Quiboloy’s camp to appeal SC decision transferring cases to QC

THE camp of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder Pastor Apollo Quiboloy yesterday said they will appeal the Supreme Court decision ordering the transfer of the sexual and child abuse cases against him from Davao City to Quezon City.

Quiboloy’s lead counsel, Israelito, Torreon said there is no basis for the transfer.

“We will try to file a most respectful motion for reconsideration to the Supreme Court,” Torreon told reporters.

“It was decided based only on the unfounded and unsubstantiated claims of bias in Davao City courts which, if analyzed properly, may actually constitute a slight on the local courts in Davao City and may be interpreted as an attack on the judiciary as a whole,” he added.

He said the decision could even diminish confidence in the country’s justice system.

Torreon said the transfer would impose additional burden and hassle on Quiboloy and his co-accused, their families and witnesses.

“The financial costs, hassles and inconvenience that will ensue upon the accused, their families, followers, supporters and most especially witnesses as a result of the transfer of venue may not have been brought to the attention of the Honorable Supreme Court,” he added.

Last Tuesday, the SC granted the request of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla to transfer the cases to Quezon City, saying it found compelling reasons to justify the move as the cases involve public interest with the accused being influential in Davao City.

“As this could cause local biases and a strong possibility that witnesses cannot freely testify due to fear and influence of the accused, the Court found it prudent and judicious to order the transfer of the cases to Quezon City,” the SC resolution said.

It added that the move is pursuant to its constitutional power to order a change of venue to avoid the miscarriage of justice.

Quiboloy is the subject of a warrant of arrest issued last month by Davao City RTC Branch 12 Presiding Judge Dante Baguio for violation of Republic Act 7610, the Anti-Child Abuse Law, for the sexual abuse of a minor.

Also ordered arrested were Quiboloy’s co-accused, namely, Jackiely W.Roy, Pauline Canada, Cresente Canada, Ingrid C. Canada and Sylvia Cemanes.