In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — Tuvalu backs UN methane push, Calls for fossil fuel phase-out
2.PACIFIC — Micronesia backs binding global methane agreement after El Niño fish kill
3. PNG/SOL — Big Melanesian Brother: Wale reaffirms PNG Partnership
4. MARSH — Heine, Adeang hold talks on Regional Priorities During Majuro Visit
5 SOL — Solomon Islands records 25 new HIV cases, total rises to 104
6. PNG — El-Nino to continue until mid-next year: PNG Met Official
7. GUAM — Guam education system mulls school consolidations amid sinking enrollment
8. FIJI — SODELPA weighs General Voters’ Wing ahead of next election
9. PACNEWS BIZ — South Pacific Group Ministers celebrate progress and renew commitment to regional unity
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Guam power customers to pay additional US$58 in fuel surcharge effective 01 July
11. PACNEWS BIZ — Two more years to get off grey list, says PNG treasurer
12. PACNEWS BIZ — Seasonal workers schemes helping Bougainvilleans
13. PACNEWS BIZ — Tonga Development Bank launches first ATM network
14. PACNEWS BIZ — Thirty women graduate to strengthen Samoa’s border security
15. PACNEWS BIZ — Key Palau reef fish found vulnerable during spawning
16. PACNEWS IN FOCUS — Loyalist surge in New Caledonia, but Congress remains balanced
17. PACNEWS DIGEST — Pacific warehouse teams exchange skills and ideas inside Australia’s humanitarian warehouse
PAC – METHANE PUSH: PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Tuvalu backs UN methane push, Calls for fossil fuel phase-out
FUNAFUTI, 29 JUNE 2026 (PACNEWS) — Tuvalu has endorsed the United Nations Secretary-General’s call for global methane action, calling for an urgent phase-out of fossil fuels and pledging to increase the focus on methane solutions when it co-chairs the Global Conference Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels in 2027.
Minister of Home Affairs, Climate Change and Environment Maina Vakafua Talia said methane is a key driver of climate change and requires urgent global action.
“Tuvalu welcomes and strongly endorses the UN Secretary-General’s call for global methane action. Methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas that drives rapid near-term warming, making it a critical target for slowing the pace and severity of climate change,” he said in a statement.
The Minister said Tuvalu will strengthen its focus on methane action as the next co-chair of the Global Conference Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels in 2027.
“There is an urgent need for methane action in any and all relevant forums, which is why we intend to deepen the focus on methane solutions as the next co-chair of the Global Conference Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels in 2027. Tuvalu is answering the call from the UNSG and ready to step up the action on methane and invites the Santa Marta Process countries to actively participate with substantial engagement on this issue,” he said.
Talia said Tuvalu is concerned about methane emissions from the fossil fuel industry and coal mining.
“Tuvalu is particularly concerned about methane discharged from the fossil fuel industry through oil and gas extraction, pumping, and transport of fuels. Furthermore, coal mining, including active and abandoned mines, is a major source of methane. We are calling for an urgent phase out of the extraction and use of fossil fuels and a rapid transition to renewable energy,” he said.
He said climate change poses an existential threat to Tuvalu.
“For Tuvalu, as one of the most climate vulnerable countries in the world, every fraction of a degree of warming threatens our land, our lives, and our future. Methane action is the best near-term prevention of temperature rise but also underutilized. It’s like having a remedy but not using it to cure a deadly illness. Methane action can help limit peak global temperatures, reduce the risk of exceeding the 1.5°C goal, and avoid the most severe and irreversible climate impacts,” Talia said.
The Minister also called for stronger international mechanisms to ensure commitments are implemented.
“We believe that strengthened global implementation architecture is necessary to ensure countries and companies turn their promises to real action. An architecture that builds capacity, accelerates technology deployment, unlocks investment at scale, and ensures transparent accountability for outcomes, not simply good intentions,” said Talia…. PACNEWS
PAC- METHANE AGREEMENT: PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Micronesia backs binding global methane agreement after El Niño fish kill
PONPHEI, 29 JUNE 2026 (PACNEWS) — The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has backed the United Nations Secretary-General’s call for urgent methane cuts and called for a binding global agreement to rapidly reduce emissions, saying the world is moving “rapidly in the wrong direction.”
FSM Secretary of Environment, Climate Change, and Emergency Management Florian Yatilman said Micronesia supports stronger global action on methane.
“The Federated States of Micronesia applauds the UN Secretary-General’s urgent call to cut methane emissions,” he said in a statement.
Yatilman said Micronesia has supported ambitious methane action since becoming one of the first signatories to the Global Methane Pledge.
“As one of the very first signatories of the Global Methane Pledge, we have and will continue to champion ambitious methane action and push at every opportunity for greater ambition,” he said.
Yatilman said the first signs of El Niño had already caused significant damage across the country’s islands.
“This month, the first signs of El Niño devastated communities in our archipelago. The waters heated and turned black, and tens of thousands of the reef fish we depend on for food suffocated and washed up on our shores. Scientists tell us it is only the beginning.
For small island states at the forefront of climate impacts, methane action is not a secondary solution. It is a primary, immediate answer to the crisis we are experiencing first had. It is the safety of our people, the integrity of our land and livelihoods, and the security of our future generations,” Yatilman stressed.
Yatilman said methane reductions offer an immediate way to slow global warming, but global action has not kept pace.
“A fast-acting cure to lower the planet’s fever exists, but the world is failing to use it.
“Methane reductions can prevent warming and reduce the exponential impacts that threaten islanders lives and millions of others worldwide. Instead of reducing emissions, this year methane gas leakage in the energy sector reached a new high, as have global temperatures.
The world is moving rapidly in the wrong direction! As the Secretary General has clearly explained, voluntary measures are failing to deliver. More serious global action is needed, or it could be too late. This is why we support the call for a binding agreement on methane to rapidly and radically reduce emissions by ending the waste of fossil gas,” he emphasised.
He said delaying action on methane is unacceptable.
“It is unconscionable to delay action on methane when millions are in danger but the solutions are in our hands,” Yatilman said…. PACNEWS
SOL/PNG – DIPLOMACY: INDEPTH SOLOMONS PACNEWS 3: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Big Melanesian Brother: Wale reaffirms PNG partnership
PORT MORESBY, 29 JUNE 2026 (INDEPTH SOLOMONS) — Prime Minister Matthew Wale has reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ commitment to strengthening ties with close neighbours Papua New Guinea.
He made the call after he met Papua New Guinea Governor-General, Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae, in Port Moresby last week.
During the meeting, Governor-General Dadae congratulated Wale on his recent election as Prime Minister and reaffirmed the longstanding relationship between the two Melanesian neighbours.
He said the partnership between Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands is built on deep cultural links and generations of close people-to-people connections.
Prime Minister Wale thanked the Governor-General for the warm welcome extended to him and his delegation, describing Papua New Guinea as Solomon Islands’ “big Melanesian brother” and a key regional partner.
Wale also acknowledged Papua New Guinea’s progress since gaining independence and said the country continues to play an important leadership role in the Pacific.
During the meeting, Wale also briefed Governor-General Dadae on his responsibilities as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum and discussed regional cooperation on issues affecting Pacific Island nations.
The courtesy call formed part of Wale’s official programme in Papua New Guinea, where he is expected to hold bilateral discussions aimed at further strengthening cooperation between the two countries.
Wale and his delegation flew on a U.S aircraft that’s usually made available to Pacific leaders requesting urgent diplomatic travel.
This was Wale’s third overseas trip since his election in May this year. His last two trips were to Australia and New Zealand…. PACNEWS
MARSH – DIPLOMACY: MARSHALL ISLANDS GOVT/NAURU GOVT PACNEWS 3: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Heine, Adeang hold talks on regional priorities during Majuro Visit
MAJURO, 29 JUNE 2026 (MARSHALL ISLANDS GOVT/NAURU GOVT) — Marshall Islands President Dr Hilda Heine has met with Nauru President David Adeang in Majuro, where the two leaders discussed regional priorities and cooperation on the sidelines of the Forum Economic Ministers Meeting (FEMM).
President Adeang paid a courtesy visit to President Heine at the Cabinet Conference Room at the International Convention Centre during his visit to the Marshall Islands for the regional meeting.
President Heine thanked President Adeang for travelling to Majuro to participate in FEMM, saying his attendance reflected a commitment to regional cooperation and engagement on issues affecting Pacific Island countries.
During the meeting, President Heine congratulated President Adeang and the people of Naoero on the restoration of the country’s traditional name, describing the decision as an affirmation of cultural identity, heritage and national self-determination.
She also acknowledged Naoero’s contribution towards the construction of the new Nitijela Building, saying it reflected the strong relationship and mutual support between the Marshall Islands and Naoero.
The leaders also discussed regional priorities, including public health and wellness, sustainable ocean and transportation partnerships, energy security, renewable energy development, climate finance and regional connectivity.
President Heine thanked Naoero for its participation in recent regional meetings and stressed the importance of continued cooperation to strengthen economic resilience and support sustainable development across the Pacific.
As Chair of the Micronesian Islands Forum, President Heine invited Naoero to participate in the 28th Micronesian Islands Forum in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia, and reaffirmed the Marshall Islands’ commitment to regional collaboration through Micronesian-led initiatives.
President Heine also acknowledged the support provided by Naoero, including assistance from Naoero’s Honorary Consul to Germany, Martin Heyne, during the recent Berlin Climate Mobility Forum.
She said she looked forward to continuing engagement with President Adeang and other Pacific leaders at the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau.
Meanwhile, President Adeang led a delegation to the 2026 Forum Economic Ministers Meeting (FEMM) in Majuro last week, joining government officials, organisation leaders and development partners in discussions centred on the impact of global shocks and urgent regional resilience to mitigate the direct effects of external conflicts.
The FEMM also focused on advancing initiatives such as the Pacific Roadmap for Economic Development (PRED), the Climate Finance Access and Mobilisation Strategy (CFAMS), and the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF).
Under the theme, ‘Economic and Financial Inclusion in the Pacific’ representatives addressed ongoing regional economic crisis including the costs of food, fuel, logistics challenges, and everyday necessities affecting the most vulnerable.
Recognising that efforts must be made to mitigate NCDs, President Adeang highlighted the growing interest and participation in physical activity and exercise in Naoero, and the country’s investment in community sporting facilities.
One of the major shortfalls in addressing climate change issues is the lack of funding.
President Adeang reiterated that “climate finance mechanisms have proven themselves notoriously inaccessible” setting high bars for countries least responsible for climate change, to be eligible for support.
Noting that countries cannot wait for climate finance, the President suggested the practical option to financially compensate the spent budgets of small countries for their efforts already done such as protecting their roads and cemeteries along the coast.
The FEMM 2026 outcomes document, finalised 24 June, articulates advancing the priorities of the roadmap on economic development and supporting the implementation of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent…. PACNEWS
SOL – SOLOMON STAR: SOLOMON STAR PACNEWS 3: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Solomon Islands records 25 new HIV cases, total rises to 104
HONIARA, 29 JUNE 2026 (SOLOMON STAR) — The Solomon Islands has recorded 25 new HIV cases as of the end of May 2026, bringing the country’s cumulative total to 104 confirmed cases, according to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS).
The latest figures mark an increase from the 79 HIV cases announced by MHMS on 01 December 2025, during the country’s observance of World AIDS Day.
Health authorities are now urging the public to take HIV seriously, stressing that the virus can affect anyone and that knowing one’s HIV status is a vital step in protecting both personal health and the wellbeing of others.
The ministry continues to encourage people across the country to get tested, know their status, and seek treatment early if required.
“Knowing your HIV status is an important step in protecting your health and the health of those you care about,” MHMS said in its latest public update.
Health officials say early testing allows for early treatment and better access to care and support services, helping people living with HIV lead long, healthy and fulfilling lives.
The ministry is also calling on communities to help reduce stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS, noting that fear, shame, and misinformation can discourage people from seeking testing and treatment.
With the number of confirmed cases now rising to 104, MHMS says strengthening awareness, expanding access to HIV testing, and ensuring treatment and support remain available will be critical in the country’s ongoing response to the disease…. PACNEWS
PNG – WEATHER WATCH: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS 3: Mon 29 Jun 2026
El-Nino to continue until mid-next year: PNG Met Official
PORT MORESBY, 29 JUNE 2026 (THE NATIONAL) — The impact of El-Niño is expected to continue to the middle of next year, unlike when it hit in 2015-2016, according to Papua New Guinea National Weather Service assistant director Kasis Inape.
“We have been monitoring the weather patterns since 1997 to better understand the changes in our country so that we are able to warn or inform the Government, partners, provinces and districts how to address this crisis,” he said.
“We’ve invested in a lot of resources and building capacities so we are able to have models that give us realistic predictions.”
Inape explained that their study showed that the New Guinea Island weather behaves differently compared to other provinces. They receive rainfall and become more wet during El-Niño.
They are predicting that around April or May next year, “we’ll experience the heaviest impact” until the rain begins to show that the El-Niño has passed.
“Most of the model and signs are saying this will be a strong El-Niño and that is because of the added impacts of the climate change in the oceans,” Inape said.
He said the last three years had been the warmest on record.
“Signs shown in 2016 are similar to what’s happening in Jiwaka, Western Highlands and Eastern Highlands. Provinces that will also be affected are Milne Bay, Central, Morobe, Madang and East Sepik.”
A post-drought report by the Australian and PNG governments showed that water levels were not restored in the Highlands, Mamose and atolls of the New Guinea Islands and Southern until after 2016.
It said many communities reported that the salinity of wells remained a problem, as a result of no rain.
It added: “While food gardens were beginning to recover, harvests were of poorer quality and lower quantities than prior to the drought.
“Food gardens on smaller islands were slow to recover,” he said…. PACNEWS
GUAM – EDUCATION: PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS 3: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Guam education system mulls school consolidations amid sinking enrollment
HAGATNA, 29 JUNE 2026 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — Guam’s education officials are pushing for consolidation of some schools to cut costs amid a continuing decline in public-school enrolment.
Maintaining the Guam Department of Education’s current infrastructure and personnel costs vis-a-vis low enrollment numbers is not fiscally sensible, according to Judith Guthertz, the board’s chair.
However, shutting down school facilities is out of the question, she said.
“The idea of closure of schools is not an option for us at this time and I don’t think it needs to be an option later if we’re smart about it and we can develop partnerships and a joint usage of some of the space to accommodate community needs,” Guthertz said, testifying before Senator Vincent A.V. Borja’s education committee this week
“That could help the school maintain the facility even with lower enrollment,” she added.
Guthertz noted that when Education Superintendent Judith T. Won Pat presented her findings and enrolment data, she came up with the same solution “in terms of how we handle this when we have under-enrollment.”
“If you look at the statistics on Guam, the birth rate is declining. Families are having fewer children. That’s contributing to the smaller enrollments in our school,” Guthertz said.
“There’s no way to ignore the fact that this trend of lower enrollment is going to occur and has occurred not just in the south but in other parts of the island,” she added.
People have also left the island, and that trend started during the pandemic, she said.
Between 10 and 17 June alone, Guam’s enrollment dropped from 21,817 to 21,600, hence a decrease of 217, according to Jackie Quitugua, deputy superintendent.
The education department aims to make public schools ready by July 10, with classes set to start on 05 August.
While enrolment is declining, the department is also facing a personnel deficit.
With less than six weeks to go before school year begins, the department is scrambling to fill 240 vacant positions, including teaching positions that, if left unfilled, would leave thousands of students without teachers.
Quitugua told the committee that the Guam district identified a total of 203 faculty vacancies—108 in middle and high schools, 95 in elementary schools and 37 in special education specialists.
The department is currently recruiting and preparing for a job fair in a bid to fill the personnel gap.
Dr Riza Liwag, deputy director of Special Education, said the program still needs Individualised Education Programme coordinators, occupational therapists, physical therapists, audiologists, bus drivers, social workers, speech therapists and language pathologists.
While SPED currently has 223 adult support aides, Liwag said there are 156 additional requests that the programme is unable to fund.
She said the department continues to face challenges in recruiting qualified service providers and relies on contracted providers to supplement its SPED workforce.
Regarding the potential closure or consolidation of schools, Won Pat said it is unlikely to occur during this school year, as the department requires additional time to examine the option.
Won Pat said the Committee on Maximizing District Resources evaluated concrete and temporary school facilities, studied their capacities and whether they can continue to be used or consolidated with other schools.
She said the committee looked into the costs associated with faculty, utilities, enrollment, grounds maintenance, custodial work and vendor contracts, among others.
“When that task force started this whole conversation, they actually went out and met with the mayors, they met with some parents, they went out and staged several town hall meetings,” Won Pat said.
She said the task force presented a four-phase recommendation: Phase 1, pertains to the recent closure of two schools; Phases 2 to 4, refer to the possible closure of schools in the southern, central and northern parts of Guam.
Won Pat said the department will form a group that will develop a policy to determine the conditions and prerequisites for consolidation or closure.
“We want to set that policy up to present to the board,” she added.
Guthertz said it was very clear to the board that “we weren’t going to entertain any action to close any school at this time and even looking to the future. It would not happen without complete justification…. PACNEWS
FIJI – POLITICS: FIJI SUN PACNEWS 3: Mon 29 Jun 2026
SODELPA weighs General Voters’ Wing ahead of next election
SUVA, 29 JUNE 2026 (FIJI SUN) — A proposal to establish a General Voters’ Wing within the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) has been put forward as the party seeks to broaden representation ahead of Fiji’s next General Election.
The proposal was presented at SODELPA’s annual general meeting last Saturday by party member Paul Peters Hazelman, who said the new wing would provide a platform for minority communities whose voices had long been overlooked in Fiji’s political landscape.
Hazelman said the proposal would not alter the party’s commitment to indigenous issues but would strengthen its vision of becoming a more inclusive political party.
“We need a General Voters’ Wing,” Hazelman told party members.
“We are a party that is more inclusive, not sacrificing what we stand for, but we have to be inclusive.”
He said the proposed wing would represent communities including Asians, Chinese, Filipinos and Pacific Islanders, giving them an opportunity to contribute to the party’s policies and direction.
‘We are not asking for land or anything.
“All we are asking is to have a voice on your platform and that this party, going into the next election, represents everyone and looks after everyone’s interests.”
Party leader Aseri Radrodro said SODELPA’s constitution already reflected its commitment to being an inclusive party while continuing to advocate for indigenous issues.
“Our constitution is reflecting that we are an inclusive party, and at the same time we stand for our indigenous issues,” Radrodro said.
Hazelman also urged members to put aside past differences and work together as the party prepares for the next General Election.
The proposal will require approval at a future general meeting before a General Voters’ Wing can be formally established under the party’s constitution.
Meanwhile, Soldepa’s youngest proposed candidate for the next General Election says she may lack political experience but believes she can bring hope and fresh ideas to Fiji’s next generation of leaders.
AnneMary Raduva, 22, an eco-activist, made the remarks after being unveiled as one of the party’s proposed candidates during SODELPA’s Annual General Conference at Suvavou Village on Saturday.
Fighting back tears after the announcement, Raduva described her selection as both an honour and a responsibility.
“I may not have the experience. I may not have the qualifications, but I bring hope,” she said.
Raduva said her ambition was not simply to contest the election but to give young people and minority communities a stronger voice in shaping Fiji’s future.
“I want to move Fiji forward with practical solutions that make a real difference in people’s lives,” she said.
She acknowledged she was still learning but believed determination, compassion and fresh ideas were just as important as years of political experience.
Raduva said one of the first people she planned to speak to after the announcement was her mother to discuss how they could better serve young people, grassroots communities and ordinary families.
If elected, she said she would be interested in serving in several ministerial portfolios, with a particular interest in Defence after previously serving as a Youth Mock Parliamentarian for that portfolio.
Asked why she was drawn to Defence, Raduva said protecting Fiji and its people was a priority.
“Why not? Our greatest asset is our people. We have a responsibility to protect every Fijian and make sure our country remains safe and peaceful.”
As one of the youngest members of SODELPA’s proposed election team, Raduva said she hoped her message of hope, service and fresh thinking would resonate with voters seeking a new generation of leaders.
Raduva first gained public attention at the age of 14 when she launched the Say No to Balloon Release campaign. She later organised beach clean-ups and mangrove planting projects in Suva.
At 15, she spoke at an International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) forum in Suva, attended the United Nations Climate Summit in New York and became the first Fijian to receive a notable mention from United States non-profit Action for Nature.
Her platform centres on youth representation, environmental protection and practical, community-focused governance…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
PAC – FISHERIES: MMMR PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 29 Jun 2026
South Pacific Group Ministers celebrate progress and renew commitment to regional unity
WELLINGTON, 29 JUNE 2026 (MMR) — Ministers from the South Pacific Group (SPG) gathered today in Wellington to reflect on the Group’s achievements and collective successes. Convening in the margins of the Forum Fisheries’ Ministerial Meeting in New Zealand, members reaffirmed shared commitment to regional solidarity and cooperation in the sustainable management of South Pacific oceanic fisheries resources.
The gathering highlighted the important role in the South Pacific Group continues to play in advancing the interests of Pacific Island countries in the southern longline fishery, through collective action, strategic cooperation, and a unified voice on fisheries issues of regional and international importance.
The South Pacific Group is a coalition of five Pacific Island countries – Cook Islands, Fiji, Niue, Samoa, and Tonga. They collaborate to maximise the benefits from sustainable oceanic fisheries resources, through collective management and cooperation promoting shared rights, national interests, and regional priorities in tuna and other oceanic fisheries.
Ministers reflected on significant milestones achieved since the establishment of the Group’s strategic framework, including:
*The signing of the South Pacific Group Memorandum of Understanding in 2022;
*Adoption of the South Pacific Group Strategy 2023–2028;
*Agreement on the South Pacific Group’s internal allocation for South Pacific Albacore (2024);
*Adoption of the interim South Pacific Albacore Target Reference Point proposal at the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC21);
Agreement on an FFA internal allocation for South Pacific Albacore (2025); and
Adoption of the WCPFC Conservation and Management Measure 2025-01 establishing a Management Procedure for South Pacific Albacore (WCPFC22).
Ministers acknowledged that these achievements demonstrate the value of unity and cooperation among SPG countries in shaping the future management of one of the region’s most important fisheries resources.
The SPG has maintained a strategic focus on leveraging fishing rights to ensure sustainable tuna fisheries, pursuing opportunities to improve economic and social benefits from fisheries resources, and strengthening institutional and technical capacity to support effective fisheries management.
Looking ahead, Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to advancing key priorities for 2026–2027, including securing a fair and equitable allocation framework for South Pacific Albacore across the area of application of the South Pacific Albacore Management Procedure; adopting the South Pacific Albacore Management Procedure Implementation Measure at WCPFC23; advancing full electronic reporting in the southern longline fishery in SPG countries; developing the Zone Based Management Agreement; and contributing to broader harvest strategy work, including the Bigeye Management Procedure.
Ministers emphasised the strength of the South Pacific Group lies in its ability to work together on issues of common interest and to advocate collectively for outcomes that benefit Pacific communities, economies, and future generations.
The gathering provided an opportunity not only to celebrate past successes, but also to strengthen relationships among member countries and reaffirm a shared vision for sustainable fisheries, regional prosperity, and continued Pacific unity…. PACNEWS
GUAM – FUEL SURCHARGE: PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Guam power customers to pay additional US$58 in fuel surcharge effective 01 July
HAGATNA, 29 JUNE 2026 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — Beginning 01 July, Guam’s ratepayers will see an in increase in their electricity bill following the Public Utilities Commission’s approval of fuel recovery charge adjustment petitioned by the Guam Power Authority.
The fuel surcharge, otherwise known a levelised energy adjustment clause, will increase from US$0.135840 per kilowatt-hour to US$0.194150 per kilowatt-hour.
For an average residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month, the approved adjustment will result in an estimated increase of approximately US$58 per month.
The new rate applies through 31 January 2027.
GPA said the fuel surgcharge increase, supported by the Consolidated Commission on Utilities, was “in response to extraordinary fuel cost increases tied to global fuel market volatility and impacts to fuel supply.”
“This adjustment is not intended to recover the full projected fuel under-recovery at once,” said John M. Benavente, GPA general manager.
“It is intended to keep that balance from growing while helping ensure GPA can continue purchasing fuel and spread fuel cost impacts over time, rather than asking customers to absorb a larger increase all at once,” he added.
According to a press release from GPA, there were several options for addressing the fuel under-recovery.
“A full recovery approach would have required a higher LEAC rate and a larger monthly bill increase for the average customer,” GPA said.
The utility agency defended its petition to raise the fuel surcharge, saying that retaining the current rate would increase under-recovery and create greater pressure on GPA’s ability to purchase fuel and increasing the risk of larger impacts in future LEAC periods.
“The approved adjustment reflects the middle approach: bringing fuel recovery closer to actual costs while spreading fuel cost impacts over time,” it said.
GPA said that even with the approved adjustment, the combined base and fuel surcharge rates will be approximately 32 cents per kilowatt-hour for average residential customers and remain among the lowest rates in the region based on GPA’s regional rate comparison chart as of 15 May.
Fuel shipment costs have increased sharply since the recent geopolitical
conflicts. GPA’s March fuel cost shipment was at US$26.2 million, while the April shipment increased to about US$53.5 million.
GPA said its most recent fuel shipment cost for May is about US$37.9 million, with continuing pressure on fuel recovery and cash flow.
“GPA has worked to lessen the impact of global fuel volatility by holding the LEAC steady since March, managing fuel purchases carefully, evaluating alternative fuel supply options, applying available Ukudu liquidated damages to GPA’s fuel under-recovery balance, relying on the Ukudu power plant’s efficiency and using available solar energy to reduce the amount of fuel needed to serve customers,” GPA said.
GPA said the PUC review noted that additional measures were implemented by the agency to to mitigate the impact of fuel cost increase, such as applying Ukudu liquidated damages directly to the LEAC under-recovery balance and securing approval for a short-term line of credit to help support fuel purchases during the current period of elevated fuel prices.
GPA gave assurance that the surcharge increase would not be used for payroll, debt service, capital projects or general operations.
The LEAC is the mechanism used to recover the actual cost of fuel needed to generate electricity for customers.
As Guam moves into warmer months, GPA encourages customers to look for simple ways to reduce daily energy use, especially from air conditioning and water heating…. PACNEWS
PNG – GREY LISTINGS: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Two more years to get off grey list, says PNG treasurer
PORT MORESBY, 29 JUNE 2026 (THE NATIONAL) — Papua New Guinea needs two more years of hard work to get off the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, according to Treasury Minister Ian Ling-Stuckey.
It still has 18 of the 75 recommendations from a year ago left to complete. This was confirmed after the National Coordination Committee (NCC) met recently to review the progress.
Of the 18 recommended actions on PNG’s roadmap, five must be completed by the end of September this year.
They include completing the national risk assessment, legal person risk assessment, and amending the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act, the Criminal Code Act, and the United Nations Sanctions Act – all 2015 laws.
Ling-Stuckey said the two risk assessments had been discussed during a technical workshop in Mt Hagen this week.
Drafting of the three amendment Bills is well advanced, and a roadmap has been set for spending an extra K13.5 million (US$3 million) allocated in the 2026 Budget.
The NCC includes heads of 23 agencies from the law and justice and financial sectors.
It is chaired by the Treasurer, with the secretary for Justice and the Bank of PNG governor as co-chairs.
Ling-Stuckey said only 19 of the 23 agencies sent representatives to the meeting, and just 10 at agency head level.
“This is not acceptable as is a major contributing factor why PNG is where it is,” he said.
The meeting also reviewed a recent visit by the FATF high level group, which met the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Speaker, Police Commissioner, and Secretary for Justice and the NCC.
“The main challenge facing PNG will be to provide the statistical evidence of a significant increase in prosecuted cases of money laundering, and evidence on the collection of funds from the proceeds of crime,” Ling-Stuckey said.
He said the National Executive Council would get an update next week, with the three Bills expected to go before Parliament in the August sitting…. PACNEWS
B/VILLE – SEASONA WORKERS: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Seasonal workers schemes helping Bougainvilleans
BUKA, 29 JUNE 2026 (THE NATIONAL) — The Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (Palm) scheme and the New Zealand Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme are helping Bougainvilleans travel overseas for work.
So far, 136 Bougainvilleans have been sent to Australia and New Zealand under the schemes to earn money for their families and learn new skills.
The Autonomous Region of Bougainville (Arob) recruitment hub is one of several in Papua New Guinea run by the PNG Labour Mobility Unit.
Since it started in 2022, the hub has been managed under a special deal with the Australia and New Zealand-funded Bougainville partnership programme, working together with the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG).
The hub will later be handed over to the ABG to run on its own.
A two-year memorandum of understanding (MoU) was recently signed with the ABG’s Department of Commerce, Trade, Industry and Economic Development, and Regional Member for Bougainville Peter Tsiamalili Jnr to continue the partnership.
Under the MoU, the office of the Regional Member will give K1 million (US$220,000) and the ABG will add K600,000(US$136,000) to fund the programme with support from Australia and New Zealand.
The programmne is already changing lives, as money workers send home is helping start small businesses and boosting Bougainville’s economy.
Dean Magihe, a worker from Buka, used his earnings to repair the local church and school, and to start his rental property business.
“My participation in the labour mobility programme has not only benefited me personally but has also enabled me to give back to my community in meaningful ways,” he said…. PACNEWS
TONGA – BANK: TALANOAOTONGA PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Tonga Development Bank launches first ATM network
NUKU’ALOFA, 29 JUNE 2026 (TALANOAOTONGA) — The Tonga Development Bank (TDB) has launched its first automated teller machine (ATM) network, marking a significant step in the bank’s efforts to modernise banking services and improve access to financial services across the Kingdom.
TDB said the milestone follows years of planning and investment aimed at making banking more accessible and supporting financial inclusion for communities throughout Tonga.
Two ATMs are now operational in Nuku’alofa. The first is located at the bank’s head office on Siosateki Tonga Veikune road, while the second is at the TDB FWC Office on Vaha’akolo Road. Customers can currently use the machines for cash withdrawals, with additional ATMs expected to be commissioned progressively across the bank’s branch network.
The launch was attended by Their Royal Highnesses Princess Nanasipau’u Eliana Tuku’aho and Princess Salote Mafile’o Pilolevu Tuku’aho, as well as Prime Minister and Acting Minister for Finance Lord Fakafanua.
TDB described the project as part of its vision for a more connected and digitally enabled banking system. The bank has increasingly expanded its digital offerings in recent years, including the introduction of Visa debit cards and other modern banking services.
The move comes as financial institutions across the Pacific continue investing in digital banking infrastructure and electronic payment systems. In Tonga, commercial banks have recently upgraded payment technologies and expanded electronic banking services as demand for convenient and secure transactions grows.
TDB said further announcements will be made as additional ATM locations become operational…. PACNEWS
SAMOA – BORDER SECURITY: TALAMUA MEDIA PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Thirty women graduates to strengthen Samoa’s border security
APIA, 29 JUNE 2026 (TALAMUA MEDIA) —- Women from Samoa’s national security agencies have come together this week to enhance their skills in tackling border security and transnational crime.
Thirty emerging women leaders from Samoa’s Customs, Immigration, Police, Corrections, and Biosecurity agencies graduated from the Pacific Women’s Professional Development Programme (PWPDP).
The PWPDP is an initiative led by the Australian Border Force and delivered in partnership with RMIT University.
Inspector Michelle Bond from the Australian Defence Force highlighted the importance of leadership in the security sector.
She emphasised that leadership is a choice, not just a rank or title.
“Leadership is what we decide to do every day in how we think, act, and serve others,” she said.
It aims to boost leadership skills among women in the Pacific region, helping them prepare for operational and security challenges.
By investing in women leaders, the program is shaping the future of Samoa’s national security.
Participants learned how to work together more effectively to prevent illegal activities such as drug trafficking, cybercrime, human trafficking, and the smuggling of illegal goods.
Their leadership will help create a more coordinated approach to counter these threats, protecting Samoa and the wider Pacific region.
Michelle pointed out that national security challenges are becoming more complex.
“They require leaders who are flexible and willing to step up when it matters most.”
She encouraged the graduates to return to their workplaces with confidence and to lead by example, building trust and respect with their colleagues.
She also urged them to create opportunities for women who will follow in their footsteps.
“Choose to build partnerships based on trust and respect, and choose to open doors for others,” Michelle said.
Michelle praised RMIT University and its staff for their dedication in facilitating the programme behind the scenes.
Their support has played a key role in preparing these women to take on leadership roles in national security…. PACNEWS
PAC – FISHERIES: PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Sun 28 Jun 2026
Key Palau reef fish found vulnerable during spawning
KOROR, 29 JUNE 2026 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — New research on one of Palau’s important reef fishery species could help guide future decisions on catch limits, size restrictions and spawning protections.
Researchers found that the longnose emperor, a commercially important reef fish known scientifically as Lethrinus olivaceus, grows faster, lives shorter lives and reaches smaller sizes in Palau than populations studied in Japan, Australia and French Polynesia.
The findings are based on an analysis of 528 fish collected from markets, fishers and targeted sampling efforts between 2017 and 2025. Scientists say the data provide one of the most comprehensive looks yet at the species’ growth, lifespan and reproductive biology in Palau.
“Accurate life-history information is essential for conducting data-limited stock assessments of coral reef fishes, yet this information is often lacking in small-scale fisheries,” the researchers wrote.
The study found that longnose emperors in Palau reached a maximum observed age of 14 years. Females reached maturity at an estimated fork length of 43.2 centimeters, or about 17 inches, and at approximately 3.5 years of age.
Researchers also found evidence that the species changes sex during its lifetime, transitioning from female to male. Males were generally larger and older than females. The average length of males was 53.5 centimeters, compared with 45.8 centimeters for females. Males averaged 7.4 years old, while females averaged 4.3 years old.
No immature males were observed in the samples.
The study identified four fish that contained both female and male reproductive tissues, providing evidence that the species is a functional protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning it matures first as a female before transitioning to a male later in life.
Scientists found that reproductively active females were present throughout the year, with evidence of active spawning during March through June, August, September, November and December.
The species is known to form spawning aggregations around the new moon, when large numbers of fish gather to reproduce. Researchers noted that such behavior can make fish more vulnerable to fishing pressure because fishers may know when and where aggregations occur.
“Evidence of year-round spawning and functional protogynous hermaphroditism highlights potential vulnerability to fishing pressure, particularly where individuals may be selectively targeted during spawning aggregations,” the authors wrote.
The study comes as Palau continues to evaluate management options for coastal fisheries.
Researchers noted that no formal management measures currently exist for longnose emperor in Palau. However, a proposed fisheries management plan for Koror includes an 18-inch minimum size limit and protection of a known spawning aggregation site.
Based on the updated maturity estimates, the researchers said a slightly larger minimum size limit of at least 18.7 inches could better protect the species’ spawning potential.
The study also suggested that managers consider a maximum size limit to protect larger males. Researchers estimated that half of the population transitions from female to male at about 55.1 centimeters, or 21.7 inches.
Additional management options discussed in the study include seasonal or lunar-based fishing closures and protection of spawning aggregation sites.
Researchers found that 27.7 percent of sampled fish were below the estimated size at which females reach maturity, a finding they said could be important for future stock assessments and fishery evaluations.
The study also underscored the importance of collecting local biological data rather than relying on information from other regions.
Compared with populations studied elsewhere, longnose emperors in Palau generally grew faster, reached smaller maximum sizes and had shorter life spans.
“The high diversity of life-history traits among locations highlights the importance of collecting locally derived information,” the authors wrote.
Researchers said the findings provide a scientific foundation for future stock assessments and could help fisheries managers develop regulations tailored to local conditions.
The study was conducted by researchers from the Palau International Coral Reef Centre, University of Tasmania, University of Guam, The Nature Conservancy and the Coral Reef Research Foundation…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS In Focus
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Loyalist surge in New Caledonia, but Congress remains balanced
By Nic Maclellan in Noumea
NOUMEA, 29 JUNE 2026 (ISLANDS BUSINESS) — In a poll marked by low voter turnout, New Caledonia’s provincial elections have seen a significant increase of votes for anti-independence parties in the Southern province, who will dominate the Southern assembly.
However, support for pro-independence electoral lists in the Northern and Loyalty Islands provinces, will leave the national Congress with a similar balance to the outgoing legislature elected in 2019. The Union Calédonienne (UC) party and other members of the independence movement Front de Libération Nationale Kanak et Socialiste (FLNKS) will be the largest pro-independence parliamentary group, after an electoral setback for the Union Nationale pour l’Indépendance (UNI) group, which broke away from the FLNKS in 2025.
The French High Commission in Noumea will soon announce official results, but with provisional figures tallied at the end of Sunday’s voting, there were several clear outcomes.
There was reduced turnout amongst voters compared to the last elections held seven years ago; a major surge of votes for anti-independence parties in the Southern Province, with the Loyalist and Rassemblement “Fort et Unis” alliance to hold a clear majority in the Southern assembly; the failure of electoral lists that sought a middle way between the two major political blocs supporting or opposing independence; and a setback for the Parti de Libération Kanak (Palika), which failed to win a seat in the South, and lost ground in the other provinces.
Allocating seats
On Sunday 28 June, voters chose 76 members for three provincial assemblies, which have different sizes: 40 seats for the Southern Province, 22 for the North and 14 in the Loyalty Islands.
Each assembly elects its own provincial president and executive, but a proportion of the assembly members also make up the 54-member Congress of New Caledonia in Noumea: 32 (out of 40) members from the Southern assembly, 15 (out of 22) from the Northern assembly and 7 (out of 14) from the Loyalty Islands.
Even though this is the first provincial election in seven years, turnout was low at just 63.71 per cent of registered voters (less that the 66.47 per cent participation rate at the last provincial poll in 2019).
In coming days, political leaders will assess the mix of factors that contributed to one in three voters staying home: the grim economic conditions that have left many New Caledonians focused on day-to-day concerns; a level of voter fatigue, after recent municipal elections in March; the ongoing impasse over sovereignty and relations with France, after the failure of the Bougival process (an attempt to forge a new political statute for New Caledonia); and growing criticism of the political class, especially amongst many young indigenous Kanak and other islanders who have not benefitted from New Caledonia’s social and economic advances since the 1998 Noumea Accord.
Victory for the Right
Sunday’s poll, originally scheduled for May 2024, had been delayed three times by French authorities in the aftermath of the six months of conflict that year, as Kanak protesters clashed with French security forces. Despite an end to overt conflict, the ongoing economic and social impacts of the 2024 crisis have traumatised and fatigued many voters.
With much of the 2024 conflict centred on the capital and surrounding towns like Païta, Dumbea and Mont Dore, many non-Kanak voters in greater Noumea have turned towards the joint ticket of the Loyalist bloc and the anti-independence party Rassemblement les Républicains. With more than 41,000 votes in the South, the united conservative alliance increased their tally by more than 12,000 compared to 2019.
The Loyalists benefitted from division amongst the eleven electoral lists competing for a seat in the Southern provincial assembly. Only three lists reached the threshold of 5 per cent of registered voters (6,374 votes) required to be allocated a seat: the conservative Loyalistes-Rassemblement alliance (winning 28 seats in the assembly and 24 in the Congress); the FLNKS list ‘Kanaky pour Tous’ (with seven assembly seats and six in the Congress); and the islander party Eveil océanien (five assembly seats with four in the Congress).
For the other eight electoral lists in the South, supporters will not be directly represented in the legislature and more than 25,000 votes are not re-allocated.
A number of these lists (Faire pays, Une province pour tous, Nous Reunis) had sought more open dialogue on the future political status of New Caledonia and are sharply critical of the increasingly conservative social policies promoted by the Right-wing alliance in the South. Despite their absence from the Southern assembly, these civil society groups will still provide a critical voice on social policy after the elections, as provincial president Sonia Backès extends a series of policies that already disadvantage poorer Kanak and islander households.
Of these lists, only Eveil océanien (EO) under Milakulo Tukumuli fought through to win seats. Drawing much of its support from the large Wallisian and Futunan community and other islanders, EO increased its representation in the Southern assembly from four (2019) to five (2026) and added another seat in the Congress to the three it held in 2019-26. As in the previous term, the party will continue to play the role of kingmaker in a new Congress balanced between the anti-independence parties (with 24 seats) and pro-independence groups (with 26).
In the 2019 Congress, EO leveraged its small number of seats to win positions on the Congress executive and commissions, as well as a seat in the Government of New Caledonia. Given Tukumuli’s sharp criticism of the Loyalist bloc during this year’s campaign, the possibly of a new “islander majority” between EO and pro-independence parties will depend on negotiations in coming days.
Setback for UNI and CE
The most significant defeat in the South was for the UNI list led by Louis Mapou, who served as President of New Caledonia between 2021-25. After withdrawing from the main independence coalition FLNKS in 2024-25, Palika and the Union progréssiste en Mélanésie (UPM) play a key role in negotiating the draft Bougival Accord (a proposed political statute to replace the 1998 Noumea Agreement). But the rejection of the Bougival Accord by the French National Assembly last April left the two UNI parties isolated, and independence supporters turned away in the South.
In recent months, the collapse of the drawn out Bougival process has caused extensive debate within the UNI parliamentary group. The crisis has also divided grassroots activists, with dissident members of both Palika and UPM opposing the Accord. A telling blow to UNI’s campaign in the north was the absence of the key Bougival negotiators Jean-Pierre Djaïwe and Victor Tutugoro from their electoral list, with other longstanding Palika activists also deciding not to contest the poll.
Another significant outcome was the failure of the Calédonie ensemble (CE) party to win any seats at provincial or national level, as it backed Walles Kotra’s ‘Une province pour tous’ list. Nearly twenty years ago, under Philippe Gomès, the anti-independence party held the presidency of New Caledonia and the Southern Province, as well as three of four seats in the French parliament in Paris. Those days are long gone, and for the first time in decades CE will not participate directly in local governance or talks on New Caledonia’s political status.
Change in the north
With provisional results for the Northern Province yet to be officially confirmed, just three of five lists will win seats: UC-FLNKS (ten assembly seats and six in the Congress); UNI (nine assembly seats and six in Congress); and the anti-independence list Aggisons dans le nord (three assembly seats).
In a significant shift, the UC-FLNKS list under Mayor of Houailou Pascal Sawa has a narrow majority over UNI, challenging the long-standing Palika dominance of the province. Lacking a clear majority, UC-FLNKS will need to negotiate a deal if it hopes to take the presidency for the first time (veteran Kanak politician and Palika leader Paul Neaoutyine has served as provincial president since 1999)
In the Loyalty Islands, where more than 90 per cent of the population are indigenous Kanak, six of seven lists supported diverse independence parties.
Three of those lists will win seats: UC-FLNKS led by Mickaël Forrest (six assembly seats and three in the Congress); Nation Autochtone under Omayra Naisseline (six assembly seats and three in the Congress); and Palika Iles led by Wali Wahetra (two in the assembly and one in the Congress).
After Naisseline’s list won votes across the province beyond its traditional base on Nengone (Maré), Nation Autochtone may ally with Union Calédonienne in the Loyalty Islands assembly and national Congress (noting that Forrest and Naisseline are brother and sister).
The new Congress of New Caledonia will gather on 10 July to choose a new speaker and executive. A week later, a new 11-member government will be chosen, based on the proportion of support in the legislature. Before then, the competing parties will assess the outcome of Sunday’s poll, as they then negotiate the make-up of the new leadership in both provinces and national Congress….PACNEWS
In the July edition of Islands Business magazine, there will be a full analysis of the election and the implications for future talks on New Caledonia’s political status. Subscribe today!
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Pacific warehouse teams exchange skills and ideas inside Australia’s humanitarian warehouse
BRISBANE, 29 JUNE 2026 (SPC) — Logistics and warehouse officers from six Pacific National Disaster Management Offices (NDMOs) earlier this month completed a week of hands-on training at the Australian Government’s Humanitarian Warehouse in Brisbane, as part of the first Humanitarian Warehouse Exchange under the Pacific Humanitarian Warehousing Program (PHWP).
The World Food Programme (WFP), together with the Pacific Community (SPC), delivered the Exchange, which brought together participants from Cook Islands, Kiribati, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tonga and Vanuatu. Running from 15 – 19 June, the training covered the full warehouse cycle: procuring, receiving, storing and managing relief supplies, quality assurance, kitting and dispatch, warehouse management systems, and a live simulation exercise. Participants also completed an accredited First Aid certification before returning home. During disasters, in doing so, provide SPC, WFP, and Australia’s humanitarian warehouse teams with
Pacific ownership is central to the exchange programme, which is built on peer-to-peer learning. NDMO delegates share their own warehousing practices and realities, and in doing so, provide SPC, WFP and Australia’s humanitarian warehouse teams direct insight into the challenges and priorities of Pacific-managed warehouses. This shared learning helps partners tailor their support and interventions to what Pacific countries need on the ground in times of disaster.
On returning home, participants will lead debrief sessions within their respective NDMOs, ensuring the benefits reach well beyond the first cohort.
George Beck, PHWP Programme Manager, said: “This Exchange is localisation in action. Pacific people are at the centre of their own resilience, and the skills our NDMO logistics officers are building this week are the skills that will keep relief supplies moving when disaster hits. And by listening to our Pacific partners, we can make sure the support we provide is grounded in their realities.’
Emma Conlan, Acting Country Director, WFP Pacific, said: “By connecting Pacific practitioners to global systems, expertise and partnerships, this Exchange helps translate world-class capability into locally-led sustainable systems. WFP is proud to work with SPC and Australia’s Humanitarian Logistics Capability to ensure assistance reaches communities faster, more efficiently and when it matters most.”
Steve Scott, Humanitarian Coordinator, Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, said: “Humanitarian logistics is not just about supplies and systems. It’s about skilled people making practical decisions under pressure. By bringing Pacific counterparts together at our warehouse, we are turning logistics knowledge into stronger preparedness, better coordination and faster response. We are also learning from our Pacific partners, which keeps Australia’s humanitarian capability relevant and responsive to the needs of affected communities.”
Australia’s humanitarian warehouse is a 10,000m² facility that can support 55,000 people across three simultaneous crises and has responded to recent Pacific disasters, including Tropical Cyclone Maila earlier this year.
The PHWP’s vision is that by 2031, 14 Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste will manage their own humanitarian warehouses and increasingly lead their own disaster responses, with greater independence and sustainability than ever before. The Australian Government Humanitarian Warehouse will continue to be available where Pacific Governments request Australian support…. PACNEWS
Media Contacts: -Erica Lee, Communications Adviser, Pacific Humanitarian Warehousing Program, Pacific Community (SPC), Geoscience, Energy and Maritime (GEM) Division| E: erical@spc.int
, P: +679 9214638 -Soneel Ram, Communications Officer, World Food Programme, Pacific Multi-Country Office, E: soneel.ram@wfp.org -Alision Biney, Communications & Public Diplomacy Manager, alison.binney@hlc-aus.org
