INC breaks silence on Duterte arrest

The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) has spoken out on the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, with its spokesperson, Edwil Zabala, emphasizing the need for peace, unity, and adherence to the rule of law. In an interview on Net 25, Zabala reiterated the INC’s long-standing position that justice must be served, but only within the bounds of Philippine law.

Zabala recalled the religious organization's January rally, where INC called on national leaders to set aside political conflict and focus on the country’s real issues. He lamented that this call was ignored, resulting in heightened division — not just among government officials, but among the Filipino people.

"What is disheartening is that the call of the Iglesia ni Cristo seems to have been ignored by those in power. And because of that, we are now witnessing the consequences," Zabala said in Filipino, noting that even the international community has taken notice of the political turmoil unfolding in the Philippines.

'Filipinos should be tried under Philippine law'

While the INC did not directly reference the International Criminal Court (ICC), Zabala was firm in asserting that any Filipino accused of wrongdoing should be tried under Philippine laws, not in foreign courts.

"Any Filipino or citizen of our country who has violated our laws should be tried here in our country. Why? Because our justice system is functioning," he stated, stressing that the Philippine judiciary remains capable of delivering justice.

The INC also denounced any attempt to twist or manipulate the law for political purposes. Zabala called on authorities to uphold legal processes fairly, rather than catering to individual interests.

"What is right and what is stated in our laws should be upheld. The law should not be twisted to serve anyone's personal agenda," he asserted.

Zabala’s remarks come amid heated debates over Duterte’s arrest, with questions arising on whether the former president should be tried in the ICC or under Philippine jurisdiction. The INC’s position is clear: Any Filipino must be tried in the country, and under the Philippine judicial system.