Kingdom of Jesus Christ Pasto Apollo Quiboloy (File photo from the Official X account of Apollo Quiboloy)
MANILA, Philippines — The serving of the arrest warrants against fugitive televangelist Apollo Quiboloy and five others was a “lawful operation” and carried out “in strict compliance with legal security protocols” of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Although reports said that Quiboloy’s supporters resisted at first, the PNP said in a statement on Monday that the service of the warrant did not cause any harm to anyone.
READ: ‘Excessive, unnecessary force’ used in bid to get Quiboloy – Ex-Pres. Duterte
“Recognizing the high-profile nature of the subject, the PNP ensured the presence of an appropriate number of officers during the operation to maintain order and prevent any unforeseen incidents. We are pleased to report that the execution of the warrant was conducted without any harm to anyone,” the police force said.
According to PNP, authorities conducted simultaneous operations in the Kingdom of Jesus Christ compound in Buhangin district, the 25-hectare Glory Mountain in Barangay Tamayong, and the 50-hectare Prayer Mountain — properties in Davao City believed to be frequently visited by Quiboloy.
“Before the operation, the PNP coordinated closely with local officials to ensure a peaceful and orderly execution, minimizing any potential disruptions to the community,” the police force explained.
“Furthermore, the PNP strictly adhered to the guidelines outlined in the PNP Operational Procedures Manual, which underscore the importance of upholding human rights and conducting police operations with integrity,” it emphasized.
PNP’s statement came after its operation drew mixed reactions from prominent personalities such as Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Durterte and her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte.
The Vice President earlier supported calls for just and humane law enforcement in relation to what she called a “questionable” display of force and authority while serving arrest warrants.
Likewise, her father decried what he claimed as “excessive and unnecessary force” in the conduct of the operation.
In response, the PNP appealed again to Quiboloy’s supporters “to respect the legal process and the fundamental laws that govern the society.”
READ: VP Sara questions excessive use of force in serving warrant vs Quiboloy
“We appeal to Pastor Quiboloy to peacefully surrender, accept the warrant, and address the charges brought against him,” the organization said.
Last April 3, a Davao Regional Trial Court issued arrest orders against Quiboloy and his subordinates Cresente Canada, Paulene Canada, Ingrid Canada, Sylvia Camanes, and Jackiely Roy.
They are facing charges of violating Republic Act 7610, or the Anti-Child Abuse Law, specifically the provision on sexual abuse of minors and maltreatment.
Aside from this, a Pasig City court also issued a warrant for the arrest of the self-proclaimed “appointed son of God” for qualified human trafficking, a non-bailable offense, on April 11.
Moreover, an arrest order for Quiboloy from the Senate panel on women headed by Senator Risa Hontiveros had also been released.