Apollo Quiboloy, the self-proclaimed “son of God,” pleaded not guilty to human trafficking charges during a court hearing in Pasig City on Friday, September 13. His lawyer, Israelito Torreon, confirmed the plea as Quiboloy faced charges after months of evading authorities.
According to a PhilStar report, Quiboloy arrived at the Pasig City Regional Trial Court under tight security, wearing a bulletproof vest and helmet. While proceedings were closed to the public, Torreon addressed the media briefly, stating, “Not guilty ang kanyang plea,” but refrained from further comments as the case is now under the court’s jurisdiction.
The 72-year-old religious leader had been on the run since arrest warrants were issued by courts in Davao and Pasig as early as April. His capture followed an intense manhunt, culminating in a standoff at the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) compound in Davao City in late August. The Philippine National Police deployed drones to the area, where KOJC followers blocked a national highway in protest, leading to injuries among several police officers. The standoff ended when Quiboloy surrendered.
Aside from his Philippine legal troubles, Quiboloy faces additional charges in the United States, including sex trafficking, conspiracy, and bulk cash smuggling. Allegations of sexual abuse involving victims as young as 12 years old have also emerged. Furthermore, Quiboloy is wanted by the Philippine Senate for failing to attend hearings related to his alleged criminal activities.
