Iglesia Ni Cristo Endorses Gov. Tamayo, Lumayag, Hernandez, Ogena, Bendita, PFP Slate in South Cotabato

The influential religious group Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) has officially endorsed the full slate of Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) candidates in South Cotabato, further strengthening the party's momentum as the May 12 elections approach.

According to reports, earlier today, May 3, the INC called in the candidates they are supporting to formally relay the “good news”—their unified endorsement for key PFP bets including:

• Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., seeking a fresh mandate

• Congressman Isidro Lumayag, 1st District

• Former Congressman Ferdinand “Dinand” Hernandez, running in the 2nd District

• Mayor Eliordo “Bebot” Ogena, Koronadal City

• Antonio Bendita, congressional candidate for the newly created 3rd District

In addition, nearly all PFP candidates for provincial board member (Sangguniang Panlalawigan), municipal mayors, vice mayors, and councilors across South Cotabato have also reportedly received the INC’s endorsement. 

Governor Tamayo, who also serves as the National President of PFP, welcomed the development with gratitude:

“We sincerely thank the Iglesia Ni Cristo for their trust and confidence. Their support inspires us to continue pushing for genuine service and good governance for all.”

With just 8 days before election day, political observers now anticipate a landslide victory for the PFP slate in South Cotabato. Recent comprehensive ground surveys have shown a commanding lead for Governor Tamayo, former Congressman Hernandez, Congressman Lumayag, Mayor Ogena, and Bendita over their respective opponents.

The INC endorsement is considered one of the most influential factors in Philippine electoral politics and is expected to galvanize voter support even further for the ruling local party.