Senator Robin Padilla has initiated efforts to rally support from fellow members of the Senate committee on women, children, family relations, and gender equality to oppose the issuance of a warrant of arrest against Kingdom of Jesus Christ leader Apollo Quiboloy.
This move comes in the wake of disclosures from Senator Francis Tolentino, who revealed ongoing efforts to overturn the ruling of panel chairperson, Senator Risa Hontiveros. Hontiveros had issued the order for Quiboloy’s arrest after he refused to attend the Senate investigation into alleged sexual abuses and human trafficking within the religious group.
Tolentino stated in a press conference on Wednesday that there is a group gathering necessary signatures to thwart any attempt for the issuance of a warrant of arrest.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri confirmed Padilla’s initiative, stating that Padilla discussed the move with him. Zubiri mentioned that Padilla claimed to be able to secure a majority of the committee members to overrule the chairperson’s order.
Senator Imee Marcos affirmed Padilla’s efforts and indicated her intention to be among the signatories opposing the contempt order. She also hinted at possible support from Senators Bong Go and Cynthia Villar.
In questioning the ongoing probe against Quiboloy, Marcos raised doubts about its legislative relevance. She argued that the Senate should focus on legislative matters rather than acting as a prosecutorial body.
Padilla, Marcos, and other members of the Senate panel have seven days, as per the rules, to reverse or modify the contempt order issued by Hontiveros.
GMA News Online sought confirmation from Padilla regarding the move to gather signatures but has yet to receive a response.
During the Senate investigation, Hontiveros cited Quiboloy in contempt for repeatedly ignoring subpoenas. Padilla raised objections to the ruling, prompting the current efforts to oppose it.
The committee includes Senators Nancy Binay, Pia Cayetano, Cynthia Villar, Grace Poe, Raffy Tulfo, Bong Go, JV Ejercito, and Mark Villar, with ex-officio members Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda, Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, and Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III.