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Eli Soriano

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Eliseo F. Soriano
File:Eli soriano philweb-nov-2005.jpg
BornApril 4, 1947
Pasay City, Philippines
Other namesBrother Eli, Ingkong
EducationElementary
ChurchMembers Church of God International
Ordained1969[citation needed]
WritingsLeaving Behind the Fundamental Doctrines of Christ (1999)
Offices held
Minister
TitlePresiding Minister

Eliseo Fernando Soriano (born April 4, 1947), an international fugitive and a controversial Filipino televangelist, is the presiding minister of the Philippines-based Members Church of God International. He is known as Bro. Eli in the Congregation he leads, and through his radio and television program Ang Dating Daan (The Old Path).

Soriano is known for criticizing various other religious groups for doctrines and practices he considers to be against his personal understanding of the Bible. Soriano and his followers believe him to be the Pantas (Wise man) according to Daniel 12:9-10 who would understand the Bible in the last days. This is exhibited in his program "Itanong mo kay Soriano (Ask Soriano)" where he claims to be able to answer any question using the Bible.

Biography

Soriano was born to Triunfo Soriano and Catalina Fernando in Pasay City and is the seventh of eight children. He grew up in Pampanga. He started school at the age of eight.[1]

Soriano dropped out of high school three months before graduation allegedly to pursue studying the Bible. On April 7, 1964, three days after his 17th birthday, the young Eliseo was baptised in Seneguelasan, Bacoor, Cavite, and became an official member of the Iglesia ng Dios kay Kristo Hesus, Haligi at Suhay ng Katotohanan (Church of God in Christ Jesus, Pillar and Support of the Truth in English) founded by excommunicated Iglesia ni Cristo minister Nicolas Perez where his parents were also members.[citation needed]

In 1969, Nicolas Perez, who was then the church’s presiding minister, bestowed upon Soriano the title minister making him the only minister in the Iglesia ng Dios kay Kristo Hesus, Haligi at Suhay ng Katotohanan at that time. Rumor then was circulating that Soriano would become the successor of Perez. After the death of Nicolas Perez however in 1975, Levita Gugulan was appointed as temporary Presiding General Secretary[2][unreliable source?] of the group. Soriano initially accepted the appointment of Gugulan but subsequently denounced her leadership stating that women should not be leaders of the church according to the Bible.[3] In 1976, Soriano and his allies were excommunicated by Gugulan. In 1977, Soriano registered a new group, called Iglesia ng Dios kay Kristo Hesus, Haligi at Saligan ng Katotohanan(Church of God in Christ Jesus, Pillar and Ground of Truth in English), which was later changed to Mga Kaanib sa Iglesia ng Dios kay Kristo Hesus, Haligi at Saligan ng Katotohanan sa Bansang Pilipinas, Inc. (Members Church of God in Christ Jesus, Pillar and Ground of Truth, Philippines, Inc. in English).[4]

Because of the similarity between the name used by Gugulan’s group and Soriano's group, the former filed a suit, which was resolved by the Supreme Court of the Philippines in 2001 in favor of Gugulan's group and Soriano's group was ordered to change their church's name.[5] Soriano's group complied and changed their church's name to Bayan ng Katotohanan (City of Truth Inc. in English) and later to Iglesia Ni YHWH at ni YHWSA HMSYH Inc.(Church of YHWH and YHWSA HMSYH Inc. in English). In 2004 Soriano's group changed their church's name for the fourth time to Members Church of God International.

Soriano started the Ang Dating Daan radio program in 1980, which became a television program in 1983.

Controversies

Media

  • In 2005, MTRCB banned Soriano's programs because of statements made by Soriano against the Iglesia ni Cristo, and the MTRCB. He was prohibited from uttering libellous and defamatory statements against INC. Soriano had used terms like iglesiang pumapatay ng kapwa tao (church who murders) and iglesia ni Manalo (church of Manalo) to malign the INC in his programs.[6]
  • As a result of Soriano's frequent attacks on the Iglesia ni Cristo, INC launched a TV program, Ang Tamang Daan, to counter Soriano's criticism of INC's teachings and practices and to expose what they say are Soriano's false teachings and contradictions on the show. To insult and malign Soriano, The INC hosts would often refer to him as manloloko (deceiver), dayukdok (ravenous), mandarambong (plunderer), mangongotong (extortioner), manghohostage (hostage taker) and the like. This has sparked a feud between Soriano and the Iglesia ni Cristo.[citation needed]
  • Soriano was once featured in the anomaly-exposition show "Imbestigador" (The Investigator) hosted by Mike Enriquez, Soriano was interviewed by Enriquez and was asked about the allegations made against him, on where does he get his personal funds, his businesses and how will the conflict between his group and the Iglesia ni Cristo group end. [7] A similar exposition was featured on ABS-CBN's Special Assignment hosted by Luchi Cruz-Valdez. Cruz-Valdez interviewed former members regarding the information presented in a series of anonymously-published comics depicting the alleged anomalous activities of Soriano. The former members unequivocally-confirmed the factuality of the information in the comics.[8]

Senate disqualification

Soriano was declared a nuisance candidate and disqualified by the En Banc Comelec (Commission On Elections) on January 17, 2004 when he stood for a position of senator.[9] Soriano was running as an independent candidate.[10][11]

Conflicts with other religions

  • In August 2003, the Iglesia ni Cristo sued Soriano for libel after Soriano accused them of publishing explicit comic books depicting Soriano having homosexual sex. In 2007, Soriano filed multiple petitions to stop the lawsuit to no avail[12].
  • In August 2004, the Department of Justice of the Philippines recommended the filing of libel cases against Eliseo Soriano and 15 of this associates for allegedly defaming the Iglesia ni Cristo and its ministers. [13]
  • In April 2005, Muslim leaders from Metro Manila filed a one billion peso libel suit against Eliseo Soriano before the Manila Prosecutor's Office for allegedly, in a video, uttering unsavory remarks and criticism against Islam and Muslims.[14]

Rape case

  • In the November 10, 2005 issue of Philippine Daily Inquirer internet edition, it was reported Eliseo Soriano was put on the Bureau of Immigration watchlist. The order was made by Justice Secretary Raul Gonzales on the request of the Pampanga Prosecutor's Office.[15]
  • In May 2006, Soriano was indicted on rape charges at the regional trial court of Macabebe, Pampanga, following a complaint filed by former MCGI assistant secretary general Daniel Veridiano that he was sexually assaulted in Apalit, Pampanga on two occasions. According to a report by the Philippine Daily Inquirer report in June 2008, Soriano allegedly abused his influence by directing Veridiano "to come into his room, massage him and have anal intercourse", an act that was against the consent of Veridiano.[16] In his counter affidavit, Soriano described Veridiano's accusations as "fabricated, baseless and malicious" and said that Veridiano was simply retaliating for being expelled from Members Church of God International.
Macabebe Regional Trial Court Judge Manuel Siyangco issued the warrant of arrest. Soriano was allowed to post a P400,000 bail bond (P200,000 for each count).[17] The charge was dismissed but was later refiled in a higher court by the country’s Department of Justice Secretary, Raul Gonzales.
  • On August 29, 2008, the Philippine Daily Inquirer reported that Soriano and two others were sued for violation of Art. 171, Revised Penal Code of the Philippines (falsification of public documents) at the Manila City Prosecutor's Office. It was discovered that the arresting officer, PO3 June Gumaru, and Soriano's secretary, Belen Talentado, conspired in faking the certificate of detention to permit his release by posting bail for his rape case. PO3 Gumaru admitted in a sworn affidavit that he had never seen the church group leader, that Soriano did not really surrender to him, and that he is, in fact, still a fugitive.[18]
  • By August 2008, a "Red Notice"[19] was issued against him by the International Police Commission (Interpol) [sic]. The "Red Notice" is not an international arrest warrant, rather these notices allow the arrest warrant issued by the requesting country to be circulated worldwide with the request that the wanted person be arrested with a view to extradition. Eliseo "Eli" Soriano is in hiding and is now an international fugitive. The Interpol list counties such as Brazil, Singapore, Thailand and the U.S. as likely to be visited by Soriano.[20][21]


Awards and Recognitions

[22]

* Certificate of Appreciation – March 30, 2005 In recognition of his contribution to the Bible cause as a lifetime member, regular donor and major distribution partner. Awarded by Philippine Bible Society

* Certificate of Appreciation – August 19, 1999 For his persistent and untiring effort in sharing God’s precious words to the inmates of Cabanatuan District Jail whereby building God’s kingdom on earth. Awarded by Bureau of Jail Management and Penology

* Distinguished Service Award – May 9, 1999 Outstanding Religious Leader Awarded by Child Assistance And Rehabilitation Entity

* Public Service – National Achievement Award - May 2, 1999 Outstanding Religious Crusader – Ang Dating Daan Awarded by Peoples Vision Magazine

* National Golden Award for Excellence - March 13, 1999 In recognition of your meritorious and dedicated performances towards human upliftment, dedication to duty, and for your untiring support to community activities impressed with the seal of excellence and a resounding manifestation of integrity and high sense of honor. Awarded by United Group of Charities and Human Development

* Golden Heart Public Service Award - February 20, 1999 In full recognition of your excellence marked by integrity, industry, principle and collective leadership which established prestige of your personality to the highest level of public service as demonstrated by your record thru your profession; a top leader of strength, courage and dignity of the era. Awarded by Development of Filipino Youth, Inc.

* Dr. Jose P. Rizal Immortal Award ’98 - December 30, 1998 Outstanding Servant of God; Gospel Minister of the Year Awarded by Philippine Experimental Educational Research Society, Inc.

* Gintong Sikap Award – December 20, 1998 Outstanding Man of the Year Awarded by Federation of Filipino Consumers, Inc.

* Golden Exceptional Achievement Award - December 19, 1998 (to the 12 outstanding model citizens of new republic) Outstanding Religious Leader of the Year Awarded by Asian Research for Unity of Filipino Citizenry, Inc.

* International Golden Award - December 5, 1998 In full recognition of your meritorious and outstanding services rendered to human upliftment benefiting your fellowmen; devotion to duties coupled with hard work and honesty impressed with the seal of excellence, high sense of honor and resounding manifestation of integrity Awarded by International Research and Communication Center, Inc.

* Andres Bonifacio Golden Records Of Excellence - November 30, 1998 Outstanding Evangelist; Gospel Minister of the Year Awarded by New Life on Family Development and Youth Council

* Centennial Exemplary Leadership Award - October 4, 1998 In full recognition of your laudable performances, dynamic leadership and collective achievement in your chosen profession anchored on mutual respect and assistance serving as a valuable model Filipino with the practice of honesty, industry and dignity thereby establishing level of public service. Awarded by Philippines Outreach Youth Self-Help Project, Inc. * Consumers Award - October 3, 1998 Outstanding Gospel Minister of the Year Awarded by Federation of Filipino Consumers

* Bayani ng Lahing Kayumanggi (Hero of the Brown Race) - September 20, 1998 Outstanding Preacher; Civic Leader of the Year Awarded by Fifth Edition People Magazine

* Media Excellence Awards for Progress ’98 - September 19, 1998 Outstanding Preacher; Religious Minister of the Year; Best in Religious Services Towards Philippines 2000 Awarded by Philippine Media Research and Progress Report, Inc.

* National Patriotic Leadership Award - August 30, 1998 Distinguished Filipino Achiever of the Year Awarded by Development of Filipino Writers

* National Golden Service Award - August 29, 1998 In full recognition of your meritorious and outstanding services rendered for human upliftment benefiting your fellowmen, devotion to duties coupled with hard work and honesty impressed with the seal of excellence, high sense of honor and a resounding manifestation of integrity Awarded by Fil-Asia Research Society, Inc.

* Media Achievement Award ’98 - August 15, 1998 Outstanding Religious Leader of the Year Awarded by Free Media Associations of the Philippines

* Distinguished Service Award - July 26, 1998 A devoted servant of God. In full recognition of his outstanding and meritorious services rendered to his fellowmen in the field of religion. Exemplary Socio-civic and Religious leader. Awarded by Sons and Daughters of Charity

* Special Award - June 21, 1998 For his untiring guidance and teaching to his Ministry by which he is being loved and respected: through his words and having had immeasurable love for everyone and a dedicated, servant of God. Awarded by Development of Filipino Youth, Inc.

* Gawad Dr. Jose P. Rizal - June 12, 1998 Dahil sa kanyang katangi-tanging pagtupad ng kanyang tungkulin bilang tagapangaral at lingkod ng Diyos. isa siyang huwarang panauhin ng ating lipunan. Awarded by Philippine Experimental Educational Research Society

* Kalayaan (Freedom) Award ’98 - June 12, 1998 Dahil sa kanyang makatotohanang pagpapalaganap at pagpapahayag ng mga salita ng Diyos na siyang naging kasangkapan upang maunawaan at lubos na makilala ang Panginoong Diyos, isa siyang tunay na sugo ng ating Panginoon. Awarded by National Biographic and Historical Research

* Golden Leadership-National Award - May 31, 1998 In full recognition of your exemplary leadership sealed with honesty industry and dignity which have established your personality among peer and to the highest of ministerial services. A model Filipino in this Centennial Administration. Awarded by Concerned Media, Inc.

* Golden Excellence Award - March 28, 1998 Outstanding Religious Leader of the Year Awarded by Philippine Brotherhood and Sisterhood Council

* 1998 Exemplary Service Award - February 28, 1998 Man of the Year Awarded by Sons and Daughters of Charity

* Certificate of Appreciation - March 19, 1994 For cooperation, support and material contribution which has helped enable the DSWD to implement and prosecute its various programs and services designed to alleviate and uplift the conditions and livelihood of the municipality’s depressed sectors and individuals. Awarded by Province of Pampanga Municipal Social Welfare and Development, Municipality of Apalit

* Plaque of Appreciation - December 23, 1984 Most Outstanding Gospel Minister of the Year Awarded by Genius Family (A program over GMA-7 radio/TV arts)

* Certificate Of Appreciation - December 25, 1983 Most Outstanding Gospel Minister of the Year Awarded by Genius Family (A program over GMA-7 radio/TV arts

References

  1. ^ http://www.angdatingdaan.org/about/about_ministers.htm
  2. ^ http://www.elisoriano.com/life/ministerial_life/death_of_a_beloved_mentor.html
  3. ^ Does a Woman have the Right to Preach in the Church of God?
  4. ^ Justyn. "Iglesia Ni YHWH at ni YHWSA HMSYH ('Ang Dating Daan')". thebereans.ne. Retrieved 2009-01-11.
  5. ^ G.R. No. 137592
  6. ^ INC against free press?
  7. ^ Imbestigador - Eliseo Soriano 1 (in Tagalog Language)
  8. ^ Special Assignnment - Eliseo Soriano 1 (in Tagalog Language)
  9. ^ Comelec Res. 6558
  10. ^ Navarro, Rico (02-14-2004). "Comelec to publish list of qualified candidates". The Manila Bulleting Online - Main News. Manila Bulletin. Retrieved 2008-12-23. {{cite news}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  11. ^ "The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language". Fourth Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company. 2000. pp. b. Retrieved 2008-12-23.
  12. ^ Canlas, Jomar CA junks evangelist’s plea to stop libel case The Manila Times CA junks evangelist’s plea to stop libel case
  13. ^ Tubeza, Philip C DOJ backs libel raps vs Bro. Eli Philippine Daily Inquirer(pub Aug 15, 2004, byline)
  14. ^ Jannaral, Julmunir I (April 4, 2005) P1bn libel charges against a religious leader [Gulf Times http://www.gulf-times.com/site/topics/article.asp?cu_no=2&item_no=32176&version=1&template_id=45&parent_id=25]
  15. ^ Torres, Tetch (November 10, 2005). [inquirer.net "Gonzalez orders: Put evangelist Soriano on watchlist"]. Philippine Daily Inquirer. Retrieved 2009-03-09. {{cite news}}: Check |url= value (help)
  16. ^ a b Lopez, Allison (2008-06-21). "Dating Daan's Ely Soriano posts bail". Philippine Daily Inquirer. The INQUIRER Company. Retrieved 2008-08-17.
  17. ^ manilastandardtoday.com, ‘Dating Daan’ leader charged with sodomy
  18. ^ newsinfo.inquirer.net, Ely Soriano charged with falsification of public document
  19. ^ Anon. "Wanted SORIANO Eliseo". Interpol. Retrieved 2009-02-23.
  20. ^ Dalizon, Alfred P (August 8, 2008). "Int'l arrest warrant out for Eli Soriano". World News. Journal Online. Retrieved 2009-02-02.
  21. ^ Eliseo Soriano's wanted notice at the official website of the Interpol Retrieved on 2009-03-01.
  22. ^ http://www.elisoriano.com/latest/awards_and_recognitions.html

Critical

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