Photo courtesy from PTV

In a surprising turn of events, Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy, leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), voluntarily surrendered to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). His decision comes after days of mounting tension at the KOJC Compound, where violent clashes and disturbing incidents have taken a toll on his followers.

According to Quiboloy's lawyer, Israelito Torreon, the pastor initially hoped that legal remedies pursued by his legal team would resolve the situation. For a time, Quiboloy remained out of public reach, awaiting positive developments. However, as the situation at the compound escalated, Quiboloy found himself unable to bear the suffering endured by his flock.

The KOJC Compound had become a scene of chaos, with reports of police turning the area into a virtual garrison, desecration of the KOJC Cathedral, and the school within the compound allegedly being ravaged. These harrowing events, including reports of injuries, arrests, and even a death among his followers, left Quiboloy deeply distressed.

Despite his right to await the outcome of legal processes, Quiboloy ultimately decided that the suffering of his followers could not continue. He surrendered with the assistance of key figures such as Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib and several high-ranking military and police officials, including Army Major General Allan Hambala and PNP Major General Benjamin Silo Jr.

In a press conference at Camp Crame, Quiboloy, along with other accused individuals, was presented to the public. The PNP confirmed that Quiboloy's surrender was influenced by ongoing operations at the KOJC compound, which had intensified over the past days.

Meanwhile, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos clarified that Quiboloy surrendered within the KOJC Compound, dismissing claims that was captured outside the premises as "kuwentong kutsero" or mere hearsay.

This development marks a significant chapter in the ongoing saga involving Quiboloy and the KOJC Compound as legal proceedings and investigations continue.