The Western Provincial Health Authority (WPHA) successfully concluded its 2024 Annual Review Conference and Partnership Meeting on Friday, February 14. The three-day event, hosted by the PNG Sustainable Development Program (PNGSDP) in Balimo, Delta Fly District, was a milestone in collaborative healthcare planning. For the first time, local Officers in Charge (OICs), district health managers, church and private healthcare providers were actively involved in key decision-making processes. This inclusive approach marks a significant shift from previous years when only a select few determined healthcare strategies for the province. The conference focused on the pressing challenges faced by healthcare providers in Western Province, including: Medicine shortages Geographical barriers Infrastructure limitations Human resource constraints Logistical and communication difficulties Healthcare representatives had the opportunity to present their concerns and contribute to identifying solutions for WPHA’s overall planning. The open dialogue fostered intense discussions, scrutiny, and fact-based analysis, providing WPHA with valuable insights into both rural and urban healthcare challenges. Prominent guests and key health partners engaged in discussions to dissect core issues affecting healthcare delivery in the province with the meeting underscored the importance of collaboration, leading to renewed commitments from stakeholders to support WPHA’s mission of delivering quality healthcare for all Western Province residents. By fostering mutual understanding, WPHA aims to develop a comprehensive and inclusive plan to tackle healthcare challenges effectively while the Partners expressed strong interest in addressing these issues, reinforcing their dedication to strengthening healthcare services across the region. Representatives from various organizations attended the meeting, including: PNG Sustainable Development Program Ok Tedi Mining Health Services LBL Western Medicare ECPNG Health Services Catholic Church Health Services PNG Australia Transition to Health Burnet Institute World Vision Callan Services Australian Doctors International Youth with a Mission (YWAM) Strickland Bosavi Foundation Rotarians Against Malaria Council of Women, SFD WPHA remains committed to working alongside its partners to ensure a more effective and diversified healthcare outreach in Western Province. This landmark conference marks a new era of cooperation, paving the way for improved health service delivery in the years ahead.

A woman was found brutally murdered in the early of hours of this morning at Baruni, Port Moresby, after being kidnapped from her home in Rainbow Heights, Watermark Estate. According to the Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police for NCD and Central, Benjamin Turi, the woman was abducted by a group of twenty armed men during the late hours of Valentine’s night and taken to Baruni, where she was raped and murdered at approximately 2 AM. The attackers stormed the estate, tied up the security guards, and forcibly took the woman from her residence. Once they had left, the guards managed to free themselves and immediately alerted the police. Assistant Commissioner Turi condemned the horrific act, stating that the perpetrators had not only violated an innocent woman but had also committed an act of extreme brutality. "This was a horrific and inhumane crime. The suspects will be tracked down and brought to justice. I urge all witnesses with information to come forward and assist police in fast-tracking the investigation." He further revealed that settlers in the Baruni area have been linked to multiple crimes in the past, targeting residents of nearby estates. He warned that with upcoming developments planned for the area, measures need to be taken to ensure the safety of the community. "Many developments will be taking place along that section. All illegal settlers must be evicted before these projects begin." Police investigations are ongoing, and authorities are working on a plan to address the security concerns in the area.

In the world of business, success is often measured by persistence, resilience, and the ability to forge strong partnerships. For Abus Na Kumu, a local business dedicated to bringing fresh, locally sourced produce to Papua New Guineans, the journey has been one of unwavering commitment and hard work. Today, they stand as a beacon of inspiration for other small businesses, having recently announced an exciting collaboration with Hugo Canning Company Limited PNG. Founded by Richard Mark, a 37-year-old entrepreneur from East New Britain and Madang provinces, Abus Na Kumu began as a passion project in late 2017 to 2018. Richard's diverse background includes over a decade of experience in the oil and mining industry, as well as representing Papua New Guinea in rugby union and athletics. But it was his love for food and cooking, that deeply rooted in his upbringing, eventually led him to establish Abus Na Kumu Richard and his team started with modest beginnings, selling food by the roadside while navigating obstacles such as restricted market access and competition from bigger businesses. But despite all these challenges, their dedication and pursuit of excellence helped them earn a strong reputation in the local food industry. Their vision has remained steadfast to deliver fresh, high-quality produce while empowering and sustaining local farmers. Now, with their latest collaboration with Hugo Canning Company, Abus Na Kumu is stepping into a new era of opportunity. This partnership represents more than just business growth, it is a testament to the power of dedication and strategic networking. By working alongside an established company like Hugo Canning, Abus Na Kumu is not only expanding its reach but also demonstrating that local businesses can thrive through meaningful collaborations with larger corporations. "The future is always exciting as we continue to network and position our business with companies native to PNG." That is from Abus Na Kumu shared in their announcement on LinkedIn of their collaboration with Hugo Canning. Their collaboration with Hugo Canning is just the beginning, setting a precedent for other small businesses striving to break barriers and establish themselves in competitive markets. For many aspiring entrepreneurs, the story of Abus Na Kumu serves as a powerful reminder that success does not happen overnight because it requires passion, hard work, and the courage to seek out opportunities. As they continue to grow and forge new partnerships, they are paving the way for other local businesses to dream bigger and reach higher. Abus Na Kumu proves that local businesses, when fueled by determination and vision, can stand shoulder to shoulder with industry giants. Their journey is an inspiring call to action for small businesses across PNG—showing that with perseverance, the possibilities are limitless.

The Minister for ICT and Member for South Bougainville, Timothy Masiu, has condemned derogatory social media remarks against Miss Papua New Guinea, May Torovi Hasola, regarding her skin color and background. Mr. Masiu, a strong advocate for responsible digital behavior, expressed outrage over the attack, calling it an unacceptable reflection of a morally declining society. "These hurtful remarks are not just directed at May and her family but also at all Bougainvilleans and those with Bougainvillean heritage. Such behavior is deplorable, and I challenge those responsible to come forward and publicly justify their actions." He emphasized that Miss Hasola, a courageous young woman, proudly represented the country at the Miss Pacific Pageant in the Solomon Islands. Her dedication and achievements highlighted the unity of Papua New Guinea’s diverse cultures and languages. Mr. Masiu urged the authorities to investigate the source of the malicious comments, emphasizing that all citizens must respect individuals striving to bring pride to the nation in their respective fields. He assured the public that he would collaborate with the Minister for Police to apply cybercrime laws and tracking technology to identify those responsible. He also warned social media users that online abuses are being monitored and will be met with legal consequences. "I strongly denounce this shameful attack and demand an apology. Miss Hasola and her family do not deserve this mistreatment. Her father, a doctor dedicated to saving lives, should not be subjected to such unwarranted criticism. This incident highlights an unsettling decline in our values as a society." As the Member for South Bougainville, Mr. Masiu reaffirmed his immense pride in Miss Hasola’s achievements and wished her continued success and he acknowledged the longstanding excellence of Bougainvillean women in the Miss PNG competition, suggesting that envy might be a driving force behind such derogatory remarks. Miss Hasola’s contributions to the nation remain a source of pride, and Mr. Masiu urged Papua New Guineans to uplift and support their representatives rather than tarnish their efforts with baseless negativity.

PNGFM wishes all its listeners, advertisers, and community a Happy World Radio Day today. Yesterday, the 13th of February, marks World Radio Day, falling a day before Valentine's Day. This year's theme is “Radio and Climate Change”, aiming to advocate for the growing challenge of climate change that the world is facing. Radio is helping by spreading awareness, educating audiences, and encouraging collective action against climate change. World Radio Day was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2012 after being proposed by the Spanish Radio Academy in 2011. The day recognizes the essential role that radio has played in the past and continues to play today in informing, educating, and uniting people worldwide. At PNGFM, the home of Nau FM, Yumi FM, Legend FM, Total Events Company, PNG Haus Bung and MAGIC FACTORY, staff members gathered to celebrate the day with mini office games and a nostalgic look back at 30 years of radio broadcasting in Papua New Guinea. And in Papua New Guinea, radio is more than just entertainment, it is a lifeline of information and communication, reaching even the most remote communities where other media struggle to penetrate. From breaking news and disaster alerts to music, talk shows, and community discussions, radio has been a trusted companion for many households. Historically, radio has played a significant role in shaping modern communication in PNG. Before the rise of television, the internet, and social media, radio was the primary medium for instant news delivery. Unlike newspapers, which were first introduced in the 1920s, radio provided a faster and more interactive way of keeping people informed. The first radio broadcasts in PNG date back to the 1930s, with official public broadcasting taking shape in the 1950s and 1960s and over the decades, FM stations like Nau FM, Yumi FM, and Legend FM have revolutionized the industry, bringing local music, global hits, and real-time conversations into the lives of Papua New Guineans since 1994. As PNGFM celebrates World Radio Day, we acknowledge the listeners, advertisers, and communities who have made radio the dynamic and indispensable medium it is today. PNG HAUSBUNG spoke with one of our household industry names, Yumi FM personality, "KASTY", sharing his thanks to all listeners and advertisers that have supported PNGFM for 30 years. He stated,"Lo markim maus blo mipla olgeta lo PNGFM, mi laik tok bikpla tenku yupla olgeta ol listeners na tu lo ol advertisers blo mipla lo Nau FM, Yumi FM and Legend FM. Em because lo harim na support yupla tsol wer yupla i bin givim lo em i helpim mipla lo achivim 30 years of broadcasting milestone insait lo PNG. So mipla tok bikpla tenkyu tru na Happy World Radio Day!”

The Department of Works & Highways is taking urgent action to restore road access and ensure the safety of travelers along the Ramu Highway in Madang Province after continuous heavy rainfall severely impacted the highway, causing major traffic disruptions and safety concerns. The affected section, between Usino Junction and Jimi Ridge, has suffered extensive damage due to water infiltration into the pavement that has weakened the road structure, leading to vehicles getting stuck in muddy sections or struggling to climb steep inclines, particularly through the rugged Finisterre Range. Travelers have faced long delays, and some freight carriers have been unable to pass, affecting supply chains in the region. To mitigate the situation, the Department activated emergency procedures over the weekend and the KaiaWorks Construction Ltd, a contractor already stationed in the area, was immediately tasked with carrying out urgent repairs. Crews have been working tirelessly to stabilize soft spots, clear debris, and conduct patrol grading to reinforce affected sections. Efforts are being made to restore normal traffic flow as quickly as possible so if the weather conditions remain stable, full access is expected within the next few days. While these emergency measures provide immediate relief, the Department acknowledges the need for a long-term solution to prevent recurring issues. The Ramu Highway is currently under contract for rehabilitation and upgrading, with different sections assigned to reputable contractors: - Waterais Junction to Menia Bridge: Adept Construction Ltd - Menia Bridge to Yamena Bridge: Treaty PNG Ltd - Yamena Bridge to Ono Bridge: JVPNG Ltd _Ono Bridge to Madang Airport Junction: KaiaWorks Ltd Furthermore, the Department is collaborating with the World Bank under the Resilient Transport Projects (RTP) Program to strengthen critical highway sections for a feasibility study to be underway for reconstruction work on the Waterais Junction to Madang Town section, with construction set to begin in 2026. This initiative aims to build climate-resilient roads that can withstand extreme weather conditions and ensure reliable access for all road users in the future. The Department extends its sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused and appreciates the public's patience during this time with the Authorities urging motorists to exercise caution, follow traffic advisories, and cooperate with on-site workers as repairs progress. The commitment remains to not only restore but improve the highway to ensure long-term reliability and safety.

In a dazzling display of culture, intelligence, and grace, Miss Samoa, Litara Loma Leilani Ieremia-Allan, was crowned Miss Pacific Islands 2025 Last night, at Friendship Hall in Honiara, Solomon Islands. The event marked the 36th edition of the prestigious pageant, bringing together eight contestants from across the Pacific region. Miss Ieremia-Allan, 24, captivated the judges and audience with her eloquence and deep commitment to ocean conservation and indigenous rights. Litara Loma Leilani holds a Bachelor of Arts in Pacific Studies and a Postgraduate Certificate in Secondary School Teaching, reflecting her dedication to education and cultural preservation. Her advocacy work includes representing Samoa at international forums, such as COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, where she participated in discussions on environmental issues. Throughout the competition, Miss Ieremia-Allan's talents shone brightly and was awarded Best Interview and Miss Photogenic, underscoring her exceptional communication skills and captivating presence. Her performance resonated with the pageant's theme, "Leadership in Diversity and Adversity," embodying the resilience and unity of Pacific cultures. The first runner-up title was awarded to Miss Tonga, Racheal Guttenbeil, a 27-year-old lawyer and climate advocate. Miss Guttenbeil impressed the judges with her legal acumen and passion for environmental issues, earning her the Best Traditional Wear award. Second runner-up honors went to Miss American Samoa, Pauliana Felise-Vitale, 25, who showcased her dedication to mental health and youth advocacy. Her outstanding performances earned her the Best Talent and Miss Personality awards. The pageant also recognized Miss Papua New Guinea, May Torowi Hasola, with the Best Sarong award, highlighting her elegance and cultural expression. The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant, established in 1987, continues to celebrate the beauty, intelligence, and cultural heritage of Pacific women and this year's event in Honiara not only showcased the diverse talents of its contestants but also emphasized the shared values and unity among Pacific nations. As the newly crowned Miss Pacific Islands 2025, Litara Loma Leilani Ieremia-Allan is set to embark on a journey to promote cultural awareness, environmental conservation, and the empowerment of women across the Pacific region and the world.

In a bid to provide a second chance for secondary education, the Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF) is currently conducting pre-enrolment testing across its Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) centres. With students coming from some of Papua New Guinea’s most remote communities, the initiative reflects a growing demand for accessible and flexible education pathways. KTF operates 13 FODE centres across four provinces in the country and these provinces are Oro, National Capital District (NCD), New Ireland, and Western. Each offering students an opportunity to complete their high school education. Many prospective students, some of whom have been out of school for years, are now stepping forward to take on the challenge of pre-enrolment testing, hoping to secure their place in the program. The journey of KTF’s FODE program began in 2017 with the establishment of Kokoda College, and it was supported by the Australian Government and the public. Since then, KTF has strategically expanded its reach, ensuring that each new centre is equipped to deliver high-quality education sustainably. In 2024, KTF launched five new FODE centres thanks to generous support from donors: Mining giant NEWMONT facilitated the opening of the Silom, Lamasong, and Warangansau FODE centres in New Ireland, While the SIR THEO FOUNDATION and the CANADIAN GOVERNMENT partnered with DAME CAROL KIDU addressing the educational gap in Pari and Taurama. This initiative was particularly crucial as only 2% of Grade 8 students from Pari Village in 2022 progressed to Grade 9, underscoring the critical need for alternative education pathways. As the 2025 registration period nears completion, KTF has recorded over 2,330 prospective students undertaking the pre-enrolment test and while these applicants have yet to be formally accepted, the sheer number highlights the strong desire for education within local communities. For students facing barriers to traditional schooling, KTF’s FODE centres provide a lifeline with the flexible model allows learners to balance education with personal responsibilities while working towards recognized qualifications. Returning students have also seized the opportunity to continue their studies, reaffirming the impact of KTF’s commitment to education. KTF’s FODE initiative stands as a testament to the transformative power of education. By offering second chances, the program empowers individuals to build brighter futures for themselves and their communities. With ongoing support from donors and stakeholders, including SDP, KTF continues to bridge educational gaps, ensuring that no aspiring student is left behind. For those still seeking an opportunity to re-enter the academic path, the KTF FODE centres remain a beacon of hope, proving that it’s never too late to learn and grow.

The Maggi Golden Ticket Promotion to win a share of K500,000 has found its first winner in Gerehu, Port Moresby city. The lucky winner is a woman who discovered a K20,000 Golden Ticket inside her Maggi 2 Minute Noodles packet. For safety reasons, she has chosen to keep her identity private, but she was thrilled to share her excitement with PNG HAUSBUNG under the name 'Mary from Gerehu'. Mary had no idea about the Maggi Golden Ticket Promotion until Friday morning, when she was walking her kids to school in Waigani. As they passed a shop near Boreboa, her children spotted the promotion poster and eagerly pointed it out to her. When she saw the poster and read that the prize pool was K500,000, she jokingly told her kids, "What if I win K50,000 or even K20,000 from this K500,000? That money would really help us with our needs!" Little did she know that luck was on her side as later that day, she decided to buy a 6-pack of Maggi Noodles—something she hadn’t done in a long time since her kids usually preferred other products. That evening, while preparing dinner alone in the kitchen, Mary opened the third packet from the pack. As she tore open the seasoning sachet, she noticed something unusual. It was a Golden Ticket. At first, she thought it was K2,000, but as she looked closer, she counted the zeros again to find it wasn’t K2,000 but it was K20,000. Overcome with shock and excitement, she screamed and ran outside to find her kids. With tears of joy, she hugged them tightly and said, "See, kids? We won! God has seen our struggles, and now He is blessing us. Thank you, God!" Her children jumped with excitement, shouting, "Mummy, we won!" Now, with K20,000 in her hands, Mary is still taking time to process her win before making big decisions. However, she already knows that her first priority is her children—buying them new school uniforms, stationary and covering their school fees. She also expressed her deep gratitude to Nestlé for running this life-changing promotion. From now on, she says she will keep buying Maggi Noodles as a way to show her appreciation for this unexpected blessing.

Hope is the theme for 2025 at La Salle Technical Secondary, and for 17-year-old Ardasha Yehresase, hope is more than just a word, it is the force that drives her forward through life’s most difficult circumstances. Born into a family where both parents have been absent from her everyday life, Ardasha has found strength in hope, using it as a foundation to build her dreams and despite all these challenges, she perseveres, determined to create a future defined by success rather than struggle. A shining academic star, Ardasha was part of last year’s La Salle Tec Sec Grade 10’s that came first in the country National Examination which is a testament to her dedication and resilience. She is the eldest of four siblings, with a mother from Gulf and a father from Sepik. When her parents separated during her primary school years, neither had employment, making it difficult to provide for her. To ease her mother’s burden, she moved in with her grandmother, who became her primary caretaker and the family’s sole provider, relying on a pension inherited from Ardasha’s late grandfather, a former police officer. Despite these circumstances, Ardasha plays an active role in her household, assisting with daily chores and even contributing financially through market-selling and during school holidays, she takes on extra responsibilities to help cover her educational expenses, showing an unwavering commitment to her future. Her dream has always been to become an Accountant. However, recent changes in the school curriculum altered the subject options available to her. Rather than letting this deter her, Ardasha adapted, shifting her focus to the business stream. Now studying History, Economics, and Advanced Math, she remains determined to excel, embracing the evolving academic landscape with resilience. Ardasha’s journey took an unexpected turn when a chance encounter during an exclusive PNG HAUSBUNG Back-to-School interview with La Salle’s principal, Br. Antony. As the journalist was capturing images around the school, Ardasha’s warm and welcoming smile caught his attention. This led to an impromptu conversation, where she shared her story, passion for business studies, and aspirations for the future. When asked about her goals, Ardasha spoke with confidence, declaring her ambition to achieve distinction this term. As academic excellence is a long-standing tradition at La Salle, and she is determined to uphold that legacy and not just for herself, but for her grandmother, who has sacrificed so much for her education. "As long as I have hope and the will to push forward, I know I can make it," she shared with quiet determination. For Ardasha, education is not just a pathway to personal success, but it is the key to securing a better future for her family. She dreams of becoming an accountant, not just for her own fulfillment, but to provide for those who have stood by her side. Through her hard work, perseverance, and the unwavering love of her grandmother, Ardasha is paving the way to becoming a role model for her siblings. Her story is a powerful reminder that challenges can be transformed into opportunities with the right mindset. By staying focused and working tirelessly toward her goals, she embodies the power of HOPE and proving that even in the face of adversity, success is possible. Ardasha Yehresase’s journey is a living testament to La Salle Technical Secondary’s 2025 theme. As she continues to rise above her hardships, her future remains bright. She is proof that no matter the obstacles, hope is never in vain, and God sees every tear of determination, every moment of struggle, and rewards the perseverance of those who dare to keep believing. With each step she takes, Ardasha shows that hope is not just a word but a way of life.

City Pharmacy Medical Laboratory & Supplies (CP MedLab) has strengthened healthcare services in Daru Hospital with the installation and training of a cutting-edge APUS 2 Anaesthetic Machine, replacing the outdated Spacelab unit to ensure safer, more efficient surgeries and enhances patient care. CP MedLab’s lead biomedical technician, John Tanu, spearheaded the installation and training. “The APUS 2 brings precision and reliability to anaesthesia management,” Tanu said. He explained that the machine’s user-friendly features and modern technology allow hospital staff to operate it with confidence and accuracy. The APUS 2 Anaesthetic Machine introduces key enhancements, including an upgraded Soda Lime canister for effortless handling, a digital flowmeter gauge for clearer visibility, an integrated flow sensor for precise monitoring, and a color display screen for better usability. To ensure hospital staff could fully utilize the new system, CP MedLab conducted a comprehensive training program, and five staff members were trained in automatic and manual circuit leak testing, oxygen calibration at 21% and 100%, and backup power management for emergencies. Before this upgrade, many patients required referrals to Port Moresby General Hospital for surgical procedures and now with the APUS 2 in operation, Daru Hospital can handle a broader range of surgeries locally, reducing patient wait times and the burden of long-distance travel for medical care. Dr. Emily Wane, a senior anaesthetist at Daru Hospital, welcomed the new technology. “This machine makes our work more efficient and improves patient safety,” Dr. Wane stated. She emphasized how the intuitive design and improved functionalities streamline anaesthesia delivery, enhancing the overall surgical experience for both doctors and patients. CP MedLab is committed to modernizing medical facilities across Papua New Guinea by recognizing that the Spacelab unit is no longer in production, the company aims to standardize the APUS 2 in hospitals still using outdated models. By continuing to provide innovative medical solutions, CP MedLab is driving positive change in healthcare accessibility and quality, ensuring that more communities receive reliable and advanced medical support.

The PNG Olympic Committee (PNGOC) convened a crucial Games Workshop at the Gateway Hotel recently, drawing together representatives from national sports federations to reflect on past performances, assess the current state of sports in Papua New Guinea, and chart a strategic path forward. With the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau on the horizon, and long-term targets firmly set on Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032, the workshop marked a pivotal shift in the nation’s sports strategy. The emphasis was placed on transitioning from short-term, reactive planning to a more structured and proactive approach. Key focuses included early athlete identification, enhanced high-performance training, and fostering stronger collaboration across all sporting disciplines. The PNGOC’s strategic vision aims to empower both athletes and national federations, encouraging them to take ownership of their development within a unified framework of sporting excellence. The journey towards Palau 2025, LA 2028, and Brisbane 2032 is now underway, with PNGOC steering the course through commitment, collaboration, and meticulous planning. “This workshop is about more than just preparing for upcoming competitions,” said a PNGOC spokesperson. “It’s about building a sustainable system that nurtures our athletes’ potential and solidifies PNG’s presence on the global sporting stage.” As Team PNG embarks on this transformative path, the spirit of national pride and aspiration fuels their quest for long-term success. With strategic planning and unified effort, PNG’s athletes are poised to make their mark on the international arena in the years to come.