MALACANANG has declared a suspension of work in government offices and classes in all school levels in Manila and Pasay City on Monday, Jan. 13, due to the Iglesia ni Cristo’s (INC) “National Rally for Peace.”
The rally, which will also be held in other cities nationwide, supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s appeal last November to discourage impeachment efforts against Vice President Sara Duterte.
In Memorandum Circular No. 76, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin cited the expected large number of participants traveling to Manila and Pasay as the reason for the suspension, aiming to ensure an organized event.
Agencies providing health services, disaster response, and other critical functions will remain operational, while private sector work suspensions are left to company discretion.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced road closures near Quirino Grandstand, estimating up to one million attendees at the main rally. Similar events are planned in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao cities.
INC spokesperson Gen Subardiaga stated the rally aims to support peaceful governance and oppose divisive actions, emphasizing the group’s commitment to addressing national priorities.
With 2.8 million members, INC is the country’s third-largest religious group.
The annual feast highlights peaceful and collective action for societal progress.
