Quiboloy to Run for Senator in 2025
PASTOR APOLLO QUIBOLOY – The founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), is seeking a Senate seat in the 2025 midterm elections.
Quiboloy is a controversial pastor from Dumanlas, Buhangin, Davao City. He is the founder and leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), a Restorationist church he established in 1985, where he claims to be the “Appointed Son of God” and the “Owner of the Universe.” Quiboloy has been a prominent religious figure in the Philippines, known for his influential broadcasts through the Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI), which he founded. He has also gained recognition for his close relationship with former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.
Despite his prominence, Quiboloy’s reputation has been marred by serious allegations. He is currently on the FBI’s wanted list following an indictment in the Central District of California, facing charges including sex trafficking, human trafficking, marriage fraud, coercion, money laundering, and cash smuggling. Quiboloy has refused to cooperate with inquiries into alleged human rights violations, which led the Philippine Senate to issue an arrest warrant for him on March 19, 2024. The Department of the Interior and Local Government even offered a bounty of ₱10,000,000 (approximately $170,770) for information leading to his capture.
On September 8, 2024, Quiboloy was arrested by Philippine authorities and is currently incarcerated at the Philippine National Police Custodial Center in Quezon City. His case continues to attract significant media attention due to its implications for religious freedom and human rights in the Philippines.
Meanwhile, Quiboloy made headlines after his legal counsel, Attorney Mark Tolentino, announced that he is seeking a Senate seat in the 2025 midterm elections. According to his lawyer, he has filed the certificate of candidacy on behalf of the religious leader. The Commission on Elections (Comelec) confirmed the filing, with Chairperson George Erwin Garcia stating that it was submitted through a Special Power of Attorney.