Marcos extends birthday greetings to INC leader Manalo on 71st birth anniversary

MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday marked the 71st birth anniversary of Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) Executive Minister Eduardo V. Manalo with a public greeting, underscoring the administration's ties with the influential religious group.

"Maligayang kaarawan po kay Kapatid na Eduardo V. Manalo, Tagapamahalang Pangkalahatan ng Iglesia ni Cristo," the President said in his message, using the Tagalog phrase to convey birthday wishes to the church leader.

The greeting reflected Marcos's acknowledgment of the INC's role in Philippine society and its stated commitment to fostering a peaceful and united nation. The Iglesia ni Cristo, one of the country's largest homegrown religious organizations with millions of adherents nationwide, has historically wielded considerable influence in electoral and civic matters.

Manalo has led the INC as Executive Minister since 2009, following the death of his father, Eraño Manalo, who founded the modern iteration of the church in the early 20th century. The organization operates schools, hospitals, and social welfare programs across the Philippines and maintains a significant international presence.