Interior chief pushes justice obstruction probe in Quiboloy arrest

Metro Manila, Philippines – Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos said he is pushing for an investigation of people who may have helped fugitive Pastor Apollo Quiboloy in hiding from authorities.

For two weeks, the police tried to arrest Quiboloy at the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) compound in Davao City. He surrendered to authorities with four others on Sept. 8.

Abalos said he is sure people will be guilty of obstruction of justice.

“Sabi nga ni [Philippine National Police] chief (PGen Rommel Marbil), maraming panlilinlang na ginawa. Pangalawa, ang publiko mismo ang testigo rito kung papaano ilang beses kaming pinigilan,” he said in a press briefing on Monday, Sept. 9.

[Translation: Chief has said that there were many deceptions. Second, the public witnessed how we were prevented.]

“Kung ganu’n pala kabilis na isu-surrender daw nila si Pastor Quiboloy, ibig sabihin, all the while alam nila ang pinagtataguan niya,” he noted.

[Translation: If that was how fast they could surrender Pastor Quiboloy, it means, all the while they know that he is hiding.]

Quiboloy and his co-accused were presented before the media at Camp Crame in Quezon City where they are detained.

Since the authorities began operations on Aug. 24, the police and KOJC members have clashed resulting in injuries on both sides.

On the other hand, complaints were filed against Abalos, Marbil, and other officials, including former President Rodrigo Duterte who filed two counts of malicious mischief against the interior chief.

Abalos said such opposition is part of their job.