of systems by the NCD/Central Command to ensure prisoners can be transported in a secure manner and effective judicial systems are encouraged. “Major changes have been carried out to bring the NCD/Command back on track, with new current operation leaders in the command can resolve these critical issues.” “All procedural proceedings can be heard at the Bomana court facility in the future which will facilitate an easier prisoner transportation.” “The focus of police will continue to secure transportation of prisoners, and the highest level of accountability for those responsible for the delivery of community policing services in our nation’s capital, until this matter is properly resolved,” said Commissioner Manning.

Police Commissioner David Manning will serve another four years in his current role. His reappointment, in a gazetted National Executive Decision, was affected on Tuesday following Governor General Sir Bob Dadae signing Mr Manning’s employment contract at Government House, Konedobu, NCD. Manning has made leaps in boosting upskilling of police personnel, resource police infrastructure, and improving senior police commands in the country to build up policing capacity, amongst other achievements since taking office. The signing was witnessed by Taies Sansan, Secretary for the Department of Personnel Management. Other senior public servants whose employment contracts were also signed and witnessed as heads of departments and government statutory organizations include Samuel Penias as Finance Secretary and Koney Samuel as Secretary National Planning & Monitoring Secretary. Both will serve a period of four years in this appointment, with Mr Penias term of contract being effective on and from 5th December 2023. The other four, whose employment contracts were signed include, Mr. Leo Gaula Mapmani as Provincial Administrator of West New Britain Provincial Government for a period of four years; Mr. Dennis Bagelo as Director General for the Office of Libraries and Archives for a period of four years; Mr. Richard Baia as Chief Executive Officer of the Manam Resettlement Authority for a period of three years; and Mr. Robin Calistus as Chief Executive Officer of Lae City Authority for a period of three years.

In response to mounting concerns over persistent issues with the Government's payroll system, Prime Minister James Marape has declared commitment in addressing the root causes and holding accountable those responsible for the disruptions, particularly affecting PNG Defense Force personnel. He said definitive action will soon be taken, now that investigations are almost finished into the January 10 riots that beset the Nation’s Capital, which raised much concern wider consequences for stability and national security. He warned of severe penalties, such as possible suspension or termination from government employment, on those held accountable for the system failings. "The Government is resolute in ensuring our systems operate with the efficiency and effectiveness our citizens deserve.” "There is no tolerance for individuals failing to meet their responsibilities, jeopardizing national stability." Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Treasury Matters Ian Ling-Stuckey, Minister for Defense Dr. Billy Joseph, Minister of Correctional Service Joe Kuli, and Chief Secretary to Government Ivan Pomaleu were among the important officials present at the recent National Security Council meeting at Sir Manasupe House that focused on the issue. Echoing Prime Minister Marape's remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Rosso emphasized the need to penalize individuals accountable for the payroll system's shortcomings. He made comparisons between the events of January 10 and the current problems with the Defense Department's payroll. Chief Secretary to the Government Ivan Pomaleu has been given the task of looking into and fixing the payroll system malfunctions. He will work with the appropriate ministries and agencies to make sure that complete fixes are put in place to stop such interruptions in the future. The government is steadfast in its efforts to rebuild public trust in its processes and maintain accountability for the well-being of all citizens, particularly those occupying vital positions in the Defense Force. This commitment will not waver while the investigations continue.

The University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) has established strict instructions in advance of the much anticipated 69th Graduation Ceremony, to ensure a smooth and respectable occasion. It is recommended that graduates follow these guidelines in order to minimize any disruptions during the ceremonies. Authorities from UPNG state that in order to verify their eligibility for graduation, all graduates must pay their K260 graduation fees by Tuesday, April 16, 2024. You risk being removed from the ceremony if you don't follow this rule. The official website of the university or the executive officer in charge of each school can provide verification of the list of qualified graduates, together with their individual school IDs. Graduates are also asked to adhere to the university's dress code, which is established in its laws. The outfit, which was painstakingly designed to match the seriousness of the event, consists of a two-piece Adonis Blue gown made of high-quality fabric. Every gown will have a hood that is unique to it, with colours and measurements that correspond to the graduate's program and school. The UPNG Drill Hall will host rehearsals for the event on April 17 and 18, commencing promptly at 9:00 a.m. It is recommended that graduates attend the rehearsals that are arranged by their individual institutions in order to become acquainted with the procedures. The graduation ceremony will take place over the course of five days, starting at 9:30 a.m. on April 22 and ending on April 26. The following is the schedule. - Monday, April 22nd: School of Medicine and Health Sciences - Tuesday, April 23rd: School of Law - Wednesday, April 24th: School of Natural and Physical Sciences - Thursday, April 25th: School of Humanities and Social Sciences - Friday, April 26th: School of Business and Public Policy Graduates must pay any outstanding fees, fines, and charges in accordance with university policies before the graduation ceremony starts. Graduates are also in charge of making their own travel and lodging arrangements for the occasion. The institution has made it clear that anyone using drugs or alcohol while under the influence will not be allowed to attend the event. In a similar vein, wearing the permitted clothing is strictly enforced and non-compliant. Only the University's Public Relations and Event Management Office will sell approved graduation gown attire.

The NCDC Port Moresby Vipers Rugby league Club Head Trainer, Nelson Stone reignites his family Legacy in the Port Moresby Vipers Club with hopes to improve culture and Standard despite entangled challenges that lie ahead. The former Pacific Games (Sprinter) Gold Medallist, former Hela Wigman, Mendi Muruks Trainer and Fiji Bulikulas Trainer, Nelson Stone this year accepted the Head Trainer position for the POM Vipers and for good reason. The Stone family men line, father Jamuga Stone (Former Viper’s Header Trainer) and Late Brother Andrew Stone (Former PNG Orchids Coach and Viper’s HT) had a growing history in the Port Moresby Vipers Club and Nelson aims to continue the family legacy. Only working closely with highlands region clubs, Nelson felt it’s only fair to reignite the legacy and carry the torch as the next in the Stone family to contribute to the club as the POM Vipers Head Trainer to keep the family legacy alive, stepping into the Southern region for the sake of his late and loved elder brother Andrew Stone who played a significant role of companionship in his life growing up. The strong relationship with his late brother Andrew Stone drew him to reignite the family legacy with the Viper’s club. This is the encouragement behind his decision, and Stone aims to follow through to the end with action. Trainer Stone told PNG HAUSBUNG that with the twelve weeks of hard grind for the team and finding balance in management, we can overcome any challenge. Furthermore, Stone concluded that with all the challenges ahead he won’t be alone to face them he has the support from Charlie Wabo (Head Coach) and Atte Bina Wabo (Assistant Trainer) and top manager Ronnie Tittie and consultant Mong Tavol.

James Marape, the Prime Minister and Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, met recently to discuss the status of the Papua LNG project. On this occasion, according to a statement, Patrick Pouyanné reaffirmed to the Prime Minister that TotalEnergies, operator of the project and its international partners ExxonMobil, Santos, JX Nippon, are fully committed to Papua LNG. In particular, he shared the high interest of several LNG buyers for off-taking LNG from Papua LNG due to its strategic location close to key Asian markets. He also informed the Prime Minister that after receiving the EPC offers, it appears that the project will need to keep working with contractors to obtain commercially viable EPC contracts and requires more work to reach Final Investment Decision (FID). In that view, the project will review the structure of some packages and open the competition to an enlarged panel of Asian contractors. As a consequence, FID of Papua LNG project is now expected in 2025. Furthermore, the Prime Minister and Pouyanné agreed that this slight delay would not affect the early works planned in Papua New Guinea in 2024 and that the project will maintain its full support to local population of Gulf Province. This demonstrates the commitment of TotalEnergies to the well-being of the people of Papua New Guinea. Meanwhile, Patrick Pouyanné announced that TotalEnergies intends to drill the first deepwater exploration well on the PPL 576 license in 2025.

James Timping, the Headmaster of Bubia Primary School, recently disclosed that the school is undergoing preparations to transition into a junior high school, as promised by the Provincial education department. However, this transition is not without its challenges, particularly in terms of infrastructure and funding. Timping revealed that the school's Board of Management has tasked them with spearheading the development of infrastructure necessary for the anticipated junior high school status. To facilitate this, the school has engaged in discussions with parents, resulting in a collective decision to contribute K100 per student towards the construction of a four-in-one building that will be annexed to the existing structure. The Headmaster expressed optimism regarding the progress, stating that the new building is intended to accommodate the anticipated four grade 9 classes for the upcoming academic year. Despite not having received official funding yet for the junior high school status, parents have pledged their support through the K100 contribution, indicating a strong commitment to the school's growth and development. Timping clarified that while the initial deadline for the K100 contribution was set for the end of March, an extension is being considered due to financial constraints faced by some parents. Nevertheless, he emphasized the school's gratitude for the overwhelming support received from both parents and the surrounding community. The proposed construction project is estimated to cost approximately K800,000, with funding expected to be a joint effort between the school's Board of Management and the parents. This collaborative approach underscores the community's dedication to providing quality education and infrastructure for the students of Bubia Primary School as they embark on this new educational phase.

Scans have confirmed Cowboys centre Zac Laybutt suffered a torn ACL in Sunday's win over the Gold Coast Titans. The 22-year-old will have surgery in the coming weeks and will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2024 season. The Titans lost Kieran Foran to an ankle injury in the first half at Cbus Super Stadium. "My ankle got caught under my own player. Hopefully the damage isn't too bad," Foran said post-match.  "It feels alright now but I just couldn't get it going and we decided to take the cautious approach with it." The Roosters will be without skipper James Tedesco and halfback Sam Walker for their Round 6 clash with the Knights after both were deemed Category 1 HIA following Friday's loss to the Bulldogs. The 22-year-old will have surgery in the coming weeks and will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2024 season. The Titans lost Kieran Foran to an ankle injury in the first half at Cbus Super Stadium. "My ankle got caught under my own player. Hopefully the damage isn't too bad," Foran said post-match. "It feels alright now but I just couldn't get it going and we decided to take the cautious approach with it." The Roosters will be without skipper James Tedesco and halfback Sam Walker for their Round 6 clash with the Knights after both were deemed Category 1 HIA following Friday's loss to the Bulldogs. Source: NRL.Com

PNG’s Defense Secretary Hari John Akipe has thanked Australia for the provision of a 100-men accommodation facility at Moem Barracks, East Sepik, built by the Australian government through funding under the Australia-PNG Defence Cooperation Program. The facility, handed over to the PNG Defence Force recently represents a significant long-term investment in strengthening the PNGDF, highlighting the enduring friendship between the two nations. Speaking on behalf of Secretary Akipe, and the PNG Defence organization at the handover ceremony, Deputy Defense Secretary Simon Tunapai said this gesture marks another chapter in the historic partnership between PNG and Australia, exemplifying ongoing support in enhancing defence capabilities and infrastructure. “It was here, sixty-five (65) years ago, that the Royal Australian Engineers Construction Troops landed to clear the land and construct the infrastructure we see around us.” “It is here again, we see Australia’s hand in friendship, and family to rehabilitate a critical asset, a single quarter 100 men quarters for the PNGDF.” “The people of Papua New Guinea, particularly men and women of the PNG Defence Force, would like to thank the people of Australia, and Australian Defence Forces through the Defence Co-operation Program for supporting with this valuable infrastructure.” “Your continued support as well with other key infrastructure and capabilities since pre-independence is a testament of our dynamic and evolving relationship.”

PNG is still deliberating on China’s offer to provide security aid. China offered in January to assist PNG’s police force with training, equipment, and surveillance technology following the riots that beset the nation’s capital. Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko says PNG is still holding initial talks on China’s proposal. He maintained that PNG views China a friend, and its biggest trading and economic partner, but highlighted PNG’s sovereignty in keeping balanced relations with international partners. The minister pointed this out in Manila where he recently had bilateral talks with his Philippine counterpart, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, where both nations expressed a commitment to enhancing economic ties, particularly in agriculture and fisheries. Both nations also emphasized the importance of upholding international law notably the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Minister Tkatchenko’s remarks refer to China’s expansion into the West Philippine Sea/ South China Sea, following Mr Manola's updates on recent challenges faced by the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea. According to international news agency Reuters, tensions between China and the Philippines are over maritime confrontations in the South China Sea, as both countries assert their territorial claims in the highly strategic waters. The Philippines sees this as a security violation by China in breach of the 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, which said China's expansive claims had no legal basis. The Philippines has the backing of its traditional ally, the US, and now PNG has thrown support on ensuring international laws are kept. In a statement, Minister Tkatchenko said PNG does not see China as an ‘enemy’ but is supporting the Philippines in advocacy for the international community to follow the ‘rule of law’ in the West Philippine Sea, “From what is happening in your country, the Philippines, we have to observe international law, which is very important (as) sovereignty of all countries is important and must be respected.” As PNG considers China’s security aid offer, Minister Tkachenko stressed that PNG still maintains relations with traditional security partners – the US, Australia, and New Zealand. “For Papua New Guinea, our foreign policy is ‘Friend to all, enemy to none’ (and) we try and balance the understanding between all countries we deal with.” “(While) we respect the Philippines, that relationship with Australia, and many others, at the end of the day, we (PNG) don’t see China as an enemy.” “We see it (China) as a partner to help develop our country, and for the good of China as well.” “China is one of Papua New Guinea’s biggest trading and economic trading partners.” As to the security aid offer, China in recent times has been providing similar security support to a few Pacific Island countries, prompting concerns also from the US and Australia over China’s expanding influence. In 2011, Fiji signed a police cooperation agreement with China when Fiji was under military rule, but now Fiji’s new Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who has favored closer ties with Australia, New Zealand, and the U.S., has said he wants to terminate the agreement because it wasn’t consistent with Fiji’s democracy. Under the policing pact, Fijian police officers undertook training in China, Chinese officers had regular short-term deployments in Fiji and China donated equipment and surveillance technology such as drones. It was China’s most extensive security cooperation with a Pacific Island country until it signed a secretive security pact with the Solomon Islands in 2022. Fiji will continue police cooperation with China but won’t have Chinese officers stationed inside its force, a Fijian government minister said, following a review of security relations that highlighted the Pacific Island country’s balancing act between economic reliance on China and security ties to the U.S. and its allies. China, over several decades, has become a substantial source of trade, infrastructure, and aid for developing Pacific Island countries as it seeks to isolate Taiwan diplomatically and gain allies or leverage in global institutions. Its inroads with Pacific Island nations have caused concern for countries such as Australia and the United States who see the region as vital to their security and defence. Recently, Tonga’s prime minister said he’s open to Beijing’s help with security support when Tonga hosts a major regional leaders’ summit, again raising concerns in the United States as it strives to counter China’s growing influence. Tonga’s Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni said there was nothing to fear from China’s offer to help Tonga host leaders of the 18-member Pacific Islands Forum in August, despite the United States urging regional nations not to strike security pacts with Beijing. “There’s no reason to be concerned. China is offering to assist with the hosting of the foreign leaders’ meeting,” Sovaleni told reporters in the Tongan capital Nukuʻalofa. “If it’s training and if the (Tonga) police deem it to be necessary, of course, we will take up the offer,” Sovaleni added, addressing an Australian government fear that authoritarian Chinese policing methods could take hold in the Pacific. Sovaleni said China may be providing police motorcycles and other vehicles to support security for the regional leaders’ summit that rotates annually between member nations. Apart from the security aid offer, China has been a big development partner, in terms of infrastructure and other key sectors in PNG.

The Port Moresby Viper Rugby Club set their sight on the 2024 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup season. The Vipers have undergone heavy development training sessions and preseason to maximize their efforts in preparations for their first DIGICEL-EXXONMOBIL CUP Round one next week against the Goroka Lahanis. In preparation, the Vipers 12 weeks hard grind training was led by the Vipers Head Trainor Nelson Stone. The former Hela Wigman Trainer and Pacific Games Gold Medallist. stressed the team has endured hard grind the past eleven (11) weeks and the team has been trimmed down to the final 13 men team and interchanges that is yet to be confirmed. Trainer Stone stressed though there were challenges during the early development stages in the club, it was part of the learning process. However, it was not an option to entertain challenges but to overcome with efficient and productive management. Also acknowledging the former PNG International and current Pom Vipers Head Coach Charlie Wabo positive impact who assists in encouraging and promoting effective training development sessions for the club. “Coach Wabo’s experience and knowledge has been a tremendous positive impact to the preparation of the team and will continue to motivate the team to exercise discipline and perform well,” said Stone. Coach Stone remains firm despite challenges, focusing on his duty to prepare the team for its rugby season and applying his own regiment in his level of authority to have control and produce results. Furthermore, he stressed he is slowly implementing appropriate initiatives in areas that need attention to help prosper efficiency and results. Promoting high standards of preparation and structure in the team to improve and advance the mental and physical capacity of the players. Embracing unity through applying appropriate social communication skills, cultural virtue, and discipline. Especially in the attitude, as according to Stone it plays an important role in all aspects of life sportsman or not. Stone concluded with the trim down of the 17 men has been predicted but yet to be confirmed. “We new and improve backline and a boosting forward pack, the vipers will surely bring an exciting opening round 1 against the Goroka Lahanis.” Stone hopes for a triumph as he acknowledges other teams to have also trained hard for round 1. However, Stone remains confident in the development progress and awaits game day to witness the hard work speak for itself and to determine the team’s next step into the season.

The Lae Tennis Club witnessed incredible pairings in Round 2 of their ongoing tournament, which set the stage for even more excitement in Round 3. The matchups were a frenzy of backhands, forehands, and fierce combat. The players in Levels A and B demonstrated their skill on the court in the most recent games, which included outstanding talent and sportsmanship throughout all divisions. Division A saw Bismark Maritime dominate the opposition, winning both of their games against Express Freight Management to take a commanding lead (EFM). Not to be outdone, Boroko Motors defeated Papindo Trading in fiercely contested games to demonstrate their strength. Fans were gripped throughout the suspenseful tiebreaker in the Levels 3/4 match between Boroko Motors and Papindo Trading, which resulted in an exciting 10-8 victory for Boroko Motors. In the meantime, Division B saw just as intense competition. Chemica secured the overall victory for the evening with a win in the Levels 1/2 match, but Trans Pacific Piling secured the victory in their Levels 3/4 encounter. In a similar vein, Paradise Garments demonstrated their supremacy by defeating Trukai Industries and winning with a higher total game point total. The highlights of the event were the amazing performances by the young players, who were also permanent players. Players like L.J., Chris, Irene, Bianca, Stacy, Willy, Emmanuel, and Cassandra made significant contributions to their respective teams, demonstrating their commitment and talent throughout the matches. Three juniors from the Lae Tennis Club, L.J., Willy, and Cassandra, added to the excitement by showcasing their skills in tune-up doubles matches prior to leaving for Fiji over the Easter weekend to represent Papua New Guinea at the West Pacific Regional Championships. Their triumph in these games was a fitting farewell as they got ready to play internationally. The Lae Tennis Club used the competition as an opportunity to express gratitude to their team sponsors, whose assistance makes such events possible. The club also thanked other sponsors for their contributions to prizes, trophies, venue setups, and other things. Additionally, items provided by Vodafone and Solar Solutions for a charity lottery held on May 5 during the Grand Finals were thanked. The Junior Development Program will receive all raffle earnings, which will help send young athletes to compete in Port Moresby. Meanwhile, Lae Tennis Club is expected to host another thrilling round of tennis action in Round 3, which is sure to create anticipation as the event moves on.