The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) has declared its support for Senator Rodante Marcoleta, saying his impending arrest will not stop its mass actions calling for transparency, accountability, justice, and peace, particularly over what it described as efforts to cover up the flood control controversy.

INC spokesperson Edwin Zabala, in a statement aired over NET25, said that even if the government succeeds in filing plunder charges against Marcoleta and detaining him, the religious group will continue its mass actions.

“Kahit ipakulong pa nila si Sen. Marcoleta, hindi kami titigil,” Zabala said, without elaborating.

A source told the Daily Tribune that similar rallies would be held simultaneously across the country.

“The protests will be held all over the country,” the source said.

The source added that the planned nationwide mass actions are a preemptive response to Ombudsman Dionesio Remulla III's announcement that plunder charges against Marcoleta would be filed within the week.

“Wala nang uwian, tuloy ang rallies,” the source said.

Earlier, Marcoleta issued a statement accusing the Ombudsman of allegedly orchestrating a cover-up of the flood control controversy.

“The Ombudsman is determined to bend the law,” he said.

The rallies are expected to be held in key cities nationwide, according to the source.