INC-led rally causes traffic chaos, draws netizen ire

MANILA, Philippines – Commuters along EDSA in Quezon City had to brave more than just the rainy weather on Tuesday morning, June 30. Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) community mounted an unannounced rally at the People Power Monument starting that morning, surprising commuters who were on their way to work or school. The June 30 rally, which happened amid the rainy weather, prompted the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to temporarily close White Plains Avenue in Quezon City as early as 5:15 am. The agency also advised motorists and commuters to expect traffic delays and take alternative routes. The rally, now on its second day, is in support of embattled Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who is under investigation and facing possible arrest for plunder related to his campaign donations. Marcoleta is also a member of the INC. Many netizens criticized the rally for causing heavy traffic along EDSA and disrupting their morning commute. Nuisance, ‘perwisyo’ The unannounced rally, which initially did not receive a permit from the local government, caused people to be stuck in traffic for longer than usual. Many called out INC organizers for failing to consider that the “surprise” rally would greatly inconvenience to the average worker. Some rallyists were even seen using a private bus to block the northbound EDSA Busway lane, further angering commuters online. Some schools issued announcements to excuse tardiness and absences because of heavy traffic. Worth the ‘surprise’? Netizens also questioned why the rally was allowed to continue despite the lack of a required permit from the Quezon City government at that time. Too organized to be true Although the rally was touted as a surprise, unplanned event, netizens cast doubts on the organic nature of the demonstration. While the main rally was held along EDSA near White Plains Avenue, some INC members also held a small protest in Manila, along Liwasang Bonifacio. Many of the protesters held placards with the message, “Don’t bend the law.” Many were quick to point out that the placards appeared to be mass-produced because of their similar design. The June 30 rally lasted well into the night, and was attended by senators Alan Peter Cayetano and Imee Marcos, Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste, former House representative Mike Defensor, and former press secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles. As of 9 pm Tuesday, police authorities estimated that rally saw more than 15,000 attendees. As the INC-led rally enters its second day, will commuters be expected to tolerate heavy traffic disruptions again? The mass action, with a permit this time, is currently ongoing, and Quezon City officials said its organizers have requested a rally permit until Friday, July 3. Were you affected by the traffic jam in EDSA? – Rappler.com