Quiboloy arrest crucial in fight vs. human trafficking

MANILA – Leaders of the House of Representatives on Monday said the arrest of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder Apollo Quiboloy is a crucial moment in the fight against human trafficking, according to separate statements.

Santa Rosa City Rep. Dan Fernandez called for a thorough investigation and prosecution to ensure Quiboloy faces the full consequences of his actions.

"Pastor Quiboloy's capture marks a turning point in our battle against human trafficking and exploitation. His influence cannot overshadow the gravity of his alleged crimes," Fernandez said.

"The victims have suffered long enough…There is no place for predators like Pastor Quiboloy."

Manila 6th District Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr., chair of the Committee on Human Rights, said Quiboloy's arrest was not just a win for law enforcement, but also for justice and human dignity.

"The crimes he is accused of – child abuse, exploitation, and human trafficking – are monstrous and no amount of power or influence can shield him from the full force of the law. The time for reckoning has come," Abante said.

Surigao del Norte 2nd District Rep. Robert Ace Barbers said the cases against Quiboloy are about dismantling "deeply entrenched systems" of abuse.

"This isn't just about holding Pastor Quiboloy accountable. It's about sending a clear message that no one, regardless of power or self-proclaimed status, is above the law. This case must set a precedent that those who exploit and abuse the most vulnerable will face the harshest penalties," Barbers said.

Antipolo City 2nd District Rep. Romeo Acop commended law enforcement agencies, particularly the Philippine National Police and Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines , for their vigilance and urged the courts to expedite the trial to deliver justice.

"Quiboloy's alleged actions have victimized some of the most vulnerable members of society. It's crucial he be held fully accountable for these crimes. We commend our law enforcement agencies for their vigilance and urge the courts to expedite the trial to deliver justice," Acop, also a former police officer, said.

Abang Lingkod Party-list Rep. Joseph Stephen Paduano underscored the need to protect human rights and vulnerable individuals from exploitation.

"We welcome this significant development in bringing to justice an individual who has evaded accountability for far too long," Paduano said. "The charges Apollo Quiboloy is facing are grave. Child abuse and human trafficking are heinous crimes that violate the dignity and rights of individuals, especially minors. We must ensure that no one, regardless of their influence or position, is above the law."

House Deputy Majority Leader and Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre said the main goal is to ensure that the abusers are held accountable and given a taste of justice.

"These are very serious charges that, if proven, can't go unpunished unless we live in a society devoid of rules and respect. No man is above the law, and no false God is above the law," Acidre said.

Quiboloy was arrested on Sunday after 16 days of search operations in his Davao City compound.

He faces charges under Republic Act (RA) 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act, and RA 9208 for qualified human trafficking, with arrest warrants issued by courts in the cities of Davao and Pasig.

The United States Justice Department indicted him in 2021 on charges of sex-trafficking girls and women aged 12 to 25, allegedly forced into sexual relations while serving as his "pastorals" or those who perform various task for him. (PNA)