A top official from the Department of Justice (DOJ) expressed skepticism about the government complying with Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy's condition that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issue a written declaration preventing his extradition to the United States before he faces charges.
DOJ Undersecretary Raul Vasquez, speaking at the Saturday News Forum, emphasized that this request raises legal concerns that need careful consideration. Quiboloy's lawyer, Atty. Israelito Torreon, had previously reiterated that Quiboloy would only face his charges if Marcos issued a guarantee against his extradition.
Quiboloy, facing accusations in the US of sex trafficking and related charges, as well as human trafficking charges in the Philippines, has demanded similar guarantees from other government agencies, including the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). However, Vasquez pointed out that "no one in government can give that guarantee strictly speaking," noting that the Philippines is bound by an extradition treaty with the US.
Vasquez further explained that all international treaties, once ratified by the Senate, are legally binding, and the state must honor these obligations regardless of who is in power. He cautioned against making exceptions for individuals, suggesting it would set a dangerous precedent.
In response, Torreon maintained that the President has the authority to protect citizens from extraordinary rendition, citing Section 48 of RA 11479, which bans such renditions in cases related to terrorism. He argued that this power should extend to cases like Quiboloy's.
Vasquez also addressed concerns about fairness, stating that offering special treatment to Quiboloy would be unjust to others facing legal issues. He emphasized that the administration's policy is fair prosecution for all.
Quiboloy has remained elusive since arrest warrants were issued against him earlier this year, including one from a US court in California. Despite extensive searches of the KOJC compound in Davao City, the police have not located him, though they continue their operations, now entering the eighth day.
Torreon assured that the KOJC Board of Administrators has consistently reported Quiboloy's absence from the compound, adding that he last saw the pastor in March, leaving the premises.
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