SC requires Senate to comment on arrest order vs Quiboloy

The Supreme Court (SC) has required the Senate to comment on the petition filed by Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder Apollo C. Quiboloy who challenged the arrest order issued against him.

SC Spokesperson Atty. Camille Sue Mae L. Ting said the High Court would deliberate on Quiboloy’s plea for a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the arrest order once the Senate’s comment is filed on the petition.

The ruling on the filing of the comment was arrived at the SC during its traditional summer sessions in Baguio City.  The Senate was given 10 days from receipt of the resolution to file its comment, both on the petition and the plea for TRO.

Quiboloy’s arrest was issued last March by the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality which is chaired by Sen. Risa Hontiveros.

Quiboloy was cited in contempt and an arrest order was subsequently issued for his refusal to participate in the Senate’s investigation.

In his petition, Quiboloy told the SC that the Senate’s issuance  and implementation of the arrest order against him are  “unjust and unconstitutional.”

He said the Senate’s investigation violates his constitutional rights to due process and against self-incrimination.

He also told the SC that the Senate hearings “do not serve any legislative purpose” and that the probe was tantamount to usurpation of judicial functions.

Two criminal cases have been filed against Quiboloy before the regional trial courts (RTCs) in Davao City and Pasig City.  Both courts have issued warrants of arrest.  Quiboloy has remained at large.

The cases involved the alleged trafficking of a 17-year-old girl and her sexual abuse by Quiboloy.

The cases in Pasig City RTC on qualified human trafficking is a non-bailable offense.

— Rey G. Panaligan and JJ Landingin