FM takes oath as Batasan ‘President’

IN AN atmosphere charged by indignation over the revolutionary forces trying to topple his regime, Ferdinand E. Marcos took his oath as President for the fourth time since 1965.

Speaking before a crowd of about 500 loyalists inside Malacanang’s Ceremonial Hall, the beleaguered Marcos, threw a volley of fighting words at the revolution-supported government of President Corazon Aquino.

Vice-presidential candidate Arturo Tolentino was not present as President Marcos was inaugurated at the Malacanang ceremonial hall, high noon today.

Conflicting explanations were given by various officials in the Palace. Members of the presidential press staff said that Tolentino was going around Asean nations as part of the diplomatic missiOn sent by President Marcos.

Information Minister Cendana however said “he (Tolentino) can’t get through.” He made no elaboration of his brief statement.

Agriculture Minister Salvador Escudero, on the other hand, said that “he (Tolentino) probably did not get through the barricades.” When asked what barricades he was referring to, he just smiled and refused to answer.