The Lady Rosemary Haiveta Netball Tournament is set to kick off from August 19-22, earlier than the original dates, to allow selected players to prepare for the National Netball Championships in Lae this September, according to a statement. Gulf Province Netball Association (GPNA) President Marsha Sireh shared that organizing the event has been challenging, especially with funding. “Basically, our biggest hurdle was funding. We have requested assistance from numerous organizations and are hopeful to get some assistance,” Sireh said. Thanks to the Gulf Provincial Sports Trust and the Community Development Office, the tournament is going ahead strong. A total of 19 teams, including squads from Iokea, Miaru, Lese, Karama, Mupa, and Central Kerema, have confirmed their participation. There is still hope that a team from West Kerema will join as well. Sireh also thanked the PNG Sports Foundation and PNG Netball Federation for their technical support in making this event possible.

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) mourns the sudden passing of Fr Simon Dumarinu, a loyal and dedicated member who served the people of Central Bougainville and Papua New Guinea with distinction. Party Leader and NCD Governor Powes Parkop paid tribute, stating, "A loyal stalwart of our Party SDP. Loyal and dedicated to PNG and Bougainville." "A man of peace, reconciliation, and unity." "We salute you, Fr Simon Dumaniru." The party also acknowledged Fr Dumarinu's significant contributions to achieving peace and a unique future for Bougainville and PNG. The National Executives of the Party also expressed their deep sorrow, joining Parkop in sending condolences to Fr Dumarinu's family. Gabriel Kotona, the General Secretary of SDP, in a party statement added, "It is indeed a loss to his immediate family members, his people of Central Bougainville, the AROB, SDP Party, and the nation." The party acknowledged the profound impact Fr Dumarinu had on the community and the nation, honoring his life’s work dedicated to the greater good of humanity. They concluded with a heartfelt wish: "May the Heavens receive a beloved soul who dedicated the course of his life to the greater good of humanity."

Over 160 men have been sentenced to prison for their involvement in the August 6th riots in Maprik, East Sepik Province. On Friday, August 9th, 165 men have been sentenced to three years in prison, and three juveniles to one year, by a Grade 5 court magistrate, according to an update from East Sepik Governor Allan Bird. Police had arrested 189 male suspects. He said police are continuing their investigations and will pursue additional suspects. "The riots in Maprik took police focus away from Angoram and now Police are back in Angoram to pursue the perpetrators of the Kanda atrocities," Bird said. "Investigations are progressing in the crime hotspot on the West coast and as soon as the Kanda suspects are apprehended." "Police will move to the other trouble spots in the province including West Coast, Yangoru Saussia and Wosera Gawi." "The ESPG is very appreciative of the work of the police and the magistrates thus far." "We commend everyone involved." "We look forward to more perpetrators being arrested and brought to justice over the coming weeks." "We assure the people of Sepik that we remain fully committed to supporting our law enforcement agencies so that we can secure a safer environment for our people." Governor Bird also highlighted that police are now focusing on Angoram to address recent crimes and will soon tackle other trouble spots in the province.

The New Ireland Rugby 7’s Autonomy Cup is set to kick off from September 5th to 7th in Kavieng, with 24 teams ready to compete. The New Ireland Provincial Government is the major sponsor, contributing K50, 000 to the event. Charlie Melachon, President of the New Ireland Rugby Union Association, confirmed the tournament dates. He mentioned that the matches will be held at the courthouse oval in Kavieng. “This is the second year for the Rugby 7’s Autonomy Cup,” said Melachon. “It’s had a positive impact on the youths, keeping them away from a life of crime and other negative life choices.” Most Local Level Governments (LLGs) in New Ireland will be represented, with nearly all sending two teams each, with the Murat LLG as the only exception. In addition, four women’s teams from Namatanai, Sentral, Tikana, and Kavieng Urban LLGs will participate. Melachon expressed his gratitude to the New Ireland Provincial Government for their generous support of the three-day tournament. The Autonomy Cup promises to be a major event for the local community, bringing together teams from across the region to celebrate rugby and promote positive youth engagement.

The Opposition Leader, Douglas Tomureisa has also extended his heartfelt condolences to the family and people of Bougainville for the passing away of the late Fr. Simon Dumarinu, the Member for Central Bougainville. The late MP passed away on Friday in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, after a short illness. Echoing sentiments raised by Prime Minister James Marape on Friday, the Opposition Leader also described the late Dumarinu as a 'great voice for his people, and leader that always put his people first'. In a very brief statement on Sunday, August 11, Tomureisa said even though the late MP had sat on the opposite bench (government), he ' always admired his (Dumarinu's) soft-spoken nature and his down-to-earth personality. "He was a great asset for our parliament, and brought a voice of reason and wisdom to the debates pertaining to the people and future of Bougainville, as well as other important matters," the statement read. "I know this will be a tough time for the people of Central Bougainville, but I assure them that during this time of grief, our country and fellow parliamentarians will be keeping them in our thoughts and prayers." The Opposition Leader also acknowledge the late MP's steadfast membership of the Social Democratic Party. and conveyed condolences to party leader and NCD Governor Powes Parkop during this somber time. "On behalf of my family, the people of Kiriwina-Goodenough, and the Opposition, we extend our deepest sympathies to Fr Dumarinu’s family, relatives and all those who are grieving his death." "Our parliament mourns his passing." "May God’s grace be upon Fr Dumarinu." Finschaffen MP and the Opposition's Alternate Prime Minister nominee, Rainbo Paita has also expressed similar sadness, and condolences. Meantime, the body of the late MP Dumarinu travels into Port Moresby today from Bougainville, according Regional Member for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, and Minister for Internal Security, Peter Tsiamalili. In an advise to the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister and all Parliamentary Leaders, and the public in Port Moresby, the arrival is expected at 3pm today, Sunday, August 11th on a Tropic Air charter flight. All who wish to welcome the late MP's casket are advised to be at the Ceremonial Carpark at the Jackson's International Airport. He will be received by the Bougainville Community, and taken to the Funeral Home at Erima, where he will be laid to rest till National Parliament resumes on September 3rd, where Parliament will accord him the appropriate protocols. Tsiamalili said the official haus krai in Port Moresby is at Mr. John Avira's residence at Tokarara, Vaibori Avenue, Badira Street. Announcements of timings will be announced after this afternoon's arrival of the casket and body.

The Central Dabaris continued their impressive run in the Santos Cup PNG National Women’s Competition, securing a dominant 30-0 victory over the Mt Hagen Eagles at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. This marks the Dabaris’ second consecutive win at home, showcasing their growing strength as one of the top contenders in this year’s Santos Cup. The Dabaris started strong, leading 10-0 at halftime. They maintained their momentum throughout the second half, adding 20 more points to secure a comfortable win. The Eagles struggled to match the pace and physicality of the Dabaris, who demonstrated superior teamwork and execution on both ends of the field. The Dabaris’ defense was particularly noteworthy, as they managed to keep the Eagles scoreless for the entire match. The Eagles had eyed a back-to-back win following their dominant 26-4 win over the Rabaul Gurias in the opening round last weekend, but had anticipated that they were up against a very experienced Dabaris side this weekend. Meanwhile, over in Rabaul, the Rabaul Gurias faced off against the Port Moresby Vipers in what turned out to be a hard-fought match at Queen Elizabeth Park. The game was tightly contested, with both teams unable to score in the first half. However, the Gurias managed to break the deadlock in the second half, scoring the only points of the match to secure a narrow 4-0 victory over the Vipers. This win was particularly significant as it was the first-ever Santos Cup match held at the historic Queen Elizabeth Park, marking a milestone for women’s rugby league in the region. These matches were part of a doubleheader event, with the women’s games followed by the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup fixtures. The Santos Cup continues to gain momentum, with strong support from local fans and the ongoing involvement of international partners like PacificAus Sports and the Queensland Rugby League (QRL). Women’s State of Origin Queensland Maroons Head Coach Tahnee Norris has been working closely with the teams, bringing her extensive experience in Australian Rugby League to help elevate the competition. Her involvement is a testament to the commitment of the PNG Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) and its partners to grow women’s rugby league in the country. With the competition heating up, the Santos Cup is proving to be an exciting platform for showcasing the talent and potential of women’s rugby league in Papua New Guinea. As the tournament progresses, teams like the Dabaris and Gurias are setting the standard, while other teams will need to regroup and strategize for the challenges ahead.

Prime Minister James Marape has expressed heartfelt condolences on the sudden passing of Central Bougainville MP, Simon Dumarinu. In a statement, PM Marape praised the late Dumarinu, also known as Father Simon, for his lifelong service to Bougainville as a priest, peacebuilder, and politician. The Prime Minister noted the tragic loss for Central Bougainville, which has now lost two MPs in recent years, offering his thoughts and prayers to the Bougainville during this difficult time. The late MP passed away on Friday, August 9th at the Arawa Hospital, around 2am following a short illness he caught from his small village in Oram in the Panguna district after attending to customary obligations, his office reportedly stated. His body was reportedly placed at Buka General Hospital morgue on Friday, at 6am. Prime Minister Marape highlighted the profound impact of his loss, noting Dumarinu's commitment to the district's development, including his recent work on the Five-Year District Development Plan. "The late Dumarinu wanted development on Central Bougainville, incorporating both the National Government Medium Term Development Plan IV and the Bougainville Integrated Strategic Development Plan 2023–2027," Marape said in his statement. Dumarinu, born on April 4, 1956, played a pivotal role in Bougainville's peace process during the Crisis, contributing to the 1997 end of hostilities and the 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement. Ordained as a priest in 1990 after studies in Fiji and Bomana, he later served as a missionary in the Solomon Islands from 1999 to 2006 before returning to Bougainville as Marist Regional Superior. He was re-elected for a second term to the 11th National Parliament in the 2022 National General Election for the Central Bougainville Open seat as a Social Democratic Party candidate, whose party leader is NCD Governor Powes Parkop. According to the Parliamentary Services, the late Dumarinu was a member of Constitutional Laws and Acts and Subordinate Legislation, Privileges, Communications, Health and Customary Land and Land Reforms Chairman Parliament Committees under the Marape-Rosso cabinet. Prime Minister Marape honored his legacy, expressing hope that Dumarinu's efforts for Central Bougainville's development will continue despite his passing.

The founder of the Papindo Group of Companies, Sir Soekandar Tjandra passed away on Friday, August 9th in Singapore. Papindo started as a retail store outlet in Lae in 1974, and has grown into one of the largest nationally owned retail chain, with supermarkets and department stores across the country. Expressing heartfelt condolences on the passing, Prime Minister James Marape issued a statement on behalf of the people of Papua New Guinea to the family, friends and business associates of the esteemed businessman, Sir Soekandar. Sir Soekandar, together with his wife, Lady Susan Tjandra, founded the Papindo Group of Companies in Lae with its humble beginnings on 7th Street, Lae, as a single retail store in 1974 Its headquarters remain in Lae, providing employment to hundreds of Papua New Guineans. “Sir Soekandar and Lady Susan Tjandra were well-known for their continuous support of the people of Lae City and Papua New Guinea, for which we are all grateful." “Sir Soekandar and Papindo have done so much for the country, and at the same time, have endured senseless violence and looting over the years, the most recent being on January 10, 2024.” “I urge the people of Papua New Guinea to reflect on Sir Soekandar’s contributions to our country and work towards a better future as we prepare to celebrate 50 years of independence — a milestone he will, sadly, not be with us to celebrate." “Thank you, Sir Soekandar, for your many contributions to Papua New Guinea.”

On Friday, August 9th, the Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Peter Guinness, acting Commander for the NCD/Central Divisional Command addressed critical concerns regarding the police-to-population ratio in the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province. Speaking at the NCD/Central Divisional Command parade at the Unagi Oval, he noted that the current ratio in NCD is "one policeman to every 1,300 or 1,400," significantly higher than the United Nations' recommended ratio of "one policeman to 450 people." This disparity, according to the ACP, is particularly troubling given the rapid population growth and urbanization in Port Moresby. He said that in Central Province, the situation is similarly dire, with fewer than 200 police personnel responsible for a population of over 300,000 spread across a vast area. The ACP pointed out the issue of inadequate rural police stations, saying. "The distance between Brown River and Doha Police Station is wide." "We do not have a rural police station situated along the Heritano Highway or the Magi Highway." The ACP further stressed the need for increased police resources and infrastructure, including the creation of three megastations for each of the three electorates in NCD and improvements in barracks accommodation. He urged government to address these deficiencies to ensure effective policing and public safety in both NCD and Central Province.

The Mt. Hagen Eagles women's team is gearing up for their second match in the Santos Cup 2024, with high hopes of securing back-to-back victories. Head Coach Bobby Koke in an interview in Mt. Hagen today, Friday August 9th, expressed confidence in his team's preparation, following their dominant 26-4 win over the Rabaul Gurias in the opening round last weekend. "We started our training on the 15th of July, and the hard work paid off in our first game against the Gurias.” This weekend, the Eagles will face off against the Central Dabaris in Port Moresby. Koke acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting that the Dabaris boast a lineup of experienced players, including former PNG Orchids and national representatives. "We are heading to Port Moresby to play our Round 2 game against Central Dabaris, which is comprised of senior players.” Despite the tough opposition, Koke emphasized that the Eagles have focused on key areas such as set completions and line speed. "We have worked on our small areas like completion of sets. Our line speed is above all.” With five regular rounds and two finals in the Santos Cup season, Koke and his team are determined to build on their strong start and make this weekend another winning one. "We are looking forward to our second win for this season.”

Papua New Guinea has launched a new digital Sponsor Portal that makes work permit and visa applications convenient and easy. The PNG Immigration and Citizenship Service Authority explains that the platform allows employers to submit applications online, improving processing times and customer service. At the launch on Thursday, August 8th at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, the Acting Chief Migration Officer Wellington Navasivu said this will enhance oversight and convenience for businesses as the new system merges work permits and working resident visas into a single digital application. The Sponsor Portal is a web-based interface that allows private sector companies who employ foreign nationals to lodge a work permit and working resident visa in a single digital application. Acting CMO Navasivu explained that businesses with a streamlined process to lodge the combined work permit and employment visa online with a system that directly interfaces with the Immigration's (ICSA) Border Management System or BMS. "Users of the system can input data and pay the necessary Migration Service Fee (MSF) online at the convenience of their office anytime, anywhere, instead of physically visiting an Immigration Office.” The Sponsor Portal speeds up processing and improves customer service by allowing employers to track applications and communicate with ICSA directly. Employers will also get alerts when employee visas are about to expire. The portal will eventually replace the work permit system with a working resident visa, removing the need for a work permit letter and ID card. "This marks a key achievement for ICSA and the government in making it easier to do business," Acting CMO Navasivu said. "The system makes business more efficient, less cumbersome, but profitable, not just for us in terms of money, but time.” “So this is a tool that's part of our innovation, enhancing the power of technology into our business, and Sponsor Portal, for us, is a pathway to achieving all that." "As a little bit of a historic background, the Sponsor Portal, or Weapon Sponsor Portal, started months, months back." "The first announcement was made in August 2023, during our annual inaugural Immigration Conference at the Stanley House." "It took a while until now, almost a year or so” “We made specific announcements or updates, one of which is during the business conference in Brisbane, that these initiatives were announced.” “And we keep regularly updating the clients." "But we've come to the stage where we're not ready to go, following the launch.” "So, the specific points on the Sponsor Portal, and we aim that this process, or the portal will provide a streamlined business process for us, for yourselves and us.” “And it will work, basically, to achieve one thing, streamlining your visa and work permit application process, and further achieving, among others, less processing times, and also easy access for clients to be able to have interface with us through the medium." "One of the benefits is that you are able to import and pay for applications at the comfort of your office, or your home - and now with a smartphone, you can be able to achieve that, but more so, it will significantly improve the processing times and enhance customer experience for yourselves via this system." "The system will also allow for you to communicate, so interact with the office, and you'll be able to have a timely response." "ICSA will just have an oversight, a management oversight, of all the employees on the system, including the alerts and visa expiry timelines." "There are employees who've got big numbers, and we've been doing business with them, but those of you in the room today to witness the launch are really selected to participate in the initial launch," the Acting CMO told those present at the launch. This was before the PNG ICSA IT General Member conducted a step-by-step presentation on how to access the Sponsor Portal system, and how to use the featured systems, as well as conducting a Q & E session to further clarify what the web-based interface entails and how best users can benefit from its services. Selected companies have already started using the Portal, which requires a registration fee of USD25 and an additional USD75 per application. To access the Portal, go on the immigration website www.ica.gov.pg.

New Porgera Limited (NPL) announced in a statement on Thursday, August 8th, a substantial sponsorship for the Enga Mioks Rugby League Club and the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB) Ipatas Cup, totaling K384,467.51. The announcement, made recently in Wabag, highlights NPL's commitment to supporting local sports and fostering community unity. The Enga Mioks, defending champions of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Rugby League Competition, are aiming to lift the trophy once more this season under the principal sponsorship of Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited. Ms. Karo Maha-Lelai, Country Manager of NPL, expressed the company's enthusiasm for the partnership. "As part of our ongoing commitment to Enga Province, New Porgera Limited is proud to announce our sponsorship of the Enga Mioks Rugby League Club," she said. "We recognize the importance of sports in promoting healthy lifestyles, unity, and opportunities for youth." "By supporting the Enga Mioks, we aim to contribute positively to the lives of the players and their respective communities." The sponsorship will see K200,000 allocated to the Enga Mioks Rugby League Club and K184,467.51 dedicated to the NGCB Ipatas Cup, an off-season rugby league competition. The Ipatas Cup is a premier tournament in the country, serving as a scouting platform for grassroots talent and offering players the opportunity to advance to higher levels of competition. The Enga Mioks, renowned for their competitive spirit and grassroots involvement, play a crucial role in promoting sportsmanship and community pride in Enga. With NPL’s support, the team will be better equipped to participate in local tournaments and expand their fan base. Meanwhile, Enga Governor and Patron of the Enga Mioks Rugby League Club, Grand Chief Sir Peter Ipatas, welcomed the sponsorship. "We are delighted to partner with New Porgera Limited in this exciting venture." "This sponsorship marks a significant milestone for the Enga Mioks, the pride of Enga. NPL coming on board is a morale booster for the team as they prepare for the remaining games.”