Some Thoughts on Noy's Inauguration Day

I watched the inauguration of President Noynoy Aquino. The following are SOME of the stuff that popped out of my mind:

1. Charice Pempengco sang "Lupang Hinirang" perfectly, without changing anything. I remember other singers who sang the national anthem in Pacman's bouts, but did their own renditions, citing "artistic freedom." The likes of Martin Nievera, Arnel Pineda and Geneva Cruz. But in an earlier interview, Lea Salonga, internationally renowned singer and actress, pointed out to the effect: "When you lead the singing of the national anthem, you are singing with a nation who would want to sing with you." True enough, those lead singers should honor the historical value of our national anthem. A lot of Filipinos would love to sing with you, so don't change its rendition, just so you can stand out. It's not just any song. It's the NATIONAL ANTHEM. And remember that no freedom is absolute. Practice your artistic freedom somewhere else.

2. The APO Hiking Society, Noel Cabangon, Ogie Alcasid, Gary Valenciano, Regine Velasquez, the Madrigal Singers and the Philharmonic Orchestra performed patriotic songs during the inauguration. I suddenly missed Master Rapper Francis Magalona. He could have been among the event's performers. As a tribute for him, here's some of his songs that made us, Filipino Youths, proud to be Filipinos: "Mga Kababayan Ko," "Kabataan Para sa Kinabukasan," "Ito Ang Gusto Ko."

3. Regine Velasquez once again appeared in public wearing her favorite clothing style--plunging neckline. She looked pretty, though it made her face look too small for her body.

4. "There is no reconciliation without justice," said Noy. True enough, to forgive and forget is a fallacy. Forgive, but do not forget. Because in forgiving, one may find peace of mind. But in forgetting, one gives the offender another chance to commit the offense.

5. In his speech, Noy thanked his house helpers for taking care of his daily personal needs. But he did not mention anything for his girlfriend, Valenzuela Councilor Shalani Soledad. Maybe she's included in what Noy referred to as "mga kamag-anak at mga kaibigan."

6. I saw Kris and Baby James. But I did not see James Yap. Noy said in an earlier interview that he would be attending. Where was he?

7. I like Noel Cabangon's song, which emphasized how Filipinos can be good citizens by being responsible in their own simple ways--"tumawid sa tamang tawiran," "huwag magtapon ng basura sa kalye, "pumasok sa eskwela at mag-aral nang mabuti," etc. However, I think he over did it. The song was too long.

8. After watching the performances, I felt like watching a performance of "Kontragapi," the gamelan group of the University of the Philippines.

10. All high-ranking officials wore Filipiniana (while some citizens came in bahag)... I wonder how it became so "baduy" for young Filipinos to wear it in their respective formal occasions.