PASIG—Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros described the arraignment of Apollo Quiboloy, leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), as a crucial step toward achieving justice for his alleged victims.
According to Philippines News Agency, Senator Hontiveros stated in a press release on Friday, “It is only right for Apollo Quiboloy to face the law. He and his co-accused have caused unspeakable pain to women, children, and the most vulnerable.” She added, “Bringing them to court is a big step towards absolute justice.”
Quiboloy, along with his aides Jackielyn Roy, Cresente Canada, Ingrid Canada, and Sylvia Cemañes, were arraigned on human trafficking charges at the Pasig Regional Trial Court Branch 159 on Friday morning. All defendants entered not guilty pleas.
Senator Hontiveros also noted that the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality, which she chairs, is in the process of scheduling another public hearing to further investigate alleged abuses within KOJC. She intends to seek court permission for Quiboloy to attend the hearing in compliance with the Senate’s standing warrant against him, anticipating that more witnesses will come forward to testify.