Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte urged the Philippine National Police (PNP) to carry out the service of the arrest warrant for fugitive religious leader Apollo Quiboloy in a peaceful manner.
This comes amid an ongoing standoff between the police and some members of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ at their compound in Davao City.
"Hinihiling ko sa inyo na gawin ito sa mapayapang paraan at iwasan ang mga aktibidad na makaka abala sa trapiko para sa seguridad ng inyong mga kasama at ng publiko," Duterte said in a statement on Monday.
The mayor stated that he respects the enforcement of any arrest warrant, provided it is carried out in accordance with the law.
However, he noted that he has observed a failure to adhere to proper and legal procedures for serving the warrant, particularly concerning the use of force against innocent civilians and the 'unauthorized' occupation of the KOJC compound.
"Gustohin ko mang maki-alam, ang mga pulis ay makikinig lamang sa PNP chief at sa kanilang commander-in-chief President Bongbong Marcos," Duterte said.
Duterte also acknowledged the right of KOJC members to protest.
He then reiterated that the safety and security of Davao City will remain the Local Government's priority. They will continue to maintain a peaceful community for all and address any challenges in the city.
"Ang pangyayaring ito ay naka-abala na sa mga motorista, negosyo, at sa publiko," said Duterte.
"Ang publiko ay humihingi ng kasagutan mula sa PNP, hanggang kailan nyo planong manatili dyan sa KOJC property?" he questioned in closing.
On the night of August 25, members and supporters of KOJC held a prayer rally outside their compound, near the entrance of Davao International Airport. The protest led to an obstruction of the road leading to the airport.
The police made efforts to urge the demonstrators to vacate the area to alleviate the disruption for travelers.
Clashes erupted between police officers and KOJC members, resulting in several officers being injured after allegedly being assaulted by Quiboloy's supporters.
