What's the agenda?

Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo held an overnight vigil outside the Department of Justice (DOJ) compound on Padre Faura street in Ermita, Manila in what they said was to protest Justice Secretary Leila De Lima's alleged meddling in the affairs of the INC.

      

The protest action took place after the filing of an illegal detention case by expelled INC minister Isaias Samson Jr. against eight leaders of the religious sect.

Samson had claimed he and his family were held captive inside their home after he was accused of writing a blog that disclosed corruption practices and other irregularities inside the church.

      

The INC members have every right to take part in a protest action over what they feel is government's interference in their internal affairs. This is part of freedom of expression in a democratic society.

      

But we must caution against any rash action that could lead to intimidation and violence against lawful authority.
      

The rule of law must prevail at all times.

      

Lawyers of the INC should answer the allegations in the proper forum as part of due process. They can also exhaust all legal means to clear the name of the church. 

      

Protest actions in the streets are guaranteed by the Constitution. But the line should be drawn between the articulation of legitimate grievances and what could be a hidden political agenda.       

      

After all, the principle of separation of Church and State works both ways, i.e., it applies to both sides. –End-

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