MCGI Accused of Illegally Peddling Banned Products to Members Despite FDA Warnings

Sudden Version
20 hours ago
3 min read

Manila, Philippines — A growing controversy is brewing over the Members Church of God International (MCGI), as multiple unregistered products reportedly linked to the religious organization continue to be sold discreetly among its members despite formal advisories from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The products in question are Arlene’s Shampoo, BES Canned Sardines, and HW Hydrogenated Water have all been identified in separate FDA bulletins as unauthorized for public sale and consumption. Yet, according to insider reports and testimonies from former members, these goods remain circulated and marketed within MCGI communities, often at inflated prices and under spiritual endorsement.

Products Flagged by the FDA

The FDA issued the following advisories:

BES Canned Sardines (Tomato Sauce)

FDA Advisory No. 2024-1231

https://www.fda.gov.ph/fda-advisory-no-2024-1232-public-health-warning-against-the-purchase-and-consumption-of-the-unregistered-food-product-bes-canned-sardines-sardines-in-tomato-sauce-and-chili/

HW Hydrogenated Water (1000 ml)

FDA Advisory No. 2024-1255

https://www.fda.gov.ph/fda-advisory-no-2024-1255-public-health-warning-against-the-purchase-and-consumption-of-the-unregistered-food-product-hw-hydrogenated-water-1000-ml/

Arlene Shampoo (Aloe Vera, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil)

FDA Advisory No. 2023-0810

https://www.fda.gov.ph/fda-advisory-no-2023-0810-public-health-warning-against-the-purchase-and-use-of-unauthorized-cosmetic-arlene-shampoo-aloe-vera-coconut-oil-olive-oil/

Of particular note is Arlene Shampoo, named after Arlene Razon, wife of MCGI’s executive minister Daniel Razon. BES is named after MCGI founder Bro. Eli Soriano. HW (Hydrogenated Water) is bottled by Marcid Blue, named after Marcid ‘Cid’ Capulong, niece of Daniel Razon.

This branding connection has raised red flags over the alleged commercialization of spiritual authority and the potential use of religious influence for private gain.

Serious Health Risks Alleged

Experts warn that these unregulated products may expose consumers to a variety of health risks. Among the identified concerns are:

Carcinogens and forever chemicals.
BPA and phthalates leaching from packaging.
Botulism risks from improperly processed canned food.

“These are not harmless violations,” said one medical toxicologist and former MCGI Member who reviewed the advisories. “The presence of potential neurotoxins and carcinogens in these unvetted items is deeply concerning.”

Exits and Exploitation: A Deteriorating System?

Sources familiar with MCGI’s internal structure allege that the continued sale of these banned goods is a symptom of a broader economic and doctrinal crisis within the group. With a growing number of members reportedly leaving, remaining followers are said to be bearing the financial burden through double collections, targeted “toka” donations, and coerced product purchases and concert tickets.

“This is kapit sa patalim,” said one ex-member. “They’ve lost so many people that they now rely on overpriced internal products just to stay afloat.”

E-Commerce Clampdown Under New Law

The recent passage of the Internet Transactions Act is expected to deal a further blow to MCGI’s alleged underground commerce. The law requires:

Strict FDA registration for products sold online.
Takedown mandates for non-compliant listings on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok.
Logistics and courier bans for unregistered items.
Civil and criminal penalties for violators.

Legal analysts within MCGI Exiters community believe this will effectively block MCGI’s ability to sell the products online, cutting off a critical distribution channel.

Calls for Government Action

Consumer advocates and former members are now calling on the government to act. Groups are urging the Department of Health (DOH), FDA, DTI, DICT, and the Cybercrime Division of the NBI to launch a comprehensive investigation into the continued sale and distribution of the products in question.

“This is no longer just a matter of internal religious practice,” said one complainant. “This is commercial fraud, public endangerment, and systemic exploitation. Authorities must step in before more people get harmed.”

As of press time, MCGI leadership has not released a public statement addressing the allegations.

Contact the reporter:

u/Sudden_Version3218

mcgiexiters@gmail.com

For tips, documents, or confidential interviews.

DISCLAIMER: This page provides commentary on religious excesses and organizational misconduct. All posts are intended for critical and educational purposes.