PNG Fashion Week 2026: APEC House in Port Moresby hosted the opening of PNG Fashion Week 2026, with a theme linking fashion to business, culture, tourism, jobs and education, plus runway showcases and a Pacific Fashion Summit/Markets. Independence & local leadership: Milne Bay’s Alotau marked 51 years with calls for Indigenous communities to take ownership of land, resources and local business; in Enga’s Kasi ward, Independence Day celebrations continued despite conflict and funding gaps, with traditional dances and unity messages. Education & culture institutions: The National Cultural Commission marked Independence with new uniforms and highlighted work supporting community cultural centres and local music/creative arts. Community safety: PM Marape praised leaders in Hela and Southern Highlands for removing illegal firearms through surrender efforts, aiming to make communities safer. City management: NCDC urged stronger municipal systems and service delivery as Port Moresby enters its next growth phase. Teacher pay clarification: TSC acting chair Maini Mike Ugaia rejected claims of a premature teachers’ pay rise, saying any changes depend on DPM approval. Sports pathway: PNG Chiefs outlined a national pathway plan to develop young rugby league talent alongside education and vocational training. Health & HIV context (regional): Fiji’s HIV crisis coverage highlighted “bluetoothing”/needle-sharing risks and the role of poverty, education and stigma in driving outbreaks. Water support for schools: Australia-backed water deliveries refilled tanks at St Charles Lwanga Secondary School in Port Moresby during El Niño rationing. Financial integrity: Bank of PNG issued a formal warning to Bank South Pacific over alleged anti-money laundering/counter-terrorist financing failures.