BY JOEL C. ESCOL, Managing Editor
In a stunning development, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, the leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), has reportedly surrendered to authorities around 6:33 yesterday, September 8, 2024, following multiple allegations of serious crimes including human trafficking, fraud, and abuse of his position. Quiboloy, once a prominent religious figure in the Philippines with a global following, had long maintained his innocence despite mounting evidence and several criminal charges filed both domestically and internationally.
PNP spokesperson Col Fajardo told the media in a press briefing shortly after the surrender of Pastor Quiboloy, that the PNP gave a 24-hour ultimatum for the beleaguered pastor to surrender, or else the PNP will enforce the full force of the law to raid the remaining rooms the police were earlier barred from entering.
“It was the 24-hour ultimatum that forced Quiboloy to finally surrender,” the PNP spokesperson claimed, adding that the pastor may have sensed his capture is near.
Surrender Comes After International Pressure
The surrender of Quiboloy comes in the wake of intensified international pressure, particularly from the United States, where he was indicted on a series of charges last year. In 2021, a U.S. federal grand jury indicted Quiboloy and several other church officials on charges of sex trafficking of children, fraud, and coercion of followers into forced labor. The U.S. Department of Justice claimed that Quiboloy and his inner circle engaged in a “pattern of criminal activity” that spanned over a decade, targeting vulnerable individuals who were allegedly subjected to physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.
Despite these indictments, Quiboloy remained defiant, dismissing the charges as politically motivated attacks on his ministry. His surrender is seen by many as a significant turning point in the case, signaling a shift in his legal strategy.
High-Profile Surrender
Quiboloy’s surrender was met with a media frenzy as he appeared at a law enforcement office in Davao City, his hometown. Dressed in a simple shirt, Quiboloy was accompanied by a small group of legal advisers and followers from his church. His calm demeanor stood in stark contrast to the gravity of the accusations he faces.
Philippine law enforcement officials confirmed that Quiboloy voluntarily turned himself in but declined to comment on the details of the surrender agreement. Authorities noted that Quiboloy’s legal team is expected to file for bail, while the courts review the extradition requests from the United States.
Legal Implications and Possible Extradition
One of the key questions now is whether Quiboloy will be extradited to the United States to face the charges laid against him. Under Philippine law, extradition is possible but can be a lengthy process, especially when high-profile figures are involved. Legal experts note that Quiboloy could still face a lengthy legal battle before he can be transferred to U.S. custody.
If extradited, Quiboloy could face a trial in the United States on a variety of charges, including sex trafficking, conspiracy, fraud, and money laundering. If convicted, he could be sentenced to life in prison. The U.S. government has been working closely with Philippine authorities to ensure Quiboloy’s transfer to the U.S., but no timeline has been confirmed.
Quiboloy’s Influence in the Philippines
Apollo Quiboloy has long been an influential figure in the Philippines, not only as the founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ but also as a close ally of former President Rodrigo Duterte. His church, known for its lavish services and massive following, has been involved in various humanitarian efforts, which has helped bolster his reputation among his supporters.
However, the serious charges he now faces have severely tarnished his public image, with many former followers coming forward to support the claims of abuse. Public sentiment in the Philippines is divided, with many expressing shock and dismay over the allegations, while others continue to defend Quiboloy as an innocent man wrongly accused.
What’s Next for Quiboloy?
The coming weeks will likely determine Quiboloy’s fate. His legal team is expected to launch a vigorous defense, but the charges he faces are serious and carry significant international ramifications. For now, the world watches as one of the Philippines’ most prominent religious figures prepares to face the full force of the law.
