BSP contributes to Mendi Relief effort

Thursday, 8th January, 2026

BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) has announced its support for the Mendi Town fire relief effort, reaffirming the Bank’s commitment to the communities in which it operates.

BSP has contributed K10,000 to assist businesses affected by the recent fire that destroyed several commercial properties in Mendi Town, including Pisgah Limited – BSP’s high performing Cash Agent – and Karen Trading, along with other enterprises.

Presenting the donation to the Mendi Disaster Relief Committee on Tuesday, 6th January 2026, BSP Highlands Region Area Manager John Tomba Jnr expressed the Bank’s sympathies to all business owners, market operators, and property owners affected.

“The Bank stands in solidarity with those affected as recovery efforts continue. Our support reflects BSP’s ongoing commitment to our customers in Mendi, strengthens our relationship with the wider business community, and contributes to the economic recovery of Mendi Town,” Mr Tomba said.

BSP Group General Manager Retail Ronesh Dayal also reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment, emphasising BSP’s role in supporting communities during moments of crisis.
“This incident has deeply affected families, businesses and livelihoods in Mendi, and it is important that we stand with the community as they rebuild. BSP has always been more than a bank – we are a partner in growth and stability for the people we serve. Our contribution and support measures reflect our responsibility to help restore economic activity, protect jobs and ensure essential banking services remain accessible. We will continue working closely with local authorities and affected businesses throughout the recovery process.”

BSP also confirmed that it will provide loan repayment relief arrangements, assessed on a case-by-case basis, for customers impacted by the disaster. Customers seeking support are encouraged to visit the Mendi Branch or contact their relationship manager.

Deputy Chairman of the Disaster Relief Committee Loa Magala thanked BSP for its timely contribution, stating,
“This support will go a long way in the efforts to recover and rebuild Mendi Town. We value our relationship with the only bank in the province.”

A total of nine businesses were destroyed in the fire, including two BSP Cash Agents, three high-value clients, and four small and medium enterprises.

While the BSP Mendi Branch was spared, the fire on Friday, 19th December 2025 destroyed almost half of Mendi Town’s business district.

BSP also acknowledged the efforts of the local community and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), whose swift actions prevented the blaze from spreading to the branch.

BSP Head of Retail Branch Network, Peter Komon, expressed the Bank’s appreciation.

“Their courage and quick response ensured the safety of our branch, allowing us to continue providing essential banking services to the people of Mendi and the Southern Highlands. Without their intervention, branch operations may have been severely disrupted.”