- NBI arrests Quiboloy’s supporters named in child abuse case; pastor’s whereabouts unknown
THE NATIONAL Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Davao Region arrested three individuals, including a barangay chairman, on Wednesday, April 3, in connection with the child abuse case filed against Pastor Apollo Quiboloy and his alleged associates.
In an interview with the media on Wednesday afternoon at his office, lawyer Archie Albao said Tamayong Punong Barangay Cresente Canada was apprehended in his residence based on the arrest warrant issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 12 Judge Dante Baguio.
“We directly proceeded to their address,” Albao said, adding that the official surrendered without a fight.
Suspects Paulene Canada and Sylvia Cemañes also turned themselves in to the NBI office later that afternoon.
The arrest warrant named the three for violating Section 10(A) of Republic Act No. 7610, or “Other acts of child abuse.” Albao did not disclose details of the case but confirmed it involved two separate accusations.
“We are processing the necessary documents for the arrested individuals to post bail in court,” Albao stated. The recommended bail bond was P80,000 each.
Quiboloy’s whereabouts unknown
Albao confirmed that Quiboloy was not present during the operation after searching three locations, including a resort property owned by the pastor in Samal Island.
“We haven’t located Pastor Quiboloy as of now,” Albao said. “The warrant-serving operation continues.”
Meanwhile, lawyer Nhassie John Gonzaga, representing the three arrested individuals in the child abuse case, declined to comment on the specifics of the accusations.
“We are currently assisting our clients with the bail process following their voluntary surrender,” Gonzaga told reporters.
Gonzaga also said they do not know where Pastor Quiboloy is now, and would not comment further as the case is ongoing.
Quiboloy and his supporters face charges of Child Abuse and Sexual Abuse under Republic Act 7610.
Last Month, the Senate’s Office of Sergeant-at-Arms (OSAA) was given the green light to arrest Quiboloy after Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri signed the order.
This is due to Quiboloy’s continued refusal to appear before the inquiry of the Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality chaired by Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros into reported human trafficking, rape, sexual abuse and violence, and child abuse in KOJC.
DCPO, PRO XI to meet on warrant
On Wednesday, the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) confirmed receiving the warrant of arrest issued by the Regional Trial Court branch 12 against the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader and five supporters.
Speaking in yesterday’s AFP-PNP press briefing held at The Royal Mandaya Hotel, city police spokesperson Captain Hazel Tuazon said DCPO director Col. Richard Bad-ang will meet with Police Regional Office XI director Brig. Gen. Alden Delvo to discuss the next steps.
While some media outlets have obtained the warrant, details remain undisclosed pending the meeting.
PRO XI spokesperson Major Catherine Dela Rey said they received a memorandum from the Senate sergeant-at-arms (OSSA) requesting assistance, but no date has been set for their arrival.
If arrested by the PNP, Dela Rey explained that Quiboloy would be held at their custodial facility. If the Senate sergeant-at-arms serves the warrant, they will determine whether to insist on his appearance in the committee hearing.
The meeting will also determine Quiboloy’s place of custody, either at a police station or barracks.
“There will be no special treatment,” Dela Rey said. “The facility is prepared for all detainees.”
She added that Quiboloy’s supporters facing arrest will be detained in the same facility.
