ILOILO City – The arrest of Apollo Quiboloy, the fugitive pastor facing multiple charges, has prompted calls from Kabataan party-list for the government to ensure he receives no special treatment.
Quiboloy, who faces charges for alleged sexual abuse and human trafficking, was captured inside the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) Compound in Davao City on Sunday, September 8, marking the end of a nearly two-week-long police manhunt.
Controversy erupted when a Facebook post by Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos, announcing Quiboloy’s capture, featured a smiling selfie of the fugitive but lacked detailed context or further information about the arrest. This post has drawn criticism for its tone and perceived leniency towards Quiboloy.
Kabataan’s Cong. Raoul Manuel of Iloilo City expressed concern over what he perceives as differential treatment of high-profile suspects.
“The authorities’ lenient treatment of figures like Alice Guo should not be extended to fugitives like Quiboloy,” said Manuel. He stressed the need for vigilant oversight to ensure that Quiboloy and those who aided his evasion face full accountability.
Quiboloy was apprehended at around 6 p.m. on Sunday.
For two weeks, hundreds of police officers had searched the expansive KOJC Compound, which reportedly contains underground bunkers, after surveillance equipment indicated Quiboloy’s presence.
The 74-year-old televangelist faces charges under Section 5(b) of Republic Act 7610, concerning the special protection of children against abuse, and a non-bailable qualified human trafficking charge under Section 4(a) of Republic Act 9208, as amended. Additionally, Quiboloy has been indicted in the US District Court for the Central District of California on several counts including conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking and bulk cash smuggling.
In a statement, Quiboloy previously mentioned his desire for a written assurance from the Philippine government that there would be “no American interference and no extraordinary rendition” if he were to surrender to face charges in the Philippines./PN
