(UPDATE) Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, the founder of the Davao-based church Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), is still in the country, contrary to reports that he has fled abroad to avoid being served congressional subpoenas.
According to Bureau of Immigration (BI) records, the 73-year-old Quiboloy last left the country on July 16 and returned home after six days, contradicting reports that he is in China.
There were initial reports that Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri did not immediately sign the subpoena requested by Sen. Ana Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros against Quiboloy. However, Zubiri signed the subpoena on February 19, explaining that he had been busy attending to pressing issues between the Senate and the House, as well as pending administrative work.
The subpoena compels Quiboloy to attend the Senate inquiry into the alleged abuses he committed against members of his group, some of whom have testified before senators.
Similarly, the House of Representatives issued a separate subpoena requiring Quiboloy’s presence during the March 12 hearing of the House legislative franchises committee. Rep. Ramon Rodrigo Gutierrez, the author of the bill seeking to revoke the franchise of Quiboloy’s Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI), stated that Quiboloy could be cited in contempt if he fails to show up at the hearing.
Other lawmakers, such as Rep. Margarita Nograles and Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, emphasized the importance of Quiboloy’s presence in the ongoing committee hearings.
The legislative franchises committee approved the issuance of a subpoena to Quiboloy on February 7, with Rep. Arlene Brosas stating that it is time for him to face the committee and answer their questions directly. During the hearing, it was clarified that Quiboloy served as SMNI’s honorary chairman and was not involved in its day-to-day operations.
The bill’s explanatory note highlights “numerous transgressions and abuses on the part of the franchise grantee,” specifically referring to infractions related to Section 4 of the franchise grant.
As the controversy surrounding Pastor Apollo Quiboloy and the subpoenas issued against him continues, it remains to be seen whether he will comply with the summons and attend the scheduled hearings. The allegations of abuses within his organization have triggered a significant level of public interest, and the testimonies of his group members will likely play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the inquiries.
It is essential for the relevant authorities to conduct a fair and thorough investigation, ensuring that all parties involved have the opportunity to present their side of the story. The outcome of these hearings will not only impact Quiboloy and his organization but also serve as a precedent for addressing similar cases in the future.
As the legal proceedings unfold, it is crucial to uphold the principles of justice and transparency, allowing the truth to prevail. The international community will be watching closely, as the outcome of this case will shape perceptions of the Philippines’ commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of its citizens.
Source: The Manila Times
