Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, who is facing serious legal charges, has filed to run for senator in the Philippines. The Department of Justice (DOJ) sees this move as a bold challenge to both the Philippine and US governments, daring them to take action on his possible extradition.
DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano explained during a briefing that Quiboloy’s candidacy might be his way of provoking the governments to act, especially considering he is accused of human trafficking. He pointed out that it is inappropriate for someone facing such accusations to seek public office.
Currently, the US has not yet officially requested Quiboloy’s extradition, despite his legal troubles both in the US and the Philippines. Clavano added that Quiboloy might be attempting to use his candidacy as a form of protection, but stressed that running for office should not be used as a shield from prosecution.
Quiboloy is facing charges of child abuse and qualified trafficking in the Philippines. In the US, he faces more severe charges, including sex trafficking of children and conspiracy to commit marriage fraud. While one of his associates has already pleaded guilty to a related crime in the US, Clavano clarified that this admission does not automatically impact Quiboloy’s cases in the Philippines.
Prosecutors, however, are expected to use this information as part of their strategy moving forward.
As of now, Quiboloy’s camp has not commented on the issue.
