MANILA — Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla emphasized that decisions regarding house arrest requests are at the discretion of the court. However, in the case of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy, Remulla expressed doubts about the necessity of such a request.
“But as far as I remember, those granted house arrest are usually individuals who did not resist or immediately complied with the arrest. For those who evaded authorities and made it difficult for the government, house arrest is rarely granted,” Remulla said on Wednesday, when asked about Quiboloy’s situation.
Remulla added that house arrest is typically considered for individuals with health issues. “This is within the court’s jurisdiction, and it is not something we should be deciding on,” he noted.
Quiboloy’s legal team has filed a motion requesting his transfer from the custody of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), citing concerns for his safety.
However, the Department of National Defense (DND) rejected the proposal earlier this week.
Remulla also raised concerns about how Quiboloy’s public presentation was handled by the PNP, specifically criticizing the decision to cover his face during his appearance before the media. The blurred mugshots released by the PNP also drew criticism, with some accusing the police of giving Quiboloy special treatment due to his high-profile status.
Remulla stated that such actions should be conducted fairly. “It shouldn’t have been handled that way. We’ve said before that fairness is important. If you’ve placed him on a wanted poster, you should show his face when he’s arrested,” he said. “People need to see that he’s truly in custody.”
The PNP defended its actions, stating that they typically blur the faces of arrested individuals, even high-profile ones, based on the Commission on Human Rights’ advisory on the presumption of innocence.
Additionally, the Department of Justice (DOJ) maintained that the freeze order on Quiboloy’s bank accounts and properties should be enforced, regardless of who manages them. The Court of Appeals extended the freeze order until February 6, 2025.
Former President Rodrigo Duterte, who was appointed administrator of KOJC properties, also filed complaints against Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Marbil, and other PNP officials in connection with the police operation at the KOJC compound in Davao City.
National Prosecution Service OIC-Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon confirmed that these complaints will be transferred to the main office in Manila for investigation.