More and more lawmakers have expressed their belief that ex-President Rodrigo Roa Duterte can be held criminally liable for harboring Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, a fugitive from the law, as the former acted as the administrator of the latter’s estate, including the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) compound in Davao City.
Tingog Rep. Jude Acidre said that Vice President Sara Duterte, Sen. Bato Dela Rosa and others may be held liable for obstruction of justice after apparently misleading arresting officers as to the whereabouts of Quiboloy, who is facing charges here and in the United States (US).
Meanwhile, Taguig Rep. Pammy Zamora, a House Assistant Majority Leader, said the former president should take these allegations seriously, as his close ties with Quiboloy are now under strict scrutiny.
“We just want to clarify what role the former President could have played. In fact, this gives the former President the proper forum to enlighten us on the intricacies of his relationship to Mr. Quiboloy” Zamora said.
“Similarly, we want to know why VP Sara and Senator dela Rosa claimed he was not in Davao City. However, it was later revealed that he was still within the KOJC compound.” Zamora added, suggesting that such actions are to the detriment of our own national agencies.
Acidre supported Zamora’s position, saying that the actions of powerful figures should not place them above the law.
“The law must apply to everyone equally, regardless of their position or influence,” Acidre stated.
“If these allegations are true, then we must hold these individuals accountable for harboring a fugitive and possibly obstruction of justice,” he added.
Acidre further noted that the investigation should also explore whether Dela Rosa could face charges for downplaying Quiboloy's offenses.
“Statements by Sen. Dela Rosa, who expressed admiration for Quiboloy and questioned the veracity of the allegations, may complicate matters. While personal opinions are one thing, officials must exercise caution when dealing with such sensitive legal matters,” Acidre said.
The lawmakers also stressed the importance of ensuring that the justice system remains impartial and functional under President Marcos' administration.
“The rule of law must prevail,” Zamora said. “If those in power interfere with ongoing investigations, it will undermine the integrity of the country's justice system.”
Acidre expressed confidence that this case would test the strength of the Philippine justice system.
“This is a very significant moment for our country. The charges against Quiboloy are serious, and it is crucial that our institutions dispense justice and demonstrate that no one is above the law,” he said, adding that any interference could damage public trust.
Both lawmakers pointed to the troubling implications of allowing a fugitive to avoid justice through political influence.
“If we don’t address this now, it sets a dangerous precedent,” Zamora said. “The people expect us to ensure that justice is served, regardless of who is involved.”
Both representatives expressed commitment to supporting the ongoing investigations and ensuring that justice is upheld.
“We will continue to monitor developments and ensure that this case proceeds without interference. Our responsibility as lawmakers is to uphold the law, and we will do everything in our power to make sure that happens,” Acidre said.
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