All systems go for Robredo’s inauguration—spox

THE camp of Vice President-elect Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo on Wednesday said all is set for the inauguration of the country’s second-highest elected official on Thursday.

Robredo’s spokesperson Georgina Hernandez said the only detail they have yet to finalize is the guest list, as confirmation of attendance is still coming in.

“Final na po ang marami sa mga detalye. Siguro iyong pinakainaayos na lang ngayon ay iyong final na guest list kasi dumarating pa rin ho ang mga kumpirmasyon mula sa mga iba’t ibang inimbita natin,” Hernandez said in an interview with Radyo Singko.

“Katulad ng sabi namin noong mga nakaraang araw medyo maliit lang po iyong ating venue sa Quezon City Reception House kaya po sinusubukan natin talagang mapagkasya lahat ng mga iba’t ibang mga mahahalagang taong pupunta sa pagka-bise presidente po ni Cong. Leni Robredo,” she added.

Robredo will be sworn in at the Quezon City Reception House in New Manila, where she will hold office, in what her camp called as a “modest” inauguration. Ronaldo Coner, chief of Camarines Sur’s poorest village, and another barangay captain Regina Celeste will administer Robredo’s oath of office.

Only 300 guests were invited, including representatives of different sectors in the society who will play key roles in the inauguration. Also expected to attend were Robredo’s defeated running mate Mar Roxas and actress-TV host Kris Aquino, who will represent the family of the outgoing President.

Hernandez said they made sure that the “simple, modest, and meaningful” inauguration will be “appropriate” to Robredo’s personality and principles.

“Kaya po napili din natin na Quezon City Reception House dahil para maki-akma din tayo kay President-elect Duterte dahil gagawin niya ang kanyang inagurasyon sa kanyang opisina. Kaya napili rin ho ni VP-elect Leni na gawin ang kanyang Inagurasyon sa kanyang magiging opisina rin po,” she added.

The flag raisers include a Bangsamoro woman, a Sumilao farmer, urban poor leaders and a person with disability. A young campaign leader and indigenous people will also lead the ecumenical service.

The inaugural menu consists of only six traditional Filipino delicacies, namely sotanghon, maja blanca, pichi pichi, three kinds of pandesal, turon, and buchi with chocnut.

Robredo’s inauguration program will run for just an hour, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., ahead of Duterte’s oath-taking at Malacañang Palace around noon. A program for the Vice-President elect’s supporters will be held at the Quezon City Memorial Circle later in the afternoon.