Binay seeks Iglesia support

Inquirer, Philippines/April 21, 2016

By Marc Jayson Cayabyab

Vice President Jejomar Binay has sought the support of the influential religious sect Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC).

Binay’s information officer Joey Salgado on Thursday confirmed the Eagle News story that Binay met with INC Executive Minister Eduardo Manalo on Thursday at the Central Office’s  “Bulwagan.”

The INC had earlier met with other presidential aspirants Mar Roxas and Sen. Grace Poe after they sought an audience with the INC to discuss their platforms.

“The vice president is humbled by the opportunity extended by INC Executive Minister Ka Eduardo Manalo to discuss his programs to lift the poor from poverty and build a compassionate, caring and competent government,” Salgado said.

In the Eagle News report on its website, Binay was quoted as saying that he visited the INC to seek its support for the coming elections.

The INC is known for its bloc voting. Its members vote for candidates endorsed by church leaders.

“Humingi po ako ng tulong. Dumudulog po ako rito na sana ay masuportahan ako ng kapatiran. (I came here to seek the support of the brethren),” Binay said.

Binay had defended the INC amid a rift within the founding members’ family and allegations of illegal detention of ministers who accused the church of corruption.