Wazzup Pilipinas!?
On January 13, 2025, the Philippines witnessed an extraordinary event that showcased the unparalleled unity, organizational power, and influence of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC). The National Rally for Peace, a massive, nationwide event, saw over 2 million members of the INC take part in what was not only a call for peace but also a demonstration of the church's commitment to serving the Filipino people. The rally’s scale and impact reverberated across the nation, proving that the INC is not just a spiritual institution but a political powerhouse.
A Monumental Show of Faith and Unity
The INC's rally was nothing short of historic. With millions of its faithful mobilized across the country, it was clear that the church’s reach is both broad and deep. From the capital of Manila to the farthest provinces, participants flooded the streets, proudly wearing over 2 million free printed shirts, each costing ₱150—an incredible total value of ₱300 million. In addition to the shirts, the INC covered the cost of free meals, drinks, shuttle services, and transportation, demonstrating an unmatched level of organization and commitment to its members.
It's important to recognize that the cost of this event was borne entirely by the members themselves, through voluntary donations, not from politicians or government funds. This point is crucial because, contrary to the claims of some critics, these resources were not extracted from any sort of compulsory giving system like tithing. Rather, the donations came freely from the hearts of those who believe in the mission of the INC. The church's members, who come from various walks of life, including doctors, lawyers, teachers, soldiers, and government employees, collectively contributed to making this event possible.
The Cost of Unity and Support
The INC’s efforts went far beyond just organizing a rally. The logistical cost of mobilizing such a large-scale event—including the free shirts, food, and transportation—amounted to an estimated ₱2 billion to ₱6 billion. The rally was not just a political demonstration; it was a reflection of the INC’s dedication to its members, its faith, and its community.
For some, the vast sums spent may have sparked criticism. “Couldn’t this money have gone to help the poor?” some asked. But the reality is that the INC has been helping the underprivileged through its “Care for Humanity” and “Lingap” programs for years. These programs, which run monthly, weekly, and yearly, provide food, medical assistance, and shelter to those in need. The rally, though costly, was not a one-off event, but a demonstration of the INC's continued commitment to addressing social issues.
Others questioned the decision to spend the money on such a large-scale rally, asking why the funds weren’t used for housing projects or other forms of direct assistance. Again, the INC’s response was clear—these projects have been a core part of the church’s outreach for years. The church continues to provide assistance to those in need, whether through housing initiatives or disaster relief efforts, and the rally itself was just one more way of giving back to the community.
A Response to Misunderstandings
Some critics, perhaps misunderstanding the INC's values, also suggested that the church’s members were simply following orders from their leaders without question. This perception, however, is far from the truth. The INC is home to many independent thinkers who make their own decisions based on their understanding of the teachings of the church.
"Do we not have our own minds?" one could ask. "Are we blind followers of the Manalos?" The answer is no. The INC’s members include individuals who hold esteemed positions in society—doctors, lawyers, teachers, police officers, soldiers, and government employees. They are not “followers” in the conventional sense but active participants who have chosen to follow the teachings of the church because they believe in the values it represents. These teachings are not the personal ideology of a single individual but are based on the Bible and are meant to guide believers toward spiritual enlightenment and a better life.
While there may be differences in beliefs and opinions, the INC remains united by its foundation in the Bible. The church’s leadership and members are bound by a commitment to uphold unity and obedience to the divine teachings, and this was at the heart of the rally. The INC's message is not about following a leader but about following God's will through faith, unity, and collective action.
Political Power and Influence
The rally, while centered on promoting peace and solidarity, also highlighted the INC’s significant political influence. The church's ability to organize and mobilize millions of people is unmatched, and it is clear that the INC can sway political outcomes. This is particularly evident during elections, where the INC’s bloc voting power can determine the success of political candidates. Politicians understand this power and, as seen during the rally, many from the current administration sought the INC’s support, knowing the potential impact it could have on the electoral process.
For the INC, the rally was not just a political demonstration, but a reminder of its influence. The presence of prominent politicians at the event served as a signal of the church’s growing significance in shaping national policy and political direction. The rally, however, was not merely an endorsement of the current political climate but rather a call for greater unity, peace, and alignment with the values that the INC upholds.
A Call for Unity and Faith
Despite the political undertones, the central message of the rally remained one of peace, unity, and faith. The INC called for cooperation and collaboration among all Filipinos, regardless of their political beliefs, to come together for the greater good of the nation. It was a call to focus on what unites the people rather than what divides them.
The church’s leadership emphasized the importance of collective effort in addressing the nation's social issues. The INC is not just a religious group, but a powerful community force that continues to serve the Filipino people through humanitarian projects, educational initiatives, and public service. The rally was a reminder that, regardless of political differences, Filipinos can find common ground through faith and shared values.
Conclusion: A Force for Change and Peace
The Iglesia Ni Cristo’s National Rally for Peace was not just a religious gathering—it was a momentous event that demonstrated the power of faith, unity, and collective action. The INC’s influence extends far beyond spiritual matters and into the political and social fabric of the Philippines. With millions of Filipinos mobilized for a common cause, the INC’s power to affect change is undeniable.
As the country moves forward, the INC will continue to play an influential role in shaping the future of the Philippines. Whether through political support or social initiatives, the church's commitment to peace, unity, and service remains steadfast. The rally was a testament to the INC's strength, not only as a religious institution but as a guiding force for the nation—a force that will continue to drive positive change for years to come.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
Post a Comment