Manila:Malacañang has refuted claims that the arrest warrant issued against Kingdom of Jesus Christ founder Pastor Apollo Quiboloy was timed with the visit of U.S. President Donald Trump to the Philippines.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro clarified during a press briefing that the extradition request for Quiboloy had been under review for an extended period. She emphasized that the process involved examining extensive documents before the necessary petition could be filed.

On Thursday, the Makati Regional Trial Court issued an arrest warrant and hold departure order against Quiboloy and two other church members. This followed a formal extradition petition filed on behalf of the U.S. government. Castro highlighted that the decision was unrelated to President Trump's arrival for the 49th Association and Southeast Asian Nations Summit in Manila on November 17.

The extradition procedure includes the issuance of an arrest warrant to establish court jurisdiction over the person sought. Castro noted that the process coincided with Quiboloy's current detention.

The extradition case is expected to undergo summary proceedings, with a trial court decision anticipated within 30 days post-submission of the final pleading or witness testimony. Any appeal is to be resolved by the Court of Appeals within 90 days.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has delegated the issue to the Department of Justice, underscoring adherence to due process and legal protocols.