Obstruction of justice charges considered for KOJC executives and lawyers

DAVAO CITY, Philippines ––Officials and lawyers of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) may face obstruction of justice charges for allegedly aiding their leader, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, in evading arrest, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo reported that KOJC officers and legal representatives were notably vocal in denying Quiboloy’s presence in the KOJC compound, despite his subsequent arrest.

Quiboloy had been hiding after a Pasig City court issued a warrant for his arrest on charges of qualified human trafficking, and he also faces child sexual abuse accusations in Quezon City.

Quiboloy and his aides surrendered on September 8 after a 16-day police operation at the KOJC compound in Davao City. The PNP is considering a rescue operation for additional victims identified by five survivors, who claim there are others still in danger inside the KOJC organization.

The PNP has gathered personal information on these victims, who fear reprisal from Quiboloy’s alleged private army, the “Angels of Death.” Victims are encouraged to seek assistance from outside the KOJC, and the PNP is coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development to address the situation. Additional child abuse cases are expected to be filed against Quiboloy.

Former President Rodrigo Duterte, Vice President Sara Duterte, and Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa have been accused by some lawmakers of potentially aiding Quiboloy’s evasion and could face obstruction charges.

Lawmakers 1Rider Partylist Rep. Rodge Gutierrez, House Deputy Majority Leader Jude Acidre, and House Assistant Majority Leader Paolo Ortega V have suggested that if these figures knowingly concealed Quiboloy’s whereabouts, they could be criminally liable.

The PNP intends to file obstruction of justice complaints against those suspected of harboring Quiboloy, alleging that his associates misled authorities about his location. Quiboloy, along with Jackielyn Roy, Ingrid Canada, Cresente Canada, and Sylvia Cemanes, is currently detained at the PNP Custodial Facility in Camp Crame, while others have been moved to Pasig City Jail.

All accused, including Paulene Canada, who was arrested in July, have pleaded not guilty to human trafficking and child abuse charges.