GMA kicks off traditional Mass

President Arroyo joined family and close friends in a Mass at the Palace grounds yesterday to kick off the country’s traditional Misa de Gallo.

Present were First Gentleman Mike Arroyo and their children as well Cabinet officials and their families, led by Vice President Teofisto Guingona. The Mass was celebrated at a makeshift stage set up in the Malacañang garden.

Prior to the evening Mass, Mrs. Arroyo hosted a Christmas party for some 2,000 residents of urban poor settlements in Metro Manila.

She joined her guests in eating packed meals, moving from table to table to talk to the children.

She was also treated to a performance by children from various shelter homes of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

Entertainment was also provided by special guest performers Jose Mari Chan and Cris Villongco. Young stars from Viva Films treated the guests to song-and-dance numbers.

The President later lit a giant Christmas tree perched on the Mabini Hall building, which houses the staff of the Office of the President. A 100-piece band from the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra played Christmas tunes during the ceremonial lighting.

Mrs. Arroyo and her son, Pampanga Vice Governor Mikey Arroyo, led the participants in the singing of Give Love on Christmas Day.