FROM the excerpts of the inaugural address of President Benigno Simeon "Noynoy" Cojuangco Aquino III, he means business.
The 15th President of the republic appears to be very keen in doing what is just and necessary in cleaning up the bureaucracy including rodents big or small from their lairs. He seemed to be serious about it and eager to solve the country's pressing problems through the weeding out of those not so serious in doing their jobs well.
Wednesday was an important day for Filipinos, especially those who supported the 50 year-old bachelor to win in the presidential race. Time stood still as Filipinos eyes were glued on their television sets as if watching a boxing match of Manny Pacquiao.
For the laymen, they would want to simply watch the turn-over and assumption to office of this heroes' son in the historic moments of our country that is ideally happening only every six years.
Others, like our neighbors, turned-on their TV sets, just to see how P-Noy, as he wanted to be nicknamed, puff a cigarette as they were intrigued by the fact that our president is a smoking gun.
Because Wednesday was a special holiday, many enjoyed a brief vacation and one way of killing boredom for them is watching the boob-tube. To the young and mostly of those feminine by gender and heart, their curiosity let them see the occasion and take a glimpse of Valenzuela Councilor Shalani Soledad, the president's prospective First Lady, aside from Lady Kris, the ever famous younger sister of P-Noy. Soledad is admirable of her simplicity and her style of not being camera-hungry despite the fact that she is among those who are in the limelight today. Others waited to see whether James Yap, the better half of Lady Kris would be there although apparently he was not.
To the critical minds, they would want to hear the inaugural address of the President to see and feel what style our newly-assumed national leader has. As expected, different reactions set in as people gauged whether P-Noy is serious on assuming the arduous responsibility of being the head of the state. While the speech was filled with substance, some sides of it seemed to resemble to those campaign speeches of him. His delivery appeared to be serious and sincere as my point of view.
By the way, P-Noy is very apt to be the moniker of His Excellency. It is native-sounding and very Filipino in terms of branding a nickname to the highest official of the land.
They day has its level of significance for different folks of different strokes. What is notable was the number of those who witnessed the event even on their homes for those who cannot go to Manila to witness it personally.
Among those who caught the attention of the message P-Noy has publicly imparted, the "wang-wang" is most remembered. It describes the president's humility not only in Malacanang, but even on our roads. He seemed to be irked with loud noises of traffic sweepers and would want Filipinos feel that he is an ordinary motorist even as he is now the president. I have seen many green-plated vehicles on our streets using the "wang-wang" and the blinkers as if they own public roads and have them already titled, backing-out other vehicles.
The use and abuse of the "wang-wang" is punishable by Presidential Decree 96. It was during President Marcos time that the decree was issued and put in effect. Exempted from this issuance are ambulances, fire trucks, police cars and other vehicles of the high ranks. P-Noy is seemed to be bent on waiving his right and privilege to use these sirens.
At times, I have witnessed a convoy of a politician and a back-up car with "wang-wang" side swept a passenger jeepney and wrecked the latter's side mirror. The wretched driver of the public transporter was helpless and could only charge the damage to his experience. Abusive drivers and owners of vehicles who are fond of indiscriminately using these noisemakers better beware.
The sight of former presidents during the inaugural was inspiring. They sent the message of unity and support to the new administration signaling the start of a new government that aims to be a cohesion of forces that will focus on tasks and not on too much politics.
Perhaps former President Joseph Estrada was a bit awakened to recall his time when he said "walang kama-kamag-anak, walang kumpa-kumpare." P-Noy stated his version of "walang padrino." I hope he is serious making his statement a national policy and a legacy to remember.
Former President Fidel Ramos, on the other hand displayed a hopeful and confident face. He is there perhaps to show support to P-Noy's administration and his smoking habits.
With a change in command of the republic, no one would not hope for a better tomorrow ahead. Every Filipino, young and old alike would always want P-Noy's tutelage to continue what is good, the past presidents have started and accomplished. On the other side, Filipinos would like also the bad and the not-so-good deeds to be lessened if not totally eradicated.
If P-Noy says business, he means business. We hope that he keeps his words.
Every new thing symbolizes fresh hopes. Every new mandates symbolize reforms. Every new leadership symbolizes new approach. Let's keep our fingers crossed for an always better Philippines.