Manila: Department of Justice (DOJ) spokesperson Mico Clavano stated that, generally, a person cannot be extradited from the Philippines while a criminal case against them is pending in court. Local courts take precedence over an extradition request.

According to Philippines News Agency, Clavano explained that the rule requires an individual to face trial and, if convicted, to serve their sentence in the Philippines before extradition may proceed. This statement was issued following a reported request by the United States for the extradition of religious leader Apollo Quiboloy. Quiboloy has been accused by the US government of conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion, as well as sex trafficking of children, among other charges.

Clavano noted that courts have the power to act on cases with urgency. If circumstances require, efforts may be made to resolve proceedings promptly to avoid unduly delaying a valid extradition request. Quiboloy is currently facing charges of qualified human trafficking in the Philippines.