Bougainville Independence Debate: PNG MPs are being urged to slow down before ratifying Bougainville’s 2019 independence referendum result, with Opposition leader James Nomane saying lawmakers need more time to study the outcome and what independence would mean for both Bougainville and PNG. HIV Public Health Crisis: The PNG Government has declared HIV a public health crisis, citing about 130,000 people living with HIV, around 11,000 new infections in 2025, and gaps in treatment coverage—especially for pregnant women. PHA Reform Push: Health Minister Dr Billy Joseph says Provincial Health Authorities need stronger leadership and accountability, pointing to weak progress on skilled births, immunisation, TB, and reports that many health facilities remain closed, alongside a 120-day plan for fixes. Medical Symposium Support: City Pharmacy Limited (CPL) has been named gold sponsor for the 60th PNG Medical Symposium for a fifth year, backing medical professionals and specialty meetings. Cancer Awareness Walk: Two brothers completed a 3,500km walk across PNG to raise awareness and funds for children with cancer, highlighting limited paediatric cancer capacity. Disaster Response Capacity: UN and PNG health officials are calling for stronger provincial disaster management, warning of staffing, funding, equipment, and information gaps in Provincial Disaster Centres. Bougainville Drought Alert: Bougainville has been placed on drought alert due to El Niño risks, with concerns for water, food gardens, health and nutrition—especially for remote communities.