Women’s groups back Quiboloy’s US extradition

MANILA, Philippines — Women and children’s rights groups have backed the extradition of Kingdom of Jesus Christ leader Apollo Quiboloy to the United States, saying the move marks a significant step toward accountability for women and girls who have accused him of trafficking and abuse.

Thirty organizations and 21 individuals also praised Sen. Risa Hontiveros for pursuing what they described as justice for women and children and for helping bring the allegations against Quiboloy to public attention through a Senate investigation.

In a joint statement, the groups said the Senate findings that Quiboloy “trafficked women and girls from around the world” were based on sworn testimonies, documentary evidence and accounts from multiple victims and witnesses.

They rejected arguments that the findings should be disregarded because the criminal cases against Quiboloy have yet to reach final judgment.

“The absence of a conviction at this stage does not erase the evidence that has already been presented or the testimonies of the women who have identified him as their trafficker,” the groups said.

They noted that Quiboloy remains entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence, including the opportunity to challenge the accusations and present his defense before a court.

“Justice demands that we uphold both the presumption of innocence in court and the right of survivors to have their voices recognized in the public sphere,” the groups said.

The groups also pointed to Quiboloy’s 2021 indictment by US federal prosecutors and his inclusion on the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s most-wanted list as part of the basis for the continuing legal proceedings against him.

They said due process should not mean silencing or disregarding the women who have come forward.

“The women who courageously came forward deserve to be heard, not erased,” the statement said.

The organizations urged continued support for lawful efforts to hold accountable those who exploit or traffic women and children.

Quiboloy, who has been detained in the Philippines since September 2024, faces criminal cases in the country as well as US charges involving sex trafficking, conspiracy and bulk cash smuggling.

The US government has sought his extradition, as confirmed by the US embassy, to face trial there.

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