Pasig Court Denies Bail for Kingdom of Jesus Christ Leader
The Pasig City Regional Trial Court has denied the bail petitions filed by the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC) leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy and his co-accused. In a ruling dated July 20, 2025, Presiding Judge Rainelda Estacio-Montesa of Branch 159 rejected the requests for temporary release, reinforcing the court’s stance on the severity of the charges.
Bail, the court explained, serves as a security for the temporary freedom of an individual arrested but whose guilt is not yet proven beyond reasonable doubt. However, after thoroughly reviewing the prosecution’s evidence and case records, the court concluded that the petitioners’ bail applications should be denied.
Strong Evidence Against Accused
The court emphasized that the prosecution presented strong evidence indicating the guilt of Quiboloy and his five co-accused in crimes involving qualified human trafficking as part of a syndicate. “Given these pieces of evidence which establish a great presumption of guilt for purposes of bail, the Court must deny their petitions,” the ruling stated.
Quiboloy, along with Jackielyn Roy, Cresente Canada, Paulene Canada, Ingrid Canada, and Sylvia Cemanes, face non-bailable charges under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act. Their involvement in qualified human trafficking marks a serious offense under Philippine law.
Arguments From the Defense
In his petition, Quiboloy argued the complaint did not sufficiently prove his guilt or establish a prima facie case. He also claimed he was not a flight risk and posed no threat of interfering with witnesses if granted bail.
Meanwhile, Cemanes contended that the allegations against her were based on vague, uncorroborated claims lacking strong evidence necessary to deny bail.
Despite these arguments, the court maintained its position, clarifying that this ruling on bail does not decide the final outcome of the case. “The Court is tasked solely with resolving the petitions for bail and not rendering a judgment on the case’s merits,” it said.
Ongoing Legal Battle
Quiboloy is also facing separate charges for child abuse and exploitation in a Quezon City court. His arrest on September 8 followed a 16-day manhunt at the KJC compound in Davao City, during which thousands of his supporters confronted law enforcement officers.
The legal process against Quiboloy and his co-accused is far from over. Both the prosecution and defense still have ample opportunity to present further evidence as the case unfolds.
For more news and updates on Kingdom of Jesus Christ bail, visit Filipinokami.com.
