The House of Representatives on Monday adopted a resolution congratulating Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) executive minister Eduardo Manalo and members of the congregation on their 108th founding anniversary last July 27.
The INC was deemed the largest Christian religious organization that originated from the Philippines, and the biggest independent church in Asia.
The House adopted Resolution 185 that cited the INC for expanding its mission through socio-civic programs and projects such as aid to humanity; community, livelihood and housing projects; and environmental protection and preservation.
“Through the leadership of its present Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, the Church continues to progress and succeed, and its membership has been constantly increasing,” the resolution stated.
The measure was filed by Speaker Martin Romualdez, Majority Leader and Zamboanga City Rep. Manuel Jose Dalipe, Minority Leader and 4Ps party-list Rep. Marcelino Libanan, senior Deputy Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos, Tingog party-list Reps. Yedda Marie Romualdez and Jude Acidre.
“For demonstrating responsiveness to the needs of the poor and marginalized, providing job opportunities and gainful employment to many, members and non-members alike, and instilling good values, it is but fitting to join the Iglesia ni Cristo in commemorating its 108th founding anniversary,” the resolution further stated.
The INC was founded by Felix Manalo, and was registered in the Philippines on July 27, 1914, according to the resolution.
From its first local congregation in Punta, Sta. Ana, Manila, the group spread not only throughout the different areas in the country, but also overseas.
“Concerned with the welfare not only of its members but also of the society as a whole, the Iglesia ni Cristo undertakes programs and projects in its various fields of endeavor, which are guided by and at the same time promote Christian values,” the resolution added.
On June 12, 2009, in recognition of its exemplary feat of leading its members towards spiritual enlightenment and good citizenry, Republic Act No. 9645, otherwise known as the “Commemoration of the Founding Anniversary of Iglesia ni Cristo Act” was enacted, declaring July 27 of every year as a special national working holiday.