In a recent development, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, the founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KoJC), has issued a challenge to Senator Ana Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros. Instead of engaging in a smear campaign to tarnish his reputation, Quiboloy has urged Hontiveros to file charges against him in court.
Quiboloy firmly stated that he would not allow Hontiveros to destroy his reputation based on the testimonies of what he referred to as “bogus” witnesses who were compelled to wear masks during a Senate inquiry. He emphasized that the truth should be sought, not in a Senate hearing, but in a court of law.
“I will not subject myself to unfair statements. I will not subject myself to injustices that are done in a cloak of a Senate hearing. But I will face you, even if you present a hundred witnesses, in a court of law,” Quiboloy boldly expressed to Hontiveros.
The pastor further challenged the senator to bring the matter to the appropriate venue if the witnesses she presented during the Women and Children Panel hearing, which she chairs, were indeed genuine. Quiboloy urged Hontiveros to go to court, provide detailed allegations in an affidavit, and have the witnesses sign it before charging him.
Quiboloy emphasized that the determination of guilt or innocence should not be made solely in a Senate hearing. He firmly stated, “The guilt and innocence of any person is not determined in a Senate hearing.”
He went on to express his disappointment, stating that if Hontiveros failed to respect his constitutional rights by not pursuing legal action, he would no longer hold her in high regard as a senator. Quiboloy felt that the senator was relying on innuendos and smearing his reputation without concrete evidence.
By challenging Hontiveros to take the matter to court, Quiboloy aims to ensure a fair and impartial assessment of the allegations made against him. He believes that a court of law will provide a more appropriate platform for the truth to surface, rather than a potentially biased Senate hearing.
It is important to note that this development highlights the significance of due process and the rule of law. Quiboloy’s call for legal action demonstrates his commitment to upholding his constitutional rights and seeking justice through proper channels.
As this story unfolds, it will be interesting to see how Senator Hontiveros responds to Quiboloy’s challenge. Will she take the pastor up on his offer and pursue charges in court? Or will she continue to rely on the Senate hearing as a means to address the allegations against him?
Regardless of the outcome, this situation serves as a reminder that legal proceedings are crucial in establishing the truth and ensuring fairness. It also emphasizes the importance of respecting the rights of individuals involved, regardless of their public stature.
As international audiences follow this story, it is essential to provide them with contextual information regarding the legal system and customs of the Philippines. This will enable them to better understand the significance of Quiboloy’s challenge and the implications it may have on the ongoing investigation.
In conclusion, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy’s decision to challenge Senator Risa Hontiveros to file charges against him in court instead of engaging in a smear campaign demonstrates his commitment to seeking justice through proper legal channels. By urging Hontiveros to pursue a fair assessment of the allegations made against him, Quiboloy emphasizes the importance of due process and the rule of law. As this story unfolds, it will be interesting to see how Senator Hontiveros responds and whether she will accept Quiboloy’s challenge.
Source: The Manila Times