THE LEGAL counsel for Pastor Apollo Quiboloy and the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) is contesting the recent freeze order on their assets issued by the Court of Appeals (CA).
The freeze, requested by the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), affects bank accounts, properties, and other assets belonging to Quiboloy, the KOJC, and several associates.
Lawyer Israelito Torreon, speaking at a press conference aired on SMNI on Thursday evening, stated that they are eager to review the court order and file a motion to lift the freeze or potentially escalate the matter to the Supreme Court.
Torreon questioned the AMLC’s justification for the freeze, stating, “We have yet to see a reasonable connection between the alleged unlawful activities and the acquisition of these properties.”
Another lawyer from the defense team criticized the AMLC for the broad scope of the freeze order, which has impacted institutions like SMNI and the Children’s Joy Foundation.
They expressed concern about the potential disruption to these organizations’ operations, especially given that the freeze could last up to six months.
“So, what will happen sa loob ng 20 days operations. Ngayon na na freeze and worst based on the law it could extend up to six months ang freeze, so imagine the severe effect of the freeze(ing) this is just a preliminary step because supposed to be the reason why you are freezing that is to prevent any movement while pending ang investigation,” he further added.
The CA’s freeze order, issued on Aug. 7, aims to prevent any movement of funds or assets while investigations into the child abuse and qualified trafficking charges against Quiboloy and his associates are ongoing.
The frozen assets include numerous bank accounts, properties, vehicles, and even an aircraft.
Quiboloy, currently a fugitive, has previously named former President Rodrigo Duterte as his property administrator.
The asset freeze is expected to significantly impact the operations of institutions owned by Quiboloy and the KOJC.
Moreover, the government is actively pursuing the apprehension of Quiboloy and his associates, and the freeze order represents a significant development in the legal proceedings against them.
