DOJ: No US request for Quiboloy's extradition yet

MANILA — The Philippine government is still waiting for the United States to request the extradition of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy, according to Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla.

Quiboloy, who is on the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Most Wanted List, is facing multiple charges of sex and labor trafficking in the United States.

The controversial pastor claimed without showing evidence last week that there is a conspiracy between the Palace and the US government to kidnap and eliminate him.

“We are awaiting the request of the US government on this matter and it has to pass through a lot of channels also within the US government,” Remulla said.

Remulla also noted that there are two pending charges versus Quiboloy in the Philippines—rape and cyberlibel—which are still undergoing review before the DOJ.

Remulla said resolution of the cases is on his top priority.

“But it’s not actually the DOJ’s call on everything. Locally, it’s our call on the petition for review, but in terms of extradition it is something beyond our control,” Remulla said.

Remulla also said the Bureau of Immigration has not released any Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order or ILBO against Pastor Quiboloy.

An ILBO, different from a Hold Departure Order issued by a court, directs immigration personnel to note and report to the DOJ if a subject leaves the country.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros, who is leading the senate investigation on alleged abuses committed by Pastor Quibiloy has sent an ILBO request to the DOJ last year.

“Wala pa. Kasi wala pa sa amin ang preliminary report. There was an initial letter but it will take more than a letter for us to issue an order,” Remulla said.