Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, who claims the title of the “Appointed Son of God” and boasts millions of followers in the Philippines, is currently embroiled in a series of legal battles that implicate both his church and himself. Known as a close ally of former President Rodrigo Duterte, Quiboloy has supported Duterte’s political endeavors, including his 2016 presidential campaign.
Despite the growing number of legal problems, Quiboloy remains at his prayer mountain, where he continues to lead his congregation. His legal counsel, Ferdinand Topacio, responded to the mounting challenges by quoting Bible verses and emphasizing the power of prayer. “With a lot of prayers,” Topacio remarked when asked about Quiboloy’s plans to address the legal issues.
Topacio drew parallels between Quiboloy’s current predicament and the persecution faced by the apostles of Jesus Christ, suggesting that the pastor is being unjustly targeted. “This is what is happening to Pastor Quiboloy at the hands of this government,” Topacio shared in an online message with Philstar.com.
Ongoing Legal Cases
U.S. Court Quiboloy faces serious charges in the United States, including conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking, sex trafficking of children, and sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion. These charges stem from allegations that Quiboloy and his associates exploited members of his church, the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), by bringing them to the U.S. on fraudulently obtained visas. The indictment also accuses Quiboloy of using these individuals for forced solicitation and other exploitative activities.
On November 10, 2021, a federal warrant was issued for Quiboloy’s arrest. In February 2022, the FBI added him to its most wanted list for his alleged involvement in a labor trafficking scheme.
Senate of the Philippines In the Philippines, Quiboloy faces multiple investigations led by Senator Risa Hontiveros. These include allegations of human trafficking, labor violations, and sex-related offenses within the KOJC. The Senate’s inquiry was sparked by reports of large-scale human trafficking, rape, and other abuses allegedly perpetrated by Quiboloy and his associates. Quiboloy has refused to attend Senate hearings, choosing instead to address the allegations through legal channels.
House of Representatives Quiboloy’s media network, Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI), is also under scrutiny. A bill has been filed in the House of Representatives to revoke SMNI’s legislative franchise due to alleged violations, including the dissemination of false information. Quiboloy has ignored multiple subpoenas to appear before the House committee investigating these issues.
Other Legal Challenges Quiboloy also faces a range of other legal issues, including charges of sexual abuse of a minor and qualified human trafficking. The Department of Justice recently reversed the dismissal of a 2020 case against him, ordering the filing of new charges.
As Quiboloy continues to face these mounting legal challenges, his followers and legal team maintain that he is being persecuted for his faith. The outcome of these cases will likely have significant implications for both Quiboloy and his church.