Faith and politics: You Cannot Spell Inconsistency Without INC
The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) is undeniably a formidable force, with millions of followers worldwide and a presence spanning 16 African countries and beyond. Its influence is palpable, particularly during elections, where its bloc voting tradition has become a defining feature. However, this ostensibly religious group has often blurred the line between faith and politics, supporting politicians with questionable credentials and priorities.
Take, for instance, its recent “peace rally.” Beneath the guise of promoting peace lay a political agenda—a calculated display of power designed to remind the public, especially politicians, of its influence. The myth of the “solid INC vote” persists despite evidence that it is often more strategic than steadfast. The INC tends to endorse candidates with the highest likelihood of winning, relying on survey trends rather than divine guidance. Its so-called “God’s whisper” is little more than political opportunism cloaked in religiosity.
Such tactics echo the practices of other controversial religious groups, like Apollo Quiboloy’s sect, where leaders claim divine endorsement to consolidate control over their followers. This veneer of spirituality masks a disturbing pattern of power politics, evident in alliances with figures like Señor Agila’s Socorro Bayanihan Services, Inc., which also backed the “UniTeam” slate.
The INC’s claim to promote peace rings hollow when examined critically. Its silence during critical moments in Philippine history—such as the extrajudicial killings during the drug war or the assassination of activists and human rights defenders—betrays its selective activism. Where were its members when the marginalized cried for justice? When accountability from the government was most needed, why did its voice fall silent?
A student of mine, an INC member, once justified their neutrality by citing Romans 13:1-2: “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.”
This interpretation is not only truncated but also misapplied. In 2018, while human rights groups and other religious organizations gathered in Cebu to discuss peace talks between the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front, the INC was notably absent. Its apathy toward state abuses speaks volumes about its priorities.
The INC’s historical record further undermines its credibility. During the Marcos Sr. regime, it stood by as human rights were trampled. It also supported Joseph Estrada during the controversial Edsa III uprising, which led to riots. Today, it backs politicians like Bato dela Rosa, Bong Go, and Robinhood Padilla—individuals whose actions and values starkly contradict the church’s teachings.
Ironically, while the INC imposes strict moral standards on its members—going so far as to ostracize those who bring shame to the church—it readily aligns itself with corrupt and morally ambiguous politicians. This glaring inconsistency underscores a troubling hypocrisy: the INC prioritizes political leverage over doctrinal integrity.
Its actions reveal a deeper truth about religion’s entanglement with politics. INC’s endorsements are not about advancing the public good but ensuring its place in the political arena. It leverages its bloc vote to intimidate politicians into submission, threatening to withhold support if its demands are not met. When was the last time the INC joined a rally for just and lasting peace? When has it fought against corruption or denounced the pork barrel scandal? Is its church truly guided by the teachings of God, or is it driven by the self-serving doctrines of the Manalo family?
Psalm 72:4 reminds us: “May he defend the afflicted among the people and save the children of the needy; may he crush the oppressor.”
Does the INC embody this biblical vision, or is it twisting scripture to serve its interest? Are its members instruments of God, or are they using God as an instrument for power?
Clearly, you cannot spell inconsistency without INC.
MAKAR B. LIWANAG,
teacher
