Metro Manila, Philippines—President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Monday that Apollo Quiboloy, founder and leader of religious group Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), will not receive special treatment under the custody of authorities.
In an interview with reporters, Marcos said Quiboloy is like any person under arrest who should go through due process.“Of course, we will ensure that everything is done correctly, that all of his rights are respected, and that none of his rights are violated. None of his requests, whatever they may be, will be disregarded. But again, there will be no special treatment,” said Marcos. “We will treat him like any other arrested person. We’ll respect his rights, and we will go through the process. The process will be transparent, and everyone involved will be held accountable,” he added.The Philippine National Police said Quiboloy surrendered after authorities issued a 24-hour ultimatum. Meanwhile, KOJC lawyer Israelito Torreon said Quiboloy’s surrender was an “ultimate sacrifice” for the welfare of his followers.“He could not bear to witness a second longer the sufferings that his flock was experiencing for many days,” he said.Quiboloy and his associates are facing charges of child abuse and human trafficking in the Pasig City courts.While Quiboloy also has trafficking of girls and women charges in the US in 2021 Marcos a possible extradition request is not on the table yet, the religious leader will first face charges in local courts.
