The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
By Riza Lozada
The inauguration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. was secured by some 2,300 personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine National Police who ensured a smooth ceremony that Marcos Jr. wanted to be simple.
The new President’s mother and former First Lady, Imelda, was clearly delighted to see street sweepers part of the civic-military parade that preceded the oath taking ceremony. During her time at Malacanang, Imelda Marcos advocated for cleanliness and beauty.
The cities of Manila, Navotas and San Juan earlier declared a special non-working holiday on June 30 to allow residents to witness the inauguration.
Government station PTV-4 aired a report showing Marcos Jr.’s record of achievements while in government including being a staunch crusader against corruption and supporter of infrastructure development to boost agricultural production. His legacy as Ilocos Norte governor included the country’s first windmill farm for renewable energy while becoming a tourist attraction.
In 2018, Marcos Jr. marked his 25th wedding anniversary with Atty. Liza Araneta with whom he has three sons. They were married in Italy.
During its coverage of the inauguration, PTV-4 also reported a past biographical film – Iginuhit ng Tadhana – showing how Marcos Jr. as a young boy aspired to become a successful politician. The movie – starring Gloria Romero and Vilma Santos – also depicted Bongbong Marcos wanting to provide food to the people when he achieves his political dreams.
The TV network also aired Marcos Jr.’s grade school classmates from La Salle Greenhills giving testimonials that Bongbong Marcos was humble and friendly when they were young.
Bongbong first experienced Christmas at Malacanang in 1966 when his late father and namesake got elected into office as President.