Charges Dismissed Against Officials in Quiboloy Arrest
Former local government secretary Benjamin D. Abalos Jr. and eight current and retired Philippine National Police (PNP) officials have been cleared of all charges related to the arrest operation of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder Apollo Quiboloy. The Department of Justice (DOJ) dismissed complaints filed during the police operation inside the KOJC compound in Davao City.
The exact four word keyphrase “charges filed during operation” is central to this case. These charges were initially brought by former president Rodrigo R. Duterte, acting as KOJC administrator. Duterte accused Abalos and the other respondents of malicious mischief and violation of domicile under Articles 327 and 128 of the Revised Penal Code, respectively.
DOJ Finds No Probable Cause
According to the DOJ resolution, a thorough review of the complaints, affidavits, and legal principles showed that the allegations lacked the necessary elements to establish probable cause. Assistant State Prosecutor Angelica A. Laygo-Francisco explained, “The records are barren of any factual or legal basis to sustain the prosecution of the herein respondents for the offenses charged.”
The resolution emphasized that the actions of the officials fell within their lawful duties and were protected by the presumption of regularity in official functions. It also noted the absence of malice, unlawful intent, or personal participation that would justify an indictment.
Respondents and Context of the Complaints
Aside from Abalos, the respondents include PNP Chief General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, Police Major General Ronald Oliver Lee, Police Brigadier General Aligre Martinez, Police Colonel Edwin Potento, Police Colonel Joselito Clarito, Police Lieutenant Colonel Lino Akiangan, Police Major General Mark Pespes, and retired Police Brigadier General Ricardo Layug Jr.
The complaints stemmed from the June 10, 2024 police operation to arrest Quiboloy, who faced charges of qualified human trafficking and sexual assault involving a minor in 2011. The arrest warrants were issued by courts prior to the operation.
Malicious Mischief Charge Dismissed
The DOJ found that the malicious mischief charges lacked evidence of “malice,” a required element under the Revised Penal Code. The resolution stated, “No evidence—direct or circumstantial—has been offered to show that any of the respondents, much less those who were not physically present, acted with such malicious intent.”
Moreover, several of the respondents, including Secretary Abalos, PGen Marbil, and PMGen Lee, were not present at the site during the police entry, further weakening the case against them.
Violation of Domicile Charge Also Rejected
Regarding the alleged violation of domicile, the DOJ noted there was no proof the police acted without a reasonable belief that their entry was lawful. The resolution clarified, “Crucially, there is no allegation or proof that the high-ranking respondents entered any dwelling themselves.”
The office also pointed out that even if unlawful entry occurred, it would be the responsibility of those who physically executed it, not those who were not directly involved or were far removed from the operation.
Conclusion
With no overt acts or unlawful intent established, the DOJ concluded that no probable cause exists to indict the respondents. This decision clears the accused officials from the charges filed during operation to arrest Apollo Quiboloy.
For more news and updates on charges filed during operation, visit Filipinokami.com.