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.
