NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
DOJ Issues Preliminary Hold Departure Order For Apollo Quiboloy
Photo credit: Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has ordered the filing of charges against self-proclaimed son of God, Apollo Quiboloy, and several of his associates. The charges include child abuse, exploitation, and qualified human trafficking.
The DOJ has been actively investigating the case since 2020, and despite the submission of the cases for decision, they sought confirmation from the complainant if they were still interested in pursuing the legal action for incidents that occurred a decade ago.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla said "These cases have been submitted for decision. We thoroughly studied them. I just wanted to confirm if the complainant is still interested in pursuing the case because it is not an easy matter. The person involved may have moved on and may no longer want to pursue it."
To ensure the victims' voices are heard, the DOJ proceeded with the legal action. If proven guilty in any of the two charges filed, no bail will be granted. "Many thanks to SOJ Remulla for finally acting decisively on this matter. But even more gratitude to those who bravely spoke out, all the witnesses, and those who continue to cooperate with my office to reveal the truth," Senator Risa Hontiveros said.
While the preliminary hold departure order is not as restrictive as a Hold Departure Order (HDO), it serves as a warning to the government when the individuals pass through immigration.
To guarantee the safety of the victims and maintain order during the proceedings, the case has been transferred to the City Prosecutors’ Office in Manila. Concerns have been raised about potential disruptions from Quiboloy's followers in case their leader is arrested.
The DOJ has been actively investigating the case since 2020, and despite the submission of the cases for decision, they sought confirmation from the complainant if they were still interested in pursuing the legal action for incidents that occurred a decade ago.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla said "These cases have been submitted for decision. We thoroughly studied them. I just wanted to confirm if the complainant is still interested in pursuing the case because it is not an easy matter. The person involved may have moved on and may no longer want to pursue it."
To ensure the victims' voices are heard, the DOJ proceeded with the legal action. If proven guilty in any of the two charges filed, no bail will be granted. "Many thanks to SOJ Remulla for finally acting decisively on this matter. But even more gratitude to those who bravely spoke out, all the witnesses, and those who continue to cooperate with my office to reveal the truth," Senator Risa Hontiveros said.
While the preliminary hold departure order is not as restrictive as a Hold Departure Order (HDO), it serves as a warning to the government when the individuals pass through immigration.
To guarantee the safety of the victims and maintain order during the proceedings, the case has been transferred to the City Prosecutors’ Office in Manila. Concerns have been raised about potential disruptions from Quiboloy's followers in case their leader is arrested.
Mar 4, 2024
