INC’s ‘National Rally for Peace’: A Call for Unity or a Political Show of Force for VP Sara Duterte?

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The Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) has announced a 'National Rally for Peace' scheduled for January 13, 2025, aiming to unite Filipinos in a collective call for peace and unity across the nation. 

However, this initiative has sparked significant debate, with many netizens expressing skepticism about the rally's true intent.

Allegations of Political Motives

Critics argue that the rally is less about promoting national peace and more about supporting Vice President Sara Duterte amid impeachment proceedings against her. The INC has a history of political involvement, often endorsing candidates and influencing political discourse in the Philippines. This has led to suspicions that the upcoming rally serves as a demonstration of support for Duterte, rather than a genuine call for peace. 

Netizens' Reactions

Social media platforms are abuzz with opinions on the matter. Some users accuse the INC of hypocrisy, suggesting that while the organization preaches high moral standards to its followers, it appears to support politicians facing serious allegations. One commenter stated, "Teaching people to obey and never complain. They have high moral standards on people, but not on the politicians you are obliged to vote if you are under their sect."

Others express concern that the rally is a strategic move to divert attention from pressing national issues, such as corruption and misuse of public funds. A netizen remarked, "There will be no peace without remorse, with so much abuse and without justice. You support what will benefit your cult."

INC's Position 

The INC maintains that the rally is a non-partisan event aimed at promoting peace and unity. In a statement, the organization emphasized its longstanding commitment to socio-civic activities and moral governance, asserting that the rally is not intended to support or oppose any individual politician. 

Official Responses

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is preparing for the nationwide rally, coordinating with INC to ensure public safety during the event. PNP spokesperson Police B/Gen. Jean Fajardo mentioned that the rally would include regional gatherings, with INC members converging at Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila. 

Conclusion

As the January 13 rally approaches, the debate over its true purpose continues to intensify. While the INC asserts that the event is a genuine call for national peace and unity, critics remain skeptical, viewing it as a politically motivated demonstration in support of Vice President Sara Duterte. The outcome of the rally and its impact on the nation's political landscape remain to be seen.

The Truth Behind the 21-Year Inoperational Mlang Airport: A Tale of Politics Over Progress

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The Mlang Airport, officially known as the Central Mindanao Airport, stands as a stark reminder of how political rivalry and vested interests can derail even the most promising infrastructure projects. For over two decades, this airport has remained non-operational, despite its potential to drive economic growth, boost tourism, and significantly improve logistics in North Cotabato.

A Vision for Progress: The Birth of the Mlang Airport

In 1995, then-Mayor Manny Piñol of Mlang envisioned transforming his hometown into an agro-industrial hub. Recognizing the critical role of air connectivity in achieving this vision, he proposed building an airport. With the support of then-Vice Mayor Luigi Buenaflor Cuerpo and the Buenaflor family, who owned the land, the dream began to take shape.

Key Milestones in the Mlang Airport Project:

1998: Piñol, now Governor of North Cotabato, pursued the airport project at the provincial level.

2003: The Sangguniang Panlalawigan approved the purchase of 62 hectares of land from the former Hacienda Buenaflor.

2004: With an initial grant of ₱30 million from then-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, sourced from the Department of Energy, construction began.

2009: The runway and terminal building were completed, and President Arroyo personally attended the inauguration.

The Halt in Progress (2010 Onwards)

After the 2010 elections, Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza took over as Governor, and the development of the Mlang Airport came to an abrupt stop. The administration cited alleged irregularities in the documentation of the land purchase and questioned the feasibility study.

Despite Piñol offering to assist in addressing these concerns, his help was ignored. The project remained frozen for nearly a decade.

A Glimmer of Hope Under Gov. Nancy Catamco (2019-2022)

In 2019, Governor Nancy Catamco reignited hope for the Mlang Airport. The so-called "missing" documents were either recovered or reconstructed, and efforts resumed to make the airport operational. However, before significant progress could be achieved, Catamco was defeated in the 2022 elections by Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza.

Once again, the project stalled.

Petty Politics: The Elephant in the Room

At the heart of the Mlang Airport's prolonged stagnation is not a lack of funding or documentation issues—it is politics. The airport has been repeatedly sidelined because it is seen as the brainchild of Manny Piñol.

The political fear? That once the airport becomes fully operational, Piñol would receive credit for its success.

Yet, this narrow-minded rivalry has cost North Cotabato and its people dearly. For over two decades:

Agricultural produce, especially perishable goods, must be transported to airports in Davao or General Santos, adding significant costs and logistical challenges.

Potential tourism and investment opportunities have been lost, stunting the economic growth of the province.

The people of North Cotabato remain deprived of a vital infrastructure project that could have drastically improved their quality of life.

Who Holds the Power to Complete the Airport?

The current Governor, Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza, also serves as the Chairperson of the Regional Development Council. With her influence and political connections—including ties to Speaker Martin Romualdez—securing funding for the airport should not be an issue.

Yet, progress remains painfully slow, with no clear end in sight.

The Real Tragedy: Politics Over Public Welfare

The Mlang Airport is more than just an unfinished infrastructure project; it represents the collective dreams of an entire province. Its completion could have positioned North Cotabato as a key player in agro-industrial exports and regional tourism.

Instead, it has become a symbol of how political grudges can cripple development.

A Call for Transparency and Accountability

Manny Piñol’s challenge to hold a public debate or forum on the real reasons behind the delay of the Mlang Airport is both bold and necessary. The people of North Cotabato deserve answers. They deserve to know why, despite decades of funding, political power, and opportunities, the airport remains unfinished.

A Challenge to the Current Leadership:

Why has the airport not been prioritized under your leadership?

Why was Manny Piñol’s offer to assist in completing documentation ignored?

Why does political rivalry continue to overshadow public welfare?

Final Thoughts

The Mlang Airport should no longer be a victim of political squabbles. Whether it carries the name of a former governor, a political family, or any other symbol is irrelevant. What matters is that it serves the people it was meant to serve.

For the sake of future generations, for the farmers, traders, and residents of North Cotabato—let the Mlang Airport finally take flight.

The truth must come out, and it’s time for those in power to act in the interest of the people, not their political egos.

Leonel Waste Management vs. City of Manila: A Deep Dive into the Allegations and Claims

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In a developing controversy that has gripped Manila, Leonel Waste Management Corporation, the former garbage collection contractor of the city, has firmly denied allegations of abandoning their contractual obligations before the end of their contract on December 31, 2024. The dispute highlights not only operational concerns but also financial issues, with unpaid dues amounting to PHP 561.44 million, according to Leonel.

Leonel’s Side: Fulfilling the Contract Until the End

In a public statement released on January 6, 2025, Leonel Waste Management expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve Manila for over 25 years and categorically refuted accusations of prematurely abandoning their duties. They emphasized that:

Full Compliance Until December 31, 2024: Leonel claimed that they continued their services faithfully until the last day of their contract, even amidst the financial strain caused by the city's unpaid dues.

Employee Instructions: On December 23, 2024, Leonel directed its workforce to continue their usual operations until the final day, especially considering the anticipated increase in garbage volume during the holiday season.

Transparency: The company stated that their operations are well-documented with timestamped photos and Barangay Certifications confirming their compliance.

Early Notice to LGU: In September 2024, Leonel allegedly informed Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna of their decision not to participate in the 2025 bidding process due to the city's mounting unpaid obligations.

The City of Manila’s Response

While Leonel has painted a picture of dutiful compliance, Manila’s Local Government Unit (LGU) has a different take on the situation. Sources close to Mayor Honey Lacuna claim that:

Service Interruptions: There were noticeable interruptions in garbage collection services across key districts of Manila in the final weeks of December 2024.

Untimely Withdrawal: Allegations suggest that despite agreements, Leonel may have scaled down their operations prematurely, causing uncollected garbage to pile up during the critical holiday season.

Financial Justifications: While the city acknowledges the outstanding debt, officials argue that payment delays were part of bureaucratic processes and were being addressed.

The Financial Dispute: PHP 561.44 Million in Unpaid Dues

At the heart of the issue lies a staggering debt of PHP 561.44 million, which Leonel claims the City of Manila owes. This debt, according to Leonel, heavily impacted their operational capacity and created financial strain on their workforce and resources.

On the other hand, city officials counter that partial payments were made, and efforts were ongoing to settle the full amount. They further argue that contractual obligations must still be fulfilled regardless of payment delays.

Public Reaction: Social Media Divided

Netizens have taken to social media to express their opinions on the issue. Comments on news posts reveal a split sentiment:

Support for Leonel: Some citizens commend Leonel for their decades of service and believe the city’s unpaid debt justified their inability to operate effectively in the final days.

Criticism of Leonel: Others criticize the company, claiming they noticed irregular collection services during December, causing sanitation issues in several districts.

Accountability from Both Parties: Many netizens call for transparency from both sides, demanding public audits and clear documentation.

Looking Ahead: The Aftermath

As Manila transitions to a new garbage contractor in 2025, the aftermath of this dispute leaves significant lessons for both private contractors and government bodies. Proper financial management, clear contractual terms, and transparent communication are essential to prevent such conflicts from recurring.

For now, residents of Manila are left grappling with the consequences of this dispute, while both Leonel Waste Management and the City of Manila face public and legal scrutiny.

Stay tuned for updates as the story develops.