No ‘Marcos Resign’ on INC rally, says group

A newly launched group claiming affiliation with an upcoming three-day rally by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) announced that it is mobilizing a mass action to demand accountability, justice, and integrity in public service but explicitly stressed that it will not call for the resignation of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to allow Vice President Sara Duterte to assume the presidency.

The group, calling itself the United Peoples Initiative (UPI), announced the peaceful protest is scheduled for 16 to 18 November at the EDSA People’s Monument and in Luneta Park in Manila.

The UPI’s statement called for Filipinos to stand against corruption and dishonesty.

“This is a peaceful protest — a movement of conscience and the moral dignity of the Filipino people. Let us stand together,” said the group who claimed support from members of the INC, Jesus Is Lord (JIL), Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), Catholics, Muslims, and other religious organizations, alongside youth, students, workers and retired military and police personnel.

The also group stressed the action would be “Peaceful. Dignified. United. In solidarity with the INC Rally at Luneta.”

Meanwhile, sources told DAILY TRIBUNE that other groups are shaping plans for an alleged possible exit of President Marcos, sparked by the massive rally. Another group, however, continues to advocate for constitutional succession, arguing that allowing Vice President Duterte to take over is the most acceptable course to the international community.

This group, including the Black Friday movement that advocates for constitutional succession, is expected to hold its final black-themed rally on 14 November as a prelude to the larger protests.