Philippine Pastor Apollo Quiboloy has entered a plea of not guilty to charges of sex trafficking

Describing oneself as the “Appointed Son of God” Apollo Quiboloy has entered a plea of not guilty to allegations of sex trafficking in Manila.

Apollo Quiboloy, a noted Philippine celebrity pastor renowned for his assertion of being the “Appointed Son of God,” entered a plea of not guilty to allegations of sex trafficking at his arraignment in Manila on Friday. Quiboloy, who is confronted with several criminal charges such as child abuse and money laundering in both the Philippines and the United States, presented himself in court while restrained with handcuffs and equipped with a bulletproof helmet and vest.

Quiboloy’s attorney, Israelito Torreon, affirmed his client’s innocence, declaring, “He is guiltless.” October has been designated as the date for a pre-trial hearing. In addition, Quiboloy is anticipated to submit a plea later on Friday concerning distinct allegations of child abuse.

The allegations against Quiboloy arise from a legal action initiated in 2019, with the purported victims pursuing appropriate legal recourse since that time. Joahna Paula Domingo, a co-counsel representing the victims, expressed confidence in the forthcoming court procedures, stating, “We firmly believe that the definitive truth about the alleged criminal acts of Apollo C. Quiboloy and his co-accused will be revealed in due course.”

Furthermore, it is important to mention that these cases were initiated in 2019 and we have been diligently pursuing justice for the complainant since that time,” she said.

In recent years, Quiboloy, who has a substantial political base in the Philippines and maintains strong connections with former President Rodrigo Duterte, has seen growing judicial scrutiny. His apprehension ensued after an extensive search of his church’s vast 30-hectare property, which involved more than 2,000 security personnel, spanning many weeks.

Upon his arrival to the courthouse, Quiboloy spoke to his fans, urging them to be resilient in the midst of his legal troubles.