Duterte Expresses Support for the Candidacy of Quiboloy
RODRIGO DUTERTE – The former president announced his full support for Pastor Apollo Quiboloy’s senatorial candidacy, pledging to campaign for him throughout the country despite his pending cases. Quiboloy faces charges of qualified human trafficking and child abuse.
In a press conference, Duterte expressed confidence in Quiboloy’s capabilities, describing him as a bright, observant individual who would be an “asset” to the country. Duterte emphasized his commitment to campaigning for Quiboloy, stating, “I will campaign for him all throughout the country.”
Quiboloy is a controversial pastor from Dumanlas, Buhangin, Davao City, who founded the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) in 1985. He claims to be the “Appointed Son of God” and the “Owner of the Universe.” Quiboloy has become a prominent religious figure in the Philippines, known for his influential broadcasts via Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI), which he founded. He is also recognized for his close ties to former President Rodrigo Duterte.
On September 8, 2024, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy was arrested in Davao City, along with several members of his group, following a series of coordinated police raids on his compound. This action came after the Philippine National Police (PNP) issued a 24-hour ultimatum. Quiboloy surrendered to the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) and was later transferred to Camp Crame.
In October 2024, Quiboloy submitted his certificate of candidacy for the 2025 Philippine Senate election through his lawyer, Mark Tolentino. He is running under the Workers’ and Peasants’ Party (WPP), though WPP’s Sonny Matula later denied signing Quiboloy’s candidacy form. On October 17, Matula filed a petition to disqualify Quiboloy based on “material representation.” In retaliation, Quiboloy filed a petition to disqualify Matula and his entire senatorial slate on the same grounds. By October 21, Quiboloy withdrew from the WPP and officially became an independent candidate.