Pasay city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday expressed confidence that the ongoing rally along EDSA organized by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) would remain peaceful, citing the religious group's history of disciplined mass gatherings, while warning of possible attempts by outside groups to infiltrate and provoke unrest.
According to Philippines News Agency, the President, speaking to reporters at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City before departing for his official visit to Canada, said the government continues to closely monitor the situation, with public safety remaining its primary concern. The President noted that the INC has historically conducted large-scale demonstrations without violence or major disturbances.
Marcos expressed his confidence in the peaceful nature of INC rallies, stating, "Ako, malakas ang loob ko kasi sa buong kasaysayan ng Iglesia, pag nag-rally, kahit napakarami, hindi sila nanggugulo." He acknowledged concerns about possible attempts by outside groups to infiltrate the gathering to provoke unrest, saying, "Ang problema lang namin is that merong impormasyon na siyempre merong mga mag-i-infiltrate, mag-agitate. 'Yun ang inaalala namin."
The President emphasized the importance of ensuring safety for all participants, saying, "Ang pinakaimportante sa amin, walang masaktan. Either taga-Iglesia o kung sino man na mapunta roon na mangulo." He expressed gratitude towards organizers, law enforcement authorities, and participants for maintaining order during the demonstration, adding, "So let's just keep everything stable and peaceful. And so far it has been. So I thank everybody involved for keeping it safe for everybody."
Addressing allegations raised during the rally regarding selective justice, Marcos dismissed claims that his administration was implementing such practices. Responding to accusations that the government had selectively pursued political opponents while protecting allies, the President stated, "That's their opinion. (But) I believe they're wrong."
Thousands of INC members continue to gather along portions of EDSA since Tuesday, expressing support for Sen. Rodante Marcoleta and criticizing what organizers described as selective justice and political persecution. The demonstration coincides with the reported plan of the Office of the Ombudsman to file charges against Marcoleta over alleged irregularities involving PHP75 million in campaign contributions that were not properly declared.
Senator Marcoleta has denied any wrongdoing, linking the case to his efforts to expose alleged anomalies in government flood control projects. Meanwhile, Malaca±ang has repeatedly rejected allegations of selective justice, asserting that legal cases are pursued based on evidence and are handled by the Office of the Ombudsman, an independent constitutional body.
In response to the ongoing situation, authorities deployed thousands of police personnel to secure the rally areas and maintain traffic flow along major thoroughfares in Metro Manila.
