Hontiveros says Quiboloy not above the law: ‘We are waiting for you’

Apollo Quiboloy and Sen. Risa Hontiveros (INQUIRER FILE PHOTOS)

MANILA, Philippines — Opposition Sen. Risa Hontiveros is standing firm on her decision to subpoena Apollo Quiboloy, the self-proclaimed “Appointed Son of God” and leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC).

In a statement on Tuesday, Hontiveros insisted on the power of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality to compel the attendance of witnesses – “no matter how well-connected they are.”

“In the past, Cabinet officials, lawmakers, an incumbent Senate president, and even a former president have submitted to Senate subpoenas and appeared as witnesses,” she pointed out.

“His constitutional rights, like all witnesses, are respected. But he is not higher than the president, the Senate, and the law,” Hontiveros said, speaking partly in Filipino, referring to Quiboloy.

“On the other hand, I will not hesitate to stand up against those who harm others — men, women, children, and even relatives —just as the Senate does not hesitate to speak out against those who are cruel, abusive, and corrupt.”

READ: Alleged grandchild of Quiboloy turns against him

As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality, Hontiveros is leading the investigation of alleged crimes committed by Quiboloy and his KJC.

READ: Senate issues subpoena to Apollo Quiboloy

Despite repeated invitations, the religious leader has refused to appear before the Senate probe to respond to all accusations hurled at him.

“You are only asked to do one thing – to appear before the Senate,” Hontiveros continued.

READ: Apollo Quiboloy on FBI’s ‘most wanted’ list

She noted how Quiboloy criticized witnesses against him for covering their faces during the Senate inquiry while the KJC boss could not even appear in the public hearing.

“The Senate is open to hear your side. We are waiting for you,” Hontiveros said.

Instead of attending the Senate probe, Quiboloy dared Hontiveros to file a case against him before a court.

READ: Quiboloy: Not attending ‘bogus hearing’

“You already convicted me in your hearing; that’s wrong. I will not subject myself to unfair statements. I will not subject myself to injustices done under the cloak of a Senate hearing,” he said in an audio statement earlier posted on his Facebook page.

“But I will face you on one condition: I will face any of you even though you have 100 witnesses or pay 100 witnesses. I will face you anywhere, anytime in a court of law,” he added.