Marcos Jr. denies INC claim of selective justice

MANILA, Philippines —  President Marcos yesterday denied that there is “selective justice” under his administration as claimed by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC), even as he expressed confidence that the rallies being staged by the religious sect would not lead to chaos.

“That’s their opinion. I believe they’re wrong,” the President told reporters at the Villamor Air Base before leaving for a three-day official visit to Canada.

Marcos said the demonstrations by the INC the past two days to protest the possible arrest of INC member Sen. Rodante Marcoleta had been peaceful and stable.

“You know, anyone can hold a rally. And so they held a rally. And so, I am confident because in the entire history of the Iglesia, whenever they hold a rally, even if many of them join, they do not cause disorder,” the President said.

Marcos revealed that the government had received information about possible attempts by some people to infiltrate the rallies and try to provoke or agitate the protesters.

“That is our concern. The most important for us is no one should be hurt. So, let’s just keep everything stable and peaceful. And so far, it has been. So, I thank everybody involved for keeping it safe for everybody,” he added.

Philippines-Canada deals

The Philippines is expected to enter into several deals with Canada in key areas, including energy, trade and investment and labor and immigration, during President Marcos’ official visit to Vancouver.

Marcos and his delegation were scheduled to depart for Vancouver last night.

The President’s visit from July 1 to 4 aims to further strengthen relations between the two nations, Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said at a press briefing yesterday.

“Several formal frameworks of cooperation and various agreements are expected during the President’s visit, especially in the areas of energy, natural resources, trade and investment, labor and immigration, tourism, culture and the arts,” Castro said.. – Helen Flores