BSP reopens branch in Porgera

BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) has reopened its Porgera Branch in Enga Province, reaffirming its commitment to delivering essential banking services to remote communities.

Following strengthened measures to ensure a safe and supportive operating environment, BSP has resumed operations at the Porgera Branch, restoring access to banking services for nearly 19,000 customers across the district.

The Porgera Branch—the only bank operating in the district—was closed in September 2024 due to ongoing security concerns. While the branch reopened briefly in April 2024 after a year-long closure, renewed security challenges resulted in an indefinite closure until Monday, 26 January 2026. Throughout the closure, BSP continued to support customers through EFTPoS and Agent Banking services. ATM services were restored last week.

BSP Treasury & Markets Group Head of Market Sales, Leighton Crisp said the New Porgera Limited Gold Mine is a cornerstone of PNG’s economy, emphasizing the branch’s critical role in serving the mine and the wider Porgera community. “It generates substantial foreign exchange earnings through gold exports—earnings that are essential for funding the country’s imports of goods, fuel, machinery and other necessities that benefit businesses and communities nationwide,” Mr Crisp said.

BSP Highlands Area Manager, John Tomba Jnr, said the reopening reflects BSP’s critical role in supporting community livelihoods and economic activity. “We are committed to serving the people of Porgera and intend to remain here as long as peace is maintained in the valley. Protecting essential services like banking is vital for local livelihoods, economic growth, and community wellbeing,” Mr Tomba said.

BSP Head of Corporate Banking, David Bishop, reaffirmed the bank’s broader commitment to customers across all segments – Individuals, SMEs and Corporate Clients. “We are guided by our core values—We Care and We aspire to grow our communities—through financial literacy programs and modernization initiatives that deliver the best possible customer experience,” Mr Bishop said.

Community leaders, including the District Administrator and Deputy Governor, welcomed BSP’s return, highlighting the importance of banking services in supporting everyday transactions such as deposits, withdrawals, school fee payments, and SME financing to stimulate the local economy.

Beyond in-branch services, BSP continues to expand financial access in the district through two ATMs, 40 EFTPoS merchants, and three cash agents.

BSP remains committed to working closely with local communities and stakeholders to maintain a secure environment that enables essential services to operate sustainably for the benefit of all.