Senator Risa Hontiveros announced that the Senate will soon hold a hearing on the case involving Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, the leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), who faces multiple charges including human trafficking, sexual abuse, and other illegal activities.
"Itatakda po namin hangga't maaga ang susunod na pagdinig na finally haharap na si Apollo Quiboloy. Once magtakda namin yung petsa ng susunod na pagdinig kay Apollo Quiboloy dito sa Senado, susulat na ako sa nauukol na korte para masigurong andito rin siya bilang pagsunod din sa standing warrant ng Senado para sa kanya," Hontiveros said on Wednesday.
Hontiveros emphasized the importance of questioning Quiboloy, particularly regarding the allegations of abuse and exploitation within his religious organization.
She stated that the Senate intends to investigate why Quiboloy allegedly manipulated his followers, including women and minors, into acts of abuse.
"Marami kaming itatanong kay Apollo Quiboloy kung bakit talaga niya ginawa ang lahat ng ito at paano isinet-up na yung mga taong ni-recruit niya bilang mga nananampalataya sa kanya at sa kanyang kingdom ay sa halip inabuso niya sa iba't ibang paraan—yung mga babae pati mga menor de edad, pati yung ibang mga miyembro ng kingdom na mga lalaki pero pinagmalupitan din niya. Yung mga pinilit niya ang maglimos para pala sustentuhan lang yung kanyang marangyang pamumuhay, yung mga human trafficking sa iba't ibang bahagi ng Pilipinas at pati sa ibang mga bansa para ituloy din ang kanyang mga illegal activities," Hontiveros explained.
Quiboloy, who has long styled himself as the "Appointed Son of God," has been under investigation for serious accusations related to human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and financial fraud.
U.S. authorities have also filed charges against him, and he remains on the FBI’s most wanted list. Despite these controversies, Quiboloy continues to command a large following, both in the Philippines and in various parts of the world.
Hontiveros has been an outspoken advocate against human trafficking and exploitation, vowing to use the Senate hearing to seek justice for Quiboloy’s alleged victims.
The senator reiterated the need for thorough accountability, not just from Quiboloy, but also from those who may have enabled his actions.
The religious leader, along with his five co-accused, was arrested inside the KOJC compound on Sunday after a Philippine National Police operation.
They were apprehended on the 16th day of the search after the PNP issued a 24-hour ultimatum.
