The Iglesia ni Cristo’s (INC) massive “Rally for Peace,” aimed at opposing impeachment moves against Vice President Sara Duterte, is unlikely to stop the process, according to former Senator Leila de Lima. Speaking on ANC’s Headstart on Monday, de Lima described the rally’s impact as limited, calling it reflective of a “minority position.”
The rally, held at Quirino Grandstand in Manila, reportedly drew 1.4 million attendees by 2 p.m., with similar demonstrations in other cities. Organizers framed the protest as support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s position against pursuing Duterte’s impeachment.
De Lima cited a recent Social Weather Stations survey indicating that 41% of respondents supported the impeachment complaints, compared to 35% who opposed them. “The survey results clearly show most Filipinos prefer holding Duterte accountable,” she said.
While acknowledging the potential influence of INC’s political bloc votes on lawmakers, de Lima emphasized the need for Congress to expedite the process. She highlighted allegations of misuse of over P612 million in confidential and intelligence funds by Duterte’s offices in 2022 and 2023 as grounds for the complaints.
Three impeachment complaints have been filed in the House of Representatives, with discussions ongoing about consolidating them for more efficient proceedings. De Lima urged Congress to act swiftly, warning that delays and the 2025 elections could derail progress.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian noted the rally could pressure officials to reconsider their stance, but de Lima remained confident that sufficient House endorsements could push the complaints directly to a Senate trial. However, she underscored the importance of a fair Senate hearing free from political biases.
