23-10-2024 (MANILA) Apollo Quiboloy, the controversial religious figure who calls himself the “Appointed Son of God”, has vehemently denied new allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation during a dramatic Senate hearing that marked his first public appearance since his recent indictment on trafficking charges.
The 74-year-old founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) church faced direct confrontation from former church members during Wednesday’s parliamentary probe, which revealed disturbing accounts of alleged sexual abuse, exploitation, and financial misconduct.
In emotional testimony, former church member Teresita Valdehueza recounted her harrowing experience during her 19-year membership, which ended in 1999. She described how her religious devotion was allegedly exploited, leading to sexual abuse. “What I believed to be a divine privilege turned into a nightmare,” she told senators, struggling to maintain composure as she detailed forced isolation and a seven-month mandatory fast as “punishment”.
Ukrainian former member Yulya Tartova provided equally troubling testimony, alleging spiritual coercion and sexual abuse. She claimed Quiboloy used threats of eternal damnation to force compliance with his demands.
Additional allegations emerged regarding child exploitation, including claims that teenagers were forced to abandon their education to sell goods for church funding, and workers were compelled to violate labour regulations during the construction of his media company’s facilities.
Quiboloy, who was arrested last month following a massive police operation at his Davao compound, maintained his innocence throughout the hearing. “These accusations are completely false,” he declared, challenging his accusers to pursue formal legal action regarding the new allegations.
The case has sparked political tension, with former President Rodrigo Duterte and his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, criticising law enforcement’s handling of Quiboloy’s arrest. Their stance has highlighted growing friction with the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The religious leader’s legal troubles extend beyond Philippine borders, as he features on the FBI’s most wanted list in the United States. American authorities have charged him with operating a sex-trafficking ring that allegedly used spiritual manipulation and physical abuse to control victims.
