Three days after the Department of Justice filed formal paperwork, the Makati Regional Trial Court Branch 145 issued an extradition warrant of arrest against Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy and two associates, the Philippine News Agency reported.
The November 12 warrant targets Quiboloy alongside Teresita Tolibas Dandan and Helen Panilag. Prosecutors brought the case on behalf of the United States government.
The Department of Justice announced the court action on Friday, November 13. The court established that the three individuals are those named in foreign indictments for extraditable offenses.
Alongside the arrest warrant, the court issued hold departure orders to prevent the respondents from leaving the Philippines. Quiboloy remains detained at the Pasig City Jail while facing separate local charges.
The legal proceedings began when the Department of Justice filed the extradition petition on November 9, docketed as case number R-MKT-26-02823-SP. The RAPPLER report said that the case was promptly raffled to Branch 145.
The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation has listed Quiboloy, Dandan, and Panilag on its most wanted list since 2022. Charges brought by the United States against Quiboloy encompass counts of conspiracy, bulk cash smuggling, sex trafficking, and international human trafficking.
Federal investigators said that Dandan established a timetable requiring the victims to cook his meals, tidy his living quarters, administer massages, and engage in sexual activity with him.
Quiboloy was originally arrested on September 8, 2024, following a manhunt in Davao City. He is currently answering to separate charges of qualified human trafficking in Pasig City and child abuse in Quezon City.
Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro explained that extradition operates on a state-to-state basis, as reported by DZRH. She said that the process requires double criminality, meaning the offenses must constitute crimes under both Philippine and American law.
Under the Rules on Extradition Proceedings, respondents receive a summons and copies of the petition once their arrests are implemented. They have 15 days from receipt to file a verified answer.
Lawmakers voiced support for the court’s decision as victims seek accountability.
“Magandang balita ito para sa mga matagal nang naghihintay ng hustisya. Now, the process must move forward without delay.”
As reported by GMA Network, Torreon clarified his role.
“Please be informed that Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy has been informed of the extradition proceedings filed against him. They do not come as a surprise to him. He has expected them, and he is ready to face them in court, through the proper legal process and before the proper forum.”
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