The Department of Justice (DOJ) has taken legal action against Apollo Quiboloy, founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), and five others for their alleged involvement in the sexual abuse and qualified human trafficking of a then 17-year-old female in 2011.
The charges were filed before the regional trial courts (RTCs) in Davao City and Pasig City.
In Davao City RTC, Quiboloy and his co-accused are facing criminal complaints for violating provisions of Republic Act (RA) N0. 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.
Simultaneously, in Pasig City RTC, a case has been filed against the respondents for reportedly breaking RA 9208 or the Anti-Trafficking Persons Act of 2003.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla earlier said his department will move for the transfer of the Davao City RTC case to any RTC branch in Manila.
“The Department of Justice is dedicated to the enforcement of our laws and the protection of our children from exploitation and abuse,” he said.
“These cases underscore our commitment to hold accountable those who would harm our society’s most vulnerable,” the DOJ secretary added.
He also said the cases also serve as “a reminder that no individual, regardless of their position, is above the law.”
The filing of the case in Davao City RTC was contained in a resolution issued by Remulla who granted the petition for review of the female victim. She sought the reversal of the Nov. 23, 2020 resolution of the Davao City Prosecutor’s Office that dismissed her complaint against Quiboloy and his co-accused.
Remulla’s resolution also resulted in the filing of charges before the appropriate court in Pasig City of the case of qualified human trafficking.