Remulla: Protection order can’t prevail over arrest order vs. Quiboloy

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla — Photo from SENATE PRIB

MANILA, Philippines — The temporary protection order (TPO) granted to Apollo Quiboloy’s Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC) “can’t prevail” over the warrant of arrest issued against him.

This statement comes from Justice Sec. Jesus Crispin Remulla when the issue was raised at a Senate budget hearing on Wednesday.

“It’s a valid police operation to serve an arrest warrant issued by the proper court and it has happened already, Ma’am,” he said, responding to Sen. Risa Hontiveros’ questions during the hearing.

“I think that the rule of law will not be respected by people unless we’re able to show that we will not let go of people, even (no matter) how high the stature may be and we intend to really carry this out to the end,” Remulla explained.

The TPO was issued  by a Davao court on Tuesday following a standoff between  Quiboloy’s supporters and local police, who raided the KJC compound in Buhangin District, Davao City last Saturday.

Around 2,000 cops reportedly swept the compound in an attempt to arrest Quiboloy  and others accused of child abuse and human trafficking.

Quiboloy is facing three warrants of arrest — two from Davao and Pasig City courts  and one from the Senate — all in connection with the alleged crimes lodged against the sect leader.

With the court order against the police, Hontiveros asked the DOJ how the government would proceed with the arrest of Quiboloy.

“Ma’am, the writ of amparo filed against the police can’t prevail over a lawful order  of the court that directs them to arrest the person and it’s the same court level that issued it,” Remulla pointed out.

“That’s why we are not really about to raise our hands and surrender to their court in that manner. So, we’re continuing the arrest efforts,” he further said.

A writ of amparo is a legal remedy available to any person whose right to life, liberty and security has been violated or threatened.

In the case of Quiboloy, the writ of amparo was filed by KJC and Jose Maria College Foundation Inc. (JMCFI) against Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. and the Philippine National Police.