Controversial Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, who has been elusive to the public eye in recent months, made headlines once again as he was spotted at a social gathering alongside former President Rodrigo Duterte, weeks after declaring that he had gone into hiding.
Adding fuel to the fire, Quiboloy released statements this week appointing Duterte as the administrator of his properties. Furthermore, a witness came forward with allegations against Quiboloy, claiming to have seen him multiple times with Former President Duterte and his daughter, Vice President Sarah Duterte, at Quiboloy’s compound. These revelations surfaced as several witnesses emerged to testify against Quiboloy’s alleged abuses towards some of his members.
In response to the mounting accusations, Quiboloy was summoned to appear before the Senate to address the allegations and face a hearing. However, he remained defiant, prompting Senator Riza Hontiveros to push for a contempt charge against him. Nevertheless, some senators, led by former actor turned senator Robin Padilla and supported by others including Senator Cynthia Villar, Bong Go, and Imee Marcos, opposed this move for various personal reasons.
Quiboloy’s troubles extend beyond the Philippines, as he also faces legal issues in the United States, where he is wanted for similar allegations of abuse. Despite his recent evasiveness, his appearance at a social gathering with Duterte and other supporters and bloggers of the former president raised eyebrows and stirred further controversy.
The situation escalated when Senator Riza Hontiveros criticized Quiboloy’s alleged “17 conditions” set before his appearance before the Senate Committee on Women, denouncing what she perceived as attempts to dictate terms to the Senate.
The unfolding saga involving Pastor Apollo Quiboloy continues to captivate public attention, shedding light on the complex intersection of religion, politics, and allegations of abuse. As the controversy deepens, many await Quiboloy’s next move and whether he will ultimately face accountability for the accusations leveled against him.