Philippine celebrity pastor Apollo Quiboloy, known for his claim to be the “Appointed Son of God,” pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking charges during his arraignment in Manila on Friday. Quiboloy, who is facing multiple allegations including child abuse and money laundering both in the Philippines and the United States, appeared in court handcuffed and wearing a bulletproof helmet and vest.
Quiboloy’s lawyer, Israelito Torreon, maintained his client’s innocence, stating, “He is innocent.” A pre-trial hearing has been scheduled for October. Quiboloy is also expected to enter a plea later on Friday regarding separate child abuse charges.
The charges against Quiboloy stem from a case filed in 2019, with the alleged victims seeking justice since then. Joahna Paula Domingo, a co-counsel representing the victims, expressed optimism ahead of the court proceedings, saying, “It is our firm belief that the truth regarding the alleged criminal acts of Apollo C. Quiboloy and his co-accused will ultimately be disclosed.”
“It is worthy to note that these cases have been filed in 2019 and we have long been seeking justice for the complainant since then,” she added.
Quiboloy, who commands a massive following in the Philippines and maintains close ties with former President Rodrigo Duterte, has faced increasing legal pressure in recent years. His arrest followed a weeks-long search of his church’s expansive 30-hectare compound, involving over 2,000 security personnel.
As he arrived at the courthouse, Quiboloy addressed his supporters, encouraging them to “stay strong” in the face of his legal battles.
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