The Significance of Iglesia ni Cristo in the Philippines and the Growth of Nontrinitarian Faiths in Southeast Asia

Introduction In the rich and complex religious landscape of Southeast Asia, one movement stands out as uniquely Filipino yet globally significant: Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) . Founded in 1914 by Félix Y. Manalo , INC not only redefined spiritual identity for millions of Filipinos but also challenged entrenched Christian norms by rejecting the doctrine of the Trinity—a hallmark of orthodox Christianity. Seen by many scholars as a modern expression of Arian theology , Iglesia ni Cristo exemplifies the rise of nontrinitarian “cultic” ideologies reshaping religious narratives in Southeast Asia today. Challenging Christian Orthodoxy: A Nontrinitarian Cult in a Trinitarian Nation In a nation where over 80% of the population identifies as Roman Catholic, INC’s aggressive rejection of traditional Christianity stands out. Members are taught that salvation exists only within INC membership, and non-members are regarded as outside God’s favor. This stark us-vs-them ideology is characteristi...