Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., son of the late former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., was sworn in as Manila’s 17th chief executive on Thursday.
Marcos Jr., who goes by the moniker BBM, won the country’s presidential election on May 9 with 31,629,783 votes, which constituted 58.77% of the electorate.
The 64-year-old Ilocos native took his oath of office before Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo at the National Museum in the Philippine capital. Security measures and road closures were initiated days before the event.
Marcos, who served as a senator between 2010 and 2016, steered his campaign with a promise of uniting Filipinos and bringing progress to the country. In his inaugural speech, he vowed to serve and protect the nation.
“This is a historic moment for us all. You picked me to be your servant to enable changes to benefit all,” Marcos said. “I fully understand the gravity of the responsibility that you have put on my shoulders. I do not take it lightly, but I am ready for the task.”
Joining the new president was his wife, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and their sons Sandro, Simon and Vincent. His mother, former First Lady Imelda Marcos, and his sisters, Sen. Imee Marcos and Irene Marcos-Araneta, were also present.
Newly elected Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio and her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, were also present. Duterte-Carpio ran alongside Marcos and won 32,208,417 votes (61.53%).
More than 5,000 BBM supporters reportedly gathered along the public viewing area at the golf course in front of the museum. Meanwhile, some 1,000 protesters held a peaceful program at the nearby Plaza Miranda, according to the Philippine News Agency.
