This week in Politics

On the evening of July 1, 2026, it was announced that the Iglesia Ni Cristo members would move their planned demonstrations to Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila after the Quezon City government revoked permits for protests along EDSA for a third consecutive day. This development reflects the ongoing tensions between the religious group’s right to protest and local government concerns over traffic disruptions and public safety in one of the Philippines’ busiest urban corridors. The decision to shift the rally site to Liwasang Bonifacio marks a strategic move by INC organizers to comply with government restrictions while maintaining their demonstration's momentum and visibility. Authorities have also requested increased police presence to support crowd management at the new location. This situation underscores the complex dynamics of civic protests, government regulation, and religious political activism in the Philippines. With the INC's substantial membership base and political clout, the handling and outcome of these protests will continue to influence discussions on public assembly rights, security policies, and urban governance.