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Liquiçá, H.E. the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Culture, Dr. José Honório, presided over the ceremony of hoisting the National Flag during the celebration of the National Day of the Proclamation of Independence, on November 28, marking the 49th anniversary, held in Liquiçá Municipality.
During the official session, H.E. the Minister was accompanied by the President of the Liquiçá Municipal Authority, Dr. Paulino Ribeiro, along with executive leaders from security institutions, education, local communities, and representatives from other relevant institutions who also attended the event.
During the ceremony, H.E. the Minister led a moment of silence, calling on all participants to pay tribute to the heroes who sacrificed their lives to determine Timor-Leste’s destiny. In this context, he emphasized: “Let us honor our heroes, such as President Nicolau Lobato, Francisco Xavier do Amaral, and all the other heroes who gave their lives to achieve our sovereignty and grant us the freedom to continue our national development.”
As part of the national celebration, various activities were organized starting on November 27, 2024, including a Eucharistic celebration at the Liquiçá Municipality Church to honor the heroes. Following the mass, H.E. the Minister, together with local authorities, survivors, veterans, staff, and communities, laid flowers at the Heroes’ Cemetery in Liquiçá Municipality. Next, a socialization session was conducted for secondary school students, led by the Chief of Staff of the MESCC Minister, Mr. José Boavida, and his team, aiming to promote the Ministry’s programs and activities, particularly scholarships and other initiatives that benefit young people. The final activity of the day included a cultural (tara-bandu) ceremony led by traditional leaders of Liquiçá Municipality.
After the official flag-hoisting ceremony, additional activities were held, such as musical performances featuring traditional music and instruments from Liquiçá Municipality, a traditional fair showcasing handicrafts and local products, and traditional dances that enriched the event.
The National Day celebration was met with great enthusiasm and maximum participation from the local community, in collaboration with authorities and the Ministry’s team, demonstrating their dedication from November 27 to November 28, 2024, culminating in the official ceremony.
