THE “Young Guns” of the House of Representatives on Monday said the capture of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) would allow the embattled church leader to directly face the criminal charges filed against him in courts of law.
House Assistant Majority Leaders Paolo Ortega V (La Union), Jil Bongalon (Ako Bicol Partylist), Pammy Zamora (Taguig), Zia Alonto Adiong (Lanao del Sur), and Jay Khonghun (Zambales), 1Rider Partylist Rep. Rodge Gutierrez, Anakalusugan Partylist Rep. Ray Reyes, Deputy Majority Leader Migs Nograles (PBA Partylist) and Davao Oriental Rep. Cheeno Almario issued a joint statement describing the capture of Quiboloy as a “triumph of the country’s justice system.”
“The capture of Quiboloy, who is facing serious charges that range from sexual abuse, human trafficking, and other offenses in the Philippines and in the US, represents a significant development in the pursuit of justice,” the lawmakers said.
“For far too long, he has evaded these legal proceedings, but his capture demonstrates that no one can escape the law. Quiboloy must now face these charges directly, and it is essential for the integrity of our justice system that he be held accountable for every accusation leveled against him,” they added.
Quiboloy surrendered Sunday to the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) within the KOJC compound.
After arriving at the Villamor Air Base from Davao City, Quibuloy was immediately transferred to the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Facility at Camp Crame.
“The surrender of Quiboloy is a win for the country's legal institutions, particularly under the Marcos administration. It shows that the government is committed to ensuring that justice is served, regardless of the power or influence of the individuals involved,” the Young Guns said.
“This is a clear message that justice is blind and that even those who wield considerable authority will not be immune from the consequences of their actions,” they added.
The lawmakers also commended the PNP that worked for the apprehension of Quiboloy, saying that their commitment to applying the law without fear or favor should be lauded.
“Despite obstacles and opposition from within Quiboloy’s organization, the authorities have upheld their duty to the law and the people they serve,” they expressed.
“This development should inspire confidence in the Filipino public. The arrest proves that the wheels of justice are turning, even when the process involves individuals who are deeply entrenched in religious and political spheres,” they further stated.
“It reassures the public that the law is being upheld consistently, regardless of the social status or influence of the accused. This moment is not just about one man, but about upholding the rule of law in the Philippines.”
Meanwhile, House leaders commended both PNP and the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) for Quiboloy’s capture last Sunday.
They called for swift and thorough prosecution of Quibuloy to ensure justice for the victims of his alleged crimes, including child abuse and human trafficking.
Manila 6th District Rep. Bienvenido "Benny" Abante Jr., chair of the Committee on Human Rights, did not hold back in condemning Quiboloy’s alleged crimes, labeling them as “acts of evil” and stressing the urgent need to pursue justice without hesitation.
“Let this be clear: Apollo Quiboloy’s arrest is not just a win for law enforcement, it’s a resounding victory for justice and human dignity,” Abante declared. “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.”
Santa Rosa City Rep. Dan Fernandez, chair of the Committee on Public Order and Safety, called Quiboloy’s arrest a crucial moment in the fight against human trafficking and urged the courts to deliver swift justice.
“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.
He added: “The victims have suffered long enough. We demand a thorough investigation and prosecution to ensure he faces the full consequences of his actions. There is no place for predators like Pastor Quiboloy.”
Surigao del Norte 2nd District Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, chair of the Committee on Dangerous Drugs, emphasized that the cases against Quiboloy are not just about one individual, but 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 asserted.
Antipolo City 2nd District Rep. Romeo Acop, chair of the Committee on Transportation, hailed Quiboloy’s arrest as a “major victory” in the fight against human trafficking and child abuse.
“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,” said Acop, a retired police general.
Abang Lingkod Rep. Joseph Stephen “Caraps” Paduano, chair of the Committee on Public Accounts, strongly supported law enforcement's swift action as he 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.”
Quiboloy, the self-proclaimed “Son of God” and leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, was arrested on Sunday after weeks 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.
Quiboloy has long faced allegations of sexually exploiting women and minors under the guise of religious leadership.
The United States Justice Department indicted him in 2021 on charges of sex-trafficking girls and women, aged 12 to 25, who were allegedly forced into sexual relations with him while serving as “pastorals.”
House Deputy Majority Leader and Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre also welcomed the capture of Quiboloy, who had been wanted for child abuse and qualified trafficking.
"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," said Acidre, chairman of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs.
"Dahil sa panatisismo, maaring ‘yung mga biktima ay hindi pa alam na inabuso sila, at ‘yan ay nakakalungkot. But the healing will begin soon," noted Acidre.
"Make no mistake, while we are eager to move on from this nightmare, the main goal is to ensure that the soul-less abusers are held accountable and given a taste of justice that they have long avoided," added Acidre.
Quiboloy is the spiritual adviser of former president and Davao City mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte.
Quiboloy is the self-proclaimed "Appointed Son of God," a title his followers subscribe to.
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