By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Quezon City government has authorized the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) to hold a mass demonstration on Wednesday, July 1, after issuing a permit that allows the religious organization to conduct its activity along White Plains Avenue under specific conditions.
Records from the city’s Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS) show that the permit covers the rally from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m., with organizers required to confine the gathering to the approved venue and schedule.
The permit identifies INC Minister Eraño Codera, represented by legal counsel during the application process, as the organizer responsible for the event.
City authorities emphasized that the authorization is valid only for the designated location. Any deviation from the approved site or failure to comply with the conditions may constitute a violation of Batas Pambansa Blg. 880, the law governing public assemblies outside designated freedom parks.
Officials likewise directed organizers to ensure that the rally does not interfere with police security operations or disrupt the regular flow of vehicular traffic. The permit specifically prohibits any full closure of roads during the activity.
Based on the application submitted to the city government, organizers expect approximately 100,000 participants to attend the demonstration.
The July 1 gathering comes a day after INC members staged a large protest near the junction of EDSA and White Plains Avenue in support of Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who has been linked to a possible plunder complaint over allegations involving undisclosed campaign contributions.
The earlier rally drew attention after portions of EDSA’s northbound lanes were temporarily blocked by buses transporting participants, resulting in heavy traffic before authorities restored partial vehicle movement.
The Philippine National Police had earlier stated that Tuesday’s demonstration lacked the required permit, raising questions over its compliance with the Public Assembly Act.
For Wednesday’s authorized event, Quezon City officials reminded organizers that public order and cleanliness must be maintained throughout the activity. They also warned that the permit may be withdrawn if participants violate any of the imposed conditions or if emergency situations arise that require immediate government intervention.
Authorities said security personnel and traffic enforcers will remain on site to monitor compliance and ensure that the demonstration proceeds peacefully while minimizing inconvenience to the motoring public.
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