Classes, government work in Manila, Pasay suspended on Jan. 13 for INC event

Government work and classes are suspended in Manila and Pasay on Monday, Jan. 13 due to Iglesia ni Cristo's (INC) "National Rally for Peace."

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., through Memorandum Circular 76 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Friday, ordered the suspension due to the anticipated participation of one million people at the Quirino Grandstand for the event.

Offices involved in the delivery of basic and health services, response to disasters and calamities, and other vital services were excluded from the suspension.

"The suspension of work in private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective heads," he added.

INC previously said that the event was organized to express its support for Marcos' opposition to the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte.

"Ang Iglesia ni Cristo po ay para sa kapayapaan. Ayaw po natin sa anumang uri ng kaguluhan na manggagaling sa kaninumang panig," Gen Subardiaga, who hosts Sa Ganang Mamamayan, said. "Ngayon pa lamang po, mga kababayan, ay nag-oorganisa na ang mga lokal sa buong Iglesia para magkaroon ng malalaking pagtitipon."

The president earlier said he does not support calls for Duterte's impeachment as it would not help the Filipino people.

"What will happen if someone files an impeachment? It will tie down the House [of Representatives], it will tie down the Senate, it will just take up time and for what? For nothing,” Marcos said. 

“None of this will help improve a single Filipino life," he stressed. “As far as I’m concerned, it is a storm in a teacup.” 

In addition to the main event in Manila, simultaneous rallies are planned in over ten locations across the country, including Cebu, Davao, and Iloilo.

Duterte is facing several legal woes, including three impeachment raps as well as complaints of direct assault, disobedience, and grave coercion filed by the Philippine National Police.