Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 11) — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Sunday led the celebration of the 105th birth anniversary of his late father Ferdinand E. Marcos in a solemn mass at the Libingan ng mga Bayani before heading to their hometown of Ilocos Norte for various activities.
Joining the President was his mother, former first lady Imelda along with other members of the Marcos family, as well as relatives, close friends, former Presidential Security Group close-in officers, and longtime supporters.
“Salamat sa taun-taon ninyong pagsama sa amin upang sariwain ang kanyang alaala at magpaabot ng inyong suporta. Makakaasa po kayo sa aking matapat at mahusay na paglilingkod upang matumbasan ang inyong tiwala at kumpiyansa,” Marcos said in a social media post.
[Translation: Thank you for joining us every year to commemorate him and give your support. You can expect an honest and excellent service from me to reciprocate your trust and confidence.]
At 12:20 p.m., the chief executive arrived at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Monument in Batac, Ilocos Norte where he was joined by his son Sandro and welcomed by local officials.
Earlier in the day, a wreath-laying ceremony was held in the monument which was led by Sen. Imee Marcos, first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and sons Simon and Vincent, and Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Manotoc.
Malacañang declared Sept. 12 a special non-working holiday in Ilocos Norte to mark the late president’s birthday through Proclamation No. 53.
