Manila: The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on Thursday that it will meticulously review the formal request from the United States to extradite Apollo Quiboloy, leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC).

According to Philippines News Agency, Chief State Counsel Dennis Chan confirmed that the DOJ has received the extradition request from the U.S. and is currently processing it to ensure compliance with legal requirements. Chan emphasized the importance of reviewing the submission to ensure it aligns with the Philippine-US extradition treaty and the Philippine extradition law. The offenses cited by the U.S., including sex trafficking of children, visa fraud, and cash smuggling, need to be verified as extraditable under the treaty.

Chan explained that the DOJ must confirm that the imprisonment faced by respondents, if convicted in the United States, would be at least one year. He noted that under the Philippines-U.S. extradition treaty, the requesting state can choose to proceed with filing the petition for extradition or defer it while local cases are ongoing.

Efforts are being made to expedite the evaluation process without compromising compliance with the Philippine extradition law and the bilateral treaty with the United States. While no specific timeline has been set, the DOJ is aware of public interest in the matter.

Chan also highlighted the importance of adhering to the extradition treaty to enhance the Philippines' image in the international community and to demonstrate commitment to fulfilling treaty obligations.