More young women have come forward to disclose their ordeal at the hands of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy, the Philippine National Police (PNP) revealed on Wednesday, Sept. 11.
PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said a number of young women have already provided information about what the police described as systematic abuse of young women under Quiboloy’s influence.
“These individuals, referred to within his organization as ‘pastorals’, were reportedly subjected to exploitation and manipulation,” said Marbil.
“They provided new and alarming details regarding Apollo Quiboloy's alleged criminal activities. This will further intensify our ongoing investigation and efforts to bring him to justice,” he added.
Marbil said several of these victims were part of an ‘inner circle’, a select group of young women who have allegedly suffered sexual abuse at the hands of Quiboloy.
“These so-called ‘inner circle pastorals’ were particularly vulnerable, with victims as young as 12 years old. Their testimonies have been crucial in uncovering the full extent of Quiboloy’s alleged crimes,” said Marbil.
PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said some of the victims approached the police during the 16-day operation at the KOJC compound which started on Aug. 24 to serve the arrest warrant against Quiboloy for human trafficking and child abuse.
Fajardo said those who approached the PNP include the parents of minors who are allegedly subjected to sexual abuse by the religious leader.
“We are now in the process of coordinating with the DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and DevelopmentO because accordingly some of the parents of those abused children were the ones who approached our police officers. We are now in the process of documenting allegedly additional victims of Pastor Quiboloy,” said Fajardo.
Marbil, for his part, said the PNP is currently evaluating and verifying the information provided by the victims, with the ultimate goal of strengthening the legal actions against Quiboloy.
“This is just the beginning. The PNP is thoroughly examining the evidence to ensure that we build a solid case against Quiboloy. We will leave no stone unturned in this pursuit of justice,” said Marbil.
The official then urged other potential victims to come forward, assuring them of the authorities’ full protection and assistance.
“We encourage anyone who may still be suffering in silence to reach out. The PNP is here to help, and we will ensure that justice prevails for all the victims,” Marbil said.