Former President Rodrigo Duterte might face complaints for obstruction of justice for not disclosing the whereabouts of fugitive Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, the Philippine National Police (PNP) announced on Monday.
Duterte, a known ally of Quiboloy, stated last week, “Alam ko kung san si Pastor, pero secret,” indicating he knew the televangelist’s location but refused to reveal it.
“Obstruction of justice po ‘yan. And we’re checking po if we can file against these people,” PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said.
“I just want to make it clear, hindi po siya pastor. He’s a fugitive of the law. Tatlong buwan na e, more than 2 months na pong nagtatago,” Marbil told TeleRadyo Serbisyo.
When asked if the PNP would file a complaint against Duterte, Marbil responded, “Sabi niya na alam niya, then we’re looking and we’re getting witnesses to file a case against these people. Hindi po tayo puwedeng magtago ng pugante.”
“Kung sino mang nagtatago n’yan, same gobyerno tayo. Kung tingin mo talagang… siya [ay] inosente, then go to court,” he added.
Quiboloy is facing sexual abuse and trafficking charges in Davao City and Pasig City courts following complaints from former members of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC). Quiboloy has claimed the allegations are fabricated by disgruntled former members.
Duterte serves as the administrator of KOJC properties. Last June, a clash occurred between law enforcers and KOJC supporters in Davao when authorities attempted to serve arrest warrants against Quiboloy.
Both sides have threatened to file legal actions against each other over the incident.