Photo credit: SMNI

In response to DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos' claims regarding a supposed secret passage in the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) Cathedral, Minister Carlo Catiil has firmly denied the allegations, labelling them as "fake news."

Minister Catiil clarified the nature of the area in question. "The space being referred to is not a secret passage," he said. "It's simply a lounge area, connected to a wall, stairs, and a backstage area where our members can rest before heading to the stage for worship services."

Catiil further emphasized that the images being circulated are misleading, with unrelated pictures being used to suggest a luxurious secret passage. "They took a photo of our basement and edited it with another picture to make it look more extravagant," he explained. "It's not true at all."

Addressing the criticism of the KOJC's grand interiors, Catiil questioned why the church's efforts to create a beautiful space are being scrutinized. "Is it wrong for us to have a nice place? Are we not allowed to make it beautiful?" he asked. "Just because our place looks good, does that make us criminals? We're not government officials; we're a private organization."

He also made it clear that the KOJC's properties are not owned by any individual but by the entire membership of the church. "Not a single property is under Pastor's name; it's all under the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. That means every member owns it," Catiil asserted.

Catiil concluded by emphasizing that the church's wealth comes from the hard work and dedication of its members, not from any illegal activities. "Our efforts come from blood, sweat, and tears—this is the unity of the entire KOJC," he said.

This firm denial from Minister Catiil challenges the allegations and highlights the church's stance against what they believe to be misinformation.