New Regulation Establishes Official Procedures for the Hoisting and Raising of the National Flag at the Commemorations of the Proclamation and Restoration of Independence
On April 23rd, 2025, Government Decree no. 8/2025 was published, systematically establishing the rules applicable to the ceremonial raising and lowering of the National Flag during the official ceremonies commemorating the Proclamation of National Independence (November 28) and the Restoration of National Independence (May 20). The diploma also defines the criteria for the constitution, selection and operation of the National Flag Raising Corps (CIBN Portuguese acronyms), the structure responsible for the technical and symbolic execution of these solemn acts.
The National Flag is one of the main symbols of Timor-Leste's sovereignty and identity, representing the struggle, values and aspirations of the Timorese people. Its hoisting and lowering in official ceremonies are a highly symbolic moment and an affirmation of national unity.
The Proclamation of National Independence, on November 28th, 1975, and the Restoration of National Independence, on May 20th, 2002, occupy a central place in the country's collective memory and civic calendar, requiring that the respective ceremonies be carried out with dignity, rigor and uniformity, in strict respect for the symbols of the State.
This government decree establishes the official procedure to be followed and defines the criteria for the composition of the National Flag Raising Corps, which includes secondary school students, selected according to specific parameters of age, physical condition and discipline, and is commanded by a Captain of the Armed Forces (F-FDTL). The decree also stipulates the conditions of participation, the compulsory uniform and the incentives awarded to CIBN members, including monetary compensation and a certificate of participation.
The ceremony includes moments of high solemnity, such as the entry of the National Flag, carried by the CIBN, which parades to the hoisting site, preceded by a battalion of the F-FDTL and followed by a battalion of the National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL). The national flag is raised and lowered in a solemn manner and in sync with the playing of the national anthem by the CIBN and all those present must stand as a sign of respect, with the F-FDTL soldiers and PNTL police officers saluting.
The decree also regulates the holding of these ceremonies in public institutions and outside the capital, providing for adaptations for celebrations held in the Special Administrative Region of Oe-Cusse Ambeno, in the municipalities and in Atauro.
Under the terms of the decree, the national flag-raising ceremony at the Government Palace, ministries, state secretariats, educational establishments and other state institutions will not take place on the first Monday of May and November, but on the 20th and 28th respectively. Civil servants must attend the ceremonial raising of the national flag as part of the official ceremonies commemorating the Proclamation and Restoration of National Independence. END
