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Pacific Media Leaders Agree on Path Forward for Stronger Regional Cooperation

Stevenson Liu
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Pacific Media Leaders Agree on Path Forward for Stronger Regional Cooperation

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – Media leaders from across the Pacific have agreed to work more closely together following discussions at the Pacific Media Partnership Conference (PMPC) 2026 in Port Moresby.

Speaking at the close of the conference in Port Moresby yesterday Wednesday 2nd June, host Kora Nou, Managing Director of the Papua New Guinea National Broadcasting Corporation said the joint communiqué signed by participants was intentionally kept short and focused on practical action.

He said the document reflects a common message heard throughout the conference – the need for more engagement, stronger partnerships, and better coordination among media organizations and development partners in the region.

“We didn’t want it to be just another document,” Nou said. “We wanted something simple that reflects what everyone has been talking about during the conference.”

The communiqué will be made available through the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU) and will guide future discussions between regional media organizations and development partners.

Nou said one of the key priorities will be finding ways to reduce duplication of work and strengthen support for media development across the Pacific.

He thanked the ABU, development partners, and regional media organizations for supporting the conference and helping bring media leaders together.

Looking ahead, Nou said the real work begins after the conference, with further discussions planned in the coming weeks and months to turn the commitments into action.

He also encouraged delegates to continue building relationships and sharing ideas long after returning home.

“The networking and conversations shouldn’t stop here,” he said. “We need to keep talking and working together for the benefit of media across our region.”

The Pacific Media Partnership Conference brought together broadcasters, journalists, media executives, and development partners from around the Pacific to discuss the future of the region’s media industry.

Photo (Front L-R: Sitiveni Halofaki GM TV FBC; Franice Herman, CEO VBTC; Johnson Honimai, CEO SIBC; Natasha  Malaiea, CEO, PCBL; Kora Nou, NBC Managing Director; Sunjeewa Perera, CEO Fiji TV.I

Court Dismisses VT41 Million Claim Against Government

Thompson Marango
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Court Dismisses VT41 Million Claim Against Government

The Supreme Court has dismissed a total claim of more than VT41 million filed by Clarence Ngwele, a Director of Isleno Leasing Company Limited that alleged defamation from the Vanuatu Government.

Ngwele and the second claimant, Isleno Leasing Company Limited based their claim on a 2018 Government appointed Commission of Inquiry (‘COI’) into an aircraft leasing contract between Isleno Leasing Company Limited (‘Isleno’) and Air Vanuatu (Operations) Limited (‘AVOL’).

They alleged that the COI contained defamatory statements about them.

According to the written judgment issued by Justice Viran Trief Firday last week, “They are also alleging that the Minister of Justice’s statements about the COI report were defamatory.

“Finally, they are also alleging that the Defendant owed them a duty of care to ensure the accuracy of the COI findings, and that they have suffered damage as a result of the COI breaching that duty by failing to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation.”

Reliefs sought includes orders for VT25,000,000 general damages for defamation, VT71,516,500 special damages, VT15,000,000 aggravated and punitive damages, costs and any other orders that the Court deems just.

Several issues were identified and dealt with by the court.

On whether or not the claimants have a claim in defamation against the State in respect to the Minister of Justice’s statements, Justice Trief stated that the “State did not publish the Minister’s statements therefore no action in defamation lies against the State”.

The court noted that the statement was published by the Vanuatu Daily Post.

Another important issue was whether or not the COI report contained false and defamatory statements in respect of the Claimants.

Justice Treif ruled that actual statements from the COI report which are alleged to be defamatory were set out in the Claim.

She further stated that is no evidence that the COI members knew that their findings in the COI report were false or that they made the statements in the COI report recklessly, not caring whether the statements were true or false.

The claim was dismissed and the claimants are order to pay the defendant’s cost.

Pacific Media Leaders Urge Real Action on Regional Collaboration

Stevenson Liu
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Pacific Media Leaders Urge Real Action on Regional Collaboration

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea — Media leaders from across the Pacific are calling for less talk and more action when it comes to regional cooperation, warning that competition for funding, content, and broadcast rights continues to hold the industry back.

At the Pacific Media Partnership Conference in Port Moresby, Vanuatu Broadcasting and Television Corporation (VBTC) CEO Francis Herman delivered a frank message, saying Pacific media organisations often make strong commitments at regional meetings but fail to follow through once they return home.

“Everyone is competing for the same space in the region,” he said, reflecting on nearly five decades in the industry. “We come to these meetings, we say all the right things, but then nothing really happens after that.”

“Our bigger brothers and sisters… are they actually helping the smaller ones?” he asked, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by smaller national broadcasters trying to stay afloat.

He pointed out that many broadcasters, especially smaller island stations, struggle to afford costly international sports rights, leaving them dependent on limited regional arrangements for events such as rugby and rugby league.

But football rights, he noted, remain out of reach for most Pacific broadcasters due to high costs.

He also referenced examples such as Super Rugby, where regional coordination has successfully delivered access to major sporting content, arguing that similar models should be expanded.

The call by Mr. Herman was supported by the CEO of SIBC, Johnson Honimai, General Manager TV, FBC, Sitiveni Halofaki, Managing Director of NBC Papua New Guinea, Kora Nou and CEO of Fiji TV Sunjeewa Perera.

In response, the Chief Executive Officer of Pacific Cooperation of Broadcasters Limited, Natasha Malaisea acknowledged that while cooperation already exists in parts of the region, financial and commercial pressures remain a major challenge.

She said organisations must balance supporting regional access with protecting local market sustainability.

“If the region shows real demand, then we can step in and help make it happen,” she said.

In a positive development, she announced that Pacific partners are working together to deliver free-to-air coverage of the Commonwealth Games across the region, including a dedicated Pacific-focused feed.

The two days Pacific Media Partnership Conference 2026 is jointly organized by the Asia Broadcasting Union and the National Broadcasting Commission of Papua New Guinea as the host.

This years conference from the 2nd – 3rd of June carries the Theme: Resilient Voices: Empowering Blue Pacific Media.

Pacific Media Must Build Trust and Resilience in the Digital Age, Says PNG ICT Deputy Secretary

Stevenson Liu
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0
Pacific Media Must Build Trust and Resilience in the Digital Age, Says PNG ICT Deputy Secretary

PORT MORESBY, Papua New Guinea — The future of Pacific media will depend not only on technology but on the decisions made today around trust, governance, skills development, and regional cooperation, according to Papua New Guinea’s Deputy Secretary for the Department of Information and Communication Technology, Russell Woruba.

Speaking at the Pacific Media Partnership Conference in Port Moresby, Mr. Woruba highlighted the importance of building resilient media systems that can adapt to rapid digital transformation while protecting public trust and democratic values.

He said strong legislative and regulatory frameworks are essential to ensure that technological advancement supports innovation without compromising privacy, security, editorial independence, or freedom of expression.

“As technology continues to evolve, governments must develop policies that protect personal data, strengthen cybersecurity, and establish effective digital governance systems,” Mr. Woruba said.

He also warned that the increasing use of artificial intelligence presents new challenges for governments, media organisations, and regulators. According to Mr. Woruba, policies must address transparency in AI-generated content, accountability mechanisms, ethical use of artificial intelligence, and safeguards against misinformation.

During his presentation, Mr. Woruba outlined five strategic pillars that he believes are critical for strengthening media resilience across the Pacific region.

The first is the development of trusted digital infrastructure, including secure digital identity systems, protected data-sharing mechanisms, digital payment platforms, and improved connectivity to ensure reliable access to information and services.

The second pillar focuses on investing in people through digital literacy programmes, journalist upskilling, cybersecurity training, and AI readiness initiatives that will help both media professionals and citizens navigate an increasingly digital world.

He said stronger policy and regulatory frameworks are also needed to protect privacy, enhance cybersecurity, and support the responsible use of emerging technologies.

In addition, Mr. Woruba called for more sustainable media ecosystems through innovative business models, public-private partnerships, funding opportunities, and the production of local content that reflects Pacific cultures, languages, and perspectives.

Regional cooperation, he said, will be equally important. Pacific countries can benefit from sharing best practices, coordinating responses to cyber threats, establishing regional fact-checking networks, and adopting common digital standards.

Mr. Woruba concluded by emphasizing that Digital Public Infrastructure presents a significant opportunity for Pacific nations to create media systems that are trusted, secure, inclusive, and resilient.

“The Pacific has an opportunity not just to adapt to the digital era, but to shape its own model of digital resilience—one that reflects our values, strengthens our institutions, and empowers our people,” he said.

The conference brought together media leaders, policymakers, broadcasters, and digital experts from across the Pacific to discuss the future of media, digital transformation, and regional collaboration in an increasingly connected world.

Agriculture College Joins National University of Vanuatu

Rani Taviti
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Agriculture College Joins National University of Vanuatu

The Vanuatu Agriculture College (VAC) in Santo will officially become the second institution to join the National University of Vanuatu (NUV), marking a significant milestone for higher education in the country.

The announcement was confirmed by NUV Vice-Chancellor Jean-Pierre Nirua during the college’s seventh graduation ceremony held last Friday.

The graduation marked the final ceremony conducted under the management and council of the Vanuatu Agriculture College. From this month, the institution will become the School of Agriculture under the National University of Vanuatu.

Mr Nirua said the move follows the successful integration of the Vanuatu Institute of Teacher Education (VITE) into NUV in 2021.

“The first school that joined NUV was VITE in 2021 and is now the School of Education. They offer degrees to train teachers for primary and secondary schools, allowing students to obtain their qualifications in Vanuatu rather than having to travel overseas. This same plan is now being prepared for the Agriculture College,” he said.

He said the transition would provide local students with greater opportunities to continue their education without needing overseas scholarships.

“If you are interested in continuing your education, the diploma programmes will become diplomas of the National University, which are currently being developed and are expected to be offered next year. Those who graduated today can gain work experience and apply their knowledge while preparing to continue their studies here in Vanuatu,” Mr Nirua said.

A total of 170 students graduated during the ceremony. Graduates received qualifications in a range of programmes including Certificate III and IV in Plant Science, Certificate IV in Agribusiness, Certificate III and IV in Animal Science, Diploma in Agriculture and Agribusiness, Diploma in Agriculture Animal Science, and Diploma in Agriculture Plant Science.

The graduates received their certificates under the final graduation ceremony administered by the Vanuatu Agriculture College Council and Management.

Many of the graduates are already undertaking internships with the Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Forestry, where they are gaining practical experience in the sector.

Vanuatu Boxing Eyes Return After Years of Decline

Adele Willie
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Vanuatu Boxing Eyes Return After Years of Decline

Boxing, one of Vanuatu’s most successful individual sports and a discipline that has carried the country’s name onto the international stage for many years, has experienced a significant decline compared to previous years.

The sport’s return now depends on meeting a number of international requirements set by World Boxing before competitions can resume fully in Vanuatu.

VBTC Sports News spoke with Vanuatu Boxing Association Secretary, Sawia Noel Steven, who explained some of the challenges facing the sport.

“One thing that every country in the world is now being asked to do is affiliate with World Boxing and comply with its requirements, new rules, and competition categories,” Mr Steven said.

He pointed to an experience during the 2023 Pacific Games preparations in Solomon Islands, where Vanuatu’s boxers trained in categories that were later found not to be recognised under the tournament’s World Boxing regulations.

“When we arrived in Solomon Islands, we found out that some of the categories our athletes had trained for were not recognised under the tournament rules. We were informed that only World Boxing categories would be used for competition,” he said.

Mr Steven said bringing boxing back to full operation will require extensive training for coaches and officials to meet international standards.

“We need recognised one-star coaches and trainers from the region to provide training on the new rules and requirements. There are several preparations we must complete before we can be recognised and allowed to organise boxing tournaments again,” he said.

He added that a lack of funding has been one of the biggest obstacles slowing progress.

“The work needed requires funding. We need technical experts to help develop the constitution, update regulations, and ensure everything meets World Boxing standards,” Mr Steven said.

Another key requirement is the inclusion of women in the sport.

“In the past we focused mainly on male boxing, but under the new requirements women must also be included in tournaments and development programmes. Women’s participation is now an important part of what World Boxing expects from member countries,” he said.

The Vanuatu Boxing Association is continuing efforts to meet the necessary requirements with the hope of restoring boxing competitions and strengthening the sport’s future in the country.

Photo supplied.

Pakoa Highlights Need for Stronger Family Responsibility and Cultural Education

Newsroom
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Pakoa Highlights Need for Stronger Family Responsibility and Cultural Education

Human Rights Coalition CEO Anne Pakoa has highlighted the need for stronger family responsibility and cultural education at home, saying this is essential for building respect, peace, and stronger communities in Vanuatu.

Speaking on issues of domestic peace and traditional leadership, Pakoa said responsibility for raising children and teaching values begins within the home and not only through formal or customary dispute systems.

She said parents, grandparents, and extended family members all play a critical role in guiding children and teaching respect before matters escalate to chiefs or formal resolution processes.

“Domestic peace processes must start at home first before it goes to the nakamal,” she said.

Pakoa also highlighted the importance of traditional governance systems, noting the role of chiefs in maintaining order and resolving conflicts within communities.

She said institutions such as the Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs remain an important arm of government in supporting cultural leadership and community stability.

However, she raised concern about a growing gap in traditional knowledge among young people, particularly in urban areas.

She questioned how many children are still learning essential cultural skills and languages, such as weaving, traditional practices, and indigenous languages.

“How many young girls today in Port Vila can weave mats? How many children in Vila or Santo still speak their language? If they cannot, then we are failing,” she said.

Pakoa warned that the loss of cultural knowledge reflects a breakdown in home-based education and responsibility, stressing that families must take greater ownership in preserving identity, respect, and traditional values.

Minister Calls for Stronger Family, Chief Oversight

Newsroom
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Minister Calls for Stronger Family, Chief Oversight

The Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon. Andrew Napuat, has called for stronger involvement from chiefs, pastors, and families in addressing domestic violence and social challenges linked to overseas labour mobility schemes.

Speaking during discussions at Press Klab yesterday on the topic “Faet Long Home Mo Strong Nid Blong Lukluk Bak Long Loa Blong Masket,” the minister said social issues affecting communities cannot be solved by one institution alone.

He stressed that government agencies, churches, chiefs, and communities all have a responsibility to work together to protect families and reduce violence.

The discussion followed concerns raised by a member of the public regarding overseas labour schemes in Vanuatu, particularly workers travelling to Australia and New Zealand under seasonal employment programs.

The speaker questioned whether stronger checks should be introduced before workers travel overseas, including greater involvement from chiefs, pastors, and families in confirming family and marriage situations before approvals are given.

Responding to the concern, Minister Napuat said chiefs and pastors already play an important role in community leadership and should ensure they understand the family situations of individuals before supporting overseas work applications.

“If families are already facing problems at home, then we need to look carefully at how approvals are being given,” he said.

The minister also addressed concerns about domestic violence and firearms legislation, stating that the Police Commissioner will continue reviewing firearm controls in Vanuatu.

He confirmed that government has acknowledged the need to strengthen the Firearms Act and that a review process will be initiated.

Need for “Change of Heart”

Minister Napuat said many of the social issues affecting communities are symptoms of deeper problems within society.

He stressed that while laws and policies are important, real change must also come through stronger values, faith, and community leadership.

“The answer is not only more laws. There must also be a change of heart,” he said.

The minister called on pastors, church leaders, chiefs, and communities to work together in strengthening Christian principles and traditional Melanesian values to help reduce violence and restore respect within families and communities.

Chiefs Urged to Take Stronger Lead in Fight Against Violence

Newsroom
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Chiefs Urged to Take Stronger Lead in Fight Against Violence

Chiefs have been urged to take a stronger leadership role in addressing violence across Vanuatu, during a Press Klab discussion held yesterday under the theme “Faet Long Home Mo Strong Nid Blong Lukluk Bak Long Loa Blong Masket.”

Human Rights Coalition CEO, Anne Pakoa made the call while highlighting the importance of cooperation between traditional leaders, government institutions, police, NGOs, and development partners in addressing all forms of violence in communities.

She said domestic violence, sexual abuse, and emotional violence remain key concerns, with cyber-related abuse and social media attacks also emerging as growing issues.

Pakoa noted that while there has been some progress, including a reported decline in sexual violence cases, emotional violence is increasing significantly.

She emphasized that Vanuatu already has strong legal frameworks, including the Family Protection Act, as well as existing customary governance systems and peace-building structures.

“We already have chiefs’ networks, police systems, laws, and community frameworks in place. What we need now is stronger collaboration and leadership at all levels,” she said.

Pakoa specifically called on chiefs to work closely with police, civil society organisations, and community groups to strengthen prevention and response efforts.

“Chiefs, please take the lead and work together with all stakeholders to help reduce violence in our communities,” she said.

Vanuatu on Alert as Regional Dengue Surge Raises Concerns

Newsroom
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Vanuatu on Alert as Regional Dengue Surge Raises Concerns

The Ministry of Health is urging public to remain vigilant as dengue cases continue to rise across the Pacific region, with health authorities closely monitoring a recent increase in local cases on Efate.

Although no dengue outbreak has been declared in Vanuatu, officials say the country remains at risk due to active outbreaks and ongoing transmission in neighboring Pacific nations, combined with regular regional travel.

From EpiWeek 01 to EpiWeek 19 this year, eight dengue cases have been recorded in Vanuatu, mainly on Efate. According to the Ministry of Health, 88 percent of the cases were reported from the Pango Area Council, while the remaining cases were detected in Port Vila.

Health investigations revealed that some of the infections are epidemiologically linked, while several patients had recently travelled to Fiji within the dengue incubation period. This raised concerns about imported infections and possible local transmission.

The Ministry said most of the reported cases involved women, with the majority aged over 26 years old. However, No hospitalizations or deaths have been reported.

The warning comes as several Pacific Island countries battle worsening dengue situations.

New Caledonia is currently facing a major dengue outbreak with more than 1,700 cases and 53 hospitalizations reported since January. Samoa continues to record widespread transmission involving multiple dengue virus strains, while Tonga remains under an active outbreak declared in April this year. Wallis and Futuna are also reporting localized transmission.

Health officials say the regional spread highlights the growing risk for Vanuatu, especially with frequent travel between Pacific countries.

Dengue is spread by infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti, which is common throughout tropical regions including Vanuatu.

The Ministry noted that the Wolbachia mosquito program introduced in Port Vila has successfully reduced the ability of many mosquitoes to spread dengue. However, officials now suspect another mosquito species — Aedes albopictus — could also be contributing to transmission.

Symptoms of dengue usually appear between four and ten days after a mosquito bite and include fever, nausea, vomiting, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, pain behind the eyes, and rash.

Health authorities are also warning the public to watch for severe symptoms such as intense stomach pain, repeated vomiting, or bleeding from the nose and gums, which require immediate medical attention.

While there is no specific cure for dengue, doctors advise patients to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and use Paracetamol for fever and pain relief. The Ministry strongly warns against taking aspirin or anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.

The Ministry of Health is continuing surveillance, case investigations, mosquito control activities, and community awareness campaigns while calling on communities, schools, churches, and businesses to help eliminate mosquito breeding sites.

Officials stress that preventing dengue will require collective action from the public before transmission increases further.

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