Apollo Quiboloy, the self-proclaimed “Son of God” and leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), has officially filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) for the Senate in the 2025 elections. This was confirmed by Commission on Elections (Comelec) chairman George Garcia, who stated that Quiboloy’s lawyer, Mark Tolentino, filed the COC on his behalf.
Quiboloy, currently detained and facing numerous legal charges both in the Philippines and the United States, is running on a platform focused on religious freedom, according to Tolentino. “Pastor Apollo Quiboloy is running for Senator of the Republic of the Philippines because he wants to be a part of the solution. His platform is God-centered, Philippine-centered, and Filipino-centered, with a priority on religious freedom,” Tolentino explained in a press briefing.
Tolentino emphasized that Quiboloy is pushing for the protection of religious rights, stating, “Pastor Quiboloy believes religious freedom is inviolable. The government should secure the holy grounds against state forces.” Additionally, Quiboloy’s platform includes improving healthcare for the poor by providing free medicine and medical services, fighting corruption, and ensuring quality education for all Filipinos.
The lawyer further claimed that Quiboloy’s advocacy for religious freedom and helping the poor is evident in his work within KOJC. “The things Pastor did in KOJC, he will do the same for all Filipinos,” Tolentino added.
Despite his political bid, Quiboloy is embroiled in several legal battles. He faces charges under the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act, as well as qualified human trafficking allegations, with some accusations coming from former KOJC members. Additionally, in the United States, he is charged with conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion, sex trafficking of children, and bulk cash smuggling.
Quiboloy is not the only aspirant seeking a Senate seat. Eric Martinez, an incumbent representative from Valenzuela’s Second District, has also filed his candidacy as an independent. Martinez, who has been in politics since 1992, expressed his confidence, stating, “I am a serious candidate for the Senate.” He highlighted his long-standing political career as preparation for this next step.