Iglesia ni Cristo’s Protest Over Senator Marcoleta’s Plunder Charges Ignored by Ombudsman

Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) and their allies gathered under trees at Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila on 02 July 2026, waiting for the start of their protest rally. The INC’s political influence has long been tied to its bloc-voting strategy, which has historically granted its leadership substantial leverage in electoral and governmental affairs.

Through this practice, the church has secured appointments for trusted individuals in key government roles, including Cabinet secretaries, political advisers, and diplomatic officers. Reports suggest the INC also exerts influence over the handling of legal cases, particularly those involving its leadership.

In 2015, internal conflicts within the church led to the filing of illegal detention and harassment complaints against its governing council. In response, the INC organized a five-day street protest to pressure the Department of Justice (DoJ) to dismiss the charges. Initially, the DoJ maintained its stance to review the cases objectively. However, as the protest grew, with tens of thousands occupying major Metro Manila roads, the agency eventually dismissed the charges.

This pattern of influence appeared to shift recently when the INC staged a three-day mass action in support of Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who faces plunder charges over alleged undeclared campaign contributions. Despite the protest, the Office of the Ombudsman proceeded to file charges against Marcoleta before the Sandiganbayan.

This marked the first time the church’s influence seemed to wane, though it may not reflect a loss of power. Instead, it highlights how Malacañang prioritizes its objectives, even at the expense of longstanding alliances. The decision to proceed with charges against Marcoleta suggests a determination to act decisively against perceived adversaries.

With Marcoleta’s case, the Senate, sitting as an impeachment court, now has the opportunity to reduce the required two-thirds vote for convicting Vice President Sara Duterte from 16 to 14. This shift could significantly ease the path to her disqualification, given the actions taken against her. It signals a broader effort to dismantle her political standing, with little room for reversal.

In the wake of these developments, the INC is left to reassess and consolidate its resources. The church aims to ensure that the next president is someone deeply aligned with its interests. When this occurs, the cycle of influence may resume, restoring the familiar dynamics of political and religious alignment.

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