MANILA – The camp of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy on Friday responded to the Senate’s show cause order for his refusal to attend inquiries regarding the child abuse and human trafficking accusations against him.
Atty. Melanio Elvis Balayan, the legal counsel of Quiboloy, presented three legal justifications on why the controversial televangelist should not be ordered arrested by the Senate.
According to Balayan, the ongoing Senate investigation compelling the appearance of Quiboloy to testify over his alleged commission of grave crimes is not in aid of legislation.
“The Senate investigation is tantamount to usurpation of judicial functions beyond the powers of Senate,” Balayan said on his 19-page response.
The lawyer also said Senate Resolution 884 filed by Sen. Risa Hontiveros which sought an investigation on large-scale human trafficking, rape, sexual abuse and violence, and child abuse of Quiboloy, is “brazenly incriminatory.”
“(The resolution has) categorically declared the guilt of Pastor Quiboloy for crimes being attributed to him, totally disregarding the constitutional presumption of innocence until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt,” Balayan said.
Balayan also said Quiboloy’s refusal to attend the inquiry of Hontiveros’ committee on women, children, family relations, and gender equality is not tantamount to him disrespecting to the Senate.
“It is not a sign of disrespect to honorable Senate nor a disregard of its powers and functions but is purely based on the fact that the criminal accusations against him can only be legitimately settled before the competent courts,” Balayan said.
The Senate has issued a show cause order against Quiboloy on Wednesday following his absence during the three inquiries done last January 25, February 19 and March 5 by Hontiveros’ committee.
Last week, Hontiveros ruled that Quiboloy would be cited for contempt after the religious leader repeatedly ignored the subpoena issued by the Senate, and invoked his right to due process.
Quiboloy already has a separate contempt order from the House of Representatives for his refusal to attend the inquiry on Sonshine Media Network International’s franchise./PN
