Manila: The Department of Justice (DOJ) will evaluate the United States' request to extradite Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Friday. Castro indicated that the DOJ has received extensive documentation supporting the extradition request, which was transmitted by the US Department of State through the Department of Foreign Affairs.
According to Philippines News Agency, the US government's request seeks Quiboloy's extradition to stand trial on charges including sex trafficking, visa fraud, and bulk cash smuggling. Castro highlighted that the DOJ would thoroughly deliberate, evaluate, and resolve the request to ensure justice for the alleged victims both in the US and the Philippines, as well as for the accused.
The extradition request originates from Quiboloy's 2021 indictment in California, where he faces charges related to sex trafficking of minors, visa fraud, and bulk cash smuggling. The 1994 Philippines-US Extradition Treaty allows a requested state to temporarily surrender a person facing prosecution or serving a sentence in its jurisdiction.
If the extradition is approved, Quiboloy would remain in US custody during the legal proceedings and be returned to the Philippines upon the case's conclusion, as stipulated in the treaty. Quiboloy, who was arrested in September 2024, is currently detained at the Pasig City Jail while contesting local charges of qualified human trafficking and child abuse.
