By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Two lawmakers from Davao have called for a thorough investigation in aid of legislation following reports that police rescued human trafficking victims from the 30-hectare compound of fugitive Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy, the self-proclaimed “Appointed Son of God.”
In separate statements on Monday, House Assistant Minority Leaders Cheeno Miguel Almario and Migs Nograles expressed deep concern over the incident, which occurred as police attempted to serve an arrest warrant against Quiboloy at the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) compound.
“We are alarmed that when authorities enforced a valid arrest warrant for Apollo Quiboloy at the KOJC compound, they discovered alleged victims of human trafficking. This clearly indicates that there is substantial evidence supporting the accusations against him,” Almario said.
Nograles echoed Almario’s sentiments, commending the authorities for their decisive action.
“I applaud the authorities for rescuing these young individuals. However, I strongly condemn any attempts to defend or downplay the severity of these crimes. Human trafficking is a grave offense that cannot be dismissed or ignored. Allowing it to occur on one’s premises is serious, but being complicit in such heinous acts is an even graver offense,” Nograles stated.
Quiboloy, who has been named KOJC Administrator, is also the spiritual adviser of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.
“Pastor Quiboloy did not act alone. We must ask: Who are his accomplices? Who managed the property, knew of its operations, and allowed such crimes against humanity to take place?” Nograles questioned.
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