According to his legal counsel on Sunday, fugitive evangelist Apollo Quiboloy voluntarily turned himself in to the Armed Forces of the Philippines. This news followed a social media post by Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos regarding the pastor’s arrest.
Quiboloy’s attorney, Ferdinand Topacio, explained that his client surrendered to personnel from the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP), refuting reports that he had been arrested by the Philippine National Police.
In a statement, Topacio said, “Pastor Quiboloy was not arrested, particularly not by the Philippine National Police under the DILG.” He added that Quiboloy’s legal team would continue to defend his constitutional rights and prepare for the upcoming trial.
On Sunday afternoon, Abalos announced Quiboloy’s arrest on Facebook. The post included images of Quiboloy with his attorney and an unidentified individual, stating, “Apollo Quiboloy has been arrested.”
According to Abalos, Quiboloy was taken into custody at approximately 6:00 p.m. inside the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KoJC) compound in Davao City.
In addition to charges of human trafficking, Quiboloy, the pastor of KoJC, is accused of sexually abusing minors. He is also wanted by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for allegations of sex trafficking, coercion, fraud, and bulk cash smuggling.
Authorities spent several days searching the massive KoJC compound, known for its sophisticated network of hidden passageways, in an effort to locate Quiboloy.
“Apollo Quiboloy, you will pay for your crimes. You cannot escape the law, and justice will no longer be delayed,” said Senator Risa Hontiveros, signaling that justice is finally within reach for Quiboloy’s alleged victims.
Hontiveros also commended the victims for their bravery in coming forward and expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their continued efforts, despite the challenges posed by Quiboloy’s evasive tactics.
She assured the public that the Senate would continue investigating the claims of systematic abuse within KoJC.
