SENATOR Risa Hontiveros has issued a stern call for controversial televangelist Apollo Quiboloy to appear before the Senate to answer grave accusations from former members of his religious sect, the Kingdom of Jesus (KOJC).

Hontiveros, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality, stressed the urgency for Quiboloy to appear before the Senate to address the serious charges leveled against him.

“Nasaan na ba talaga si Quiboloy? Naghahanda na kami. Handa ba siya?” Senator Hontiveros declared.

The nature of the allegations has sent shockwaves through the public, with former members of KOJC coming forward to share harrowing accounts of their experiences.

The accusations include sex trafficking, rape, and instances of both sexual and physical abuse allegedly perpetrated by Quiboloy himself.

Hontiveros has made it clear that Quiboloy is the focal point of the investigation due to the severity and specificity of the charges.

“Siya ang sentro ng mga paratang ng mga biktima kaya siya ang dapat sumagot,” she emphasized.

Hontiveros has announced her intention to approach the Department of Justice, seeking an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order or Hold Departure Order for Quiboloy, indicating that legal actions may be taken to ensure his presence during the Senate inquiry.

“The subpoena has been issued by the Senate committee in the competent exercise of its legal mandate. So Quiboloy, magpakita ka na,” Hontiveros reiterated, underscoring her commitment to a thorough and impartial investigation.

Quiboloy’s lawyer, Ferdinand Topacio, criticized Hontiveros for what he perceived as resorting to trial by publicity, challenging her to file criminal complaints instead.

Topacio argued that the Senate might not be the suitable venue for such investigations, emphasizing the importance of a fair legal process.

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