Apollo Quiboloy arrested – Philippine Canadian Inquirer

Apollo Quiboloy billboard in EDSA, Makati City (PNA photo by Joan Bondoc)

By Che Palicte, Philippine News Agency

DAVAO CITY – The chief of the Davao Regional Police Office (PRO-11) said Sunday night that full details on the reported arrest of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy will be released by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

It was DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos who posted on his personal Facebook account around 6:30 p.m.: NAHULI NA PO SI APOLLO QUIBOLOY (Apollo Quiboloy was arrested).

PRO-11 director Brigadier General Nicolas Torre III told the media in an interview that he had no concrete details about the arrest.

“I have no idea about his arrest. Ask the SILG (Minister of Interior and Local Government) about it. He was the one who broke the news,” he said.

Torre, who smiled most of the time during the interview, said he was finally able to catch up on his sleep, which had averaged no more than three hours over the past three weeks.

He also said: lechon (Suckling pig) Dinner is on him.

Torre admitted that a C130 military aircraft landed at the Tactical Operations Group (TOG – 11) at the Davao Air Force Base in Barangay Sasa.

“I would like to believe that he is from Davao because he was picked up by plane. We saw the C130 landing at TOG-11 and were instructed to allow nine cars through the airport under the supervision of the Aviation Security Group,” he explained.

As for Quiboloy's whereabouts before the alleged arrest, Torre said they are sure that the KOJC founder was in Davao City the whole time as they have been investigating his movements.

“I thank him [Quiboloy] for the realization to face the law. I also thanked the members and supporters of KOJC for their cooperation and hope that this is the beginning of healing,” he said.

Videos and photos posted by SMNI News show KOJC members and police shaking hands.

Reactions

Senator Risa Hontiveros said it was time for Quiboloy to face accountability as the Senate continued its investigation.

She also praised law enforcement agencies for their tireless efforts and dedication.

“You cannot run away from the law. You will not continue to delay justice,” she said in a statement.About the men Victim-Survivor This means that many people make the effort to find their way (Thanks to their courage to tell the truth, the victims are almost getting justice.)”

Elizaldy Co, Ako Bicol party-list lawmaker and chair of the House Committee on Budgets, said they will ensure that the Philippine National Police (PNP) receives an additional budget to purchase tactical field equipment, such as the PRO-11 ground-penetrating radar.

“As far as I know, this is the first time this type of radar is being used on a large scale by our law enforcement officers,” Co said in another statement. “The PNP also needs more air resources, including unmanned drones that are also equipped with ground-based radar and infrared night vision devices.”

Duty comes first

Torre sees no animosity between him and Quiboloy's lawyer, Israelito Torreon.

“We just played our roles. In the end, everything turned out well,” Torre said.

Above all, Torre thanked all police officers for their tireless support and sacrifice since August 24, when they stormed the 30-hectare church compound in Buhangin district.

“I thanked all of you for your dedication to this mission. Let us continue our work and our service. Let us be proud that we have done our job today,” Torre added.

The founder of the KOJC and four of his employees are wanted for qualified human trafficking and violation of the law on the special protection of children against abuse, exploitation and discrimination.