The Role of National Disaster Center and Natural Disaster Response Office

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for frequent seismic and volcanic activity. Earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions are common in this region, posing a significant threat to the safety and well-being of the local population. 

To mitigate the risk of these natural disasters, PNG has established the National Disaster Center and the Natural Disaster Response Office.

The National Disaster Center (NDC) 

The National Disaster Center (NDC) is the primary agency responsible for disaster management in PNG. 

It operates under the Ministry of Provincial and Local Government Affairs and is tasked with coordinating the country's preparedness, response, and recovery efforts for natural disasters. 

The NDC works closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international partners, to ensure a coordinated and effective response to disasters.

Natural Disaster Response Office (NDRO)

The Natural Disaster Response Office (NDRO) is the operational arm of the NDC. It is responsible for managing disaster response operations, including search and rescue, evacuation, and relief efforts. 

The NDRO has teams stationed throughout the country, ready to respond to disasters at a moment's notice. 

The office also conducts training and awareness programs to educate the public on disaster preparedness and response.

 NDRO's disaster response plan

Recently, PNG experienced a 6.3 magnitude earthquake in the Western Province, triggering the activation of the NDRO's disaster response plan. 

The NDRO dispatched a team to the affected area to conduct damage assessments and coordinate relief efforts. 

The team worked closely with local authorities and humanitarian organizations to provide assistance to affected communities.

PNG's disaster management efforts

The NDC and NDRO play a critical role in PNG's disaster management efforts, particularly in providing early warning and response to earthquakes and other natural disasters. 

The agencies work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of the population, particularly those living in vulnerable areas prone to natural disasters.

To strengthen its disaster management capabilities, PNG has also established partnerships with international organizations such as the United Nations Development Programme and the Pacific Community. 

These partnerships provide technical and financial support to enhance the country's disaster preparedness and response capacities.

Conclusion

PNG's National Disaster Center and Natural Disaster Response Office are crucial institutions in ensuring the country's disaster management efforts. 

The earthquake warning in PNG serves as a reminder of the importance of having a robust disaster management system that can respond quickly and effectively to natural disasters. 

Through continued efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness and response capacities, PNG can minimize the impact of natural disasters and protect the safety and well-being of its citizens.

Download Papua New Guinea Passport Application Form (PDF Fillable)

Applying for a passport is an essential step for anyone planning to travel abroad. In this article, we provide the link to download PNG application form (PDF fillable) and the steps for how to complete the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Passport Application Form. 

With clear instructions and important details, you'll be ready to embark on your journey. To begin, download the application form:

Download the PNG Passport Application Form (PDF Fillable) - if you have a problem downloading, 'request access' and leave a message in the comment section below.

Hong Kong Central - PNG passport holders get Visa On Arrival

Where to Apply

To start the application process, submit your completed PNG Passport Application Form to either the Immigration and Citizenship Service Authority in Port Moresby or the Collector of Customs at various ports. 

Remember, each person must submit a separate application form. It is advisable to apply at least three weeks before your intended departure from Papua New Guinea.

PNG Passport Application Fee

To process your passport application, a fee of K100 is required. Visit your nearest cash office to make the payment, and ensure you attach the receipt to your application. 

For detailed information on fees, please refer to the official website of the Immigration and Citizenship Service Authority.

Collection of Passport

Once your application is processed, your passport will be sent to you via registered post. However, you also have the option to collect it in person or designate an agent to do so on your behalf. 

If you choose the latter, the agent must present the original custody receipt for the application.

Change of Name

If you have changed your name, provide all details of your previous names used in the application form. This ensures accurate record-keeping and avoids any complications during the application process.

Previous Travel Documents

Attach your previous travel document to the application form, unless it has been lost, stolen, or destroyed. In such cases, additional fees may apply. 

Refer to the PNG Immigration website for more information on the specific fees associated with lost or stolen passports.

Evidence of Citizenship

Accompany your application with evidence of your citizenship. Fill out Attachment 'A' on page 4 of the application form to provide the necessary information. 

Submit your birth certificate or citizenship certificate. Married women should also include their marriage certificate.

Certificate Regarding Applicant

On page 3 of the application form, a certificate regarding the applicant must be completed. 

This certificate can be provided by authorized individuals such as:

• lawyers, 
• medical practitioners, 
• magistrates, 
• ministers of religion, 
• commissioned officers of the defence and police force, and 
• commissioners of oaths. 

The person completing the certificate should have known the applicant for at least three years.

Consent of Parents

Applicants under 17 years of age must obtain the consent of their parents or legal guardians. This consent should be provided on page 2 of the application form.

Photographs

Include two recent photographs with your application. These photographs should be head and shoulders only, taken with a light-coloured background, and conform to the dimensions of 35mm x 45mm. 

The person who signs the certificate regarding the applicant on page 3 should also endorse the back of one photograph as a genuine representation of the applicant.

Declaration

The applicant, or the lodging parent or legal guardian in the case of a child, must sign the declaration on page 3. 

It is essential to provide truthful and accurate information in this section, as providing false or misleading information is a criminal offence.

Your Signature

The applicant must sign both of the small signature labels on page 3 of the application form using a ballpoint pen. 

Care should be taken to stay within the marked borders. In cases where the applicant is unable to sign, a line should be drawn through both of the small signature labels.

Final words

Obtaining a Papua New Guinea passport is a crucial step for international travel. By following the instructions outlined in this article, you will be well-prepared to complete the PNG Passport Application Form. 

Remember to allow sufficient time for processing, attach all required documents, and provide accurate information. 

To download the application form and begin your passport application, visit the official website of the Immigration and Citizenship Service Authority or click on the link provided above.