MANILA, Philippines – Senator Grace Poe will lead the commemoration of the 76^th birth anniversary of her father, the late Fernando Poe Jr., on Thursday, August 20. And it will be a most watched event considering her plans to seek higher office in 2016.

A mass will be held at 8 am, followed by a short program, at the Manila North Cemetery.

The senator’s mother Susan Roces, husband Neil, and son Brian are expected to attend.

A source privy to the event said former President and Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada will be in tomorrow’s gathering.

Filipinos for Peace, Justice, and Progress Movement (FPJPM) president Boots Cadswan told Rappler they are expecting 100 members from Bulacan, Laguna, Nueva Ecija, and Metro Manila to join tomorrow’s event.

Although the office of Poe is mum on the possible attendees, many political and showbiz personalities will also be joining the celebration.

No announcement on August 20

Earlier this week, Poe released a TV advertisement for FPJ’s birthday. The ad aired on popular radio and TV programs, such as the local noontime show Eat Bulaga, which has a huge mass following.

Asked if the advertisement is a sign that she is running for a higher post in 2016, the survey frontrunner said the ad’s intention was to “remember and celebrate” the life of FPJ. After all, Poe said she would not enjoy the trust of the public if not for her father.

Poe said she would not make any announcement on her political plans tomorrow, considering it still belongs to the so-called ghost month. Poe, Rappler found out, is a believer in Chinese Feng Shui.

FPJ ran for president in 2004 and finished second. It was widely believed he lost because operators for then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo carried out systematic fraud.

The “Hello, Garci” scandal that exposed this almost Arroyo the presidency.

FPJ died at the age of 65 on December 14, 2004. He was posthumously declared a National Artist of the Philippines for Film in 2006. – Rappler.com