The Catholic Church’s social action and justice arm called for public vigilance as the court and lawmakers probe the sex trafficking allegations against pastor Apollo Quiboloy.
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Caritas Philippines stressed that staying alert is crucial to achieving justice for the alleged victims of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder.
“It is through collective vigilance that we ensure justice is served and human dignity is protected,” said its president, Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo.
The Kidapawan bishop said that the heart of the case are victims “who have suffered immensely.”
“Their protection, care, and recovery must be prioritized, along with the support of their families, who carry a heavy burden,” he said.
The national Caritas made the statement following the arrest of the preacher after two weeks of manhunt inside a sprawling KOJC compound in the city of Davao.
In April, two local courts issued arrest warrants for Quiboloy and others on charges of sexual abuse and human trafficking.
The previous month, the Senate has also issued a warrant for Quiboloy for failing to attend a prove into alleged abuses in his church.
The bishop also urged that Quiboloy not be given any special treatment after his arrest.
“The law must apply equally to all… and that justice will proceed without favoritism,” Bagaforo added.
