Sen. Francis “Tol” Tolentino (File photo from Bibo Nueva España/Senate PRIB)
MANILA, Philippines — The basic human rights of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC) sect leader and alleged sex offender Apollo Quiboloy needs to be respected.
This condition must be upheld should he opt to attend the Senate investigation on the reported abuses he committed against women and children.
This statement comes from Senator Francis Tolentino.
He believes the rights of Quiboloy as a Filipino and as an individual must be recognized by the committee that handles the hearing on his cases.
He added the rule on legislative proceedings applies to other subjects of hearings and even to persons cited for contempt.
“For me, if Quiboloy wants to pursue legal action in approaching the Senate, no one can stop him,” Tolentino said.
“Don’t insult, disrespect or even treat him as guilty, because that decision lies in court and not determined by a committee,” the senator urged his colleagues in Filipino.
“It’s clear. What we do in the Senate is investigate in aid of legislation,” he clarified.
“It is not the duty of the Senate to condemn. He has the same basic human rights. Let’s respect that right,” he repeated.
Also on Monday, Attorney Ferdinand Topacio, the legal counsel of Quiboloy, said Senate should “not continue to abuse their power” on issuing subpoenas.
The lawyer cited Supreme Court’s ruling on Senate Blue Ribbon Committee’s “abuse of discretion” in issuing contempt and arrest orders against resource persons.
He was particularly referring to the inquiry on the controversy involving Pharmally Pharmaceuticals Corporation (Pharmally).
Topacio said in a radio interview that Senator Risa Hontiveros should “learn to listen to the pronouncements of [the] Supreme Court and not continue to abuse their power.”
Bring the case to court
Echoing the previous statements of Quiboloy, Senator Robin Padilla said the religious sect leader’s case should be brought to court where both the accused and victim have rights.
“We are talking about law and order here. In my opinion, the case should be brought before the court,” he said in Filipino during an interview with DWIZ over the weekend.
“Suppose the Senate or House of Representatives insists on issuing subpoenas and warrants – in that case, it will be a big mess,” Padilla aired his concern.
Senate began its probe on the matter on January 23.
During the first hearing, former members of Quiboloy’s church claimed to have witnessed instances of sexual abuse within the organization.
Moreover, witnesses said some church members were allegedly subjected to “exploitative activities” such as begging and soliciting money.
The hearing stemmed from Senate Resolution No. 884 and the privilege speech of Hontiveros.
She revealed Quiboloy’s alleged involvement in the sexual abuse of women and children members.
The senator said the situation is similar to events occurring within the alleged religious cult Socorro Bayanihan Services Incorporated in Surigao del Norte.