Detained religious leader Apollo Quiboloy is facing a new criminal complaint after hip-hop artist Omar Manzano, also known as Omar Baliw, filed a copyright infringement case against him at the Pasig Regional Trial Court on March 24.
According to Manzano’s legal counsel, Atty. Jeanne Castillo Anarna, the rapper’s song K&B was used as a campaign jingle for Quiboloy without his permission. The complaint also names SMNI President Dr. Marlon Rosete as a co-respondent.
Quiboloy’s lawyer, Atty. Israelito Torreon, dismissed the allegations, stating that his client was unaware of the song’s use. “As you can see, he is in jail, wala siyang TV doon sa loob,” he said, adding that they will respond thoroughly once they receive the subpoena.
The Filipino Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (FILSCAP) and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines have reminded candidates to secure proper licenses when using original songs in campaigns. Under Republic Act 8293, those found guilty of copyright infringement may face disqualification or criminal charges.