As dawn breaks over Independence Hill, the Kumul unfurls, catching the first golden rays of a new era. A nation's collective breath is held as it ascends, carrying fifty years of struggle, pride, and sovereign dreams. It reaches the summit, a silent, powerful promise soaring against the sky for a generation to see. May God bless Papua New Guinea in the next 50 years. #NBCNEWSPNG #nbconline | NBC News PNG

Military Band of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force including other marching groups making entrance into Independence Hall now to officially commence the program for this morning's flag raising. #NBCNEWSPNG #nbconline | NBC News PNG

Prime Minister James Marape, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and other important guests and dignitaries done for morning breakfast, now leaving the Parliament House to attend other important gatherings for today. Flag lowering will be this afternoon at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium. Everyone including the dignitaries, special convoys of respective countries and citizens are expected to be at the Stadium for flag lowering. #NBCNEWSPNG #nbconline | NBC News PNG