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Advocates Philippines
Sen Hontiveros Cites Quiboloy For Contempt
Photo courtesy from Senator Risa Hontiveros
The Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality, led by Chairperson Sen. Risa Hontiveros, has cited Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), in contempt.
This decision comes after Quiboloy's consistent refusal to appear before the committee to address the reported cases of large-scale human trafficking, rape, sexual abuse, violence, and child abuse within the KOJC.
Privilege Speech Highlights Concerns
The controversy escalated after Sen. Risa Hontiveros delivered a privilege speech on December 11, 2023, shedding light on the reported cases surrounding KOJC leader Apollo Quiboloy. The speech prompted the Senate to initiate a comprehensive inquiry into the alleged crimes, further fueled by P.S. Res. No. 884, directing the Senate Committee to investigate the matter.
Contempt Citing Amidst Persistent Absence
Despite multiple notices and hearings on January 23, February 19, and March 5, 2024, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy consistently refused to appear before the Senate Committee. Instead, he sent his counsel without a justifiable reason, causing delays and obstruction in the investigation. The decision to cite Quiboloy in contempt was made upon a motion by the Committee's Chairman, duly seconded by Senator Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III.
Show Cause Order Issued
Quiboloy is now issued a show cause order, compelling him to provide a compelling reason within 48 hours from receipt of the order, explaining why he should not face arrest and detention at the Office of the Sergeant-At-Arms. The Sergeant-At-Arms is directed to make a return within 24 hours from enforcement.
This decision comes after Quiboloy's consistent refusal to appear before the committee to address the reported cases of large-scale human trafficking, rape, sexual abuse, violence, and child abuse within the KOJC.
Privilege Speech Highlights Concerns
The controversy escalated after Sen. Risa Hontiveros delivered a privilege speech on December 11, 2023, shedding light on the reported cases surrounding KOJC leader Apollo Quiboloy. The speech prompted the Senate to initiate a comprehensive inquiry into the alleged crimes, further fueled by P.S. Res. No. 884, directing the Senate Committee to investigate the matter.
Contempt Citing Amidst Persistent Absence
Despite multiple notices and hearings on January 23, February 19, and March 5, 2024, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy consistently refused to appear before the Senate Committee. Instead, he sent his counsel without a justifiable reason, causing delays and obstruction in the investigation. The decision to cite Quiboloy in contempt was made upon a motion by the Committee's Chairman, duly seconded by Senator Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III.
Show Cause Order Issued
Quiboloy is now issued a show cause order, compelling him to provide a compelling reason within 48 hours from receipt of the order, explaining why he should not face arrest and detention at the Office of the Sergeant-At-Arms. The Sergeant-At-Arms is directed to make a return within 24 hours from enforcement.
Mar 12, 2024
