Noy to celebrate birthday with family

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino will most likely enjoy his birthday today a bit more because it falls on a weekend, unlike his past three birthdays which all fell on an ordinary working day.

Aquino told reporters yesterday he will again be spending time with his siblings Ballsy, Pinky, Viel and Kris, brothers-in-law, nephews and nieces, as well as some close friends on his 54th birthday.

“Tradisyon sa amin lalo na sa Kapampangan magpakain. Sana kaya ko kayong pakainin lahat. (It is Kapampangan tradition to feed well wishers. I hope I can feed you all),” Aquino said.

He said he will also pray to thank God for a meaningful life.

“Thank you for the 54 years and also for all the things that we are aspiring for, especially better communities – more resilient to disasters because there are so many calamities visiting our shores,” Aquino said.

He, however, diverted queries on his love life, saying instead that as Chief Executive, it is his job to ensure that journalists – like all Filipinos nationwide – will enjoy their dates on Valentine’s Day.

“I will make sure that you will have a peaceful celebration of Valentine’s Day,” said Aquino, who attended the retirement ceremony of Army Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes.

From 2011 to 2013, Aquino spent his birthdays working, even presiding over a Cabinet meeting last year.