Who Is Apollo Quiboloy? Self-Proclaimed 'Appointed Son Of God' Held For Sex Crimes

Apollo Carreon Quiboloy from the southern Philippines started as a preacher who would eventually become the self-proclaimed "Appointed Son of God." His journey from a fringe religious leader to a global figurehead of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) has been marked by an exponential growth in followers, vast political influence, and, most disturbingly, grave allegations of abuse and exploitation.

The Birth and Rise of KOJC

Quiboloy founded the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) in 1985. What began as a small religious organization quickly grew into a massive entity, drawing millions of people not just in the Philippines but in over 200 countries worldwide. The church’s appeal lay in its unique blend of Pentecostal Christianity with Quiboloy’s self-declared divine status, positioning him as a godly figure in the eyes of his followers.

Political Influence of a Spiritual Kingmaker

Quiboloy’s influence extended beyond the spiritual circle. Known as a close associate of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, Quiboloy wielded significant power over local and national politicians. His ability to mobilize large voting blocs made him a key political player, often seen as a necessary ally for anyone seeking electoral success, particularly in Davao City, where his sprawling 75-acre compound, "New Jerusalem," is located.

However, this spiritual and political influence masked a darker underbelly. Investigations by US and Philippine law enforcement agencies have revealed a pattern of abuse and exploitation that allegedly thrived under the guise of religious devotion, as reported by NDTV.

Allegations of Sexual Abuse and Human Trafficking

In 2021, Quiboloy's world began to unravel when he was indicted by the United States on charges of child sex trafficking, sexual abuse, conspiracy, and forced labor. The allegations paint a harrowing picture of a religious leader who exploited his power to prey on the vulnerable.

Victims, some as young as 12, were reportedly recruited as "pastoral" assistants, a role that included ‘fulfilling’ Quiboloy’s sexual demands. These young women were coerced into "night duty," where refusal meant facing threats of spiritual and eternal damnation. Prosecutors allege that the victims were forced to write "commitment letters," pledging their bodies and souls to Quiboloy’s service.

The horror did not end there. Those who resisted were sent to "Prayer Mountain," a remote property near Davao City. There, they were subjected to severe punishments, including physical beatings, head shaving, and other forms of degrading treatment, according to testimonies.

Global Operations and Human Trafficking

The alleged crimes of Quiboloy and his church were not confined to the Philippines. His religious empire spanned across continents, with American prosecutors revealing that his operations involved trafficking women and children across international borders.

According to the FBI, church members were sent to the United States on fraudulently obtained visas. Once there, they were forced to solicit donations for the "Children's Joy Foundation," a charity supposedly supporting underprivileged children. However, these donations actually funded the luxurious lifestyles of Quiboloy and his inner circle, including private jets and luxury properties.

The church’s international operations extended to countries like Singapore and the UAE, where members endured near-enslavement conditions. They were forced to sleep in cars and denied food if they failed to meet their financial quotas, creating a cycle of abuse that spanned the globe.

The 'Appointed Son Of God’ Gets Exposed

Despite the severe allegations, Quiboloy continued to preach from his Davao City headquarters, seemingly untouchable due to his powerful political connections. Even after being placed on the FBI’s Most Wanted list in 2021, he remained a free man, protected by his allies, including Duterte.

This sense of invincibility was shattered on August 24 when Philippine authorities, in a coordinated effort with the military, launched a massive raid on KOJC’s Davao City compound. Nearly 2,000 heavily armed officers surrounded the headquarters, leading to a weeklong standoff with church members who viewed Quiboloy as a divine figure.

The arrest of Apollo Quiboloy marks the beginning of a new chapter in a saga that has gripped and disturbed the Philippines and the world. What started as a religious movement has been tainted by allegations of abuse, exploitation, and human trafficking, revealing the dangers of unchecked power cloaked in spiritual authority. May the survivors get justice, as the truth comes to light.