Family Appointment with El Shaddai - Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide 36th Anniversary Celebration (October 19-20, 2014)

The celebration held at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park Manila on Sunday, October 19 commences at 7:30 a.m. with the praise and worship, followed by the program proper started with the standing assembly in singing of the Philippine National Anthem. Representatives of various religious groups then lead the Invocation.

Before noon of October 6, in observance of Bro. Eddie’s birthday, the attendees feasted on hamburgers, cheeseburgers, fried chicken, French fries, roasted chickens, pigs and calves as a gift of the family and friends for his birth day.

IN THE end, there was not enough hamburgers, cheeseburgers, fried chicken, French fries, roasted calf, pig and chicken to go around, but neither that nor heavy rains seemed to dampen the spirits of the massive throng which packed 61-heactre Rizal Park for the grand annual birthday celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva.

Crowd estimates varied from 300,000 (according to the INQUIRER measurement of the land area of Rizal Park and crowd density), to 700,000 (according to a police officer) to two million (according to the El Shaddai emcee). The slaughtered cow population was estimated at 120 and the cooked pigs at ''several thousands,'' according to El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International servant-leader Bro. Mike Z. Velarde.

“They should declare October 6 a national holiday, because Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva is celebrating his birthday!'' exclaimed Elma Baldoz, 43, an El Shaddai devotee who had traveled from Pangasinan with her family and a couple of neighbors in a rented jeepney which doubled as their sleeping quarters for the grand annual weekend extravaganza.

A group of Aetas from Zambales, last in line at one of nearly a hundred food distribution booths, had to be content with morsels, but they didn't seem to mind. “This is a blessing from Yahweh El Shaddai,” an Aeta elderly said.

In the VIP lounge at the Quirino grandstand, the birthday celebrant's celebrity guests were a little more blessed, as they partook of an eight-course lauriat.

The VIP feast was made up of birthday seafood noodles, steamed lobster with garlic, double-boiled sharks' fin soup with abalone and chicken, braised whole Australian abalone, Peking duck, braised eel with sea cucumber and minced duck with lettuce. Dessert included fresh fruit and pastries.

The cakes came from Fernando’s Bakeshop of Pinky Fernando-Ramos, Goldilocks Bakeshop and Red Ribbon Bakeshop SM City Manila branch for their greetings of several local and international chapters of the Foundation on their anniversary.

The entire Rizal Park was a virtual marketplace, as vendors hawked El Shaddai handkerchiefs, healing oils, umbrellas, plastic mats, raincoats, and even stools.

While some vendors jacked up their prices, 25-year-old Jun Mallonga from Tondo, Manila, sold his umbrellas at only P65 each. “This is my own way of thanking the Lord, and also my birthday gift to Brother Eddie,” Mallonga said.

When two helicopters came from ABS-CBN Sky Patrol bearing white handkerchiefs printed with a message from El Shaddai began dropping them as “miraculous gifts,” the crowd went wild.

As the hankies fell, the faithful ran, jumped and jostled in unison for each of those supposedly miraculous items that can cure any disease of the believer.

One young man executed a virtual football tackle in his attempt to grab a handkerchief from a little boy.

 “This is definitely a security nightmare, but what can we do?” said an exasperated Supt. Elmer Jamias, Chinatown commander of the Western Police District.

El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International, Inc. founder and servant-leader Bro. Mike Z. Velarde told newsmen he spent “a few million” on the handkerchiefs and other freebies and props, including balloons and white pigeons.

Early in the afternoon at 3:00 p.m., the crowd jubilantly caught with their umbrellas inverted thousands of miracle-souvenir handkerchiefs thrown into the air from several helicopters.

Broadcast journalists showing live TV pictures from cameras at the rooftop of the Manila Hotel estimated the Luneta crowd at 4 million. There were umbrellas and tents from the Quirino Grandstand by the bay to the area behind the Rizal monument across Roxas Boulevard. By nightfall, the El Shaddai followers were spread out almost to Taft Avenue, T.M. Kalaw, Padre Burgos Drive, United Nations Avenue, Pedro Gil, Port Area, McArthur, Jones, Quezon and Ayala Bridge.

A thanksgiving prayer was offered by Bro. Eddie Villanueva for his annual birthday celebration and for the annual anniversary celebration of the Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide. He also led the audience in prayer for their prayer-requests, which were tied to balloons and released to the air at the signal of Bro. Eddie.

Families who had positioned themselves on mattresses on the ground stayed put, though there was little protection from the rain. Children made up almost 40 percent of the throng in Rizal Park.

Political banners and streamers had reportedly been prohibited in Quirino Grandstand and Plaza Miranda areas, and there were none in sight.

The much-touted free meals of roasted pig, calf and chicken, fried chicken, pizza, doughnuts, mojos, burgers, Palabok, lasagna, spaghetti, French and criss-cut fries, ice creams, pies, loafs, ensaymada, rolls, soups and salads from SM City Manila’s SM Supermarket section at the lower ground floor and 42 food tenants and were served around 11 a.m. In less than an hour, all of the 11 roasted calves and other foods at one booth beside Quirino Grandstand were picked to the bone.

At some food booths, though, people were turned away by the smell of some roasted calves, pigs, chickens, pizza, doughnuts, mojos, burgers, Palabok, lasagna, spaghetti, French and criss-cut fries, ice creams, pies, loafs, ensaymada, rolls, soups and salads which were only half-cooked and foods which were from 42 fast-food restaurants of SM City Manila shopping mall.

But even this did not deter a few eager devotees who took some raw ribs just the same. “This can still be cooked at home,” said a Pampanga resident, who said he didn't want to miss the lechon either.

The heaviest downpour came at 4:30 p.m. just before Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III and presidential sisters Ballsy and Eldon Cruz, Pinky and Manolo Abellada and Viel and Dodo Dee, with presidential sister actress and host Kris Aquino and PBA player James Yap and their children joined by “Fastbreak 2” basketball players Xian Lim, Jhong Hilario, Vhong Navarro, Billy Crawford, Gerald Anderson, Chris Tiu, Young JV, Ervic Vijandre, and Kevin Alas, BENCH/ family stars and “6200: The Mission Possible Project” personalities Kim Chiu, Karylle, Jeric and Jeron Teng, Enchong Dee, Joseph Marco, Lovi Poe, singer Rachelle Ann Go and Markki Stroem, Mr. Chinatown 2013 winners Sky Yang, Jerome Tan and Randy See; Mark Lopez, Jairus Ferrer, Alec Robes, Be Bench Model Search finalist Ron Morales; Carlos Concepcion; Yeng Constantino; “Pinoy Dream Academy” Season 2 scholar Hansen Nichols with his twin brother GC, “BENCH/ Rajo Laurel Dos” collection models Sam Concepcion, Rocco Nacino, Steven Silva, Enzo Pineda, Sarah Lahbati and Regine Angeles, models-turned-actors David Chua and Miko Raval, Luisito Rabat, GMA Network Artist Center talents Gloria Romero-Gutierrez, Pilita Corrales, Aljur Abrenica, Louise delos Reyes, Mark Herras, Yasmien Kurdi, LJ Reyes, Julie Anne San Jose, Kristoffer Martin, Derrick Monasterio, Barbie Forteza, Bela Padilla, Bea Binene, Max Collins, Rafael Rosell, Glaiza de Castro, Rochelle Pangilinan, Mona Louise Rey, Jonalyn Viray, Kyla Calumpad-Alvarez, Jay R Silliona, Mark Bautista, Chef Boy Logro, Manilyn Reynes, Angelu de Leon, Mark Anthony Fernandez, Gabby Eigenmann, Raymond Bagatsing, Ricky Davao, Anjo Yllana and Wally Bayola, GMA News anchors and reporters Arnold Clavio, Sandra Aguinaldo, Raffy Tima and wife Mariz Umali, Oscar Oida, Mark Salazar, Jun Veneracion, Chino Gaston and Weatherman Nathaniel Cruz, ABS-CBN TV news anchor Korina Sanchez, Peping Cojuangco daughters Mikee Cojuangco-Jaworski, China Cojuangco-Gonzalez (and her adorable baby Lucia), Mai-Mai Cojuangco, composer Ryan Cayabyab and his wife Emmy, Rowell Santiago, Celeste Legaspi, JM Rodriguez, Arnold Vegafria and Cris Villonco, entertainment news reporters Mario Dumaual and Gretchen Fullido, Gary Valenciano, Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo, Albert Martinez, Tirso Cruz III and wife Lyn and son Bodie, Mylene Dizon, Iza Calzado, Vina Morales, Shaina Magdayao, Erik Santos, Ogie Diaz, Gary V’s wife Angeli Pangilinan-Valenciano, Angeline Quinto, Arron Villaflor, Christian Bautista, Basil Valdez, Sam Milby, Gina Godinez, musical director and arranger Homer Flores, music composer Louie Ocampo and wife Jojo, Renna Angeles, Baby Fricke, Karen Santos, Bing-Bing Quiros, Gina Aboitiz, Nick and Lucille Locsin, Paul Campos, Tony and Chingbee Cuenca, Manny Miñana, J. Anton Mendoza, Budji Layug, Royal Pineda, Ed Calma, Milo Naval, Tony Gonzales, Tes Pasola, Kenneth Cobonpue, Ana Rocha, Bart Guingona, Jinggoy Buensuceso, Jaime Chua, Agot Isidro, Liezel Martinez, Rachel Alejandro and Joanna Ampil, Christian showbiz personalities Piolo Pascual, Donita Rose, and Kuh Ledesma, socialites Baby Araneta Fores, Lisa Araneta, Cacho Marcos, Linda Oledan, Veana Fores, Lorrie Reynoso, Vicky Zubiri, Maricris Zobel, Carol Garcia, Maripi Muscat and Margarita Fores, Anton Mendoza, Monch Cruz, Chut Cuerva, Marcel Crespo, Ipe Cruz of Rogue Magazine, Marco Lobregat, Ching Cruz, Tina Cuevas, Agnes Huibonhoa, Fe Rodriguez, Susan Joven, Ian Giron, Andres Vasquez Prada and Al Tengco, travel friends Pops Fernandez-Nievera, Doris Magsaysay Ho, Gina Lopez, Evelyn Forbes, Marc Nelson, Ricco and Tina Maristela-Ocampo, Rikki and Beng Dee, Philip and Tricia Cu-Unjieng, Sander and Mons Romulo-Tantoco, Philippine National Red Cross Chairman Richard Gordon, Renna Hechanova Angeles, Karen Santos, Bobby and Chingbee Cuenca, Gina Aboitiz, Baby Girl Fricke, Gina Godinez, Maurice Arcache and ace photographer Alex Van Hagen, Jojie Dingcong, Jean Goulbourn, Frances Lim and Paul Campos, Dennis and Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Ernest Escaler, Ces Orena-Drilon, Karen Davila, Dyan Castillejo-Garcia, Jackie Castillejo-Guingona, Eric Quizon, Liza Ilarde, Ana Kalaw, Anton San Diego, Raul Teehankee, Pepper Teehankee, McCann Erickson Client Service Director Bernadette Chincuanco, Coca-Cola Philippines Marketing Director Anubha Sahasrabuddhe & IMC Director Yasmin Mallari, Mariko Jacinto, Aye Nuguid, Leah Puyat, Anton Barretto and Jack de Mesa, Coca-Cola ASEAN Business Unit President Manuel Arroyo, Coca-Cola Philippines President & General Manager Guillermo Aponte, marketing director Anubha Sahasrabuddhe and Franchise and Commercial Leadership Director Peter Schaelstraete together with the Coca-Cola Philippines team: Johanna Hife, Steve Little, Rogie Delena, Raymond Villaflor, Teejae Sonza, Jobert Dumlao, Sharon Tanganco, Roki Ferrer, Rachel Cruz, Francis Chua, Franz Decloedt, Yasmin Mallari, Jenny Cinco, Jing Atienza, Criselda Pascual, Mavel Banocnoc, Thess Acuna, Franco Jorge, Stephanie Castillo, Tish Condeno, Jaideep Kibe, Nicamae Baylen, Jenalyn Perez, Barry del Rosario, and Nikki Lee, Suyen Corporation's Nene and Virgilio Lim, Bryan Lim and Suyen Lim, Carlos Chan's children Carlson, Archie, Rinby, Larry, Oszen and Shera, Suyen Corporation Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ben Chan, architect Miguel Pastor, stylist Noel Manapat, publicist and Enchong Dee and Joseph Marco’s manager Keren Pascual, Korina Sanchez’s manager Girlie Rodis and Star Magic handler Monch Novales were arrived.

The rain lasted for 15 minutes, and sent people rushing for cover under stalls, trees, umbrellas and large pieces of plastic.

President Benigno S. Aquino III and other government officials are expected to show up at the celebration because Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, president and spiritual director Bro. Eddie Villanueva is celebrating his birthday on October 6. His belated birthday party coincidence with the anniversary celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide on October 19.

The President and the members of the Aquino Family, government officials and showbiz personalities will stay briefly at the Manila Hotel, a hundred meters from the venue of the festivities, to await his part in the program. 

The President is expected to address the annual celebration at 5:05 p.m.

His Excellency, President Benigno S. Aquino III, the guest of honor in the occasion, gave his greetings and message to the crowd. The President was with the Aquino Family.

In attendance also were some members of the cabinet; several senators led by Senate President Franklin Drilon; several congressmen led by House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr.; and friends of Bro. Mike Velarde of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Fellowship International from the business, entertainment, media, legal, and religious sector.

On October 19, 2014, a Sunday evening, Pope Francis arrived at Malacañang Park aboard the Popemobile from the Apostolic Nunciature on Taft Avenue, but was forced to ride the presidential helicopter along with President Aquino, Vice-President Binay, Chief Justice Sereno, House Speaker Belmonte, Senate President Franklin Drilon, MMDA Chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino, former president Ramos, Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada, Cardinal Rosales, Cardinal Tagle, Lipa Archbishop Ramon Cardinal Arguelles, Cardinal Vidal, Cardinal Palma, Cardinal Quevedo and Papal Nuncio Giuseppe Pinto to get to Quirino Grandstand amid the huge crowd on the streets: from Roxas Boulevard to north and southbound areas of Taft Avenue, T.M. Kalaw Street and United Nations Avenue into Ermita, extending up to Maria Orosa Street, Padre Burgos Drive, Port Area district, Jones, Ayala, McArthur and Quezon Bridges to Plaza Miranda in Quiapo.

At past 8:00 p.m. of the same day, Pope Francis began the three-and-a-half-hour Roman Rite Holy Mass in English Language that marked the annual anniversary celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide. Attended by 4 million people, it was the world’s annual biggest gathering so far in the Pontiff’s 1 year, 9 months and 30 days reign and the Roman Catholic Charismatic religious group’s 36-year reign.

The Mass’ concelebrants included Manila Archbishop-Emeritus Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle; Retired Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Oscar Cardinal Cruz, current Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas, Retired San Fernando, Pampanga Archbishop Paciento Anicieto, Current San Fernando, Pampanga Archbishop, Jaro Archbishop Angel Lagdameo, Cebu Archbishop-Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, Cebu Archbishop Jose S. Palma, Palo Archbishop John F. Du, Davao Archbishop-Emeritus Fernando Capalla, Davao Archbishop Romulo G. Valles, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma, Cotabato Archbishop Orlando Cardinal Quevedo, Pontifical Council of the Laity President Stanisław Ryłko, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Most Rev. Teodoro C. Bacani, Jr., Over-all Spiritual Director of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International, Very Rev. Msgrs. Mariano T. Balbago Jr. of Antipolo Diocese and Mario A. Castillo; and Rev. Fr. Anton Pascual and Rev. Fr. Sanny de Claro, spiritual directors of the El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International. Joining them also were several spiritual directors from the international chapters of the El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation namely Reverend Fathers Bernard J. Nolan of Brisbane, Australia; Leo E. Steinbock of Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.; and Thomas Kawamura of Tokyo, Japan, as well as from the Philippines namely, Dwight de Jesus; Remigio Mendoza of Mabini, Batangas; Manheim Abellana, SDB; Eligio Santos of San Ildefonso Parish, Makati; and Stephen Punnakal and Victor Maung Thit of the Our Lady of Assumption Parish, Malate, Manila, as well as from Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, namely, Reverend Fathers including Roman Catholic Parish Priests, Pastors, and Parochial Vicars from several Roman catholic archdioceses and diocese, as well bishops, deacons and monsignors from the different parishes in the Archdioceses of Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, Ende, Kupang, Makassar, Medan, Merauke, Palembang, Pontianak, Samarinda and Semarang and the Dioceses of Malacca-Johor, Penang, Miri, Sibu, Sandakan, Denpasar, Larantuka, Maumere, Ruteng, Bandung, Bogor, Atambua, Weetebula, Amboina, Manado, Padang, Sibolga, Agats, Jayapura, Manokwari-Sorong, Timika, Pangkal Pinang, Tanjungkarang, Ketapang, Sanggau, Sintang, Banjarmasin, Palangka Raya, Tanjung Selor, Malang, Purwokerto and Surabaya and from the Philippines, namely, the priests from the different parishes in the Archdiocese of Manila, Nueva Segovia, Tuguegarao, San Fernando, Pampanga, Nueva Caceres, Jaro, Capiz, Cebu, Palo, Davao, Cotabato and Cagayan de Oro and the Dioceses of Laoag, Baguio, Cabanatuan, San Jose, Nueva Ecija, Bangued, Bayombong, Ilagan, Batanes, Urdaneta, Alaminos, Tarlac, Balanga, Iba, Malolos, Kalookan, Cubao, Novaliches, Pasig, Antipolo, Paranaque, Imus, San Pablo, Lipa, Lucena, Gumaca, Infanta, Romblon, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, Calapan, Puerto Princesa, Daet, Libmanan, Legaspi, Masbate, Sorsogon, Virac, San Jose de Antique, Bacolod, Kabankalan, San Carlos, Dumaguete, Tagbilaran, Talibon, Maasin, Calbayog, Borongan, Catamaran, Naval, Butuan, Surigao, Tandag, Malaybalay, Digos, Mati, Tagum, Kidapawan, Marbel, Dipolog, Pagadian, Marawi, Iligan, Ipil and Isabela, 195 geographical dioceses and archdioceses in the United States of America, 72 dioceses and archdioceses in Canada, 117 dioceses and archdioceses in China, 7 dioceses and archdioceses in Taiwan, 166 Archdioceses and Diocese belonging to Latin, Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara Rites in India, 16 dioceses and archdioceses in Japan and 18 dioceses and archdioceses in Korea.

Guests in the Eucharistic celebration are Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III, Philippine Vice-President Jejomar C. Binay, Chief Justice Maria Lourdes P.A. Sereno, Senate President Franklin M. Drilon, House Speaker Feliciano R. Belmonte, Jr., Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino, Philippine National Police Director General Alan L.M. Purisima, Manila Police District Chief Leocadio Santiago, Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief-of-Staff General Pio Catapangan, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Amando Tetangco, Jr., Commission on Higher Education Chairman Patricia B. Licuanan, Cultural Center of the Philippines Chairperson Emily A. Abrera, National Commission for Culture and the Arts Chairman Felipe M. de Leon Jr., Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board Commissioner and CEO Antonio M. Bernardo, Land Transportation Office Chairman Virginia P. Torres, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board  Chairman Winston M. Ginez, Association of Broadcasters of the Philippines Chairman Butch S. Canoy, Executive Secretary Pacquito Ochoa, Jr., Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala; communications operations office Secretary Sonny Coloma, Communications and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ricky Carandang; Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin; Enviorment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Paje, Jr.; Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad, Jr.; Dr. Enrique Ona, health; Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel A. Roxas II, foreign affairs secretary Albert del Rosario, Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo, Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima, Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio A. Abaya, Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla, justice secretary Leila M. de Lima, labor and employment secretary Rosalinda D. Baldoz, public works and highways secretary Rogelio L. Singson, science and technology secretary Mario G. Montejo, social welfare and development secretary Corazon J. Soliman, tourism secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr., Julia Abad-Razon, presidential management staff; Rochelle R. Ahorro, appointments secretary; deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte, and presidential spokesperson Atty. Edwin Lacierda, former senators Heherson Alvarez, Teresa Aquino-Oreta, Butz Aquino, Nikki Coseteng, John Henry Osmeña, Ernesto Herrera, Loi Estrada, Juan Flavier, Robert Jaworski, Ping Lacson, Kiko Pangilinan, Vicente Paterno, Nene Pimentel, Leticia Ramos-Shahani, Santanina T. Rasul, Jovito Salonga, Helena Benitez, Eva Estrada-Kalaw, Freddie Webb, Edgardo Angara, Vic Ziga, Ernesto Tanada and Francisco Tatad, current Senators Sergio Osmeña III, Pia Cayetano, Alan Peter Cayetano, TG Guingona, Bongbong Marcos, Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Nancy Binay, Lito Lapid, Bong Revilla, Jinggoy Estrada, JV Ejercito, Juan Ponce Enrlie, Ralph Recto and Vicente Sotto III, Majority Floor Leader Neptali Gonzales II, Ilocos Norte 2nd District Rep. Imelda Marcos, Caloocan Rep. Edgar R. Erice, Malabon Lone District Rep. Josephine Veronique R. Lacson-Noel, Navotas Lone District Rep. Toby Tiangco, Maria Theresa B. Bonoan-David of 4th District of Manila, Lucy Torres-Gomez of 4th District of Leyte, Karlo Nograles of 1st District of Davao City, Pedro B. Acharon Jr. of 1st District of South Cotabato and Manny Pacquiao of Lone District of Sarangani, Associate Justices Antonio Carpio, Presbitero Velasco, Jr., Teresita J. Leonardo-de Castro, Arturo D. Brion, Diosdado M. Peralta, Lucas P. Bersamin, Mariano C. Del Castillo, R. Abad, M. Villarama, Jr., J. Perez, J. Mendoza, B. Reyes, Esrelita Perlas-Bernabe and Marvic Leonen, former Manila Mayor and Buhay Party-List Rep. Lito Atienza, former Manila Mayor Alfredo S. Lim, former Philippine President and now Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada, current Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista, former Quezon City Mayor Brigido Simon, Caloocan City Mayor Oscar Malapitan, Malabon City Mayor Len-Len Oreta, Navotas City Mayor John Rey Tiangco, Valenzuela City Mayor Rexlon Gatchalian, Mandaluyong City Mayor Benhur Abalos, Marikina City Mayor Del de Guzman, former Pasig City Mayors Vicente, Soledad and Bobby Eusebio and San Juan City Mayor Guia Gomez, Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay, current Pasig City Mayor Maribel Eusebio, Taguig City Mayor Laarni Lopez-Cayetano, current Pasay City Mayor Antonio “Tony” Calixto, former Pasay City Mayor Wenceslao “Peewee” Trinidad, former Paranaque City Mayor Joey Marquez, former Paranaque City Mayor Florencio Bernabe, current Parañaque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez, Las Pinas City Mayor Vergel A. Aguilar and Muntinlupa City Mayor Jaime Fresnedi, Baguio City Mayor Mauricio Domogan, Tabuk City, Kalinga mayor Ferdinand Tubban, United States ambassador Philip S. Goldberg, Canadian ambassador Christopher Thronley, Spanish ambassador Jorge Domecq, Mexican ambassador Julio Camarena Villaseñor, Bangladeshi ambassador Major Gen. John Gomes, Cambodian ambassador Tuot Panha, Indian ambassador Ram Trasad, Indonesian ambassador Ade Petranto, Japanese ambassador Toshinao Urabe, Korean ambassador Hyuk Lee, Lao ambassador Malayvieng Sakonhninhom, Malaysian Ambassaor Dato Mohd Zamiri Vin Mohd Kassim, Burmese ambassador Aung Khin Soe, Pakistani ambassador Safdar Hayat, Marichu Vera Perez, Rev. Fr. Sonny Ramirez, PAGCOR Chairman Ephraim Genuino, PAGCOR Chairman Cristino L. Naguiat, Jr., former PAGCOR presidents Butch Tenorio and Rafael Butch Francisco, PAGCOR Chairman Jorge Sarmiento, Philippine Olympic Committee Chairman Jose Cojuangco, Jr., Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Ricardo R. Garcia and representatives of businessman Lucio Tan, former Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company president Tony Abacan, retired Philippine Supreme Court Chief Justices Hilario Davide, Jr., Artemio Panganiban and Reynato Puno, Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Bea Zobel, Ayala Land, Inc. president Antonino "Tony" Aquino, Rowena Tomeldan, AC Legarda, Mark Sablan, Joseph Reyes, Maricris Bernardino, Pivi Diaz, Rina Rejanit, Bobby Dy, Manuel V. Pangilinan, Tessie Sy-Coson, Tony Tan-Caktiong, Ramon Ang, Alfred Ty, Arthur Ty, Sari Yap, Lance Gokongwei, Robina Gokongwei-Pe, Liza Gokongwei-Cheng, Isha Andaya-Valles, Myrza Sison, Jo-ann Maglipon, ABS-CBN Corporation Chairman Eugenio “Gabby” Lopez III, ABS-CBN Corporation President and Chief Content Officer Charo Santos-Concio, Star Cinema ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc. managing director Malou Santos, Broadcast Head and Channel 2 Head Cory Valenzuela-Vidanes, television business unit head Laurenti Dyogi, business unit head for comedy Linggit Tan-Marasigan, ABS-CBN Publishing, Inc. General Manager Ernie Lopez, Dreamscape Entertainment Television President Deo Endrinal, Roxy Liquigan, Riley Santiago, Robert Labayen, Mark Yambot, August Benitez, Nandy Villar, Rico Camus, Raymond Miranda, Mark Lopez, Maricel Arenas, Happy Mabulay, Darwin Cerrado, Aldrin Cerrado, Dino Laurena, March Ventosa, Chris Lopez, Carlo Katigbak, Leo Katigbak, Paolo Pineda, Bong Osorio, Monchet Olives, Karen Coloma, former ABS-CBN presidents Cito Alejandro and Freddie Garcia, movie and television directors Johnny Manahan, Arnel Natividad, Toto Natividad, Malu Sevilla, Rechie del Carmen, Jojo Saguin, Jerry Lopez-Sineneng, Tots Mariscal, Erik Salud, Ruel Bayani, Ruel Naval, Jerome Pobocan, and Don Cuaresma, 4, 000 Lopez kin from all over the world, ABS-CBN Manila Radio and Sports Division head Peter Musngi, ABS-CBN Integrated News and Current Affairs Chief Ging Reyes and Choose Philippines head Charie Villa, television director Bobbet and son Kobi Vidanes, the members of the Daza, Valenzuela and Vidanes families, Andrew Tan, Beth Lee, Fe Agudo, Washington Sycip, Felipe Gozon, Menardo Jimenez, Sr., Jimmy Duavit, Annette Gozon-Abrogar, Lito Abrogar, Lilybeth G. Rasonable, Regie C. Bautista, Marivin T. Arayata, Jose Mari R. Abacan, Gigi Santiago-Lara, Darling P. De Jesus, Cheryl Ching-Sy, Teresa L. Pacis, Bang U. Arespacochaga, Ali Nokom-Dedicatoria, Kenneth Yang, Sanjiv Vohra, Lily Yu-Monterverde, Wilson Tieng, Philippine Daily Inquirer board chairman Marixi Rufino-Prieto, Philippine Daily Inquirer president Alexandra Prieto-Romualdez, Philippine Daily Inquirer editor-in-chief Letty Jimenez-Magsanoc, United States Embassy spokesperson Rebecca Thompson, as well guests were media agencies and advocacy partners, former Negros and Philippine National Bank board of director, Miguel “Mike” Romero, socialite and television personality Cory Quirino, bag designer Sylvia Santos, fashion designers JC Buendia, Randy Ortiz,  Jojie Lloren, Dong Omaga Diaz, Joey Samson, Ivarluski Aseron, Vittorio Barba, Gerry Katigbak, Frederick Peralta,  Rajo Laurel, Len Nepomuceno, Hindy Weber-Tantoco, Ramon Esteban, PJ Aranador, Edwin Ao, OJ Hofer, Arcy Gayatin,  Tippi Ocampo, Avel Bacudio, Jerome Salaya Ang, Joel Escober, Anthony Nocom, Albert Andrada, Noel Crisostomo,  Ronaldo Arnaldo,  Kristel Yulo, Happy Andrada, Pablo Cabahug and James Reyes, FDAP designers Johnny Abad, Ricky Abad, Dexter Alaza, Nino Angeles, Delby Bragais, Karen Castro, Kirby Cruz, Ivan dela Cruz, Perry Diaz, Lynn Roxas, Boyet Dysanco, Ricco Escaro, Rocky Gathercole, Genar Gozum, Pristine de Guzman, Adin Lara, Paul Ranier Lim, Noelle Llave, Edgar Madamba, Jontie Martinez, Nikkie Martinez, Ole Morabe, Vivo Nazareth, Dave Ocampo, Lito Perez, Nholie Pilapil, Joyce Pilarsky, Aan Pineda, Raoul Ramirez, Yako Reyes, Rholand Roxas, Edgar San Diego, Fanny Serrano, Edwin Uy, Simon Ariel Vasquez, Geoffrey Zordilla, independent fashion designers Jun Escario, Michelle Sison, Patrice Ramos Diaz, Charina Sarte, Cary Santiago, Dennis Lustico, John Paras, Bea Albert, Eric de los Santos, Maureen Desini, Vania Romoff,  Martin Bautista, John/Paul Herrera, Ronald Mendoza, Audie Espino, Sidney Perez Sio, Goullee Gorospe and Raoul Ramirez, country’s design icons Inno Sotto, Auggie Cordero, Pepito Albert, Cesar Gaupo, Lulu Tan-Gan, Mike de la Rosa and Loretto, Efren Ocampo and The Dean of Filipino Fashion Designers Ben Farrales, Atty. Esperidion Laxa, Jeanne Young, Boots Anson-Roa and King Rodrigo, Tony Ferrer, Lawrence Tan, Atty. Joji Villanueva-Alonso, former Ilocos Rep. Roque “Roquito”Ablan, Kapamilya and non-Kapamilya stars also joined in the celebrations like couple Iya Villania and Drew Arellano, Bianca Manalo, Sitti Navarro, Jasmine Curtis Smith, James Blanco, Eric Tai, K Brosas, Claudine Barretto and Raymart Santiago, Randy Santiago, G Toengi-Walters, Kean Cipriano, Bamboo Manalac, Binibining Pilipinas 2013 winners Cindy Miranda and Pia Romero, Miss International 2013 Bea Rose Santiago, Miss Universe 2013 3rd Runner-Up Ariella Arida, Katherine de Castro-Cruz, Oyo Boy Sotto, Rowell Santiago, Gretchen Ho, Dominique Cojuangco, Mylene Dizon, Dina Bonnevie with husband Ilocos Sur Vice-Governor Deogracias Victor Savellano, Jericho Rosales, apl.de.ap, Eddie Garcia and Richard Gomez, Sen. Grace Poe-Llamanzares, Sen. Sonny Angara with wife Tootsy, The Philippine STAR columnists RJ Ledesma, Stephanie Zubiri-Crespi, and Tim Yap, The Philippine STAR lifestyle section editor Millet Martinez-Mananquil, Philippine Daily INQUIRER Lifestyle section editor Thelma Sioson-San Juan, Meralco Bolts coach Norman Black, Ateneo men’s basketball coach Bo Perasol and his players Kiefer Ravena, Thirdy Ravena and Von Pessumal, former players Doug Kramer, JC Intal, Macky Escalona, Nico Salva, Bacon Austria, Tonino Gonzaga, Emman Monfort, Frank Golla, Oping Sumalinog, JP Erram and Jai Reyes, “Fastbreak 2” basketball players celebrities Xian Lim, Jhong Hilario, Vhong Navarro, Billy Crawford, Gerald Anderson, Chris Tiu, Young JV, Ervic Vijandre, and Kevin Alas, BENCH/ family stars Kim Chiu, Karylle, Jeric and Jeron Teng, Enchong Dee, Joseph Marco, Lovi Poe, Rachelle Ann Go and Markki Stroem, Mr. Chinatown 2013 winners Sky Yang, Jerome Tan and Randy See; Mark Lopez, Jairus Ferrer, Alec Robes, Be Bench Model Search finalist Ron Morales; Carlos Concepcion; Yeng Constantino; Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2 scholar Hansen Nichols with his twin brother GC, GMA Network Artist Center talents Gloria Romero, Pilita Corrales, Aljur Abrenica, Louise delos Reyes, Mark Herras, Yasmien Kurdi, LJ Reyes, Julie Anne San Jose, Kristoffer Martin, Derrick Monasterio, Barbie Forteza, Bela Padilla, Bea Binene, Max Collins, Rafael Rosell, Glaiza de Castro, Rochelle Pangilinan, Mona Louise Rey, Jonalyn Viray, Kyla Calumpad-Alvarez, Jay R Silliona, Mark Bautista, Chef Boy Logro, Manilyn Reynes, Angelu de Leon, Mark Anthony Fernandez, Gabby Eigenmann, Raymond Bagatsing, Ricky Davao, Anjo Yllana and Wally Bayola, GMA News reporters Arnold Clavio, Sandra Aguinaldo, Raffy Tima and his wife Mariz Umali, Oscar Oida, Mark Salazar, Jun Veneracion, Chino Gaston and Weatherman Nathaniel Cruz, Korina Sanchez, Mikee Cojuangco-Jaworski, China Cojuangco-Gonzalez (and her adorable baby Lucia), Mai-Mai Cojuangco, Ryan Cayabyab and his wife Emmy, Rowell Santiago, Celeste Legaspi, JM Rodriguez, Arnold Vegafria, Cris Villonco, Mario Dumaual and Gretchen Fullido, Gary Valenciano, Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo, Albert Martinez, Tirso Cruz III and wife Lyn and son Bodie, Mylene Dizon, Iza Calzado, Vina Morales, Shaina Magdayao, Erik Santos, Ogie Diaz, Gary V’s wife Angeli Pangilinan-Valenciano, Angeline Quinto, Arron Villaflor, Christian Bautista, Basil Valdez, Sam Milby, Gina Godinez, musical director and arranger Homer Flores, composer Louie Ocampo and wife Jojo, Renna Angeles, Baby Fricke, Karen Santos, Bing-Bing Quiros, Gina Aboitiz, Nick and Lucille Locsin, Paul Campos, Tony and Chingbee Cuenca, Manny Miñana, J. Anton Mendoza, Budji Layug, Royal Pineda, Ed Calma, Milo Naval, Tony Gonzales, Tes Pasola, Kenneth Cobonpue, Ana Rocha, Bart Guingona, Jinggoy Buensuceso, Jaime Chua, Agot Isidro, Liezel Martinez, Rachel Alejandro and Joanna Ampil, socialites Baby Araneta Fores, Lisa Araneta, Cacho Marcos, Linda Oledan, Veana Fores, Lorrie Reynoso, Vicky Zubiri, Maricris Zobel, Carol Garcia, Maripi Muscat and Margarita Fores, Anton Mendoza, Monch Cruz, Chut Cuerva, Marcel Crespo, Ipe Cruz of Rogue Magazine, Marco Lobregat, Ching Cruz, Tina Cuevas, Agnes Huibonhoa, Fe Rodriguez, Susan Joven, Ian Giron, Andres Vasquez Prada, Al Tengco, Piolo Pascual, Donita Rose, and Kuh Ledesma, Suyen Corporation Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ben Chan with Bench resident architect Miguel Pastor, stylist Noel Manapat, talent managers Keren Pascual and Girlie Rodis, Star Magic handler Monch Novales and BENCH/ Rajo Laurel Dos collection models Sam Concepcion, Rocco Nacino, Steven Silva, Enzo Pineda, Sarah Lahbati and Regine Angeles, model-turned-actors David Chua and Miko Raval, Luisito Rabat, travel friends Pops Fernandez, Doris Magsaysay Ho, Gina Lopez, Evelyn Forbes, Marc Nelson, Ricco and Tina Maristela-Ocampo, Rikki and Beng Dee, Philip and Tricia Cu-Unjieng, Sander and Mons Romulo-Tantoco, Philippine National Red Cross Chairman Richard Gordon, Renna Hechanova Angeles, Karen Santos, Bobby and Chingbee Cuenca, Gina Aboitiz, Baby Girl Fricke, Gina Godinez, Maurice Arcache and ace photographer Alex Van Hagen, Jojie Dingcong, Jean Goulbourn, Frances Lim and Paul Campos, Dennis and Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Ernest Escaler, Ces Orena-Drilon, Karen Davila, Dyan Castillejo-Garcia, Jackie Castillejo-Guingona, Eric Quizon, Liza Ilarde, Ana Kalaw, Anton San Diego, Raul Teehankee, Pepper Teehankee, McCann Erickson Client Service Director Bernadette Chincuanco, Coca-Cola Philippines Marketing Director Anubha Sahasrabuddhe & IMC Director Yasmin Mallari, Mariko Jacinto, Aye Nuguid, Leah Puyat, Anton Barretto and Jack de Mesa, Coca-Cola ASEAN Business Unit President Manuel Arroyo, Coca-Cola Philippines President & General Manager Guillermo Aponte, marketing director Anubha Sahasrabuddhe and Franchise and Commercial Leadership Director Peter Schaelstraete together with the Coca-Cola Philippines team: Johanna Hife, Steve Little, Rogie Delena, Raymond Villaflor, Teejae Sonza, Jobert Dumlao, Sharon Tanganco, Roki Ferrer, Rachel Cruz, Francis Chua, Franz Decloedt, Yasmin Mallari, Jenny Cinco, Jing Atienza, Criselda Pascual, Mavel Banocnoc, Thess Acuna, Franco Jorge, Stephanie Castillo, Tish Condeno, Jaideep Kibe, Nicamae Baylen, Jenalyn Perez, Barry del Rosario, and Nikki Lee, Suyen Corporation's Nene and Virgilio Lim, Bryan Lim and Suyen Lim, Carlos Chan's children Carlson, Archie, Rinby, Larry, Oszen and Shera, kart racer Michelle Bumgarner, actor-models Victor Basa and Victor Aliwalas, volleyball stars Dzi Gervacio, Jem Ferrer, Fille Cainglet-Cayetano, A Nacachi, Rachel Daquis, Jovelyn Gonzaga, Alyssa Valdez, Denden Lazaro, Charo Soriano, Marge Tejada, Melissa Gohing, Mary Jean Balse, Mayeth Carolino, Michelle Carolino, Ella De Jesus, Kara Acevedo, Karla Bello, Stephanie Gabriel, Mae Tajima, Jayson Ramos, Maica Morada  Jed Montero. Michelle Laborte  Sasa Devanadera, Grethcel Soltones, Joy Benito, Rubie De Leon, Mae Crisostomo, Ynna Hao, Tina Salak, JP Torres, Dahlia Cruz, Nene Bautista, Aiza Maizo, Maika Ortiz, Rhea Dimaculangan  Denise Tan, Venus Bernal, Jheck Dionela, Angge Tabaquero, Bea Pascual, Judy Caballejo, AJ Pareja, Myco Antonio, Henry Pecana, Rex Intal, Waldors Manila, Volleyball Donya, Dindin Santiago, Jaja Santiago, Princess Gaiser, Shiela “Bang” Pineda, Mayette Zapanta, Rosemarie Vargas, Jen Reyes, Angela Benting, Pau Soriano, Peter Torres, Michelle Gumabao, Cha Cruz, Stephanie Mercado, Jeshul Wensh Tiu, Renz Casanova, Joanne Siy, Loren Lantin, Mia Hirotsuji, Pamela Lastimosa, Ingrid Reyes, Jessey De Leon, Carmela Tunay, Chloe Cortez, Alex Cabanos, Patricia Rasmo, Illa Santos, Joanne Bunag, Jacqueline Alarca and Ers Iratay, TAPE, Inc. president and chief executive officer Antonio P. Tuviera, TAPE, Inc. chairman-emeritus Romeo P. Jalosjos, TV5 President-Emeritus and The Philippine STAR Chairman Atty. Ray C. Espinosa, TV5 President and CEO Noel Lorenzana, Ariel Fermin, Gary Dujali, News5 head Luchi Cruz-Valdes and Sports5 head Chot Reyes, Former Professional Models Association of the Philippines board members and fashion luminaries Tina Maristela Ocampo, Izza Gonzales-Agana, Desiree Verdadero-Abesamis, Marina Benipayo, Patty Betita, Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, Den Abesamis, Hans Montenegro, Grace Molina and Ariel Atendido, Robert Mananquil, models Robby Mananquil, and Raya Mananquil-de Leon, and Rissa Mananquil-Trillo with Valerie de los Santos; Ateneo Blue Eagles team manager Paolo Trillo; Current Professional Models Association of the Philippines president Phoemela Baranda also came with Manila’s favourite models Grace Tagle, Bubbles Paraiso, Luke Jickain, Mia Ayesa, Sanya Smith, Mika Lagdameo-Martinez, Antoinette Enciso-Ocampo, Angel Agustin-Co and Marilen Faustino-Montenegro.

The largest gathering attended by more than 5 million people, which of residents from all over the Philippines and 226 countries of the world.

During the holy mass, seminarians, parish choirs and guest artists will render praise songs and traditional music. Meanwhile, bands from the Philippine Army and the Philippine Navy will also be on hand to provide music.

In his 1 hour 30 minute homily during the Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide Anniversary Celebration Holy Mass; Pope Francis the First of Argentina praised Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder and spiritual director bishop Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva for his belated birthday party and for the annual anniversary celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide and for the success of the annual tri-media coverage live on radio and television stations all over the world and on social media.

During the Thanksgiving Mass officiated by the Pope himself, a mass wedding took place, in which 360,000 who had been living together as common-law spouses finally tied the knot.

Representatives of labor, women and children, fisher folk, farmers, indigenous communities and other sectors will join the First Family in the offertory procession.

After the Holy Mass, the Angelus Message was followed by the final blessing for the mass.

At 12 midnight, Monday, October 20, 2014, a 30-minute fireworks display set up by Bocaue, Bulacan-based Dragon Fireworks, Inc. for P120, 000 lit the night sky.

Fireworks will also follow the President's Jesus is Lord Church Anniversary celebration speech.

The El Shaddai members were expected to be kept awake until an 8 a.m. breakfast Monday, October 20, staying up to listen to the evangelical talks, religious testimonies and gospel hymns which are common fare at their weekly Family Appointment.

A candlelight ceremony was held followed by the delivery of the healing message of El Shaddai servant-leader Bro. Mike Z. Velarde.

Velarde delivered a three-hour “healing message” at 4 a.m., Monday, October 20 to the El Shaddai DWXI-PPFI and Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide members still gathered in Rizal Park before dawn October 20. 

In his healing message, he expounded that to attain a lasting unity in our society; every Filipino should reconcile to God and to one another, love one another, and learn to accept one another. He concluded his message with a healing and deliverance prayer which included five particular intentions, as follows: that God forgive the sins of our nation; that He grant us the freedom we seek in our land; that He grant us “amnesia” from the past and the courage to look forward to our future with faith, love and unity; that He grant divine wisdom and extra-ordinary courage to President Benigno S. Aquino III so he could continue his vision of ASEAN Economic Community 2015 and Philippines 2016; and that God grant to all of us the extraordinary power to remain firm in our faith.

So effective was President Benigno S. Aquino III’s portrayal of himself as the underdog and victim in the ongoing debate on Charter change, the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement, the tension against China, the Development Acceleration Program (DAP) and Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam, the construction of major infrastructure projects, the crime rate in Metro Manila including robbery holdups, and the onslaught of typhoon Glenda in Metro Manila that Velarde and Villanueva said he consoled him after Mr. Aquino's speech on Saturday, October 18.

“I told the President, don't be provoked by those who try to provoke you,” Velarde, speaking in Filipino, told the crowd which had grown during the night, spilling over from Roxas Boulevard to north and southbound areas of Taft Avenue, T.M. Kalaw Street and United Nations Avenue into Ermita, extending up to Maria Orosa Street, Padre Burgos Drive, Port Area district, Jones, Ayala, McArthur and Quezon Bridges to Plaza Miranda in Quiapo.

In the early morning of Monday, October 20, thousands of doves for peace and prosperity were released by the attendees.

El Shaddai servant-leader Velarde, Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder and spiritual director Villanueva and Mr. Aquino were having dinner in the VIP Lounge at the Quirino Grandstand on Saturday when the charismatic leaders advised tolerance. El Shaddai servant-leader Velarde, Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder and spiritual director Villanueva is the President’s spiritual adviser since 2010.

Villanueva enjoined his followers: “Let us pray for those that oppress us,” referring both to the President's critics and those who have questioned the Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide's timing of its grand annual anniversary celebration to coincide with the Makati rally over the Development Acceleration Program (DAP) and Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam.

Villanueva’s birthday coincides with Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide’s anniversary celebration. It has traditionally been held on the Saturday nearest October since 1979. He was born on October 6, 1932 in Bocaue, Bulacan.

Pastor Almeda, Pastor Quiboloy, Bro. Velarde, Bro. Villanueva, Bro. Bo Sanchez, Bro. Eli C. Soriano and Bro. Eduardo V. Manalo have expressed support for Development Acceleration Program (DAP) is limited to the economic provisions.

But Velarde, Villanueva, Sanchez, Almeda was not about to clash head on with the Catholic Church, specifically Cardinal Tagle, on the issue of Charter change, the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement, pork barrel scam, the illegal rice smuggling, the construction of major infrastructure projects and extrajudictorial and high-profile killings. Instead, they asked El Shaddai, Iglesia ni Cristo, Light of Jesus, Members of Church of God International and Jesus is Lord members to pray for the Cardinal's health, “So he may become stronger.”

He told his followers: “There is a time for anger and there is a time for love.”

But the INQUIRER learned that apart from its weekly scheduled gathering every Saturday and Sunday, El Shaddai wrote the National Parks Development Committee to reserve on July 26, or five days after Mae Paner announced the pro-democracy rally in Makati.

Meanwhile, environmentalists and community leaders around Quiapo area are calling for an annual “green” celebration of the anniversary of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide.

Local leaders and the environmental network Ecowaste Coalition urged devotees and visitors to couple their devotion to the Jesus Christ, our Lord, and our Savior with respect for the environment.

The call came as participants leading to the annual anniversary celebration of the religious group on October every year since October 1979.

“Combining our people’s amazing devotion to the Jesus Christ our Lord with action respecting, nurturing and defending Mother Earth will be a powerful force of hope and deliverance against those who trash and ruin the environment,” Tin Vergara, Zero Waste Campaigner of the EcoWaste Coalition, said.

“If the millions of devotees who come to Rizal Park and Quiapo will simply not litter and avoid waste in all its forms, we’ll have a feast that is pleasing to the eyes and pleasing to the Lord,” she added.

Past celebrations in 35 years have seen truckloads of garbage collected from Rizal Park to Port Area to Ermita to Quiapo that included cigarette butts, candy and snack wrappers, plastic bags, cups, bottles and straws, polystyrene food containers and bamboo skewers that often cause injuries to barefooted participants.