From Edsa to Liwasang Bonifacio: INC rally enters 3rd day

MANILA, Philippines — The main rally organized by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) entered its third day on Thursday, but instead of holding it in Edsa, it has moved to Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila.

The relocation came after the Quezon City Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS) on Wednesday night withdrew its earlier approval for the INC to continue its assembly in the vicinity of the People Power monument.

The INC first held a surprise rally along Edsa and White Plains Avenue on Tuesday without a permit.

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The following day, the group was allowed to continue its assembly from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. after it applied for one.

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READ: QC revokes INC rally permit for Thursday, July 2

However, for Thursday, the DPOS officially revoked their “No objection/Rally permit” citing “severe difficulties” that the rally had caused to the general public along Edsa and White Plains Avenue.

In a statement issued late Wednesday, Manila City Administrator Atty. Eduardo “Wardee” Quintos XIV said Liwasang Bonifacio, being a government-designated Freedom Park, does not require a permit for peaceful assemblies.

Early Thursday, INC members and other affiliated rallyists gathered at Liwasang Bonifacio anew.

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READ: Palace warns INC rally should not lead to destabilization moves

Meanwhile, the INC has maintained that its demonstrations seek transparency, accountability, justice and peace while expressing support for Senator Rodante Marcoleta, one of its members, whom it endorsed in the 2025 elections.

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The INC has publicly expressed support for Marcoleta after the Office of the Ombudsman announced on Monday that it would file non-bailable plunder charges against the senator within the week.

This is in relation to the senator’s alleged failure to disclose P75 million in campaign contributions during the 2025 elections.

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The religious group described the impending case as an example of “selective justice.” /cb