Coca-Cola Papua New Guinea has donated PGK 43,000 to the National St John Ambulance Service through its Green Angels Appeal, supporting ambulance services nationwide while also spreading festive cheer to frontline staff and volunteers in Port Moresby, Lae and Kokopo during the Christmas period.

The donation was announced at National St John Ambulance Office at 3- Mile on Friday December 12th, with this fund directly towards helping the purchase of new ambulances and strengthen emergency response services during the busiest times of the year.

Coca-Cola PNG also hosted Christmas celebrations for St John staff and volunteers, providing food, music, refreshments and games to recognize those working through the holidays.

Senior Manager for Frontline Marketing at Coca-Cola PNG, Rachel Nainggolan, said the initiative was about recognizing people who put community first.

“This holiday season, Coca-Cola wants to recognize and reward those in our local communities who selflessly give their time to care for others,” she said, highlighting the company’s intention to give frontline workers a moment of rest and appreciation amid their demanding schedules.

National St John Ambulance Chief Executive Kai Tane welcomed the contribution, noting it goes beyond financial support.

“This donation will help us enhance our services and ensure that we are prepared to respond promptly to emergencies, especially during the busy festive season,” he said, emphasizing that community partnerships are critical as emergency callouts continue to rise across the country.

During the event, Mr. Tane also outlined the growing pressures facing ambulance services, including increased emergency responses, limited ambulance availability in some provinces, and safety risks to crews.

He then appealed to the public to protect ambulance teams, particularly during the festive season when demand and risks are highest.