Senate Issues Subpoena To Pastor Quiboloy; Imee Marcos Opposes
IMEE MARCOS -Senator Imee Marcos has turned down the suggestion put forth by some of her Senate peers to issue a subpoena against Apollo Quiboloy.
On February 13, the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality issued a subpoena for Apollo Quiboloy, the leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) and an alleged s*x offender.
Quiboloy was not present during the panel’s investigation into accusations of mistreatment of women and children. Panel Chair Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros urged Quiboloy to participate in the upcoming hearing, emphasizing that he cannot claim exemption from state laws by identifying as a “son of God.”
Sen. Risa Hontiveros highlighted that Pastor Quiboloy can invoke the right against self-incrimination “when and if the [potentially] incriminating question is asked,” similar to any regular witness. She also expressed that Quiboloy’s absence demonstrates a lack of respect for the Senate as an institution.
Based on a report from Inquirer, Senator Imee Marcos has opposed the suggestion made by some fellow senators to issue a subpoena against religious leader Apollo Quiboloy. She said, “Eh nagulat nga ako may mga member nga ng Senado, may mga senador, na nagpupumiglas na kailangan eh i-subpoena na si Pastor. Para sa akin, hindi dapat.”
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Surprised by the situation, Marcos shared her opinion that the Senate should “take a more measured approach” due to the numerous additional issues associated with the Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI), led by Quiboloy. Her only reason for disagreeing was the ongoing House hearing on SMNI.
“Parang masyado nang patong-patong ‘to, mahihilo na tayo. Dapat isa-isahin para maliwanagan tayo sa lahat ng issue,” Marcos said.
Nevertheless, Hontiveros insists that Quiboloy should be involved in the proceedings, taking into account the troubling narratives disclosed by certain individuals claiming to be his victims.