World · Philippines Bureau
Marcoleta defends INC's silence on his detention
Detained Senator Rodante Marcoleta says the Iglesia Ni Cristo has no obligation to publicly comment on his imprisonment, cautioning against interpreting the church's silence as indifference or weakness.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Detained Senator Rodante Marcoleta sought to explain the Iglesia Ni Cristo's muted response to his incarceration on Tuesday, pushing back against suggestions that the religious organization's public silence signals a lack of concern for his situation.
Marcoleta emphasized that the INC's absence of public statements or reactions should not be misread as "indifference, weakness, or diminished resolve" toward his case. The senator noted that the church operates under no obligation to issue public commentary regarding his detention.
The remarks come as Marcoleta remains in custody amid various legal proceedings. His clarification appears aimed at reassuring members of the faith that the church's measured approach does not reflect a change in its position or commitment.
The Iglesia Ni Cristo, one of the Philippines' largest homegrown religious organizations, has historically maintained a reserved public posture on matters involving individual members, preferring to handle such issues through internal processes.
Marcoleta's explanation underscores the distinction between institutional silence and organizational commitment, suggesting that the church's approach aligns with its established practices rather than representing a departure from its principles.