Author: TMC Palau

HFC Bank has expanded its national network with the opening of a new branch at Damodar Arts Village in Pacific Harbour, bringing full banking services to one of Fiji’s fastest-growing communities. The new branch offers account opening, deposits, loans, foreign exchange, and digital banking support, giving residents, businesses and visitors greater access to financial services. Chief Executive Rakesh Ram says the opening reflects the bank’s commitment to expanding its presence in communities, at a time when many financial institutions are reducing their physical branch networks. He says as Fiji’s only locally owned bank, HFC believes every community deserves accessible banking…

The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) is facing an unusual challenge in rolling out federal disaster unemployment assistance after Super Typhoon Sinlaku because the US territory does not have its own unemployment insurance system.A Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) fact sheet says the CNMI Department of Labour lacks the equipment, software and administrative framework needed to process unemployment claims, forcing officials to build a system before benefits can be distributed.Instead of using an existing unemployment insurance programme, the CNMI will install a new software platform tailored to federal Disaster Unemployment Assistance requirements.Applications will be processed through staff-assisted interviews,…

[Photo: SUPPLIED] Fiji Airways has expanded its environmental commitment beyond mangrove restoration by launching a native tree regeneration programme aimed at protecting Fiji’s unique forests and biodiversity. The initiative, launched to mark World Environment Day, is being carried out in partnership with Animals Fiji and the Ministry of Forestry under the airline’s Maroroya sustainability programme. Fiji Airways Managing Director and CEO Paul Scurrah says as tourism continues to grow, protecting Fiji’s forests, wildlife, and ecosystems is just as important as protecting its beaches and reefs. He says the airline has a responsibility to help preserve the natural environment that attracts…

[Source: Fijian Drua] Promising Queen Victoria School fly half Jone Raibevu has been drafted into the Fijian Drua Development Squad, marking another success story from the club’s grassroots talent pathway. The Kalabu, Naitasiri native earned his place after progressing through the Drua Foundation’s junior development system, having first been identified through its scouting programme in 2024. His elevation reflects the continued impact of the Foundation in identifying and nurturing young rugby talent across the country. Raibevu first gained national attention during the 2024 Secondary Schools Eastern Zone competition before being selected for the inaugural Drua Junior Development Programme later that…

The one-round provincial election held on Sunday in New Caledonia has produced a few surprises, but essentially maintained the existing blocs between pro-independence and pro-France parties.In the Southern Province (New Caledonia’s most affluent and populated, including the capital Nouméa), provisional results show half the votes went to the “Strong and United” pro-France camp that brought together the Rassemblement, Les Loyalistes parties, headed by incumbent Southern Province president Sonia Backès.Her list has obtained the support of 50.4 percent of the votes in the province, according to preliminary results on Sunday night, which should give it access to 28 seats in the…

Justice Minister and Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga. [Photo: FILE] Justice Minister and Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga has dismissed criticism that the constitutional review process is a waste of time, saying the exercise remains on track and is progressing as scheduled. Turaga expressed confidence that the Constitutional Review Commission would complete its work on time. Turaga says the process has involved extensive public participation across the country. Turaga adds that, unlike the 2013 Constitution, the current review process has allowed ordinary Fijians from all walks of life to have their say.Article continues after advertisement “I have every confidence in the process.…

A real and pressing security concern is emerging in the Pacific. There has been an increase in online scamming, a complex and evolving threat that is relatively new to the region. This shift seems to be part of the expansion of transnational crimes into vulnerable small island states. Online scam centres are large-scale and highly organised criminal operations that often rely on forced labour to carry out global cyber fraud. Victims of human trafficking are forced to conduct “pig butchering” — where scammers build trust through fake relationships before tricking victims into investing in fraudulent schemes, often cryptocurrency schemes —…

[Photo: FIJI FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION/ FACEBOOK] Ba Women FC have kicked off their OFC Women’s Champions League 2026 campaign in style, thrashing hosts Henderson Eels FC 6-0 in their opening Group A match at the National Stadium in Honiara. The Fijian champions were in control from the opening whistle, scoring three goals in each half to record their biggest-ever win in the competition. Adi Reva opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a powerful header from a corner before captain Luisa Tamanitoakula doubled the lead from the penalty spot in the 24th minute after Henderson Eels handled the ball inside…

[Photo: FIJI POLICE FORCE/ FACEBOOK] Police officers have been encouraged to remain committed to their duties and continue serving the public despite ongoing criticism directed at the organisation. Speaking at the Fiji Police Force Family Church Service held at the Centenary Church in Suva yesterday, Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu urged officers to stay positive, remain resilient, and rejoice in all circumstances as they carry out their responsibilities. The service provided an opportunity for the Commissioner to reflect on the work carried out by the Force so far this year, while acknowledging the dedication and commitment of officers across the country.…

[Photo: PECELI NAVITICOKO] Ba FC have been crowned champions of the 2026 BiC Fiji FACT after defeating Navua FC 3-1 in a dramatic penalty shootout at Subrail Park tonight. Both sides produced a gripping contest, with solid defensive displays keeping the match scoreless through regulation. The deadlock remained unbroken in extra time as neither team could find the back of the net, highlighting the determination and resilience of both finalists. The title was eventually decided from the penalty spot, where Ba held their nerve to convert three penalties while Navua managed just one.Article continues after advertisement Ba goalkeeper Isikeli Sevanaia…