Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide Anniversary Celebration

Project Description

Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide Anniversary Celebration is an annual event that gathers a celebration of the Roman Catholic religious group's anniversary since 1979. Organized by Jesus is Lord Church, the City Government of Manila and the National Parks Development Committee since 1986, the event is dubbed as "the annual biggest and the grandest celebration in the world".

For the twenty-eighth time in the history of Rizal Park and the whole of Metro Manila for that matter, about five million people joined the Thirty-Fifth Anniversary Celebration of the Foundation at the national park from October 27, 2013.

The participants crowded the 61-hectare national park and adjacent areas-Roxas Boulevard, Taft Avenue, United Nations Avenue, T.M. Kalaw St., Port Area, and Jones Bridge. Some of them came to the venue as early as three days before the event.

They came not only from Metro Manila, but also from provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Abra, Isabela, Cagayan, Batanes, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Benguet, Ifugao, Mountain Province, Kalinga and Apayao, northern Luzon provinces of Pangasinan, La Union, Baguio City and Benguet, Ifugao, Mountain Province, Tarlac, and Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Bataan, Bulacan, Southern Luzon provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan, Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon and the island-provinces of Catanduanes and Masbate, Visayan provinces of Aklan, Antique, Roxas City and Capiz, Iloilo City and Province, Guimaras, Bacolod City and Negros Occidental, Dumaguete and Negros Oriental, Cebu City and Province, Siquijor, Bohol, Tacloban City and Leyte, Western Samar, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Biliran and Southern Leyte, Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental, Ozamiz City and Misamis Occidental, Iligan City and Lanao del Norte, Marawi City and Lanao del Sur, Malaybalay City and Bukidnon, Dipolog City and Zamboanga del Norte, Pagadian City and Zamboanga del Sur, Camiguin, Butuan City, Surigao City, Bislig City, Tandag City, Bayugan City, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Islands, Davao City, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley, Cotabato City and Maguindanao, North Cotabato, General Santos City and South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani Province, Zamboanga City, Dipolog City and Zamboanga del Norte, Pagadian City and Zamobanga del Sur, Isabela City and Basilan, Ipil and Zamboanga Sibugay, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi.

Also present were members from different overseas chapters of the Foundation including: United States: including Metropolitan New York City (New York-New Jersey-Connecticut-Pennsylvania Combined Statistical Area), Southern California, Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI Metropolitan Statistical Area, Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, Washington–Arlington–Alexandria, District of Columbia–Virginia–Maryland–West Virginia, Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach, Florida, New Britain–Hartford–New Haven, Connecticut, San Diego–Tijuana, Canada, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, India, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Guam, Saipan, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, United Kingdom, Spain, Greece, Italy, Malta, Cyprus, and Libya.

About the celebration

The Anniversary Celebration Themes are:

• “Great God, Great Outpouring” (Jeremiah 33:3) in 2011 
• “Prepare the Way of the LORD” in 2012
• “Revolution of Righteousness” in 2013
• ? in 2014 

TESDA Chief Emmanuel Joel Villanueva said the movement has begun its preparations for this year’s annual festivities. 

On Wednesday, Jesus is Lord Church’s Fiesta Committee met with the Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council led by Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chair Francis Tolentino to discuss plans on how to manage security, emergency traffic and crowd control during the event, would feature the Bro. Eddie Villanueva’s birthday thank-offering salo-salo simultaneously from the Quirino Grandstand at the Rizal Park to the Port Area to the Plaza Miranda in Quiapo, Manila.

Most of the attendees were already in the venue days before the overnight annual affair beamed live nationwide via satellite on television over ABS-CBN Channel 2, People’s Television Network (PTV-4), Associated Broadcasting Company (ABC) Channel 5, Global Media Arts (GMA) Channel 7, Radio Philippines Network (RPN) Channel 9 and IBC Channel 13, live on radio over DZXL RMN Manila 558, DZBB Radyo Bisig-Bayan 594, DZMM Radyo Patrol 630, DZRH 666 and DZRV Radio Veritas 846 and also on RMN AM, GMA Campus Radio FM, DYAB 1512 Cebu, DXAB 1296 Davao, My Only Radio FM stations nationwide and the special supplement published in Manila Bulletin, Philippine Daily Inquirer and The Philippine Star.

The souvenir-type magazine contains the messages section, the photographs from 1979 to present, the official program and the Celebration includes the Holy Mass that contains 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 166 Archdioceses and Diocese belonging to Latin, Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara Rites in India with the reference: "166 Diocese of Latin, Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara Rites" were published in pages 143 to 2,240 of The Catholic Directory of India 2013 as well the priests came from 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, 16 dioceses and archdioceses in Japan, 18 dioceses and archdioceses in Korea, 86 dioceses and archdioceses in the Philippines, 10 dioceses and archdioceses in Thailand, 25 dioceses and archdioceses in Vietnam, 37 dioceses and archdioceses in Indonesia and 8 dioceses and archdioceses in Malaysia.

Each year, the anniversary celebration of Jesus is Lord Church and the birthday celebration of Bro. Eddie Villanueva makes its way the participants crowded along the streets of Rizal Park, Port Area and the Quiapo district, with attendees reaching up to 6 to 8 million. In recent years, the traffic re-route was altered due to a rise in vehicular and stampede accidents, and to afford other neighborhoods a chance to participate in the festivities.

The celebration held at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park Manila on the second Sunday of October now commences at 9:00 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 natal day.

Early in the afternoon, the crowd jubilantly caught with their umbrellas inverted thousands of miracle-souvenir handkerchiefs thrown into the air from several helicopters. A thanksgiving prayer was offered by Bro. Eddie for his birthday and for the anniversary of the Foundation. He also led the congregation in prayer for their prayer-requests, which were tied to balloons and released to the air at the signal of Bro. Eddie.

In the 2013 celebration last October 27, 2013, 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.

A Thanksgiving Mass was led by His Eminence Gaudencio Rosales, Archbishop-Emeritus of Manila, together with His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, Archbishop of Manila; Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, Archbishop-Emeritus of Cebu, Jose S. Palma, Archbishop of Cebu, 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 DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International. Joining them also were several spiritual directors from the international chapters of the Foundation namely Reverend Fathers Bernard J. Nolan of Brisbane, Australia; Leo E. Steinbock of L.A., Ca., USA; 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.

The World Youth Day Papal Altar

Inspired by the bamboo arches seen in Philippine fiestas, the Quirino Grandstand was dressed up to evoke this festive feeling and give Pope Francis a reception that embodies the Filipinos fondness for His Holiness. A fabric canopy with Tagalog Stencil patterns marks the main portion of the dais where the Pope celebrated mass. All furniture was done in rattan to maintain the indigenous feel of the altar designs. The World Youth Day Papal Altar is designed by Francisco Manoza.

The history of the annual event

1979

On October 13 to 14, 1979, during its First Anniversary Celebration of Jesus is Lord Fellowship at the DWRV Compound in Pasig City one year after the founding of Jesus is Lord Fellowship on October 5, 1978, about five thousand people witnessed and experienced the miracle touch of Jesus is Lord.

1980

Some eight thousand people gathered together on the Second Anniversary Celebration of the Jesus is Lord Fellowship at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) on October 12, 1980. Even the seemingly indifferent PICC staffs were surprised because the affair lasted one whole day and it was the first time that it’s Reception and Plenary Halls were filled to capacity.

1981

The Third Anniversary Celebration of the Jesus is Lord Fellowship was celebrated with an Overnight Roman Rite Holy Mass and Worship and Healing Prayer Rally at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in Vito Cruz, Manila, from October 17 to 18, 1981. It rained heavily throughout the affair, but the estimated two hundred thousand attendees stayed until it ended in the morning.

1989

As early as 9:00 a.m. of October 8, 1989, members and followers of the Jesus is Lord Fellowship began trooping to the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in Vito Cruz, Manila to participate in its Eleventh Anniversary. By midnight of Monday, October 9, 1989, the entire stadium was jammed with over half a million people from all over the Philippines to take part in an overnight activity of praise and worship dedicated to Jesus Christ our Lord, our Savior. Bishop Teodoro C. Bacani, together with some Roman Catholic priests from the different parishes in the Archdiocese of Manila, Archdiocese of Lipa and Archdiocese of Cebu, led the Holy Mass.

1990

From October 13 to 14, 1990, the Twelfth Anniversary of the Jesus is Lord Fellowship was held at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila. In attendance were thousands of its members and followers, who experienced the wonderful works of the Holy Spirit as they praised and worshipped to Jesus and listened to His Word despite a storm which flooded some parts of the venue with knee-deep water.

1991

The scenario of the Thirteenth Anniversary of the Jesus is Lord Fellowship held at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila, from October 12 to 13, 1991, was identical to that of its 12th Anniversary. Nevertheless, the almost half a million attendees braved the monsoon rains and knee-deep flood to give thanks, praise and worship to God.

1992

On the occasion of the Fourteenth Anniversary Celebration of the Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide held at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila, from October 17 to 18, 1992, more than one-and-a-half million prayer-partners attended the affair. His Excellency, President Fidel V. Ramos, gave his greetings to the congregation.

1994

For the first time in the history of Rizal Park and the whole of Metro Manila for that matter, about three million people joined the Fifteenth Anniversary Celebration of the Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide at the national park from October 8 to 9, 1994. The participants crowded the 61-hectare national park and adjacent areas-Roxas Boulevard, Taft Avenue, UN Avenue, T.M. Kalaw St., Port Area, and Jones Bridge. Some of them came to the venue as early as three days before the event. They came not only from Metro Manila, but also from Cavite, Laguna, Pampanga, the Ilocos Region, Quezon, the Bicol Region, Sorsogon, Leyte, and other distant provinces. Also present were members from different overseas chapters of the Foundation.

1996

His Excellency, President Fidel V. Ramos was the guest of honor during the Eighteenth Anniversary of the Foundation at the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila on October 13, 1996. In line with the anniversary theme, which is unity, leaders from the different charismatic groups and religious groups were invited to speak in a CLSS. During the Thanksgiving Mass officiated by Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin, a mass wedding took place, in which 5000 couples who had been living together as common-law spouses finally tied the knot.

2012

Last year, two days after the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 75 Men’s Basketball Tournament Finals between the Ateneo Blue Eagles versus UST Growling Tigers at Smart Araneta Coliseum on October 11, 2012, at least nine million participants participated in the 34^th Anniversary Celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide, with no less than the President of the Republic of the Philippines, His Excellency Benigno S. Aquino III as guest-of-honor in the celebration, traversing a crowd from the 61-hectare Rizal Park to Port Area to the Quiapo church in a celebration that lasted twenty-four hours from 9:00 a.m. of Sunday, October 14, 2012 to 9:30 a.m. of Monday, October 15, 2012. 

2014

They always start the gathering at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park Manila on Sunday, October 19 commences at 7:30 a.m. with a prayer and the singing of the Philippine national anthem.

The songs chosen in these political campaign rallies, holy masses and worship and healing prayer rallies like “Ako ay Pilipino” and “Bayan Ko” only reflect the deep sense of history and patriotism in Bro. Eddie.

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 birthday celebration.

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 C. Villanueva.

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.

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.

Their anniversary and birthday 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 Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide 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 Street, 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 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 heaviest downpour came at 4:30 p.m. just before Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III and presidential sisters Ballsy Aquino and Eldon Cruz, Pinky Aquino and Manolo Abellada and Viel Aquino and Dodo Dee, with presidential sister actress and host Kris Aquino and PBA player James Yap and their children: Jiggy and Jonty Aquino-Cruz, Miggy and Nina Aquino-Abellada, Kiko and Jia Aquino-Dee, Joshua and Bimby Aquino-Yap joined by 2010 Bro. Eddie Villanueva presidential campaign supporters Coney Reyes, Karla Martinez, Piolo Pascual, Dolphy Jr., Donita Rose, Nonoy Zuniga, Jeremias Jangad and Kuh Ledesma, “Fastbreak 2” basketball players Xian Lim, Jhong Hilario, Vhong Navarro, Billy Crawford, Gerald Anderson, Chris Tiu, Young JV, Ervic Vijandre, and Kevin Alas, NBA 3X3 players Derek Ramsay, Fabio Ide, Marco Alcaraz, Luis Alandy, Bobby Yan, Rovilson Fernandez, William DeVaughn, Robin DaRoza, Joross Gamboa and Ervic Vijandre; running guru Rio de la Cruz, Volcano Eric Tai, coaches Vince Hizon and Allan Gregorio and Perlas Pilipinas player Melissa Jacob, sportscasters Jinno Rufino of Solar Sports, Mark Zambrano of GMA, Anton Roxas and Marco Benitez of ABS-CBN Sports and Manila’s top male models, 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 Angelo 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 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.

It was not a political rally, but the President was not about to pass up the chance to address his accusers and to campaign for Charter change, the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement, the tension against China, the Development Acceleration Program (DAP) and Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam, P6.6 billion housing scam of Delfin Lee's Globe Asiatique (GA), P728 million fertilizer fund scam, the construction of major infrastructure projects, the crime rate in Metro Manila including robbery holdups before the same crowd that, he said, put him in power.

Still, for the most part, Mr. Aquino held his tongue during his seemingly conciliatory speech, which fell short of the stinging harangue newsmen were expecting.

“Let us not confuse our countrymen,” he said.

The crowd clearly loved the speech--applauding and cheering the President throughout its length. Organizers claimed an attendance of two million. Police placed the figure at 700,000, but based on actual land area measurements and crowd density, the INQUIRER estimated the crowd at 300,000.

Speaking mostly in Pilipino, Mr. Aquino concentrated on defending his motives for wanting to tinker with the country's basic law.

He said again that he only wanted to help the poor and had no interest in extending his term.

''We have no hidden agenda,'' he said, adding that a shift to a parliamentary system of government was not in the works either. ''My conscience is clear.''

Responding to nationalist sentiments against his proposals to relax Constitutional restrictions on foreign ownership, he said: ''I will never pawn the country's future with foreigners.''

He said the 1987 Constitution was an ''obstacle'' to progress. ''I did not become President to preserve a society where the poor become poorer and the rich become richer,'' he said.

''Why is this happening? One of the reasons is because we don't have enough money in our economy to address the needs.''

Raising one of the major issues of the Aquino rally, Mr. Aquino also said the government had no secret deals with the Marcoses.

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 Luis Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle, Manila Archbishop-Emeritus Gaudencio Cardinal B. Rosales, Nueva Segovia Archbishop Emeritus Ernesto Antolin Salgado, Nueva Segovia Archbishop Emeritus Edmundo M. Abaya, Nueva Segovia Archbishop Mario M. Perlata, Tuguegarao Archbishop Sergio L. Utleg, Tuguegarao Archbishop-Emeritus Diosdado A. Talamayan, Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop-Emeritus Oscar Cardinal V. Cruz, Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates B. Villegas, San Fernando Archbishop Emeritus Paciano Cardinal B. Aniceto, San Fernando Archbishop Florentino G. Lavarias, Lipa Archbishop Ramon C. Arguelles, Nueva Caceres Archbishop-Emeritus Leonardo Z. Legaspi, Nueva Caceres Archbishop Rolando O. Joven Tria Tirona, Capiz Archbishop Jose F. Advincula, Jaro Archbishop Angel N. Lagdameo, Cebu Archbishop-Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal J. Vidal, Cebu Archbishop Jose S. Palma, Palo Archbishop-Emeritus Pedro R. Dean, Jr., Palo Archbishop John F. Du, Davao Archbishop-Emeritus Fernando R. Capalla, Davao Archbishop Romulo G. Valles, Cotabato Archbishop Orlando Cardinal B. Quevedo, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop-Emeritus Jesus B. Tuquib, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma,  Ozamiz Archbishop Jesus A. Dosado and Zamboanga Archbishop Romulo T. Dela Cruz, 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 and Al Tengco, 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.

Pope Francis, the leader of the Worldwide Roman Catholic Church, delivered the homily. Vidal, like Tagle, is strongly against 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 road infrastructure projects, the crime rate in Metro Manila including robbery holdups, the high-profile killings, and the onslaught of typhoon Glenda.

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 Villanueva Family in the offertory procession.

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

Bishop Teodoro C. Bacani, the spiritual adviser of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International, Inc. and bishop-emeritus of Novaliches, spoke briefly to the crowd on how their charismatic movements and the Catholic hierarchy could differ on certain issues but remain united on basic Catholic tenets.

“We may not agree on our politics, but we are united in faith,” Bacani said in Pilipino in his message just before midnight.

He then quoted a Catholic saint who said: “If there is doubt, let there be differences.”

Bacani, who had earlier joined the Makati anti-Charter change and anti-pork barrel rally, told the crowd that Cardinal Tagle had asked him to relay his birthday greetings to Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva, who celebrated his birthday on October 6.

He asked the crowd to show their appreciation for the country's 27 cardinals--

Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle, Manila Archbishop-Emeritus Gaudencio Cardinal B. Rosales, Nueva Segovia Archbishop Emeritus Ernesto Antolin Salgado, Nueva Segovia Archbishop Emeritus Edmundo M. Abaya, Nueva Segovia Archbishop Mario M. Perlata, Tuguegarao Archbishop Sergio L. Utleg, Tuguegarao Archbishop-Emeritus Diosdado A. Talamayan, Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop-Emeritus Oscar Cardinal V. Cruz, Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates B. Villegas, San Fernando Archbishop Emeritus Paciano Cardinal B. Aniceto, San Fernando Archbishop Florentino G. Lavarias, Lipa Archbishop Ramon C. Arguelles, Nueva Caceres Archbishop-Emeritus Leonardo Z. Legaspi, Nueva Caceres Archbishop Rolando O. Joven Tria Tirona, Capiz Archbishop Jose F. Advincula, Jaro Archbishop Angel N. Lagdameo, Cebu Archbishop-Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal J. Vidal, Cebu Archbishop Jose S. Palma, Palo Archbishop-Emeritus Pedro R. Dean, Jr., Palo Archbishop John F. Du, Davao Archbishop-Emeritus Fernando R. Capalla, Davao Archbishop Romulo G. Valles, Cotabato Archbishop Orlando Cardinal B. Quevedo, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop-Emeritus Jesus B. Tuquib, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma,  Ozamiz Archbishop Jesus A. Dosado and Zamboanga Archbishop Romulo T. Dela Cruz.

''We love you Cardinal Tagle, we love you Cardinal Vidal, we love you Cardinal Palma, we love you Cardinal Rosales,'' Bacani and the El Shaddai members chorused.

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, P6.6 billion housing scam of Delfin Lee's Globe Asiatique (GA), P728 million fertilizer fund 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.

The gathering ended at 7:30 a.m., Monday, October 20.

El Shaddai DWXI PPFI founder and servant-leader Bro. Mike Z. Velarde, Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva and Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III were having dinner in the VIP Lounge at the Quirino Grandstand on Sunday, October 19 when the two charismatic leaders advised tolerance. El Shaddai founder and servant-leader Bro. Mike Z. Velarde and Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie C. 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 to Joaquin T. Villanueva and Maria Cruz-Villanueva, both now deceased. (The elder Villanueva was a former Olympic sprinter who represented the Philippines in the Far Eastern Games for four consecutive years in 1924).

Pastor Almeda, Pastor Quiboloy, Bro. Velarde, Bro. Villanueva, Bro. Bo Sanchez, Bro. Eli C. Soriano and Iglesia ni Cristo executive director 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.