26-8-2024 (DAVAO CITY) Tensions flared in the southern Philippine city of Davao on Sunday as a police operation to apprehend controversial evangelical preacher Apollo Quiboloy descended into violence, leaving six officers injured and exposing deepening rifts within the country’s political landscape.
The attempted arrest, targeting Quiboloy at a religious compound believed to be his hideout, sparked fierce resistance from hundreds of his supporters. Armed with stones and knives, protesters clashed with law enforcement, resulting in injuries and widespread disruption.
This marks the second unsuccessful attempt by authorities to detain Quiboloy, who faces serious allegations of abuse and human trafficking – charges vehemently denied by his followers. The televangelist, known for his close ties to former President Rodrigo Duterte’s family, has managed to evade capture, further complicating an already volatile situation.
The incident has thrust into sharp relief the growing schism between the Duterte clan and the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. As the country approaches midterm elections, the political ramifications of this confrontation could prove significant.
Responding to the unrest, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin emphasised the government’s stance, stating, “He is answerable to the law. The law must take its course. There’s a process.” This measured response from the presidential office appears aimed at defusing tensions while maintaining a firm line on law enforcement.
However, Vice President Sara Duterte, daughter of the former president, has taken a markedly different stance. Criticising what she termed “grave abuse of police power” in the attempted arrest, she even went so far as to apologise to Quiboloy’s followers for having urged them to support Marcos in the 2022 elections – a move that underscores the deepening political divide.
Adding international dimensions to the case, Quiboloy also features on the US Federal Bureau of Investigation’s wanted list, accused of labour and sex trafficking. This global attention further complicates the domestic handling of the situation.
The weekend’s events caused significant disruption in Davao, with hundreds of church members occupying a highway near the airport, leading to traffic chaos. While flights remained operational, airlines like Cebu Air warned of potential delays and offered rebooking options to affected passengers.
