Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) spokesperson and Minister of the Gospel Brother Edwil Zabala said that even non-members of the church are welcome to join the INC rally scheduled from November 16 to 18 in Manila.
‘‘This November 16-18 rally is not meant to interfere in politics but to express our sentiment and lend the voice of the Iglesia Ni Cristo to the calls of many of our countrymen condemning the enormous evil involving many government officials,’’ Zabala said.
Meanwhile, Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. announced the initial security deployment plan for the three-day peace rallies in Manila and Quezon City, assuring the public of both maximum tolerance and a system designed to manage police fatigue.
At least 16,433 police officers from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and supporting units will be deployed to secure the assemblies not only in Luneta and the EDSA People Power Monument but also in other areas where lightning rallies are expected from November 16 to 18.
Around 1,400 policemen will be positioned at the Ayala Bridge, while 1,100 officers will be stationed along Recto Avenue to secure areas where violent protesters sparked a riot during a previous demonstration on September 21.
‘‘I have directed the NCRPO to ensure maximum tolerance and maintain a high level of discipline and professionalism among all deployed personnel. Our goal is to keep the activity peaceful, orderly, and safe for everyone, both participants and the general public,’’ Nartatez said.
Zabala emphasized that ‘‘the call of the Iglesia Ni Cristo is part of the citizens’ right to express themselves, which is guaranteed by our Constitution.’’
‘‘We are appealing to the government to conduct a just and open investigation of all those allegedly involved so that the perpetrators will be held accountable and the funds they have stolen will be returned to the public coffers,’’ the INC spokesperson added.
A program will be held on the first day of the rally on November 16, beginning at 4 p.m. at the Quirino Grandstand.
According to Zabala, the expected speakers are ministers of the Iglesia Ni Cristo, but non-INC members whose proposed speeches align with the church’s call are also welcome.
