Apollo Quiboloy pleads ‘not guilty’ in human trafficking case

Apollo Quiboloy pleads not guilty to a qualified human trafficking charge before the Pasig City Regional Trial Court (RTC) on Friday, September 13, 2024. Quiboloy and his subordinates were captured in Davao City on September 8. Photo from DILG Sec. Abalos/FACEBOOK PAGE

MANILA, Philippines — Self-appointed “Son of God” Apollo Quiboloy pleaded not guilty to a qualified human trafficking charge before the Pasig City Regional Trial Court (RTC) on Friday.

The embattled founder and leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC) appeared before the court for the first time for his arraignment and pre-trial.

“Nag plea siya ng not guilty. (He pleaded not guilty),” said Quiboloy’s legal counsel, Atty. Israelito Torreon in a brief ambush interview.

Asked why his client pleaded not guilty, he replied: “Wala siyang kasalanan eh, shempre. ‘Yun lang. (He has no fault, of course. That’s all.)

READ: Qualified trafficking vs Apollo Quiboloy: Explainer

Quiboloy is facing nonbailable qualified human trafficking charges under Section 4(a) of Republic Act 9208, as amended. The case was filed at the Pasig City RTC Branch 159 in April.

Other accused were Jackielyn Roy, Cresente Canada, Paulene Canada, Ingrid Canada, and Sylvia Cemañes – who all likewise entered a not guilty plea during their arraignment.

READ: Apollo Quiboloy at Pasig court for arraignment

The sect leader is currently detained at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center in Camp Crame in Quezon City following his arrest in the KJC compound in Davao City last Sunday, September 8.

Quiboloy and the other respondents surrendered after the PNP’s 24-hour “ultimatum,” PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said.