150,000 attend Noynoy's street party

MANILA, Philippines - More than 150,000 people from all walks of life, most of them wearing yellow shirts and carrying yellow umbrellas, bags and balloons, filled the historic Quezon City Memorial Circle to attend the street party to celebrate the inauguration of President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III Wednesday night.

Security was tightened at all entrances to the venue. The Commonwealth Avenue entrance was designated for the public, the entrance near the Quezon City Circle allotted for VIPs while the gate at the North Avenue was secured for the President.

The crowd waited for the highlight of the concert, which was a song number by Mr. Aquino, who sang “Watch What Happens” and “Estudyante Blues.”

Two mascots, which looked like Mr. Aquino and boxing icon and Saranggani Rep. Manny Pacquiao, roamed around the circle Wednesday afternoon. Children took turns in having their pictures taken with the mascots.

Occasional showers prompted partygoers to open their umbrellas but their euphoria was not affected. Although organizers provided plastic seats, the chairs were not enough for all those who were in the area, majority just stood up during the entire party.

Radio reports had it that a 20-footer van loaded with food and water from a relative of the Aquinos arrived at the circle and the contents were distributed to the crowd.

A number of celebrities and bands took turns performing on stage even before the program formally started. Talents from rival networks ABS-CBN and GMA jointly performed, which some interpreted that Mr. Aquino has unified the people.

Some enterprising individuals set up stalls to sell souvenirs like T-shirts, umbrellas, pins, ballpens and other merchandise.