INTERIOR Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. reiterated his call for fugitive Pastor Apollo Quiboloy to surrender, as authorities intensify efforts to apprehend him on charges of sexual exploitation and human trafficking involving minors.
Speaking at an event in Cagayan de Oro on September 3, Abalos, alongside Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla and Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, addressed the media on the Quiboloy case.
Abalos confirmed that police intelligence indicates Quiboloy is likely hiding within the three-hectare compound of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), which has required the deployment of thousands of police officers.
“Based on all our intelligence reports, he’s there. We wouldn’t send this many officers without good reason,” Abalos said, acknowledging the challenges of navigating such a large and complex area to carry out the arrest.
Abalos assured the public that law enforcement would respect the human rights of KOJC members and students caught up in the operation.
He appealed to the public not to blame the police, adding that they are merely fulfilling their duty to execute the arrest warrant.
“Pastor Quiboloy is facing serious charges, including molestation of a minor and human trafficking. These are the people’s cases now, not just anyone’s,” Abalos stressed, urging Quiboloy to face the allegations.
When asked about Vice President Sara Duterte’s remark that Quiboloy is “in heaven,” Abalos laughed it off, affirming the government’s determination to find him.
“This is a serious matter. He needs to face these accusations,” he said.
Abalos also called on Quiboloy’s lawyer, Atty. Torreleo, and his friends to convince him to surrender.
“If he’s innocent, so be it. But if not, he must be held accountable. This involves a child, this is human trafficking, and we must uphold the law,” Abalos said.
