A Philippine lawmaker stated that former President Rodrigo Duterte may be charged with obstruction of justice for hiding fugitive pastor Apollo Quiboloy.
Quiboloy, the founder of the Kingdom of Jesus mega-church, surrendered to police on September 8 at his church’s compound in the southern Philippines. He faces charges of sexual abuse, child abuse, and human trafficking in Davao City and Pasig City, as well as several charges in the United States.
Quiboloy, a close supporter of Duterte, was criticized by the former president for being pursued by authorities. The Department of Justice is considering if Duterte obstructed justice in the case.
Lawmakers are investigating Duterte’s alleged role in hiding Quiboloy prior to his capture. Duterte previously claimed to know Quiboloy’s whereabouts, and his appointment as administrator of the church’s properties raised suspicions.
Duterte’s camp dismissed the possibility of charges, attributing his statements to jokes. The investigation coincides with a rift between the Duterte clan and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s camp.
While Duterte’s potential prosecution is uncertain, the ongoing Quiboloy trials may intensify the pressure for legal action.