Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder Apollo Quiboloy received the subpoena, which compels him to appear before a Senate hearing to answer complaints related to human trafficking, labor violations, and sex-related offenses filed against him by former members of his organization.
KOJC legal counsel Marie Dinah Tolentino Fuentes received a copy of the subpoena ad testificandum addressed to their leader on Thursday, Feb. 22, at 1:30 PM.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri signed the document. Sen. Risa Hontiveros, chair of the Senate committee on women, children, and family relations issued the subpoena.
Senate rules provide that persons who defied its subpoenas to attend the chamber’s legislative hearings can be cited for contempt and held in its detention facility.
Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian told Quiboloy to attend the Senate hearing to explain his side on the crimes being hurled against him. He said a legislative committee is not a court that will issue case decisions.
The senator also cited the importance of respecting the process, especially when it comes to investigation, inquiry, and Senate hearings.
“Those processes are being followed by all whether you are rich or poor, famous or not, those are being followed by all,” he said.
The senator also said congressional inquiries are opportunities for one to clear his name and explain the truth and afford one self the time to explain his side or what he knows.
The conduct of an inquiry, Gatchalian said, is not just to hear the side of the accuser, but also the accused.
The senator also advised Quiboloy not to hide because it is a sign of guilt. “So, the best way is to respect the process,” Gatchalian said.