Today, June 30, the Philippines will formally witness the inauguration of President Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” Aquino III at the Quirino Grandstand. The government has declared a non-working special holiday to allow everyone to take part in this momentous occasion. Instead of the Chief Justice, the new President will be sworn in by Associate Justice Conchita Carpio-Morales. And to signal either an abundance of blessings or a shower of positivity, the PAGASA weather station has declared that rains might spoil the smooth conduct of the ceremony. Regardless, it’s all systems go for the big event.

Quirino Grandstand - venue of the inauguration.

It will be a heavy mix of politics and entertainment aside from the presence of one head of state – East Timor President Jose Ramos-Horta – and high-level representations from the diplomatic community. Celebrities who have openly supported the new President’s candidacy will be in attendance, led by singer Ogie Alcasid who composed a song – “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines) – along with Noel Cabangon and to be performed by some of the country’s top singers such as Regine Velasquez, Gary Valenciano, Christian Bautista and Jed Madela. And by the way, international singing sensation Charice will be singing the Philippine National Anthem together with the world-renowned UP Madrigal Singers and the Kilyawan Choir.

Of course, President Noynoy’s equally-famous sisters – Ballsy, Pinky, Viel and Kris – will be donning their simple but elegant yellow Philippine ternos courtesy of designers Paul Cabral, Randy Ortiz and JC Buendia. They will also be joined by the Presidential Girlfriend Shalani Soledad who will come in a Rajo Laurel.

The Aquno sisters - Ballsy, Kris, Pinky and Viel

Right after the inauguration, President Noynoy will conduct his first meeting with his newly-appointed cabinet members which include DLSU President Bro. Armin Luistro (Dept. of Education), Commission on Human Rights Chair Leila de Lima (Dept. of Justice), QC Administrator Paquito ‘Jojo’ Ochoa, Jr. (Executive Secretary), Dinky Soliman (Dept. of Social Welfare and Development), Alberto Romulo (Dept. of Foreign Affairs), Cesar Purisima (Dept. of Finance), Florencio ‘Butch’ Abad (Dept. of Budget) and Makati Business Club’s Alberto ‘Bertie’ Lim (Dept. of Tourism).

Quezon Memorial Circle - venue of the inaugural concert and street party tonight

But it doesn’t end there. Tonight, an inaugural concert and street party will be held at the Quezon Memorial Circle to cap the special day. Supporters have been egging President Noynoy to do a song-and-dance number in the celebration. Methinks he will give in to half of the request and sing one of his favorite ditties during the proceedings. Besides, there will be so many celebrities joining the party and it is likely to last till early dawn.

It’s going to be a long day for the country. Let’s all celebrate! Tomorrow, President Noynoy will buckle down to the real business at hand and that is to run the Philippines for the next 6 years. 😉