MANILA – A group of anonymous private citizens has pooled together a PHP10 million (approximately $180,000) reward for information leading to the arrest of Apollo Quiboloy, a fugitive religious leader wanted on charges of sexual abuse and human trafficking, Philippine Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. announced Monday.
Quiboloy, the leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) church, has evaded authorities since warrants for his arrest were issued. His co-accused also have bounties on their heads, with PHP1 million offered for each of five individuals: Crisente, Paulene and Ingrid Canada, Sylvia Cemañes, and Jackielyn Roy.
“They are so frustrated about what’s happening right now and want to help,” Abalos said of the anonymous donors during a press briefing at Camp Crame, Quezon City. He urged Quiboloy to surrender and face the charges in court.
The Interior Secretary expressed concern over what he perceives as a challenge to government authority. “It seems that the government’s system is being undermined,” Abalos stated. “The law is the law, and those who are guilty must be held accountable.”
Intelligence reports suggest Quiboloy remains within the Philippines. Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Marbil warned that those harboring Quiboloy could face obstruction of justice charges under Presidential Decree 1829.
The PNP is also investigating former President Rodrigo Duterte’s potential liability after he claimed knowledge of Quiboloy’s whereabouts. Duterte, who serves as the appointed administrator of KOJC properties, has close ties to the religious leader.
Quiboloy faces non-bailable arrest warrants for child and sexual abuse issued by the Davao City Regional Trial Court and human trafficking charges from a Pasig City court.
Recent attempts to serve these warrants at five KOJC properties in Davao province were unsuccessful, with Quiboloy’s supporters gathering to block police access. Six KOJC members were subsequently charged with obstruction of justice for allegedly attacking police officers.
The KOJC has contested the legality of the arrest attempts, claiming the procedures were unlawful and unconstitutional.
As the manhunt intensifies, authorities hope the substantial reward will encourage individuals with information to come forward, bringing the controversial religious figure to justice. (source: PNA)
