Massive Turnout at INC National Rally for Peace: Over 1.2 Million Gather in Manila
The Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) held a historic National Rally for Peace today, drawing an estimated 1.2 million members to the Quirino Grandstand in Manila. The event, which also took place simultaneously in 12 other locations nationwide, was a powerful display of unity and a call for peace amid ongoing political tensions.
The crowd, waving INC flags and holding banners with slogans like “Kapayapaan para sa Lahat” (Peace for All) and “Pagkakaisa ng Bayan” (Unity of the Nation), filled the grandstand and surrounding areas. The Philippine national Police had anticipated over 1 million attendees, but the final count surpassed expectations, solidifying the event as one of the largest gatherings in recent history [[1]].
A Call for Dialog and Unity
Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino voiced his support for the rally, describing it as an opportunity to foster “dialogue” about unity. “This rally is not just a gathering; it’s a movement toward understanding and collaboration,” he said. The event comes at a critical time, as political figures like Sara Duterte and bongbong Marcos have been urged to prioritize peace and reconciliation [[3]].
Preparations and Security Measures
The Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) was placed on red alert to ensure the safety of attendees. Emergency response teams were stationed throughout the area, ready to address any incidents. Additionally, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announced the suspension of operations in its Manila and Pasay offices to accommodate the massive influx of participants [[2]].
Avoiding political Opportunism
In light of the rally, election candidates were reminded to avoid using the event for political gain. The term “epalitiko” (political opportunism) was emphasized, with officials urging candidates to respect the non-partisan nature of the gathering [[3]].
Key Highlights of the Event
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Attendance | Over 1.2 million INC members at quirino Grandstand |
| Simultaneous Rallies | 12 other locations nationwide |
| Slogans | “Kapayapaan para sa Lahat,” “Pagkakaisa ng Bayan” |
| Security Measures | MDRRMO on red alert; PRC offices in Manila and Pasay suspended operations |
| Political Message | Call for peace and unity amid political tensions |
A nationwide Movement for Peace
The INC’s National Rally for Peace was not just a local event but a nationwide movement. With simultaneous gatherings in multiple cities, the INC demonstrated its commitment to fostering unity across the Philippines. The rally’s success highlights the power of collective action in addressing societal challenges.
As the event concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, carrying the message of peace and unity back to their communities. The INC’s rally serves as a reminder that,even in times of division,the pursuit of harmony remains a shared goal.
For live updates and more details, visit [[2]].
