Apollo Quiboloy no show at Senate probe into his alleged crimes

Senate of the Philippines. INQUIRER FILES

MANILA, Philippines — Religious leader and alleged sex offender Apollo Quiboloy on Tuesday skipped the Senate’s investigation into the Kingdom of Jesus Christ’s supposed crimes.

An official guest list from the Senate committee on women and children showed that Quiboloy was invited, but did not attend. The religious leader was represented by his legal counsel, Atty. Melanio Elvis M. Balayan.

Quiboloy, who calls himself the “appointed Son of God,” has been declared one of the most wanted sex offenders by the United States.

In 2022, the US Federal Bureau of Investigation published a wanted notice, attributing the following as his alleged offenses: conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking by force, fraud and coercion, sex trafficking of children, and bulk cash smuggling.

On the other hand, the Senate hearing was prompted by Senator Risa Hontiveros’ resolution and privilege speech.

According to Hontiveros, offenses attributed to Quiboloy are ongoing, and these involve the abuse of women and children within KJC.

“Victims have reported physical assaults, including beatings, lashings, and injuries from being forcefully slammed into walls. There is also an affidavit detailing sexual abuse by Quiboloy on a minor. Additionally, preachers have revealed information about his wealth accumulation and concealment methods,” a quick note from the Hontiveros’ panel read.

Apart from physical assault and sexual abuse, some church members were also believed to have been subjected to “exploitative activities” such as begging and soliciting money.

Hontiveros, who led the upper chamber’s probe on alleged Socorro cult Bayanihan Services Inc., said both of the organizations share similar shady schemes involving purported abuse among its members.