MANILA, Philippines — An estimated 800,000 members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) converged on Quirino Grandstand in Manila Monday for the National Rally for Peace, the Manila Police District said.
Police and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority expect the number of participants to swell to 1 million.
INC members began arriving as early as 5 a.m. By 7:10 a.m., participants carrying placards advocating for unity were seen assembling along Bonifacio Drive, Katigbak Parkway, and Anda Circle in Port Area.
The official program, scheduled to start at 4 p.m., was preceded by speeches. Organizers and authorities reported that the event remained peaceful.
In preparation for the rally, Malacañang suspended classes and government work in Manila and Pasay, with Quezon City following suit to show solidarity.
The National Capital Regional Police Office (NCRPO) deployed 5,000 personnel to secure the venue, parking areas, and routes leading to the Quirino Grandstand. Police Maj. Myrna Diploma said that an NCRPO reserve force was on standby to respond to any emergency.
Authorities also discussed the potential use of signal jammers to ensure safety, depending on the unfolding situation.
The INC, known for its ability to mobilize large crowds, emphasized that the rally is a call for peace and unity. Participants expressed their support for the government and called for solidarity amid political tensions.
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo assemble at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 13, 2025 for the National Rally for Peace. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
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