A Pasig court has rejected the request of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder Apollo Quiboloy to attend a live television interview regarding his filing of a certificate of candidacy (COC) for senator in the upcoming elections.
In a three-page order, the Pasig Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 159 highlighted concerns about the potential risks of public statements Quiboloy might make during the interview, emphasizing that such pronouncements could influence public perception of the ongoing legal proceedings.
The court acknowledged Quiboloy’s right to seek public office and participate in lawful campaign activities but noted that this right is not absolute and is subject to regulation by the court, GMA News reported.
The order further stated, “While accused Quiboloy is not limited to a live media interview as the sole means of campaigning or sharing his platform, the court must ensure fairness in the trial process.”
Quiboloy had requested the court’s approval to attend a live interview organized by ABS-CBN News on January 14. However, the court pointed out that his motion lacked a formal invitation from the network, which hindered the court’s ability to set appropriate parameters for the interview.
“As a result of the failure to substantiate his request and to preserve the fairness of the trial and confidentiality of the proceedings, the court has decided to exercise its discretion and deny Quiboloy’s participation in the live interview,” the court stated.
The order, issued on January 13, 2025, comes as Quiboloy faces a non-bailable qualified human trafficking charge under Section 4(a) of Republic Act No. 9208, as well as charges under Sections 5(b) and 10(a) of Republic Act No. 7610, concerning the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act. Quiboloy has pleaded not guilty to the charges.