Apollo Quiboloy, a prominent preacher in the Philippines who refers to himself as the “anointed son of God,” pleaded not guilty on September 13, 2024, to multiple charges of child abuse and human trafficking. Quiboloy, 74, was arrested last Sunday after a weeks-long search of his church’s extensive 30-hectare (74-acre) compound in Davao City, which involved over 2,000 security personnel.
During his arraignment in Manila, Quiboloy, handcuffed and wearing an orange detainee shirt, arrived under heavy security. His lawyer, Israelito Torreon, stated, “He is innocent,” and expressed confidence in Quiboloy’s defense. A pre-trial hearing is scheduled for October.
Quiboloy’s lawyer also highlighted the ongoing belief that the truth regarding the allegations will eventually come to light. Joahna Paula Domingo, representing one of the alleged victims, emphasized the importance of revealing the facts surrounding the case.
Davao police chief Colonel Hansel Marantan reported that two of the five alleged victims have decided to testify against Quiboloy. These victims, who were reportedly abused at ages 12 or 13, claimed they were coerced into sexual acts under the guise of serving God, with the implication that such actions would grant them a “pass to heaven.”
Quiboloy commands a large following in the Philippines, where religious leaders often wield significant political influence. His church, the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, has millions of followers worldwide, and prior to his arrest, Quiboloy was known for his close ties to former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Quiboloy faces separate charges of child abuse in another court and has been indicted by a U.S. grand jury for conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking, sex trafficking of minors, and bulk cash smuggling. The U.S. indictment alleges that women were recruited as personal assistants to perform various tasks, including sexual services.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that the government is currently focused on the legal proceedings in the Philippines and is not yet considering extraditing Quiboloy to the U.S. The case has garnered significant media attention, highlighting the serious nature of the allegations against the preacher.
