PNG Government Releases K5 Million Relief Support for Manus After Undersea Volcanic Activity

Papua New Guinea has committed K5 million in emergency funding to assist Manus Province as coastal and island communities continue to grapple with the effects of undersea volcanic activity in the Bismarck Sea. The phenomenon has brought large volumes of volcanic pumice ashore, disrupting livelihoods and creating challenges for villages that rely heavily on marine resources.

Prime Minister James Marape announced the relief package during a visit to Manus this week, saying the funding would help authorities provide food, clean drinking water, transport assistance and other urgent services to affected residents.

 PNG Government Releases K5 Million Relief Support for Manus After Undersea Volcanic Activity/Government Photo

Mr Marape travelled to the province to inspect the situation and receive updates from local authorities. He was accompanied by Disaster Response Minister Dr Billy Joseph and was welcomed in Lorengau by Manus Governor Charlie Benjamin and provincial leaders. Speaker of Parliament and Manus MP Job Pomat has also been involved in relief efforts.

Information provided by the Rabaul Volcano Observatory shows seismic activity linked to the undersea volcanic event was detected on May 8 and 9 in the Central Bismarck Sea, approximately 125 kilometres southeast of Manus Province. Officials say it is the most substantial event of its kind recorded in the area since 1972.

Since then, floating masses of pumice have spread through surrounding waters, affecting fishing grounds, hindering sea travel and creating concerns about food supplies and access to safe water in several communities.

The Prime Minister said the National Government's immediate focus was ensuring the safety and welfare of affected residents.

He said government assistance would go beyond direct financial support and include scientific studies, technical assessments, environmental monitoring and coordinated action involving national and provincial agencies.

Authorities will also examine the effects of volcanic debris on marine habitats, coral reefs, shipping routes, public health and community water sources.

Mr Marape said the impact on Manus was particularly serious because many residents depend on the ocean for transport, income, food and access to education and healthcare services.

He acknowledged the efforts of Governor Benjamin, Speaker Pomat, provincial disaster officials, churches and community leaders who have been assisting affected communities, while also recognising Dr Joseph's role in coordinating response measures.

The K5 million allocation will be used to support emergency food supplies, clean water distribution, transport assistance, health surveillance, environmental studies and expert advice on managing pumice deposits affecting beaches, reefs, lagoons and fishing areas.

Residents have been urged to continue following guidance from disaster management authorities while assessments are ongoing.

“We are here because Manus matters. The people of Manus are our people. Their hardship is our national concern. We will support them, work with their leaders, and help them recover,” Prime Minister Marape said.