THE unexpected rally organized by the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) from June 30 to July 1 triggered widespread irritation among commuters and drivers who were stranded in traffic on EDSA for several hours. The mass gathering at one of Metro Manila’s busiest chokepoints practically brought parts of the capital to a standstill, with both workers and students struggling on how to reach their destinations. While the economic and productivity losses are yet to be estimated, the worst effect of it all is the certain damage to investors’ confidence in the country’s stability and long-term growth.
But what makes a religious group different from a cult? Is the INC a cult or a religion?
A religion is generally more institutionalized in its belief and practices; is open to and tolerant of other faiths; and is less controlling of the personal lives of its members. A cult, on the other hand, is often more insular, promotes an “us versus them” mentality, and centers around a charismatic leader. Prominent examples were Jim Jones’ Peoples Temple, David Koresh’s Branch Davidian and Marshall Applewhite’s Heaven’s Gate. All of them firmly controlled their members and isolated them from society. In many religions, donations are voluntary, whereas some cults require a fixed contribution from their members. While religions primarily concern themselves with spiritual matters, cults frequently exploit social and political unrest to expand their influence. Many religions, including Christianity, began as small sects before becoming a well-organized religious denomination. In truth, the INC cannot be branded as a “cult.” What distinguishes it from other religious organizations is its unity of purpose and action that extends beyond spiritual concerns to secular matters.
This unity was demonstrated once again when thousands were mobilized by the INC leadership to rally behind Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, who has been charged with plunder over allegedly unreported campaign funds. He has figured prominently in the Senate’s investigations into the flood-control corruption scandal. To the INC leadership, any legal action against Marcoleta is not merely as a case against the senator, but as an attack on their group.
Under the 1987 Constitution, all citizens have guaranteed rights to free speech, expression and peaceful assembly. However, these rights are not an unbridled license to disregard the rights of others or violate public order. During the rally, the INC appeared to be exercising its constitutional freedoms to air grievances against the government. Unfortunately, countless Filipino taxpayers were compelled to withstand and suffer the inconvenience and economic losses brought about by the INC rally, while the government was forced to exercise maximum tolerance to prevent the demonstrations from escalating into violence.
But how should we, the majority of Filipinos, deal with the INC?
In our democratic society, Filipinos must consistently respect and defend the religious freedom of every group, provided that no harm is inflicted upon others. Regardless of our opinions, the INC protesters have all the right to peacefully assemble, and their calls for accountability on the flood-control scams deserve to be heard. Similarly, the government must likewise be careful not to tolerate prolonged disruptions that would damage the economy, public safety and national security.
Should the INC rallyists block major roads or attempt to persuade the military or police to withdraw their support from the government, the state has both the mandate and duty to restore public order within the bounds of the law. It can take control of the situation and arrest dissidents. Yet, the political realities are difficult to enforce the rule of law. The INC is one of the nation’s most influential voting blocs, making many politicians reluctant to cross paths with the INC leadership for fear of electoral defeat.
However, rational INC members must remember they are Filipinos first before they are members of any religious organization. They must encourage their leadership to pursue their anti-corruption advocacy through legal means and allow due process to take its course rather than holding Philippine society hostage.
Religious freedom is always upheld and respected in our democratic society. But faith can never be allowed to subjugate public order and accountability through mob rule, while the state helplessly watches the carnage. This will cause the republic to self-implode as the tyranny of a minority prevails.