A regional court in Pasig City rejected on Monday, Jan. 13, the request of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder Apollo Quiboloy to attend a live television interview regarding his filing of a certificate of candidacy (COC) as a senatorial candidate in the upcoming election.
In a three-page order, the Pasig Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 159 denied the motion, stating that “the accused Quiboloy should not participate in the live interview as accused Quiboloy may discuss the merits of his case, potentially affecting public perception of how the court is handling the matter.”
It added that allowing Quiboloy to participate in the interview could expose the Court to public prejudice, compromising its integrity.
“The Court takes note of the legal consequences and risks associated with any public statements that accused Quiboloy may pronounce during the interview. Any discussion of the merits of his pending criminal case or commentary that could influence public perception of the judiciary or the ongoing proceedings may undermine the impartiality and integrity of the judicial process. Considering that this Court will not be able to oversee or monitor the live broadcast, there is a risk that any such statements will prejudice the ongoing criminal case,” it read.
While acknowledging Quiboloy's right to seek public office and engage in lawful campaign activities, the court clarified that this right is not absolute and is subject to regulation.
It added that “Quiboloy is not restricted to the live media interview as his sole means of campaigning and sharing his platform with the public.”
Quiboloy has been charged in the Philippines with qualified human trafficking and child abuse—both non-bailable offenses. In the United States (US), he had been charged with sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion; conspiracy; and bulk cash smuggling.
He filed his COC for senator through an authorized representative, lawyer Mark Tolentino, in October 2024. Tolentino refused to be interviewed by the media but gave a two-minute speech. He says that Quiboloy is running for senator because he wants to be part of the solution in the country.
If elected, Tolentino said Quiboloy will prioritize religious freedom, quality education, and the elimination of corruption.
Related story: https://mb.com.ph/2024/12/29/explosive-revelations-leadership-tension-marks-senate-s-2024