Aquino unveils marker at INC's Philippine Arena

MANILA, Philippines — President Benigno Aquino III on Monday morning led the opening of the world’s largest indoor arena, the Philippine Arena of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC).

The Philippine Arena is located at the 75-hectare eco-tourism zone Ciudad de Victoria or City of Victory in Bocaue, Bulacan.

Aquino was accompanied by INC executive minister Eduardo Manalo in the unveiling of the marker in front of the arena, which signals the opening of Ciudad de Victoria.

Malacañang said the President will deliver a speech, after which he will be presented the first copy of the Philippine Arena Coffee Table Book.

Vice President Jejomar Binay, Cabinet secretaries, House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte accompanied Aquino during the event, which was also attended by other government officials and foreign dignitaries.

Around 50,000 INC members are expected to witness the ongoing event.

The Philippine Arena, with a seating capacity of 55,000, is among the several projects of the INC for its 100th founding anniversary on July 27.

Malacañang has declared July 27 as a special non-working holiday to commemorate the centennial celebration.

Also expected to be completed at the Ciudad de Victoria are the Philippine Stadium, New Era University, Eraño G. Manalo Medical Center and some soon-to-rise shops, hotels, and leisure parks.

According to the Palace, the INC is considered as the third largest religious denomination in the country with its members comprising 2.3 percent of the population as of 2000.

Known for its members' bloc-voting practice, the INC attracts politicians during election seasons. -Louis Bacani