Late on Sunday in the southern Philippines, police arrested Apollo Quiboloy, a self-proclaimed "Appointed Son of God" and pastor of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) church, after an extensive manhunt spanning more than two weeks. The manhunt for Quiboloy - an evangelist with global reach, close ties to former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, and millions of followers across the world -culminated in his surrender to local police. The 74-year-old Quiboloy now faces charges of child sex trafficking, sexual abuse, and human trafficking that stem from a US indictment in 2021.
Born in the southern Philippines, Apollo Carreon Quiboloy is no ordinary preacher. He founded KOJC in 1985, a fringe religious organisation that grew exponentially, drawing millions of adherents across the Philippines and more than 200 countries. According to the New York Times , KOJC, which blends elements of Pentecostal Christianity with Quiboloy's self-declared divine status, quickly became a dominant force in the Philippines.
Known as a "spiritual adviser" to former President Rodrigo Duterte, Quiboloy wielded immense influence over local and national politicians. His ability to deliver large voting blocs earned him a reputation as a spiritual kingmaker. Many saw his support as essential for winning elections, especially in Davao City, where he maintained a sprawling 75-acre compound called "New Jerusalem.
" However, Quiboloy's spiritual kingdom hid a much darker reality, according to US and Philippi.