In this bulletin:
1. FSM — Sinlaku leaves one dead, one missing and trails of destruction in Chuuk
2. PACIFIC — Federal aid activated for Guam and CNMI as Sinlaku develops into a ‘monster’ super typhoon
3. B/VILLE — AROB declares State of Emergency following cyclone Maila
4. TONGA — Lord Vaea appointed Interim Chair of Pacific parliamentary body
5. FIJI — Drug laws must put children first, UNICEF tells Fiji
6. PACIFIC — In Fiji, WCC general secretary reflects on Pacific communities, where “memory, story, and identity are carried across generations”
7. FIJI — Voter registration opens for 2026 local government elections
8. SAMOA — Samoa launches qualifications framework
9. AUST — Australian migration policy mirrors Trump-era social media checks
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Nauru strengthens global digital strategy and appoints first international trade commissioner
11. PACNEWS BIZ — FFA surveillance aircraft deployed to support Cyclone Maila response
12. PACNEWS BIZ — ADB warns rising NCD burden threatens Fiji’s economy
13. PACNEWS BIZ — K100million for importers to freeze fuel prices: PM Marape
14. PACNEWS BIZ — PNG will not lose revenue from Papua LNG, says minister
15. PACNEWS BIZ — End of an era: MV Fiji Princess retired following reef grounding
16. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji Development Bank backs housing for Tourism workers
17. PACNEWS IN FOCUS — Playing legislative catch-up: Drug law reform in the Pacific
18. PACNEWS DIGEST — PNG and Australia take note: cheap, non-state drone warfare in the Sahel
19. PACNEWS SPORT — Head Coach Glen Jackson to depart the Fijian Drua end of 2026 season
FSM – WEATHER WATCH: THE GUARDIAN PACNEWS 3: Tue 14 Apr 2026
Sinlaku leaves one dead, one missing and trails of destruction in Chuuk
WENO, 14 APRIL 2026 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — Chuuk is reeling from the aftermath of Typhoon Sinlaku, which caused one death, left one boater missing and resulted in widespread devastation after pounding the Micronesian state for almost four days.
The ferocious storm wrecked homes and knocked out critical infrastructure, causing power outages and communication blackouts affecting 60 to 70 percent of the island.
Weno, the state’s capital city and the centre of population, was hit the hardest.
Storm surges brought torrential rains, estimated at 15-20 inches, causing widespread flooding and landslides in high-lying areas, according to the Chuuk Disaster and Emergency Operations Centre.
“A falling tree claimed the life of one person on the island of Tonoas, a grim testament to the dangers persisting even away from the shoreline,” states the emergency office’s situation report.
“As the storm rages on, the first tragic confirmations of loss of life have emerged, underscoring the lethal nature of this slow-moving disaster.”
The emergency centre reported two boats capsizing off the coast of Fefen due to violent sea waves. One person is confirmed missing at sea, with search efforts dangerously constrained by the storm conditions.
“Weno is in a state of crisis. People are displaced, roads are blocked by fallen trees and seawater, and the places people normally rely on for help, like government offices and the pier, are now damaged or destroyed themselves,” the report states.
“The hospital is operating on backup emergency power only, raising grave concerns about the ability to sustain life-saving care if fuel supplies or generators fail under the strain,” the emergency centre said.
Chuuk Governor Alexander Narruhn said the government will prioritise restoring essential services, assist families affected by the storm and begin recovery efforts.
Chuuk is the Federated States of Micronesia’s most populous state, with a population of 53,595 and a land area of 49 square miles.
“The typhoon has brought significant challenges, and we recognise the difficulties many of you are facing. However, I want to emphasise that we will overcome these challenges together,” Narruhn said in a public message posted on Facebook.
Sinlaku, a name contributed by the Federated States of Micronesia, refers to the goddess of nature and the breadfruit of Kosrae.
Sinlaku’s forward motion nearly stalled from 09 – 12 April . The system hovered over Chuuk, its ferocity intact, with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph.
“The storm’s proximity was alarmingly close—positioned just 75 miles North-Northwest of the Chuuk Lagoon Islands, it is effectively parked over the area, prolonging the relentless wind and inundating storm surge,” the situation report says.
The system initially crawled eastward at 1 mph before eventually picking up speed and taking off from Chuuk.
Officials said several houses have either completely lost their roofs or collapsed entirely. Roads are blocked by huge trees that have been ripped out of the ground and are lying across every roadway.
“Amid the destruction, at least three emergency shelters have been opened, already struggling to accommodate over 100 displaced residents seeking refuge from the typhoon and rising waters,” the emergency centre said.
Radio and telephone communications to the Lagoon and Outer Islands were cut off, leaving information gaps about the situation in remote communities.
In the village of Wichap, four major power lines and all the cellphone towers are down, leaving the area completely without electricity and communication.
Due to severed communications, damage and casualty assessments were based only on sporadic social media feeds. Officials noted that available information represents only a small portion of “a far more catastrophic picture.”
Narruhn assured his constituents that aid is on the way.
“We will work together to rebuild homes, restore infrastructure, and revive our economy. Chuuk has faced challenges before, and we have always emerged stronger,” he said. “Together, we will rebuild and restore our beautiful Chuuk.”
Sinlaku has developed into a Category 5 supertyphoon now hitting the Marianas….PACNEWS
PAC – WEATHER WATCH: PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS 3: Tue 14 Apr 2026
Federal aid activated for Guam and CNMI as Sinlaku develops into a ‘monster’ super typhoon
HAGATNA, 14 APRIL 2026 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — U.S President Donald Trump has issued a presidential emergency declaration for Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, clearing the way for the deployment of federal resources in response to the “imminent and escalating” threats from Typhoon Sinlaku, which is anticipated to make landfall today.
Landon Aydlett, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service, said Sinlaku “is now a monster with maximum sustained winds of 175 mph,” moving NNW at 10 mph and was centred near 11.4N 149.9E.
“It may be at peak intensity now, or will be soon,” Aydlett wrote on his Facebook page. “At this point, an ideal scenario for the folks on Saipan and Tinian is that this continues to shift farther north. Even a passage 20 miles offshore to the north would keep the strongest, most intense winds out over the waters.”
Trump issued the declaration in response to separate requests from Guam Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and CNMI Governor David Apatang.
The presidential directive authorises the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency to coordinate all disaster relief efforts for both territories.
“This declaration ensures that federal resources are immediately available to protect our community,” Leon Guerrero said.
“Securing this federal assistance early is a critical step in our response. We are working closely with our federal partners to ensure that life-saving measures are in place as the storm progresses through the Marianas,” said Lieutenant Governor Joshua Tenorio.
Under this declaration, FEMA is authorized to provide emergency protective measures (Category B), limited to direct federal assistance, at 75 percent federal funding. Andrew F. Grant has been named the federal coordinating officer for federal recovery operations.
Earlier, Apatang declared a state of emergency for the CNMI and activated emergency shelters across Saipan, Tinian and Rota. Most government offices and schools have been closed, except for emergency responders and essential operations.
Under the order, FEMA is empowered to identify, mobilise and deploy equipment and resources needed to reduce the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, limited to direct federal assistance under the Public Assistance program, will be funded at 75 percent by the federal government.
CNMI Delegate Kimberly King‑Hinds announced the approval early Monday in a social media post, saying the Stafford Act declaration “unlocks federal resources funding an emergency support through FEMA, and it is being activated now to support our islands before, during, and after the storm.”
King‑Hinds urged residents to prepare and stay informed. “Let’s take care of each other as we always do,” she said.
Trump also approved an emergency declaration for Guam, according to Governor Lou Leon Guerrero, allowing federal agencies to begin staging personnel and resources there as Sinlaku moves across the region.
Super Typhoon Sinlaku is tracking north‑northwest toward the Marianas at about 10 mph, according to the National Weather Service Guam. The Joint Typhoon Warning Centre forecasts the system passing near Tinian and Saipan, with a Typhoon Warning in effect for Rota, Tinian and Saipan. Damaging winds are expected to begin this evening.
Guam remains under a Tropical Storm Warning, with forecasters expecting sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph tonight. A slight northward shift in the storm’s track keeps Pagan and Alamagan under a Tropical Storm Watch.
Hazardous seas, heavy rainfall and dangerous conditions are expected across the entire archipelago. Forecasters said Sinlaku could arrive between late tonight and Wednesday morning, though the exact timing may change as the system continues its approach…..PACNEWS
B/VILLE – STATE OF EMERGENCY: ABG PACNEWS 3: Tue 14 Apr 2026
AROB declares State of Emergency following cyclone Maila
BUKA, 14 APRIL 2206 (ABG GOVT) —The Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB) has declared a three-months State of Emergency (SOE) following the effects of Cyclone Maila.
This decision was agreed upon by the Bougainville Executive Council (BEC) during an emergency meeting and announced by the Vice President Ezekiel Masatt.
“A critical decision has been made by the BEC today – State of Emergency is now declared for the whole of Bougainville commencing today,” he declared.
The BEC has also agreed to allocate K10million (US$2.31 million) to fund this SOE and currently the SOE has a budget of K2million under the existing budget for Disaster and Emergency.
The SOE will run for three months to assess and assist communities across Bougainville that have been affected by cyclone Maila; however, all services will continue as normal.
As it is a legal requirement when declaring an SOE to name a Controller and a Deputy Controller, the BEC has appointed Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei as the SOE Controller and Secretary for Community Government Mrs Belinda Gara Lanbong, as the Deputy Controller.
“Let me make it absolutely clear that all of Bougainville is declared an SOE, all our efforts and plans must go through the office of the Controller and Deputy Controller,” Vice President Masatt stressed.
According to Vice President Masatt, the establishment of the Controller and Deputy Controller now allows for a central command centre to be the focal point to coordinate relief efforts and also oversee assistance from other countries as well as the National Government.
“We need to have a coordinated approach to manage this assistance that will be given and so we felt the need to declare an SOE and also to make sure the Controller and Deputy Controller were appointed,” the Vice President explained.
Speaking as the SOE Controller, Kearneth Nanei announced that SOE orders will be issued, adding that operational centres will also be established in North, Central and South Bougainville respectively.
Operational centres for North, Nissan and Atolls will be in Buka, while the Operational Centre for Central Bougainville will be in Arawa and the Operational Centre for South Bougainville will be in Buin.
Regional Directors for each region will be the team leaders in each of the operational centres working closely with government officers on the ground, including Community Governments.
“We will be issuing the SOE orders in the next 18 hours, and these orders will also bring in officers from the regional level, headed by regional directors to be the team leaders within the operation centres in the regions,” he said.
Nanei said a team will be mobilised to conduct an immediate needs assessment to ensure initial relief supplies are organised and distributed to all affected areas during the course of the SOE.
Meanwhile, the BEC has also appointed a Ministerial Team that will be providing oversight and assistance to the Controller and Deputy Controller.
Vice President Masatt announced that this team is chaired by the ABG Minister for Community Government Milton Tukana and Delourdes Semoso, ABG Minister for Health as Deputy Chairlady.
Minister for Community Government Milton Tukana in supporting the SOE declarations, called for citizens to assist the government and urged Community Governments to work with the regional coordinators in the operational centres during the SOE.
Minister for Health Delourdes Semoso shared similar sentiments and called for cooperation amongst all stakeholders to work together to ensure people in the affected areas receive the timely service and supplies during this SOE.
Citizens of Bougainville are called to be mindful of these SOE and comply to the SOE orders that will be issued in the next 18hours. …PACNEWS
TONGA – DIPLOMACY: TALANOAOTONGA PACNEWS 3: Tue 14 Apr 2026
Lord Vaea appointed Interim Chair of Pacific parliamentary body
NUKU’ALOFA, 14 APRIL 2026 (TALANOAOTONGA0—The Speaker of Tonga’s Legislative Assembly, Lord Vaea, has been appointed Interim Chairman of the Pacific Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (PIPA), marking a significant step in Tonga’s regional parliamentary leadership.
Lord Vaea assumed the role following his election by the PIPA Board, succeeding Lord Fakafanua, the former Speaker who now serves as Prime Minister. The transition comes as PIPA continues to establish its presence as a key regional forum.
During a virtual briefing, Lord Vaea received an overview of PIPA’s mandate and operations from Chief Advisor Jean-Raphael Giuliani and members of the interim secretariat. Discussions focused on governance responsibilities, strategic priorities, and preparations for the next General Assembly, scheduled for September in Tahiti.
Established in August last year, Pacific Inter-Parliamentary Assembly is the Pacific’s only dedicated parliamentary institution. It aims to strengthen cooperation among legislatures, promote democratic dialogue, and advance shared regional interests on issues such as governance, climate resilience, and development.
Lord Vaea expressed appreciation for the briefing and signalled his commitment to advancing the organisation’s work during his interim tenure. He was accompanied by senior parliamentary officials, including Deputy Clerk Dr Sione Vikilani.
The appointment places Tonga at the centre of evolving regional parliamentary cooperation. As Pacific nations face common challenges, including climate change and economic pressures, PIPA’s role is expected to grow in facilitating collective responses and strengthening institutional ties across the region…..PACNEWS
FIJI – DRUGS FIGHT: FIJI SUN PACNEWS 3: Tue 14 Apr 2026
Drug laws must put children first, UNICEF tells Fiji
SUVA, 14 APRIL 2026 (FIJI SUN)—“Children must come first in Fiji’s fight against drugs.”
This is the strong message from UNICEF representative Hamish Young as the country moves to strengthen its drug laws.
Speaking at the Counter Narcotics Bill Validation Workshop, Mr Young warned that the growing drug crisis is placing children and young people at serious risk.
“Children and adolescents are increasingly being exposed to drugs. Fiji is no exception, and the impact is deeply concerning,” he said.
Young said drug exposure is linked to serious issues including violence, exploitation, school dropouts and mental health problems.
In some cases, children are not only using drugs but are also being used in drug-related activities.
“This also puts pressure on families, communities and frontline services such as police and social workers, many of which are already stretched,” he said.
Young stressed that the new Counter Narcotics Bill must go beyond enforcement and place strong emphasis on prevention and early intervention.
The proposed law includes plans to establish a Counter Narcotics Bureau to lead and coordinate Fiji’s national response to drugs, from enforcement to rehabilitation.
However, UNICEF is calling for a stronger child-focused approach within this system.
Young also highlighted gaps in existing services, noting that access to counselling, rehabilitation and community support remains limited in many areas, despite reforms under the Child Justice Act 2024.
The workshop is expected to help finalise the bill before it is submitted to Cabinet.
Young said the outcome must ensure Fiji’s children are protected now and in the future.
“Every child deserves to grow up safe, supported and free from drug-related harm,” he said…..PACNEWS
PAC – CHURCH: WCC PACNEWS 3: Tue 14 Apr 2026
In Fiji, WCC general secretary reflects on Pacific communities, where “memory, story, and identity are carried across generations”
SUVA, 14 APRIL 2026 (WCC)—World Council of Churches general secretary Reverend Professor Dr Jerry Pillay expressed his deep joy to have the opportunity to share God’s word with Pacific communities.
“For many Pacific peoples, the ocean is both life and danger,” said Pillay. “It feeds, connects, and sustains—but it can also threaten and overwhelm.”
In the same way, life brings both blessing and fear, Pillay said.
“To see Jesus in a Pacific context is to recognise Him as present in the midst of the storm—not absent from it,” said Pillay. “To see Jesus is first to recognise that He is with us even when we feel most alone.”
Pillay further reflected that we often want a version of God without wounds—powerful, distant, untouched by pain. “But the true Christ is known by His scars,” said Pillay. “To see Jesus clearly is to understand that God meets us in suffering, not apart from it.”
“And more than that: our own wounds, when placed in His hands, can become places where resurrection life begins,” said Pillay. “This speaks deeply to Pacific communities, where memory, story, and identity are carried across generations.”
Many islands carry wounds—of colonisation, displacement, loss of land, cultural disruption and a climate catastrophe, Pillay continued. “Families carry wounds too—grief, hardship, sacrifice,” he said. “And yet, the risen Christ is not without scars.”
His wounds are not erased—they are transformed, said Pillay. “To see Jesus is to understand that God does not erase our history but redeems it,” said Pillay. “The scars remain, but they no longer define the future.”
Instead, they become testimonies of God’s goodness and presence, said Pillay. “In many Pacific cultures, storytelling is sacred,” said Pillay. “The story of Jesus’ wounds is God’s story of love—a story that meets our own and transforms it.”
Seeing Jesus is not limited to physical sight,” said Pillay. “It is a deeper recognition—a spiritual awakening to who He is and where He is at work.”
Jesus does not only appear—He commissions, concluded Pillay. “Seeing Jesus is never just a private experience,” said Pillay. “It leads to mission.”
Pillay further noted that the disciples move from fear to purpose. “From locked doors to open lives,” said Pillay. “When we truly see Jesus, we are changed,” he said…. PACNEWS
FIJI – LOCAL GOVT ELECTION: FIJI SUN PACNEWS 3: Tue 14 Apr 2026
Voter registration opens for 2026 local government elections
SUVA, 14 APRIL 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Voter registration for the 2026 Local Government Elections has officially begun, marking a key step towards restoring municipal polls in Fiji.
The Fijian Elections Office (FEO) launched registration today, with Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Usaia Ratuvili becoming the first to register at the Voter Services Centre at the Suva Civic Centre.
Justice Ratuvili urged eligible residents in towns, municipalities and cities to register and take part in the elections, noting that local government polls had not been held for some time.
“On behalf of the Electoral Commission and the Fijian Elections Office, we welcome everyone. If you are staying in a town, municipality or city, please come and get registered for the Local Government Elections. We haven’t had Local Government Elections for a long time, if you want your voice to be heard, I encourage you to please come and register,” he said.
To register and vote, individuals must be listed on the National Register of Voters and have lived in a ward for at least three months.
The FEO said registration services are currently available in Suva, Nasinu, Lautoka, Nadi and Labasa, with expansion to Nausori, Lami, Sigatoka and Ba from 15 April.
By 20 April, centres will also open in Levuka, Savusavu, Tavua and Rakiraki, completing coverage across all 13 municipalities.
Voters are reminded to bring their voter card or valid identification when registering….PACNEWS
SAMOA – EDUCATION: ISLANDS BUSINESS PACNEWS 3: Tue 14 Apr 2026
Samoa launches qualifications framework
APIA, 14 APRIL 2026 (ISLANDS BUSINESS) —Samoa has strengthened its alignment with regional and international education standards by officially launching the Samoa Qualifications Framework (SQF) in Apia
The Samoa Qualifications Authority (SQA) developed and launched the framework as a key national tool, ensuring education and training in Samoa stay relevant, high-quality, and aligned with labour-market and national development needs.
The newly updated SQF introduces a 10‑level qualification structure and offers clear learning pathways from certificates to advanced qualifications.
Learners progress through each level and increase their knowledge, skills, and applied competencies, supporting the development of a skilled, work-ready workforce.
The Third Edition of the SQF, reviewed in 2024, emphasises quality guidelines for education providers and reduces administrative requirements for registering qualifications.
For the first time, the framework has also been translated into Samoan, recognising the importance of accessibility, cultural identity, and national ownership of education policy.
The launch event also marked the release of several key publications. These included a Pacific Qualifications Framework referencing report, the 2024 Statistical Bulletin, and a Tracer Study that tracks graduate outcomes and employment pathways.
Minister for Education and Culture, Afioga Aiono Alec Ekeroma, acknowledged the SQA, its Board, staff, and partners for delivering these milestones and advancing Samoa’s education and training system….PACNEWS
AUST – IMMIGRATION: AAP PACNEWS 3: Tue 14 Apr 2026
Australian migration policy mirrors Trump-era social media checks
CANBERRA, 14 APRIL 2026 (AAP)—Coalition government plans to end Australia’s non-discriminatory immigration programme and introduce social media vetting for visa applicants if it governs again.
Opposition Leader Angus Taylor would also boot migrants that do not exhibit a belief in a “fair go” from the country under a new hardline migration plan he will unveil in a speech on Tuesday.
“We need to put Australian values first and that hasn’t been the case in our immigration system in the past and it needs to change,” Taylor told ABC Radio on Tuesday.
“(Migrants) must accept our core values and that would mean establishing a legally binding and enforceable values test in the Migration Act as a visa condition.”
Taylor’s speech at the Liberal-aligned think tank, the Menzies Research Centre, comes as One Nation leader Pauline Hanson breathes down his neck.
The coalition has been bleeding votes to the anti-immigration party, according to opinion polls.
Without putting a number on the migrant intake target he would pursue in government, Taylor wants to place greater scrutiny on people attempting to come to Australia from countries that are not Western liberal democracies.
“Australia has a non-discriminatory immigration program,” Taylor will say, according to an extract of the speech. “We do not discriminate based on nationality, race, gender, or faith. But for an immigration program to work in the national interest it must discriminate based on values.”
Three key measures will seek to “lower the numbers and lift the standards” of Australia’s migration programme.
They include putting “Australian values” at the centre of migration laws, shutting the door to unauthorised migrants who try to game the asylum system, and giving a “red light to radicals” by strengthening screening processes.
Complying with the Australian values statement will be enshrined into law and a prescribed set of behaviours that constitute a breach of Australian values will be established.
“In short, if a visa holder undermines our democratic values, doesn’t respect the law, or demonstrates they don’t respect our core values, they will be booted out of Australia,” Taylor will say.
The Australian values statement is a document prospective migrants must currently sign when applying for a visa, which outlines the values they are expected to uphold.
These include respect for the freedom and dignity of the individual, freedom of religion, commitment to the rule of law, recognising English as the national language, and a “fair go” for all that embraces mutual respect, tolerance, compassion and equality of opportunity.
What behaviours that would constitute a breach of these values and act as grounds for deportation would be fleshed out in government, a spokesperson for the opposition leader said.
Taylor will pledge to bring back temporary protection visas, after the government moved people seeking asylum onto a more permanent visa class.
This will aim to cut down “cheating” of the immigration system and disincentivise overstaying.
Taylor is vowing to establish an enhanced screening coordination centre to identify and block “terrorist sympathisers and security risks” before they enter Australia.
The enhanced screening process would include all applicants being forced to provide their social media accounts when applying for a visa.
The coalition would also establish a joint agency taskforce to boot out overstayers who take advantage of the “appeals merry-go-round”.
“What we don’t have is a legally binding and enforceable values test in the migration act, and we don’t have a cross agency taskforce set up in this way which would receive extra funding,” Taylor said.
“So that is a big step forward.”
Non-citizens will also no longer have access to taxpayer-funded legal aid to appeal cancellations…..PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
NAURU – TRADE COMMISSONER: NAURU GOVT PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 14 Apr 2026
Nauru strengthens global digital strategy and appoints first international trade commissioner
YAREN, 14 APRIL 2-026 (NAURU GOVT)—The Nauru Government’s plans to boost the economy through becoming a leader in digital asset innovation are progressing, and “there are exciting times ahead”, according to President David Adeang.
The President said the government has appointed international entrepreneur and digital currency expert Dadvan Yousuf as an international trade commissioner to boost global investment.
He said the appointment reflects Nauru’s commitment to engaging globally with experienced leaders in emerging technologies to accelerate economic diversification and strengthen international partnerships.
“Yousuf brings a unique combination of entrepreneurial vision, international network, and deep understanding of digital asset markets,” President Adeang said.
The Parliament passed legislation to establish the Command Ridge Virtual Asset Authority (CRVAA) in June 2025, and a month later the government appointed highly respected Australian banking and financial markets executive Brian Phelps as its inaugural CEO.
At the time the President said the government wanted Nauru to become a crypto hub that attracts business investment, job creation, and financial innovation to the nation.
“We must be innovative in our quest for economic resilience and a higher standard of living for our people, while prioritising international best practices and the highest levels of governance and compliance.”
After his re-election in October, President Adeang reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritise current and future economic prosperity.
“While the UN has ranked us the world’s fifth most vulnerable nation to economic and climate shock, we have decided that this is not our future,” he said.
He explained that the new trade commissioner will help carry out the government’s innovation agenda by playing an important role in advancing Nauru’s international digital strategy.
The commissioner will represent Nauru in a diplomatic capacity, supporting cross-border engagement with virtual asset service providers, financial institutions, and technology companies seeking to establish operations within Nauru’s regulatory framework.
The CRVAA establishes a comprehensive licensing regime for virtual asset service providers, enabling companies to operate from Nauru under a clear, modern, and internationally aligned regulatory environment.
Yousuf said he was honoured to support Nauru’s vision and contribute to its long-term economic strategy…..PACNEWS
SOL – CYCLONE RESPONSE: FFA PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 14 Apr 2026
FFA surveillance aircraft deployed to support Cyclone Maila response
HONIARA, 14 APRIL 2026 (FFA)—The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) Aerial Surveillance Aircraft N625BW arrived in Honiara, on Sunday 12 April to support the Solomon Islands National Disaster Management Office(NDMO) with post-impact damage assessments following Cyclone Maila.
Working alongside national teams, the deployment will capture critical aerial imagery to better understand the damage and support response efforts, while also informing recovery planning across affected areas.
Cyclone Maila reached Category 5 and battered villages across Solomon Islands, causing widespread damage -particularly in Western, Choiseul and Isabel provinces, where schools, clinics and homes have been affected.
A strong example of FFA in action, supporting our Pacific Members when it matters most….PACNEWS
FIJI – NCDS: FBC NEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 14 Apr 2026
ADB warns rising NCD burden threatens Fiji’s economy
SUVA, 14 APRIL 2026 (FBC NEWS)—The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is raising concerns over the growing impact of non-communicable diseases in Fiji, warning they are now a serious threat to the country’s long-term economic growth.
In its latest outlook, ADB says NCDs account for around 80 percent of deaths in Fiji and are costing the economy an estimated US$263 million each year.
It says the impact goes beyond health, affecting productivity, increasing healthcare costs, and putting added pressure on government resources.
ADB is now calling for stronger action, including increased investment in the health sector and faster reforms to improve service delivery.
“Strengthening resilience through sound macroeconomic management… alongside targeted social support and health system strengthening will be critical to sustaining inclusive growth.”
The bank is urging Fiji to raise public health spending to at least five percent of GDP, warning that failing to act now could result in even greater economic losses in the future….PACNEWS
PNG – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 14 Apr 2026
K100million for importers to freeze fuel prices: PM Marape
PORT MORESBY, 14 APRIL 2026 (THE NATIONAL)–The Papua New Guinea Government will support the country’s three fuel importers – Puma, ExxonMobil and Ok Tedi – with its K100 million (US$23 million)relief package, says Prime Minister James Marape.
This is to ensure prices at the pump are maintained at March levels.
The K100 million(US$23 million) will come out of the K1 billion(US$231 million) rescue package promised by the Government, but the full amount will only be released if the international oil prices remain high for an extended period.
Marape said the intervention would be coordinated by the Ministry of Treasury, Ministry of Rural and Economic Development, the Bank of Papua New Guinea and relevant agencies.
He said in a statement on Sunday: “We are asking the three importers to continue selling fuel to local consumers, at both wholesale and retail level, at March prices. The relief we provide will help bridge the gap between the higher prices they are paying on the international market and the March price levels we want maintained here at home.”
The purpose of the intervention is to ensure that higher international fuel costs are not passed directly on to consumers, including households, companies, and industries, Marape said.
He added that the Government would complement the fuel support measures with a coordinated mix of fiscal and monetary policy to further insulate the economy against imported inflation.
“We will use all available policy tools to ensure our country is protected,” he said.
“On the fiscal side, Treasury will deploy targeted budget support and other macroeconomic measures to cushion the impact on households and businesses.
“At the same time, we have asked the Bank of PNG to use monetary policy to complement these efforts.
“This includes managing the stability of the Kina, preventing excessive depreciation, and reviewing interest rate settings where necessary to support economic activity.”
Marape said the combination of fiscal and monetary policy would play a critical role in maintaining stability in the face of global pressures.
“Through this coordinated approach, we aim to control inflation by managing the cost drivers, particularly fuel, while maintaining overall economic stability,” he said.
“We may not be able to eliminate all external pressures, but we will minimise their impact to the greatest extent possible in the national interest,” said Marape…..PACNEWS
PNG – LNG: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 14 Apr 2026
PNG will not lose revenue from Papua LNG, says minister
PORT MORESBY, 14 APRIL 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—Papua New Guinea has not forfeited its rights, nor stands to lose significant revenue from the Papua LNG project, says Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina.
“The Papua LNG gas agreement, signed in 2019 under the O’Neill government, clearly establishes a joint marketing arrangement between TotalEnergies and the State nominee, Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL),” he said.
“This provision is a binding contractual obligation and not a recent policy decision.
“We are not changing anything.
“We are executing what the State already agreed to in 2019.”
Maladina urged stakeholders to rely on facts and established agreements when engaging in public discourse on strategic national projects.
He said under the gas agreement, joint marketing was an integral component of the overall project structure.
“It is directly linked to the financing arrangements, including the responsibility of TotalEnergies to support the State’s equity funding,” he said.
“Joint marketing is a condition of the gas agreement.
“It underpins financing and project delivery.
“You cannot pick and choose which parts to follow.
“Assertions that the State will incur losses of up to US$2 billion (about K8.6 billion) are unsubstantiated and unsupported by any credible financial analysis.
“Joint marketing does not transfer ownership of the resource nor diminish the State’s entitlement to revenue.”
Maladina pointed out that the State “retains its full equity entitlement”.
“We market jointly. We earn based on our equity. That does not change,” he said.
“KPHL will have board representation on the marketing joint venture to maintain visibility.
“Joint marketing arrangements are standard practice in global LNG developments.
“They provide access to established markets, enhance bankability, and support long-term revenue stability.
“The Government also reiterates its commitment to strengthening KPHL as a national petroleum company.
“This objective will be pursued within the framework of existing contractual obligations to safeguard the State’s credibility and investor confidence,” he said…. PACNEWS
FIJI – SHIPPING: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 14 Apr 2026
End of an era: MV Fiji Princess retired following reef grounding
NADI, 14 APRIL 2026 (FIJI TIMES)—Blue Lagoon Cruises has announced the retirement of MV. Fiji Princess, following recovery efforts of the vessel which had run aground on Monuriki Island in the Malolo Group on 04 April .
In a Facebook post , the local tourist cruise operator said guests impacted by the retirement of MV. Fiji Princess would be contacted and provided with an array of alternate options.
“The ship, which has been part of the Blue Lagoon Cruises for more than 22 years, dragged whilst at anchor during a severe weather event and as a result grounded on a nearby reef,” Blue Lagoon Cruises said.
“All guests and crew were safely disembarked.”
The company acknowledged the support and well wishes from every guest and individual during the unfortunate tragedy at sea that was beyond their control.
“The team at Blue Lagoon Cruises appreciates the many guests who cruised on board Fiji Princess, and we know many amazing memories were created on board.
“We therefore love for you to share your images, memories, or comments as a final salute and as a fitting end to an amazing era of cruising.”
Meanwhile, the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji has issued a marine notice advising a temporary exclusion zone in the Mamanuca Group for filming of the U.S Survivor series.
The 24-hour exclusion zone will be in effect from 15 April to 03 July 2026, covering areas around Monuriki, Monu, Tavua (east), Yadua, Yanuya (west), and Mana Island.
“All ships are required to give a wide berth of at least 1 nautical mile… and avoid the above areas,” the notice states.
The restriction applies to all vessels, except those involved in emergency response, including Fiji Navy, Maritime Police, and other authorised services.
Authorities are urging ship owners, operators and the public to plan routes accordingly and adhere to safety regulations during the filming period….PACNEWS
FIJI – HOUSING LOAN: FBC NEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 14 Apr 2026
Fiji Development Bank backs housing for Tourism workers
SUVA, 14 APRIL 2026 (FBC NEWS)—The Fiji Development Bank (FDB) has committed to providing affordable housing for workers in the tourism industry with home loan provisions.
FDB Chief Executive Officer Filimone Waqabaca said as the sector continues to expand, the need for proper housing for workers is becoming increasingly important.
Waqabaca said the bank is offering housing loans at 3.99 percent for eligible earners, as part of efforts to support workforce mobility.
“We had announced after the budget last year, the Ministry of Finance had stated that Fiji Development Bank is going back into the provision of home loans.”
Waqabaca said they intend to work with the Government and landowners to see opportunities for the financing of low-cost housing.
“I think when you are well looked after in a home, you will be able to translate that to performing well at the workplace. So the provision of low-cost housing to support those who are working in the tourism industry is a critical element in this journey.”
Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards Chair Debra Sadranu said the move will assist tourism workers from remote islands.
“I think one of the things that we have to identify is that a lot of the workers have to leave their families and their homes to travel far and wide to be able to engage in their employment. And I think that this is going to really be a new offering for workers in the industry, that’s going to encourage them more to give them access to be able to work further afield.”
Waqabaca said so far, the bank has approved $1million (US$500,000) worth of housing loans…..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
Playing legislative catch-up: Drug law reform in the Pacific
By Virginia Comolli
SUVA, 14 APRIL 2026 (GLOBAL INITIATIVE) —-Drug trafficking is expanding rapidly across the Pacific. Countries that were once primarily transit points have experienced a surge in domestic consumption, with some also emerging as production sites. Drug legislation, however, is struggling to keep pace with these shifting regional dynamics.
Because many of the region’s drug laws were drafted when cannabis was the main policy concern, many states have been poorly equipped to respond to the spread of cocaine and synthetic substances. As a result, communities, law enforcement agencies and health services are facing challenges that existing legal frameworks were not designed to address.
Against this backdrop, recent political posturing, including periodic proposals by state officials in Fiji, Tonga and Papua New Guinea to reintroduce the death penalty, highlights the pressure governments are under to respond quickly and robustly to communities’ fear and frustration – and to be seen to do so.
Drug law reform across the Pacific
Fiji currently faces one of the most severe drug problems in the Pacific, particularly in relation to its HIV epidemic, which disproportionately affects people who inject drugs. However, debates on drug laws are gaining momentum across the region as states reassess laws written for a very different trafficking landscape.
Solomon Islands, for instance, was caught off guard by its first seizure of methamphetamine in 2023, as state legislation did not classify the substance, or other synthetics such as ketamine and ecstasy, as ‘dangerous drugs’. This legal loophole was only addressed in late 2025, and the country is now updating its legal provisions.
Policymakers are consulting the public ahead of amending the Dangerous Drugs Act to introduce harsher penalties for offences, including life imprisonment. However, critics have argued that a narrow focus on methamphetamines fails to anticipate the possible introduction of other drugs, which would leave enforcement authorities unprepared once again.
Fiji’s drug policy consultation
Recent developments in Fiji illustrate the policy challenges involved in updating drug legislation. The Melanesian country has taken a notable step through its National Counter Narcotics Strategy 2023–2028, which integrates supply, demand and harm-reduction pillars, alongside the proposed Counter Narcotics Bill. The latter would also facilitate the restructuring of the country’s Counter Narcotics Bureau, which encountered significant operational and integrity issues following its initial launch in 2024.
To inform the process, the government launched an extensive consultation process. Public meetings, community consultations and talanoa discussions – a process centred on open and respectful dialogue – have brought together government representatives and civil society organisations, including the GI-TOC. Churches and traditional authorities, such as the Great Council of Chiefs, also played a prominent role in these discussions, reflecting the social significance of the issue.
Beyond legislative reform, the consultations assessed whether existing frameworks are adequate to respond to the recent changes in the organized crime landscape. Seizures alone cannot disrupt drug markets if the systems that enable trafficking, such as financial flows and border vulnerabilities, remain intact, and if the credibility of law enforcement is not guaranteed.
The process also examined broader responses relating to prevention, treatment and community resilience. In doing so, it acknowledged the intersection of drug policy with public health, social cohesion and economic pressures.
When communities regulate drug use
In the Pacific region, village chiefs, councils and elders play a central role in maintaining social cohesion. In fact, in certain iTaukei (indigenous Fijian) villages, the chiefly system and the vanua, broadly understood as the traditional order, carry more weight than formal law or policing structures. This has important policy implications, as approaches designed for urban environments may be difficult to implement in settings where community authority structures remain highly influential.
The situation also raises complex legal and human rights concerns. Some Fijian communities have attempted to address drug use through internal mechanisms such as by-laws and customary rules. In certain cases, communities have considered excluding or banishing people accused of drug use. Such measures may conflict with constitutional protections and due process, and risk marginalizing individuals who are already vulnerable. The talanoa sessions highlighted cases in which people expelled from their villages because of drug use had become homeless. Participants also noted that women and young girls in such situations may be pushed toward sex work as a means of survival or to sustain drug dependence.
Churches are also influential in Pacific societies, providing moral guidance, community support and various social services. In the context of limited state resources for countering drug addiction, these institutions can play an important role, particularly through prevention and rehabilitation initiatives. Tensions have arisen, however, around certain public health interventions. For instance, needle and syringe programmes, designed to prevent HIV transmission among people who inject drugs, have encountered resistance from some religious groups, who perceive them as condoning drug use, despite decades of scientific evidence demonstrating their effectiveness.
Toward systemic responses
While attempts to modernize drug legislation across the Pacific are an important step forward, they will not be sufficient on their own. Criminal networks are adept at exploiting weaknesses in maritime routes, customs procedures, financial oversight and legal systems, and adapt quickly to new enforcement strategies. Effective responses will therefore require a broader shift from reactive policymaking to systemic disruption.
Crucially, responses should include the acknowledgment that transnational organized crime is a regional threat that requires improved regional cooperation across intelligence sharing, financial investigations and law enforcement capacity.
At the same time, public health systems must be equipped to address the consequences of drug use, including addiction, mental health pressures and the growing risk of HIV transmission. Prevention, treatment and harm reduction initiatives are all essential components of a sustainable response. Community institutions already shape how drug issues are managed, and these can be powerful assets for prevention, social support and rehabilitation. However, their engagement must align with national law, human rights protections and evidence-based health policies.
Ultimately, the challenge for policymakers in the Pacific is not simply to update or create legislation. Rather, it is to develop integrated responses that connect law enforcement, public health and community authority systems, while also targeting the financial and institutional enablers of organised crime.
Without coordination and the tangible measurement of outcomes, governments risk remaining trapped in a cycle of reactive policymaking, continually playing catch-up with drug markets that adapt faster than the laws designed to control them. …. PACNEWS
Virginia Comolli is the Head of Pacific Programme, Global Initiative against Transnational Organised Crime.
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
PNG and Australia take note: cheap, non-state drone warfare in the Sahel
By Oscar Warren
PORT MORESBY/CANBERRA, 14 APRIL 2026 (THE STRATEGIST)—Papua New Guinea needs to prepare for the threat posed by cheap, commercial drones. Given Australia’s defence cooperation with PNG – formalised into an alliance by the Pukpuk treaty – and the two countries’ proximity, this is a challenge for both nations. To prepare, they should particularly pay more attention to drone warfare in the Sahel, an African region where circumstances more closely resemble the Pacific than Ukraine does.
PNG’s security and stability are critical for Australia’s own. This is underscored by the treaty, which reaffirms the vital need for collaboration amid a deteriorating rules-based order. Drones would almost certainly feature in any conflict that materialises out of this deterioration.
Indeed, this is the case in the Sahel. Salafi-jihadist insurgencies there have employed inexpensive, commercially available quadcopters and modified first-person view (FPV) drones for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) and kinetic strikes. This has given them asymmetric advantages in both areas, against both states and each other.
Specifically, use of such drones by these actors, predominantly Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), Al-Qaeda’s Sahelian affiliate, and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), has directly contributed to the resurgence of their influence in the region.
Like Sahelian states, PNG also grapples with violent conflict stemming from non-state actors. Tribal militias have several times clashed with the PNG Defence Force (PNGDF) and Royal PNG Constabulary, often armed with high-powered firearms. Reports have also confirmed that these groups have begun using commercially available drones for ISR against one another. It seems it’s only a matter of time until the police or PNGDF encounter a hostile drone.
Such an event would dramatically expose PNG’s vulnerability to cheap hostile drones, creating opportunities for potential foreign adversaries. This needs to be addressed for the security of both PNG and Australia.
According to the 2025 edition of Military Balance, published the International Institute for Strategic Studies, PNGDF doesn’t possess any counter-drone equipment. And there’s been no indication from official state sources that the PNGDF has procured any.
However, under Pukpuk, Australia has agreed to help train and build the capacity of the PNGDF through ongoing cooperation, joint exercises and capability development. When helping PNG’s development of counter-drone capabilities, Australia needs to consider the country’s Sahel-like constraints, including a limited military budget and rugged, diverse, infrastructure-sparse terrain.
The first step should be to implement a strict, enforceable legal framework to regulate the import, sale and use of commercial drones, a process that Mali began in January. Ultimately, any measure that prevents a drone going up in the air in the first place is the best defence.
In the Sahel, the biggest challenge that state forces face is knowing whether a drone is there at all. Therefore, the second step should be to acquire drone detection measures for the PNGDF. PNG couldn’t implement the radar-based and distributed-sensor systems used in Ukraine, as they’re too expensive and are ill-suited to PNG’s geographical conditions.
Instead, the PNGDF should be equipped with cheap, portable, radiofrequency (RF) detectors. These can detect and classify a drone from its control signal. Australia has acquired such systems under Project Land 156, including DroneShield’s RfPatrol Mk2. Australia should share this technology with the PNGDF under Pukpuk.
The third step should be to equip the PNGDF with drone-downing measures. To take down cheap drones cost-effectively, the PNGDF should consider systems such as the French-made Nerod RF, which Cote d’Ivoire’s military acquired last year for use in its northern areas. DroneShield’s DroneSentry-X Mk2 could also be used on road vehicles.
However, these countermeasures aren’t failsafe and don’t stop drones controlled by optical fibre, which even the resource-poor Azawad Liberation Front in northern Mali has managed to acquire. While affordable acoustic detection systems like what BeephoniX are developing could be helpful tools, some drones will avoid detection.
Given this, the fourth step should be for PNGDF forces to receive counter-drone training in the joint exercises proposed in Pukpuk. Training would be valuable. Studies of experience in the Sahel show that survival rates of FPV kinetic strikes noticeably increase when targets are trained in exploiting natural cover and creating smoke screens.
Although not included in Pukpuk, PNG’s police force should receive similar capabilities and training as part of its longstanding policing partnership with Australia. Demonstrated police resilience to a domestic drone threat could help deter potential adversaries equipped with commercial drones.
Ultimately, if Australia fails to help its closest ally neutralise the democratised threat of commercial drones now, it risks a future where a vulnerable PNG requires increasingly frequent – and increasingly dangerous – Australian military interventions to secure its own doorstep. The two states should both learn from and monitor Sahelian mistakes and countermeasures to ensure commercially available drones don’t pose a threat to PNG and Australian security….PACNEWS
PACNEWS SPORT
FIJI – RUGBY: FIJIAN DRUA PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 14 Apr 2026
Head Coach Glen Jackson to depart the Fijian Drua end of 2026 season
NADI, 14 APRIL 2026 (FIJIAN DRUA) —The Fijian Drua rugby franchise has confirmed that Head Coach Glen Jackson will depart the Club at the conclusion of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, following a mutual decision not to exercise the third-year option in his contract.
Jackson, who has been with the Drua since its first year (2022) before becoming Head Coach ahead of the 2025 season, has played a crucial role in the growth of the Club and the Men’s team.
He is widely respected for his passion and commitment by the playing group, staff, sponsors and the wider Drua vuvale.
Fijian Drua CEO Jeff Miller says: “Glen has been a part of the Drua journey since Day One and we thank him for his enormous contribution to for the past five years – three as Assistant Coach and two as Head Coach. He helped lay the foundations of this new Club and the team for which we are all truly grateful. There will be time for more acknowledgement and sharing fond memories, but for now, Glen and the entire Club are firmly focused on the remainder of the season.”
Glen Jackson says: “I would like to say a massive thank you to the Drua players, staff, and sponsors for an incredible five years of my life. It has been an amazing journey helping this great club continue to grow and strive to be one of the most supportive clubs in Super Rugby Pacific.”
He added: “The fans are truly the best in the world, and I will miss their incredible voice and unwavering support. I have enormous belief in this playing group, the staff, and the direction the club is heading. With six games remaining, I will do everything I can, alongside three outstanding assistant coaches, to give this team the best possible chance of reaching the playoffs.”
“Lastly, a huge thank you to my family for all the sacrifices they have made. Now it’s time for me to give some time back to them. Vinaka vakalevu” The Club will commence with a recruitment process for a new Head Coach shortly…..PACNEWS
