Noynoy Aquino

President Benigno Aquino III on Wednesday assumed the nation's highest post with a vow to push for governance that's pro-people, anchored on democracy and free from corruption.

"Here today, we'll end leadership that's insensitive to the cry of people," he said in his inaugural speech at Rizal Park.

Former presidents Joseph Estrada and Fidel V. Ramos were among local and foreign dignitaries who witnessed his inauguration at the park's historic Quirino Grandstand.

To realize his goal, President Aquino said government will adapt a mechanism that'll enable it to learn about people's concerns regarding his administration and their daily lives.

"We'll implement an inter-active feedback mechanism," he said.

Mr. Aquino also expressed preparedness on devoting his life to promoting democracy nationwide.

"I'm willing to do this so democracy can be beneficial to all," he said.

He likewise committed to exemplify the ideal civil servant by treading the straight and narrow path towards good governance, believing doing so will give government officials and the public a figure to emulate.

"I won't waste the trust you gave me," he assured.

Earlier, Mr. Aquino's camp announced plans for investigating irregularities linked to several previous government officials.

"I believe not all who served in government are corrupt so they now have the chance to show their worth," the Chief Executive noted.

The new administration will focus on developing and implementing initiatives for boosting livelihood and public services like health and education.

President Aquino realizes this is a tall order.

He called on his constituents to help him and the new administration get such initiatives going so the country can progress further.

"If many of us carry the burden, we'll succeed," he noted.

President Aquino is the Philippines' 15th head of State.

He assumed the Philippines' top post 24 years after his mother ex-president Corazon Aquino did so in 1986 following ouster of her political rival former Chief Executive Ferdinand Marcos during the People Power revolution.