Malacañang stated that the extradition request from the United States for Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder Apollo Quiboloy will undergo a comprehensive review before the Philippine government reaches a decision.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated in a video message that the request must be evaluated carefully to ensure justice for alleged victims in both nations as well as for Quiboloy, who faces multiple pending cases.
Quiboloy faces charges in the US including sex trafficking, visa fraud, and bulk cash smuggling, alongside separate criminal proceedings in the Philippines.
“Ang paghiling ng US government para sa extradition ni Pastor Quiboloy… ay isang bagay na dapat na pag-isipan, ma-evaluate, ma-assess at ma-resolba sa tamang panahon para makamtan ang pinakamataas na antas ng hustisya,” Castro said Friday, August 7.
Castro emphasized the need to balance the rights of the accused with the interests of those claiming to be victimized.
“Hustisya para sa mga ‘di umanong biktima rito at sa US, at pati na rin sa akusado,” she added.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) received the US extradition papers and forwarded the extensive documents to the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Friday.
“Ayon sa DOJ, sa Lunes nila ito sisimulang pag-aralan,” Castro noted.
Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel “Babe” Romualdez confirmed American authorities are seeking swift action. Should the extradition be approved, US Marshals are slated to take custody of Quiboloy to face trial within American jurisdiction.
Quiboloy was taken into government custody on September 8, 2024, following a 16-day police operation at the 30-hectare KOJC compound in Davao City. The US government, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), previously placed the televangelist on its most-wanted list over allegations involving sex trafficking and the exploitation of women and children.
Local legal proceedings against Quiboloy continue independently while he remains in detention. In 2025, a Pasig court denied his motion for hospital arrest due to a lack of compelling merit.
Quiboloy also launched an unsuccessful bid for a Senate seat during the May 2025 midterm elections while incarcerated, finishing 31st in the race.