The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported a peaceful celebration of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ’s (KOJC) 39th anniversary on Sunday, despite the ongoing search for its leader, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy.
According to a PNP statement, the Feast of Passover, a significant event for the KOJC community, went smoothly without major incidents. “On September 1, 2024, the PNP successfully facilitated a smooth and peaceful observance of the KOJC’s 39th Feast of Passover, despite the concurrent execution of a lawful police operation within the church’s compound,” the PNP said.
The police emphasized that their presence was strategically planned to ensure public safety and respect for human rights while carrying out the court-ordered arrest warrant. The PNP cordoned off the KOJC cathedral in Davao City, but KOJC lawyer Atty. Israelito Torreon stated that they were not allowed to use the cathedral for their anniversary celebration. Instead, the celebration took place in front of the “Kingdome” as directed by the PNP.
Torreon also mentioned that the PNP’s control over the cathedral seemed to violate a Temporary Protection Order issued by the court. “They are controlling and occupying the KOJC Cathedral, hence, we have to deal with them,” he said.
PNP Chief Police General Rommel Marbil clarified that the law enforcement’s presence aimed to enforce the court’s orders without infringing upon religious rights. “We respect the community’s right to express their opinions. As part of the PNP, we stand firm in enforcing the law while ensuring that individuals have the right to exhaust all legal remedies,” Marbil stated, reinforcing their commitment to transparency.
Due to the heat and weather conditions, the KOJC had to cancel several activities. Torreon noted, “There were three options given to us but all involved exposing the members to the heat of the sun and the vagaries of nature… In the end, the KOJC Celebration continued not because of the gracefulness of the PNP but because of the resilience and perseverance of KOJC Members.”
The arrest warrants against Quiboloy, issued by Davao and Pasig courts, involve alleged violations of the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act and qualified human trafficking. Quiboloy has been in hiding since the Senate issued an arrest order following his refusal to attend hearings.
He also faces indictments in the United States for charges related to sex trafficking, conspiracy, and bulk cash smuggling. Quiboloy and his camp have consistently denied all allegations.