The recent arrest of former Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo by Indonesian authorities has raised concerns about the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) efficiency, especially in relation to their ongoing attempt to serve an arrest warrant against Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy, Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa said on Friday.
During a Senate subcommittee hearing on PNP operations at the KOJC compound in Davao City, Dela Rosa noted that the public may question the PNP’s capability. He highlighted that despite nearly two weeks of barricading and deploying a “whole of government” approach, the police have not been able to execute the arrest warrant for Quiboloy. In contrast, Indonesian police quickly apprehended Guo, a wanted individual.
“People might think there’s a shortcoming in our police, especially seeing how swiftly the Indonesian National Police acted,” Dela Rosa remarked.
Dela Rosa’s comments follow Guo’s arrest in Indonesia, more than two weeks after it was revealed she had left the Philippines.
‘Siege’ at KOJC Compound
The Senate inquiry was prompted by Dela Rosa’s speech urging the withdrawal of around 2,000 police officers deployed at the KOJC compound to serve arrest warrants for Quiboloy. Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, who attended the hearing, said the PNP’s actions had turned the operation into a “siege.” He raised concerns about the legality of the police occupation of the KOJC property, questioning whether the operation was within the bounds of the law and whether citizens’ rights were being respected.
The PNP continues its search for Quiboloy, believing he is still inside the compound, although KOJC’s legal counsel has denied his presence. Quiboloy is facing multiple charges, including violations of laws against child abuse and human trafficking, as well as sex trafficking charges in the U.S.
Quiboloy’s legal team has consistently denied the allegations.