Hundreds gather in Madang

By JAYNE SAFIHAO 
HUNDREDS of people in Madang converged on the Laiwaden Oval to witness independence anniversary celebrations, with the usual flag-raising and traditional songs and dance.
Governor Jim Kas inspected a parade by warders and police officers.
Police Minister and Madang open MP Nixon Duban sent his apologies while other MPs, including provincial administrator Ben Lange, were notable absentees.
The show began at the cemetery grounds at 8am with a parade by church groups, students, police and correctional services officers and women. They were led to the oval by traffic officers.
Kas reminded people of the importance of the flag and its meaning and the reasons why we needed to be grateful to our colonisers.
Displaced Manam islanders living in care centres will benefit from a commitment by Deputy Prime Minister Leo Dion who gave K15 million for their resettlement at Andarum.
The Triple M band led by Shannon Bultin, a blind musician, sang independence songs and other local favourites.