Pangilinan sees TV5 breaking even in about 3 years

THE third-largest media network in the Philippines could break even in three years' time as its losses are gradually narrowing, TV5 Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan said.

"The losses are declining slowly and the numbers are getting better... [We expect to break even] not until maybe three years from now," Mr. Pangilinan said on the sidelines of a media briefing on Thursday in Makati City.

The Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT) group, through unit MediaQuest Corp, acquired ABC Development Corp., the operator of TV5, in 2009. Mediaquest bought TV5 from the Cojuangco group for P4 billion, and acquired MPB Primedia of Malaysia, the network's major block-timer, for $16 million. Around P12 billion was budgeted for capital expenditures and programming.

Early this month, Pilipinas Global Network Ltd. (PGN), a joint venture between PLDT and ABC Development Corp., signed an agreement with Malaysia's MEASAT Satellite Systems Sdn. Bhd. to broadcast TV5 content channels to over 120 countries across the Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Eastern Africa.

Under the terms of the agreement signed by the two companies on Monday, PGN Limited will use MEASAT-3 to distribute the Aksyon TV International and Kapatid TV5 channels to over 120 countries.

When asked in November how the network will break even, news reports quoted Mr. Pangilinan as saying "We have to shift away from consumer capitalism, commodity capitalism to intellectual capitalism. In that regard, innovation is key, and the ability to embrace change, take risks."

In 2004, PLDT-Beneficial Trust Fund attempted to buy 66.7% of GMA Network for P8.5 billion. Negotiations ended when the fund's unit, MediaQuest, cut its offer to P12 billion from P14.6 billion.

Interests related to PLDT own TV5, BusinessWorld, and the Philippine Star, as well as a minority stake in the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

PLDT reported muted second-quarter and first-half profit growth -- though on track to meet its full-year goal -- on the back of a modest revenue increase amid a faster rate of growth in expenses.

Net profit growth was little changed at 0.68% to P10.609 billion in the second quarter. For the half, net profit was P20.001 billion, up just 1.4%.

On Friday, PLDT's shares ended at P3,000 apiece, down P14 or 0.46% from Thursday. -- Chrisee Jalyssa V. Dela Paz

MPIC to abide by SC rule on LRT-MRT common station site

MANILA, Philippines, August 11, 2014 (STAR) - Infrastructure giant Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) vowed to comply with the decision of the Supreme Court with regards to the final location of the proposed P1.4 billion common station connecting the Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Metro Rail Transit (MRT) systems.

MPIC chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan said it has adopted a neutral position on the location of the common train station that is subject to a tug-of-war by two of its major business partners.

“We are partners with them. The SM Group is with us in the tollways business while Ayala is with us in LRT1 and the single ticketing system. So we are neutral,” Pangilinan said.

The Supreme Court has issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) preventing the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) as well as the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) from transferring the location of the train station to Trinoma Mall of property giant Ayala Land and SM City North EDSA of mall and banking giant Henry Sy.

Pangilinan said the company is open to both locations and would abide by the decision of the high tribunal as to the final site of the train station that would house the LRT1, MRT3, and MRT7 of diversified conglomerate San Miguel Corp. (SMC).

“We are agnostic whether where it is located. It is either in SM, Trinoma or somewhere in between. We are just interested in the train system. If the Supreme Court tells us move here then we will move there,” he said.
Business ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch: 1

The legal battle has put on hold the issuance of the Notice of Award to the MPIC-led Light Rail Manila Consortium that offered P9.35 billion to undertake the P65 billion LRT Line 1 Cavite extension project.

The TRO issued by the Supreme Court has tied the hands of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) from issuing the final green light for the public private partnership (PPP) project.

MPIC Light Rail Corp. leads the Light Rail Manila Consortium with 55 percent followed by AC Infrastructure Holdings Corp. of conglomerate Ayala Corp. with 35 percent, and Macquaire Infrastructure Holdings (Philippines) Pte Ltd. with 10 percent.

Pangilinan said the company would abide by the decision of the Supreme Court on the final location of the train station.

“The common station being in Trinoma is part of the terms of reference of the bid. I doubt whether unless that issue is resolved by the Supreme Court, the DOTC will award the project since it could be cited for contempt,” he added.

Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya has proposed the construction of a “mini” train station that would house LRT1, MRT3 and MRT7 in front of SM City North EDSA apart from the common station in front of Trinoma Mall that would serve LRT1 and MRT3 as a “win-win” solution to the legal battle.

MPIC ‘neutral’ on common LRT/MRT station site

Manila, Philippines, August 11, 2014 - METRO Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) said it is neutral when it comes to the issue of where to locate the common station for the Light Rail Transit Line 1, Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 3, and the future MRT 7.

“We are exploring legal options. As of now, there’s nothing definitive,” MPIC chairman Manuel Pangilinan told reporters on the sidelines of the strategic partnership between the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT) and Rocket Internet AG Rocket last week.

Earlier, the Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) stopping the government from implementing the transfer of the common station from its original location in front of The Annex at SM City North EDSA to Trinoma Mall, owned by MPIC partner the Ayala Corporation's subsidbary Ayala Land, Inc..

“We are agnostic on where it is located. It’s either SM or Trinoma or somewhere in between. We are just interested in the train system,” Pangilinan said.

He affirmed that they are open to both options. “We’re not in real estate so if they tell us to move there, then we will move.”

The Supreme Court’s TRO reinforces SM Prime Holding Inc.’s position in the case for Specific Performance of SM Prime and LRTA’s Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) dated September 29, 2009. The case is now pending before the Regional Trial Court of Pasay City.

SM Prime filed a lawsuit against government for changing the location of the common station to benefit a rival mall. It said it had an existing agreement with the government to build the common station for the three rail lines in front of SM North Edsa.

The government denied that it violated a 2009 agreement between SM Prime and the Department of Transportation and Communications, which oversees LRTA. It claimed that SM Prime’s naming rights over the project expired in 2011, even as it argued further that the new location would benefit more commuters.

The P1.4-billion Common Station is part of LRT’s North Extension Project that is expected to help alleviate the public transport shortage in Metro Manila.

LRT 1 currently runs from Baclaran in Pasay City to Roosevelt in Quezon City, LRT 2 runs from Santolan in Marikina City to Recto Avenue in Manila, while the MRT 3 runs from North Avenue in Quezon City to Taft Avenue in Pasay City.

The planned MRT 7 will begin at Tala, Caloocan City, passing through Lagro, Fairview, Novaliches, Batasan, Diliman, and Philcoa, before ending at the planned common station at Edsa and North Avenue. The railway will serve an estimated two million commuters in the northern parts of Quezon City and Caloocan City.

Meanwhile, the LRTA board last month approved the award of the P64.9 billion LRT Line 1 Cavite Extension (CavEX) project to the Ayala-Metro Pacific joint venture, said Hernando Carbrera, corporate secretary of LRTA.

The lone bidder for the CavEX project had offered to pay the government a concession premium of P9.35 billion for the right to build, operate, and manage the new rail line.

The Light Rail Manila Consortium is made up of Metro Pacific’s Light Rail Corp. with a 55-percent share; Ayala Corp.’s AC Infrastructure Holdings, with 35 percent; and Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings Pte. Ltd., with 10 percent.

Already approved by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), the LRT 1 Cavite Extension project is the biggest infrastructure project under the government’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) program.

The Cavite or South Extension Project will extend the existing LRT Line 1, which covers 21 stations from Roosevelt Avenue in Quezon City to Baclaran in Pasay City. The Cavex will extend the service line by 11.7 kilometers, covering 10 more stations that will pass through the cities of Parañaque and Las Piñas up to Bacoor, Cavite.

“We are partners with them [the Ayala and SM Group]. The SM Group is with us in the tollways and the Ayalas are in the LRT 1 and single ticketing system so we are neutral,” Pangilinan said.

Family Appointment with El Shaddai - 36th Anniversary Celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide (October 19 to 20, 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, Roman rite holy mass 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 (610,000 square meter) 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 and for the birthday celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, president and spiritual director Bro. Eddie Villanueva.

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 television 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 Manila 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 Bridge, Jones Bridge, Quezon Bridge and Ayala Bridge.

A thanksgiving prayer was offered by Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, president and spiritual director Bro. Eddie Villanueva for his annual birthday celebration and for the annual anniversary celebration of the Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide.

El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International, Inc. founder and servant-leader Bro. Mike Z. Velarde 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.
Velarde said that at 3 p.m. on August 23 and October 19, thousands of ''miracle mission balloons of faith, love and unity'' would be released with four prayer requests and petitions written on them.
The four prayer requests are:

• ''For El Shaddai to continue touching people's lives, healing the sick, and repairing broken relationships.
• "For President Aquino to succeed in bridging the gap between the rich and the poor through food security and peace and order initiatives.
• "For the Marcos wealth issue to be resolved by the people in a referendum so the stigma and bitterness caused by this unresolved issue may be healed and bring about unity and love among our people.
• ''For media to be a constructive partner in nation building by their truthful, honest and fair reporting of events, such as:
• sporting events
• awards shows
• fashion shows
• successful of television and movie projects.

Asked later if the last request means that, like the President, he thinks some in media are irresponsible in their reporting, Velarde replied: ''I am not saying that. I'm just praying that media would continue being a constructive partner in nation building."

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.

Personalities in the "Fastbreak 2" event, November 2013.

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 Bro. Eddie Villanueva presidential campaign supporters Coney Reyes, Karla Martinez, Piolo Pascual, Dolphy Jr., Donita Rose, Nonoy Zuniga, Prof. Jeremias Jangad and Kuh Ledesma, “Fastbreak 2” basketball players including celebrities Derek Ramsey, Luis Alandy, Xian Lim, Jhong Hilario, Vhong Navarro, Billy Crawford, Gerald Anderson, Chris Tiu, Young JV, Ervic Vijandre, Gilas cadet player Matthew Ganuelas, 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: The 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, 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, 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,  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, 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 at the back of Quirino Grandstand.

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 Bishop 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, Bangsamoro Framework Agreement, Priority Development Assistance Fund Scam, the 100 million population mark before the same crowd that, he said, put him in power on June 30, 2010.

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 S-70A-5 along with President Benigno S. Aquino III, Vice-President Jejomar C. Binay, Sr., Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr., Senate President Franklin Drilon, MMDA Chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino, former president Fidel V. Ramos, Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada, Manila Archbishop-Emeritus Gaudencio Cardinal B. Rosales, Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle, Lipa Archbishop Ramon 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 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, Singapore Archbishop  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, 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, Weetebul, 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, 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, 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, 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 the impeachment complaint was filed against President Aquino, the Charter change, the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement, the tension against China over the Scarborough Shoal, the Development Acceleration Program (DAP) and Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam of businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles, the rehabilitation after the Zamboanga siege to the onslaught Yolanda caused in Visayas, the P316-million Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office funds 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, the high-profile killings, and the onslaught of typhoon Glenda and the 100 million population mark.

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, president 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 Asia's 28 archbishops--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 12:00:00 A.M., 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 founder and servant-leader Bro. Mike Z. Velarde.

El Shaddai founder and servant-leader Bro. Mike Z. 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 of whistle-blower Janet Lim-Napoles, 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, the passage of the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill, the alleged suppression of the press, the resurgence of the Marcos family, the carjacking cases and high-profile killings and incidents, in Metro Manila, the massacre in Atimonan, Quezon; his order to stop support to the Officers’ Ladies Club; the plunder charges filed against Philippine National Police Director General Alan L.M. Purisima before the Office of the Ombudsman in connection with the alleged anomalous deal the PNP entered into with a courier service; disappointment among legitimate firearms holders over the stricter issuance of permit to carry firearms outside residence and license to own and possess firearms; the P316-million funds from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, extend the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) by five years, the transfer of assignment of Task Force Tugis chief Senior Superintendent Conrado Capa after the arrest of Globe Asiatique president Delfin Lee; and the spate of killings nationwide, the Bohol Earthquake rehabilitation, the Yolanda rehabilitation 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 Prayer Partners Foundation International, Inc. 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.

7,000 cops to secure Makati, Manila rallies (By TJ Burgonio and Cynthia Balana)

TRAFFIC will be rerouted. But to ensure that there will be no untoward incident, a total of 7,000 policemen will be deployed in Manila and Makati to secure the rallyists.
In Makati City, Chief Supt. Edgardo Aglipay, Metro Manila police chief, said that at 6 a.m. today, the Ayala Avenue, from Herrera Street to Manila Peninsula on Makati Avenue will be closed to all vehicular traffic. Paseo de Roxas, from de la Rosa Street in front of Enterprise Center, Banco Filipino, BPI Family will likewise be closed.
At 10 a.m. the entire stretch of Ayala to Rustans Buendia will be closed to all vehicular traffic.
The traffic re-routing plan will give way to participants to the pro-democracy rally. The participants will converge at the Ayala-Paseo de Roxas intersection for the main program which will start at 1 p.m.
Alternative routes will be designated by the Makati Parking Authority, Traffic Management Group-PNP, MAPSA, and the Ayala Security Force.
No parking for all vehicles along Ayala Avenue.
Rally organizers have been advised to police their own ranks.
No operation dikit or Operation pinta will be allowed within the Central Business District or the places where the buses are parked.
Another group policemen will be deployed to the Rizal Park to secure the expected mammoth crowd who will attend the annual anniversary celebration of the Catholic charismatic group El Shaddai in August and Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide on October 25 to 27 in time for the visit of Pope Francis.
Chief Supt. Efren Fernandez, Manila police chief, said that some 1,000 policemen will come from the Western Police District while the rest were augmentation force from the National Capital Regional Police Office.
He added that an additional police force would be deployed in the area in case the crowd swells to 5 million. He also raised the red alert from 6 a.m. yesterday up to 6 a.m. tomorrow, Saturday and again, 6 a.m. Saturday, October 25 up to 6 a.m., October 27, Monday.
''We're putting up our own security precautions because the crowd expected will be a bit big now compared to the other El Shaddai gatherings,'' Fernandez said in another briefing.
Some 3 million people, consisting mostly of El Shaddai followers, are expected to attend the gathering.
President Benigno Aquino III and other government officials are expected to show up at the celebration because El Shaddai leader Mike Velarde is also celebrating his birthday on August 20 while Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva is also celebrating his birthday on October 6. Mr. Aquino is expected to address the rally at 5 p.m.
Fernandez downplayed reports that certain groups would bomb the gathering, saying this was a raw information that needed to be validated.
''At any rate we always adopt the principle of considering the worst-case scenario. We have incorporated that in our plan and we are prepared,'' he said.
Fernandez pointed out that their main concern was traffic. ''Some people will be coming from Manila and going to Makati and vice versa,'' he said.
He however said that he was not implementing any re-routing in Manila, unless necessary.
''Initially, we feel that there's no need for re-routing. Our traffic plan is very flexible. Just in case there's a need for a re-routing, we have contingency plans for these,'' he said.
Fernandez said the Rizal Park can accommodate 2 million people.
In Manila, both North and South bound lanes of Roxas Boulevard will be kept open to traffic despite the projected crowd of 2 to 3 million expected to attend the El Shaddai rally.
The T.M. .Kalaw, P. Burgos, Calle Muralla, Bonifacio Drive, and the inner streets of the Port area were the designated parking zones.

RAINBOW MARCH: 'Color-coding' in Friday rally (By Michael Lim Ubac and Dave Veridiano)

PARTICIPANTS of the pro-democracy rally set on Saturday August 23 and Sunday, October 19 in Makati City will carry the colors of the rainbow in keeping with the multisectoral nature of the mass action. At a press forum yesterday in Makati, organizers said a ''color-coding'' scheme was needed for easy identification and as a symbol of the diversity of the Filipinos' beliefs and aspirations that would be unified at the rally.
Under the scheme, the rally colors are:

• Green for farmers and environmental groups.
• Red for progressive and militant groups.
• White for nuns, priests and the laity.
• Yellow for the ''Corystas.''

The rally, intended to denounce government moves to amend the Constitution, Marcos-style cronyism and threats to press freedom, will be led by pork barrel groups.
Participants will converge at Ayala Avenue corner Paseo de Roxas from two points--the fire station along Ayala and the Don Bosco Church on Pasay Road. Chito Gascon and Msgr. Melchor David will serve as grand marshals for the fire station contingent, and Fr. Robert Reyes, for the Don Bosco contingent.
Earlier, however, Aquino stressed that rally participants could wear any color that pleased them or best described their ideas or aspirations in upholding the gains of the 1986 Edsa uprising.
''It's really unity in diversity,'' said Boy Rellosa, a member of the executive committee of the Samahan ng Gitnang Puwersa (Sagip).
In contrast, members of the El Shaddai, who are set to stage an apparent countergathering on the same day at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila, are expected to wear their customary white on August 23 to 24 and October 19 to 20, 2014.
The El Shaddai gathering is supposed to mark the birthday of its founder, Bro. Mike Velarde on August 20, as well as its 15th anniversary while Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide.
Velarde, spiritual adviser of President Estrada, has announced his support for Charter change.

Security Civilian groups pledged to help police maintain peace and order both at the pro-democracy rally and the El Shaddai gathering.
The pledge of support was conveyed yesterday to Chief Supt. Edgar Aglipay, chief of the National Capital Region Police Office, by leaders of the civilian groups.
Aglipay said about 7,000 policemen from various districts would be deployed at the two events.
Metropolitan police will be on red alert starting today.
The National Police Commission (Napolcom) has directed Deputy Director Edmundo L. Larroza of the Philippine National Police to finalize security details.
In a letter to Larroza yesterday, Leo S. Magahum, Napolcom vice chair and executive officer, said the PNP should ensure a ''balanced enforcement of the law with maximum tolerance and respect for human rights.''
Magahum said exercising fair security measures at the two events would foster unity and prove the Estrada administration's adherence to democracy.
Dodie Limcauco, co-organizer of the pro-democracy rally, said some 2,000 priests, nuns, seminarians and members of nongovernment organizations would serve as marshals.
Initially, some 1,000 NGO members had volunteered to serve as guards at the rally.
Limcauco said at a breakfast forum at Ciudad Fernandina in San Juan that the ''tight guarding'' of their ranks would be implemented in response to unconfirmed reports that communists planned to bomb the rally site.
The Netherlands-based Jose Ma. Sison, chief political consultant of the communist-led National Democratic Front, had earlier denied such plans.
''By spreading in advance the intrigue that 'communists' are out to make trouble, Mr. Estrada is revealing his own malicious intent to play the same old dirty tricks that his mentor Marcos used to play in order to discourage and disrupt mass protest actions and justify repression,'' Sison said in a statement.
Limcauco said his group had engaged in a dialogue with a group of communist rebels who also pledged to join the rally.
''(The rebels) have assured us that they will not disrupt peace and order during the rally,'' he said without elaborating.

'Acrobatics' At the same forum, Msgr. Nico Bautista accused El Shaddai of resorting to ''mental and verbal acrobatics'' in defending its gathering.
Bautista said the timing of the gathering was ''very unusual because El Shaddai usually meets during the weekend.''
He also chided Bishop Teodoro Bacani, El Shaddai's spiritual adviser, for not keeping the group in line with the Church's position against Charter change.
''I don't know why Bishop Bacani is acting like a lawyer for El Shaddai,'' he said.
Bautista said every Catholic ''should be one in mind and heart with the Church,'' especially on the issue of Charter change.
''The (pro-democracy) rally is about moral issues, particularly the return to power of the Marcoses and their cronies,'' he said.

For El Shaddai Former first lady Imelda Marcos yesterday told reporters that she may attend the El Shaddai gathering if she's invited.
''Why not? It's just a birthday party. But I'd prefer to meet him in private to greet him,'' she said.
Imelda was guest speaker at the Manila Hotel launching of two books by the Katotohanan at Katarungan Foundation Inc. (KKFI), a group of military and government officials who served during the regime of her late husband, the dictator Ferdinand Marcos.
She expressed support for the administration's move to amend the 1987 Constitution, saying it was a ''bogus'' Charter created by a body composed of members hand-picked by Aquino.
She also chided Sin and Aquino: ''It's sad that these people who should be promoting unity are instead dividing the country.''
But she quickly added that Filipinos were free to attend the rally or the El Shaddai gathering ''since this is a democratic country.''
In a press statement, the KKFI called the Makati rally an ''elitist exercise, a lot of noise,'' and defended Mr. Estrada's stand on Charter change.
''Amendments are for the people to decide on in a plebiscite, and not for a few to pre-empt by sowing speculative intrigues,'' the group said.
On the ad boycott on the INQUIRER, the KKFI said: ''Kung walang sinasanto ang isang pahayagan, huwag itong umasa ng pagtangkilik (If a newspaper defies everybody, it shouldn't hope for support).''

'Free' Members of the House of Representatives are free to decide whether to attend the pro-democracy rally, Speaker Manuel Villar said.
But he was quick to qualify that this was ''only for the House.''
''I can't say about (those who belong to the ruling Laban ng Masang Pilipino) party. That's a different matter,'' he said at a press conference yesterday.
Villar said he respected each of his colleagues' decision and pointed out that it was ''healthy for an institution of democracy like the House to be debating on the issue of Charter change.''
He said his office would not move to keep LAMP congressmen from joining the rally.
Quezon Rep. Rafael Nantes said that while he was opposed to amending the 1987 Constitution, he would not attend the rally ''to respect the party position on the matter.''
Nantes said he was convinced that ''intraparty discussions on Cha-cha have not been exhausted.''

Goma vs Spice Boy On radio, movie idol Richard Gomez, who is also presidential adviser on youth and sports, yesterday engaged one of the so-called ''Spice Boys'' of Congress in a battle over young people's hearts and minds.
Gomez raised doubts as to whether organizers of the pro-democracy rally had enlightened students and youth groups on the issues being raised by critics of the Estrada administration.
He dared the other guests--among them Rep. Robert Ace Barbers (Lakas, Surigao del Norte)--to take full responsibility should violence erupt at the rally and victimize student participants.
''What are you really fighting for? Are you sure that the students and the youth joining the rally understand the issues you are fighting for?'' Gomez said in Filipino during the noontime program ''Paksa'' hosted by Tina Monzon Palma over dzMM.
Also in the panel were rally marshals Father Reyes, also known as the ''running priest,'' and lawyer Gil de los Reyes.
Gomez, who joined the discussion by phone, also warned that the rally could have negative effects on the business climate.
Barbers countered by telling Gomez that ''we've done our homework'' as far as educating the youth sector was concerned, through campus forums and mobilization.
He also said it was the Palace who should be blamed regarding the adverse effects on the economy as ''it's the government who's reviving this divisive issue (of Charter change) in the first place.''
As to the possible eruption of violence, Barbers said he didn't find such ''rumors'' credible ''since these came from the military.''
Reyes assured Gomez that the rally participants could police their own ranks, and that it was very remote that they would instigate violence themselves as they would be led by nuns and priests.

Support Caloocan councilors yesterday pledged support for the pro-democracy rally despite Mayor Reynaldo Malonzo's continued refusal to make a stand on the matter.
Councilor Edgar Erice, majority floor leader of the city council and a close ally of Malonzo, said his participation at the rally was a matter of ''individual conscience.''
''This is not a question of party affiliation now. I will support the rally because I believe in what it stands for,'' he said.
Erice is organizing a motorcade that will run from the Caloocan High School to Ayala Avenue. City residents may join the contingent at around 11:45 a.m. on Friday.
Earlier, Vice Mayor Oscar Malapitan and at least three other councilors said they would join the rally.
Councilors Manuel Rayos and Chito Abel, active Church leaders in their respective areas, are mobilizing religious groups for the motorcade.
LAMP councilors in the city have denied reports that they were intending to join the rally. They said they were open to Charter change.
In Calapan City, at least 7,000 students, Mangyans, urban poor and Catholic faithful are expected to join the ''march cum prayer rally'' to be led tomorrow by Bishop Warlito I. Cajandig, apostolic vicar of Calapan.
''The protest action is in response to the call of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines to show our opposition to Charter change, threats to press freedom and the return of cronyism,'' said Fr. Jimson H. Ruga, an aide of Cajandig and director of the Service Commission of the vicariate.
Ruga said the protest action would be synchronized with the pro-democracy rally in Makati.

Similar demonstrations will be held simultaneously in 50 other cities nationwide. With reports from Jerome Aning, Volt Contreras, Rocky Nazareno, Philip Tubeza, and Blanche S. Rivera in Manila; and Joel J. Jabal, PDI Southern Luzon Bureau

PRO-DEMOCRACY RALLY 'It's like Edsa 1986'

''THIS is 1986 all over again. The only difference is we're now trying to nip a dictatorship in the bud,'' a congressman yesterday said, echoing the sentiments of the participants in the pro-democracy rally today led by the Pork Barrel groups.
A senator said the issues being raised by the pro-democracy rally were about ''freedom.''
''The Constitution protected our freedom. Now that the people who are supposed to preserve and defend it are not doing so, the people must protect it,'' Sen. Raul Roco said.
Rep. Rolando Andaya Jr. (Camarines Sur) said the two rallies are a throwback to the last days of the Marcos regime as he urged the people ''to fight against the enemies of democracy.''
Andaya said People Power was in Edsa while those who wanted to keep the Marcoses in power were in Malacañang.
The rally on Ayala Avenue in Makati City is protesting Charter change, the return of Marcos cronies and the threats to press freedom.
''Today, we again converge, not in Edsa but Makati, this time to make known our opposition to the agenda of Malacañang,'' Rep. Robert Ace Barbers (Surigao del Norte) said.

Foreplay Roco compared the public outrage over Charter change to sex.
''Once you start, once you have already engaged in foreplay, it will be difficult to stop,'' he said in Filipino.
''You must have a catharsis, and the rally (this afternoon) will lead to (that) catharsis. I hope (once this is over), it will pacify the people. (If the rally doesn't take place), emotions will continue to boil. It's important for the people to express their (fear) that freedom is threatened,'' he added.
Roco reminded the President that his own plan to amend the Charter was the cause of the rally.
He said Mr. Estrada better call off the administration's plan to amend the Constitution if he wanted to stop the rally, which the President claimed was threatening investor confidence in the country.
''The only way to prevent the rally at this point (is) if President Aquino announces: 'No more efforts to amend the Constitution until 2017,''' said Roco.
He said the President could ask voters in a plebiscite that will coincide with the 2016 elections if they wanted Charter change.
Roco said Sin and Aquino, in turn, could advise their followers not to proceed to Makati anymore.
''It will be easier if we tell everybody 'Let's not get wet (because) pneumonia is difficult to cure,''' he said. The weather bureau has predicted rains because of storm ''Luding.''
But Roco said it would be hard to call off the rally at this point because Mr. Aquino's insistence on Charter change had already ignited the people's outrage.
The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) yesterday said it was ''too late'' to call off today's rally.
''To call off the Aug. 20 and Oct. 19 rallies is too late as of now. The whole exercise is already definite and defined,'' CBCP president Archbishop Oscar Cruz said.
He said the CBCP had said that Charter change at this time was untimely and would divide the people. ''It is sad that those words fell on deaf ears.''
The archbishop said Mr. Aquino might as well junk his 'Walang tutulong sa Pilipino kundi ang kapwa Pilipino'' slogan and replace it with ''Walang tutulong sa Pilipino kundi ang estranjero.''
Cruz said the President's proposal to allow foreigners to own land in the country would undermine the Constitution's pro-Filipino character.
He said government should stop blaming the Constitution for the nation's poverty. Rather, it should address the issues of insurgency, graft and partisan politics.
Former Sen. Alberto Romulo said there was no need to amend the Charter at this time. ''Why then is the President stubbornly pursuing charter changes?'' he asked.

Trojan horse ''Is the avowed purpose truly for foreign investment to help the economy? Or the poor? Or are the so-called economic proposals actually a Trojan horse for the administration's true and real agenda?''
Quoting constitutionalist Joaquin Bernas, Romulo said: ''The suspicion of many is that the agitation about economic change is really a camouflage for political change.
''Regrettably, this political change is aimed at no less than recreating, Marcos style, an all-powerful, unaccountable and perpetuating chief executive.''
Oscar Atadero of Progay-Philippines said the economic reforms that Mr. Estrada was seeking through Charter change would just worsen the situation of gays in the country.
He said the plan to further liberalize the economy would put many gays out of work as some 90 percent of them are working in small businesses.
''Gays will be forced to sell drugs and become prostitutes if this succeeds,'' he said.

Rain or shine It's all systems go for the pro-democracy rally, which is expected to draw between 40,000 and 50,000 people.
Rally organizer Gil de los Reyes said the rally would proceed rain or shine.
Dodi Limcauco said organizers were deploying 2,000 marshals consisting of members of the clergy and nongovernmental groups.
''There will also be a sub-marshal for each marching group so that they can police their own ranks,'' Limcauco said.
Policemen who will be assigned to the rally site will not carry guns.
Organizers urged those protesters to stick a piece of paper on their cars showing ''August 20 Rally Ayala'' or ''Manindigan para sa Demokrasya Rally, Ayala.''
Msgr. Nico Bautista said the rally was something that must be done now. ''Otherwise, we are just prolonging the agony.''
Running priest Robert Reyes dismissed allegations that the rally was intended to destabilize the government. ''This is not a destabilization move. In our hearts, there's only one word--peace,'' he said.
He said the Church should not be afraid of El Shaddai's numbers.
''A genuine faith is not afraid to be unpopular and what is unpopular is not oftentimes moral or correct,'' Reyes said.

132 amendments Rep. Juan Miguel Zubiri yesterday disclosed that some congressmen were planning to introduce at least 132 amendments to the Constitution, including changing the form of government and lifting the term limits on elected officials. He did not specify the other amendments.
At a forum at the Holiday Inn, he called on local officials to join today's pro-democracy rally despite the administration's pressure.
He said some local officials were being pressured to ''toe the line'' of Mr. Estrada.
''We were also being squeezed but we refused to change our mind on the issue,'' he said, noting that ''friends'' of Mr. Estrada had approached him to ''ease up'' on his hardline stance on Charter change.
As of yesterday, at least 26 members of the House of Representatives, including some from the ruling LAMP party, had confirmed that they would attend today's rally.
They include Andaya, Barbers, Zubiri, Abigail Binay (Makati), Victor Yap (Tarlac), Heherson Alvarez (Isabela), Hernani Braganza (Pangasinan), Federico Sandoval II (Malabon-Navotas), Matias Defensor (Quezon City), Oscar Moreno (Misamis Oriental), Feliciano Belmonte (Quezon City), Sergio Apostol (Leyte), Pantaleon Alvarez (Davao del Norte), J. Mayo Almario (Davao Oriental), Enrico Echiverri (Caloocan) and Ignacio Bunye (Muntinlupa).
The 14 party-list representatives will also join the rally.
LAMP Rep. Raoul Del Mar is attending the rally in Cebu.
In the Senate, those joining the rally are Roco, Minority Leader Teofisto Guingona, Sergio Osmeña III and Aquilino Pimentel.
Jose Concepcion Jr., a former delegate to the 1971 Constitutional Convention, is also joining the rally in Makati.
Concepcion described the rally as a ''call for the Filipino people to reaffirm our commitment to democracy, which we have won back gloriously during the Edsa Revolution.''

Education Secretary Andrew Gonzales left the decision to cancel classes in private and public schools to the ''full discretion'' of principals whose schools are located near the rally sites. With a report from Stella O. Gonzales