Clad in a yellow shirt, Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat led a procession of similarly attired officials to receive the flags, which all sported an official royal emblem, at Wisit Panwa Pier at Cape Panwa around midday.
Joined by his wife Busadee Suwannarat, who also serves as the President of the Red Cross Society of Phuket, Governor Sophon received the Governor of Krabi province Somchai Hanpakdeepatima and colleagues who arrived by boat before handing over the flags at an official ceremony conducted at the pier.
Once the numerous flags had been exchanged, Governor Sophon gave an official speech in front of a portrait of His Majesty the King on the specially stage before the procession of flag bearers began.
Governor Sophon once again led the procession as it took to the streets as part of the official ‘Walk, Run, Cycle’ initiative - some participants elected to walk, while others, including Governor Sophon and his wife, opted for a slow run and some cycled on bikes.
The procession travelled along Sakdidet Rd and continued to the Phuket Provincial Administration Center on Tha Kraeng Rd in Phuket Town, where Phuket Provincial Hall is located.
The flags were then placed at the Phuket Auditorium, where an exhibition in honour of His Majesty the King will be held this evening. The exhibition will showcase the royal history and duties, screen films celebrating the history of the Thai nation, and volunteer activities for public service and charity.
The celebrations will also feature traditional folk performances, contests of royal compositions and local arts and cultural displays.
After being held overnight at Provincial Hall the flags will be handed over to representatives from Phang Nga Province at the Sarasin Bridge at about 1:30pm today.