The Rise of Pass: A Gambling Phenomenon in Honiara

As the sun sets in Honiara, the vibrant capital of the Solomon Islands, the call of the streets beckons many, including Irene, a 43-year-old teacher clad in a floral dress. With a yellow daisy tucked in her bun, she hops onto a minibus that soon brings her to a hidden world of risk and camaraderie—an underground gambling scene where the street card game known as Pass is sweeping the city.

A Game on the Rise

After a short bus ride, Irene enters a dim, smoky shelter scattered with plastic tables and playing cards. Here, the game of Pass has become increasingly popular, attracting players from all walks of life—young and old, low-income earners and professionals alike. This surge comes even as authorities intensify efforts to curtail such activities, aware that the lure of potentially life-changing winnings can lead to devastating losses.

The game’s mechanics are straightforward but engaging. Dealers entice players with shouts of bets: “$20 down!” Each participant is dealt seven cards and must follow a sequential play, discarding cards while calling “pass” when unable to continue. The excitement can escalate rapidly, with substantial sums exchanged in mere minutes—up to 30 games occurring within an hour.

“I’ve run out of money, but I’ve asked my kids to bring me some,” Irene admits, showcasing both her determination and dependence on the game. Despite her losses that evening, she holds a modest gain for the week that nearly rivals her teacher’s salary of $600.

The Broad Appeal of Pass

Irene symbolizes the growing number of people turning to Pass as an alternative source of income amidst financial struggles. Many, including the youth, perceive gambling as a means to escape economic hardship. For Irene, it’s about supporting her family; for others, like 19-year-old dealer Ben, it can help cover school fees. He mentions earning as much as SBD$500 every week from dealing Pass.

The allure of Pass reaches far beyond simple economics. For some, like 29-year-old Madlyn, the game serves as a social gathering. “I just won!” she announces excitedly, enjoying camaraderie and shared meals with fellow players. Gambling, for her, represents both community and potential reward.

Economic Context and Consequences

The rise of Pass reflects deeper issues within the Solomon Islands’ economy. Youth advocate Phillip Subu highlights unemployment as a critical driver of this trend, suggesting that for many residents in Honiara, gambling has become intertwined with survival. Official statistics on unemployment can be sparse, but estimates show youth unemployment conservatively ranging between 12% to 15%. As young people flock to the capital in search of jobs, a lack of opportunities forces many towards informal sectors, crime, and gambling.

Business owners have also recognized the appeal of Pass; shopkeepers John and Piwen launched their own table, noting that their dealers—local women—often earn more than public servants. They see this as a practical approach to meeting daily bills, such as electricity costs.

The Challenge of Regulation

While the game flourishes, law enforcement stands firmly against it. The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force has initiated operations aimed at dismantling illegal gambling activities, citing concerns over associated social issues such as domestic violence. Previous raids have netted dozens of arrests, yet the lack of significant legal repercussions for players raises questions about the effectiveness of these measures.

“The issue is illegal, and police are warning the public to refrain from playing Pass,” says Jimson Robo, an assistant commissioner from the police. Despite these warnings, the game continues to gain momentum, drawing locals who find both financial hope and social connection in its play.

A Community Amidst Chaos

For many players, the risks seem secondary to the friendships forged around the gambling table. Irene acknowledges the significance of these connections, referring to her fellow players as her “wantoks”—friends united by circumstance and shared experience. For them, the game of Pass is not just a gamble; it is a lifeline in a challenging economic landscape.