Ferdinand Topacio at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay, May 31, 2023. (File photo by RYAN LEAGOGO / INQUIRER.net)
MANILA, Philippines — Ferdinand Topacio, who serves as the lawyer of self-proclaimed “Appointed Son of God” Apollo Quiboloy, challenged Sen. Risa Hontiveros to file criminal complaints against the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC).
Topacio’s dare came after Hontiveros filed a resolution seeking to investigate Quiboloy and KOJC’s alleged involvement in criminal activities such as sexual abuse and human trafficking.
“Senator Hontiveros is doing something difficult. That’s why I challenge her. If you think your witnesses are strong, why don’t you take them to court where the fight is fair and there is due process?” Topacio told reporters in Filipino in a phone interview.
“Why do you want the trial in the Senate? Because in the Senate we are at a disadvantage.”
READ: Hontiveros bares stories of abuse of women, kids under Quiboloy organization
In the same interview, Topacio called Hontiveros’ moves an “act of duplicity.” He said it should not be up to the Senate to decide whether someone is guilty or not guilty of certain crimes.
According to Topacio, these are all part of a “feeding frenzy” that is part of a pattern seeking to pressure and harass Sonshine Media Network International, KOJC, and Quiboloy.
During a press briefing on Monday, Hontiveros told reporters that she filed the resolution after supposed victims of KOJC sought her help.