The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) has officially wrapped up its three-day demonstration protesting what it calls the administration’s “selective justice” regarding an impending plunder charge against Senator Rodante Marcoleta, an INC member.
The religious organization held the final leg of its mobilization at Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila on Thursday. The gathering was relocated after the Quezon City government cancelled the group’s initial permit to assemble at the EDSA People Power Monument, with city officials citing severe traffic gridlock and major public disruptions along EDSA and White Plains Avenue.
The multi-day protest was triggered by Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla’s announcement on Monday that the government would file a non-bailable plunder charge against the freshman senator.
Marcoleta is accused of failing to declare ₱75 million in campaign donations to the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
The demonstration saw a turnout of roughly 10,000 members on Tuesday, swelling to an estimated 15,000 participants by Wednesday.
INC spokesperson Bro. Edwin Zabala expressed confidence that the demonstration achieved its goals.
“Dito natin tinatapos ang ating peaceful rally,” INC spokesperson Bro. Edwin Zabala said in a video message Thursday.
Zabala further emphasized that the collective voice of the church had been clearly delivered to government officials.
“Naniniwala tayo na naiparating nating malinaw sa mga kinauukulan ang ating mensahe,” Zabala said.
“Loobin nawa ng Diyos na maghari ang tunay na katarungan sa ating minamahal na bansa at huwag na huwag magtagumpay ang sinumang bumabaluktot sa batas para lamang sa kanilang makasariling kapakanan,” Zabala added.