MANILA — The United States’ bid to extradite detained Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder Apollo Quiboloy to face sex trafficking and other criminal charges has formally reached a Philippine court, setting the stage for judicial proceedings that could lead to his transfer to US custody.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed Tuesday that the extradition petition was filed on November 9 and assigned to Branch 145 of the Makati Regional Trial Court.
The petition also seeks the extradition of Quiboloy’s co-respondents, Teresita Dandan and Helen Panilag, who are wanted by US authorities on charges involving international human trafficking, sex trafficking, conspiracy and bulk cash smuggling.
“The US government seeks their extradition to pursue prosecution for the foregoing offenses,” the DOJ said in a document.
The department said arrest warrants issued by a US court against the three respondents remain in force and may be enforced.
The court filing marks a significant development in Washington’s efforts to secure custody of Quiboloy, who also faces sex trafficking and racketeering charges in the United States.
The DOJ disclosed in early October that preparations for the extradition petition were nearing completion following an earlier formal request from Washington.
Quiboloy has remained detained at the Pasig City Jail since his arrest in September 2024.
He is separately facing criminal proceedings in the Philippines for alleged violations of Republic Act 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, and a non-bailable qualified human trafficking charge under Republic Act 9208, as amended.
The Philippine cases are pending before a Pasig court, while the Makati court will determine whether the US extradition request meets the legal requirements for his surrender to American authorities./PN
