Flag Raising ceeremony

Port Moresby residents including school children, members of the police and military forces, members of parliament and members of the diplomatic corp braved the morning cold and windy conditions to witness the flag raising.

Treasurer Ian Ling Stuckey stood in place of the Prime Minister to deliver the government’s Independence message.

The ceremony began with the marching of military soldiers and a dedication prayer, followed by the singing of the national anthem and the national pledge as the PNG flag was slowly hoisted up the pole.

Many woke up as early as 3am to make their way to the Independence Hill and secure a space at the top of the hill to see the flag being brought in. Kids even resorted to climbing the trees around the hill to get a better view of the  ceremony.

One family from the Southern Highlands Province who has been attending this event for the past five years made it there again this morning.

Lavenda Anja and her four children were happy to join others in witnessing the PNG flag being raised for the 41^st time.