Leadership Succession and Authority Legitimization in the Moncado Alpha and Omega, Cotabato, Philippines

Abstract

This article examines the Moncado Alpha and Omega, a religious sect based in Cotabato Province, Mindanao, Philippines, with a focus on leadership succession. Sociological discussions of Weber's legitimation of traditional authority framed this examination, particularly highlighting the earlier emphasis on the "leader" and "individual" and the emerging sociological focus on the "followers" and "society."  Thematic analysis reveals five themes that all focus on the leaders' religious, divine, and supernatural characteristics. However, a closer look at these characteristics reveals distinct leadership traits across different audiences. This finding veers away from the traditional notion of leadership and instead takes notice of the separate but binding interests of followers and leaders that hold together the faith community.