MANILA – The bid of the United States to extradite Kingdom of Jesus Christ founder Apollo Quiboloy is on hold, as the Department of Justice (DOJ) stressed that pending criminal charges in the Philippines must first be resolved before he can be surrendered to foreign authorities.
“The rule is that he must first face trial and, if convicted, serve his sentence here before extradition may proceed,” DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano said in a briefing on Tuesday.
Clavano underscored that Philippine court cases take precedence over foreign requests, but noted that judges can act with urgency if circumstances demand.
“However, courts retain the power to act on cases with urgency, so if circumstances warrant, we may move to resolve proceedings in order not to unduly delay a valid extradition request,” he explained.
The clarification came after Washington formally requested Quiboloy’s extradition in June, submitting supporting documents to the DOJ.
The US government described itself as “seriously seeking the extradition request and taking the necessary steps with the Philippine government in bringing him to justice.”
Quiboloy faces serious charges in the United States, including conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion; sex trafficking of children; and bulk cash smuggling.
He was indicted by a federal grand jury in 2021 and remains on the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s most wanted list.
In the Philippines, he is also facing qualified human trafficking charges.
Under the 1994 extradition treaty between Manila and Washington, requests must be transmitted through diplomatic channels, supported by official documents, and promptly acted upon by the Philippine government.
If granted, both countries will coordinate the time and manner of surrender./PN
