The Philippine National Police (PNP) is preparing to file obstruction of justice charges against individuals suspected of harboring Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, according to PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil.
The PNP has launched a full investigation aimed at identifying those who assisted Quiboloy in evading law enforcement. “We will not tolerate any form of obstruction to justice,” Marbil said. “Those who knowingly provided refuge to Quiboloy will face legal consequences.”
Quiboloy was apprehended last Sunday at 6 p.m. inside the KOJC compound in Davao City. Authorities had been searching for him since August 24. The religious leader is facing charges under Republic Act 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination) and a non-bailable qualified human trafficking charge under Republic Act 9208, as amended.
In addition to the charges in the Philippines, Quiboloy was indicted by a federal grand jury in the U.S. for conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking, sex trafficking of children, and bulk cash smuggling, among other offenses.
Marbil emphasized that Quiboloy could not have evaded authorities without the help of “close associates, including legal representatives who actively misled authorities.” The PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has been tasked with gathering evidence and building the case against those who shielded the televangelist.
Quiboloy and his co-accused pleaded not guilty to charges of human trafficking, child abuse, and sexual exploitation last Friday. Meanwhile, Philippine officials expect the U.S. to file an extradition request soon, though Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla indicated that Quiboloy must first face charges in the Philippines.
Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez described Quiboloy’s extradition as “inevitable.”