MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday said he had no objection to the protest rally organized by the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), noting that the religious group’s demonstrations have historically remained peaceful.
Speaking to reporters prior to his departure for his official visit to Canada, the chief executive said his administration’s primary concern was ensuring that no one would get hurt during the massive gathering, particularly amid the risk of outside groups attempting to infiltrate and sow discord.
“Anyone can hold a rally and so they held a rally. I am confident because throughout history, whenever the Iglesia holds rallies, even when there are so many, they don't cause trouble,” he said in English and Filipino.
“That for me was the main concern—that somebody might get hurt,” he added.
Marcos also shared that they closely monitored the situation due to concerns that agitators could infiltrate the crowd.
“Our only problem is that, of course, someone will infiltrate, agitate. That's what we're worried about. The most important thing for us is that no one gets hurt, either from the Iglesia or anyone else who ends up there causing trouble.,” he said.
“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,” he added.
Earlier on Wednesday, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro warned INC not to allow the group to be used by those seeking to oust the president.
Castro issued the warning following reports circulating on social media about an alleged possible attempt by protesters to storm Camp Aguinaldo, Camp Crame, and even Malacañang.
"That is why, at this point, our appeal to the leadership of the INC is to remain cautious and ensure they are not used by others whose objective is to oust the President, because we know that this is not what the INC is encouraging among the public," Castro said during a press conference.
Castro also said the Palace did not believe the INC was behind any destabilization efforts against the Marcos administration.
"Which of the protesters? We certainly do not believe and we do not want to believe that members of the INC would be the ones to do such a thing," Castro said.
"As we've said, we respect the integrity and leadership of the INC. We do not believe that the purpose of their protest is to destabilize the government," she added.
