Philippine Preacher Denies Child Abuse and Trafficking Allegations Amid Growing Controversy

Friday 13 September 2024 - 16:25

In a high-profile case that has captured national attention, Apollo Quiboloy, a prominent preacher in the Philippines who refers to himself as the “anointed son of God,” has entered a plea of not guilty to serious charges of child abuse and human trafficking. The 74-year-old religious figure, known for his close ties to former President Rodrigo Duterte, was apprehended last Sunday following an extensive search operation involving over 2,000 security personnel at his church's expansive 30-hectare compound in Davao City.

Quiboloy's legal representative, Israelito Torreon, asserted his client's innocence during a press briefing after the arraignment in Manila on Friday. A pre-trial hearing is set to take place in October, as the case continues to unfold.

Arriving in a police minibus approximately 45 minutes prior to the arraignment, Quiboloy was handcuffed and donned an orange detainee shirt, making him nearly unrecognizable beneath a bulletproof helmet and vest. When approached by reporters, he urged his followers to “stay strong” in Filipino.

In a statement released before the hearing, Joahna Paula Domingo, an attorney representing one of the alleged victims, expressed confidence that the truth surrounding Quiboloy's alleged criminal activities would eventually come to light.

Davao police chief Colonel Hansel Marantan revealed that two of the five alleged victims have committed to testifying against Quiboloy. According to police spokesperson Colonel Jean Fajardo, the victims, who were reportedly molested at ages 12 or 13, were allegedly coerced into performing sexual acts under the guise of serving God, with the promise that such actions would grant them a “pass to heaven.”

Quiboloy commands a significant following in the Philippines, where religious leaders often wield considerable influence in political matters. His church, the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, issued a statement prior to the arraignment, emphasizing that its members are “not forced to do anything against their will.”

In addition to the charges in the Philippines, Quiboloy faces a separate indictment from a U.S. grand jury for conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking through force, fraud, and coercion, as well as charges related to the trafficking of children and bulk cash smuggling. The 2021 U.S. indictment alleges that women were recruited as personal assistants for Quiboloy, tasked with preparing meals, cleaning, providing massages, and engaging in sexual activities.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated on Monday that the government is currently prioritizing the cases filed domestically and is not yet considering extraditing Quiboloy to the United States.

As the legal proceedings progress, the case continues to raise questions about the intersection of faith, power, and accountability in the Philippines, a nation where church leaders often play pivotal roles in societal and political dynamics.