Pasig RTC allows Quiboloy, co-accused to face Senate probe

MANILA, Philippines — The Pasig Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 159 has granted the request of the Senate committee on women, children, family relations and gender equality to allow Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy and his co-accused to attend a Senate hearing today.

The court order was made by acting RTC Presiding Judge Rainelda Estacio-Montesa, following a formal request from Sen. Risa Hontiveros, chairperson of the Senate committee.

The order, dated Oct. 21, requires the presence of Quiboloy and his co-accused at a Senate hearing led by Hontiveros scheduled for 10 a.m. today.

Quiboloy, through his legal counsel, had filed an opposition on Oct. 15, arguing that compelling him and his co-accused to appear before the Senate would infringe upon their constitutional rights.

The opposition, later adopted by the other accused in their separate manifestations, cited concerns over the right against self-incrimination and the presumption of innocence, as well as potential legislative overreach.

However, the court, in its ruling, emphasized that a legislative inquiry is not automatically barred by the filing of a criminal case.

The order directed the jail warden of the Pasig City Jail and the chief of the PNP Custodial Center in Camp Crame, Quezon City to ensure the secure transfer and escort of Quiboloy, Jackielyn Roy, Cresente, Ingrid, Paulene Canada and Sylvia Cemanes to the Senate session hall in Pasay for the hearing.

Quiboloy and his co-accused are facing charges of child sexual abuse and human trafficking. — Jose Rodel Clapano