The organizing committee is now in the thick of preparation as the celebration started as early this weekend with a softball tournament and bike rides.
This year’s theme is “Palau in motion for a healthy nation.”The formal ceremony under the bridge will begin with a traditional chant followed by a prayer by Father Rusk Saburo.The ceremony however will be minus the fireworks as the Japanese organization that used to donate the pyrotechnics opted to give the money instead for education and health programs.The Law Enforcement Explorers Program (LEEP) volunteers will perform the singing of the national anthem and the raising of the national flag.The royal prince and princesses from Japan will again grace the festivities and will present flower bouquets to President Remengesau.The president, Ibedul, Senate President Whipps and House Speaker Bells are going to give their remarks during the program.The winner for this year’s independence essay contest will also read his/her essay.The boat race will start shortly after the formal opening ceremony. In between the preparation of the boat race and after the awarding of trophies for the boat race winners, raffle drawings will be held. Five bicycles for children will be given away.The celebration will last until the evening, by 7:30 p.m. there will be entertainment with performances by live bands.
