PRESIDENT Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has called on individuals, families and civil society to work with Government to battle illicit drugs which is now quietly terrorising every family, community and neighbourhood and threatening the very fabric of our nation.
In his address during the crowning night at the Bula Festival in Nadi on Saturday, he said illicit drug abuse was now fuelling the explosion of HIV cases in young people.
“We must address this pestilence of drugs to safeguard the health and the future of our children and our nation as a whole,” Ratu Lalabalavu said.
“The Government cannot battle the drug and HIV crisis alone.
“This has been told to us on many occasions by the Police Commissioner and his senior officers.
“It is critical that we come together and unify as a nation to ensure our collective future.”
Meanwhile, Miss Lion of Judah Security Services Lagilagi (LJSS Lagilagi) Alumeci Davu was crowned Miss Bula Festival 2025.
She also took home the Best Advocacy and Research Topic prize.
Bula Festival major sponsor FMF Group represented by marketing manager Maria Kumar was crowned the 1st Runner-Up Miss PSH Hospitals, Arieta Naqai and 2nd Runner-Up, Miss Unique Rubber Stamp, Grace Suvei.
The Miss Charity crown was taken home by Miss Nadi Town Council Anaisi Tavuinaulu while 1st runner-up for Miss Charity was Miss TifaJek Mudpool Fiji, Laisani Kama.
The Miss Personality prize went to Miss PSG Electric Karalaini Tupou.
Miss Magicland Rides Fiji, Mele Chambers was awarded Miss Best Talent.
