Court of Appeals Freezes Quiboloy Bank Accounts

-


MANILA, Philippines — The Court of Appeals (CA) has issued a freeze order on the bank accounts and properties of Apollo Quiboloy, founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), along with several associated entities, including the Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI).


In a comprehensive 48-page resolution, the appellate court ordered the freezing of Quiboloy’s 10 bank accounts, seven real estate properties, five vehicles, and one aircraft. The order also extends to the bank accounts of KOJC and Swara Sug Media Corporation, which operates SMNI.


The court found substantial evidence suggesting that Quiboloy's financial assets are connected to various unlawful activities and predicate crimes, including qualified human trafficking, sexual and child abuse, sex trafficking of minors, fraud, conspiracy, marriage fraud, smuggling, and money laundering. The freeze order is effective immediately and will remain in place for 20 days.


Attorney Israelito Torreon, representing Quiboloy and KOJC, declined to comment, stating that they have yet to receive an official copy of the court's order. “The KOJC does not want to speculate on the implications of the order, as it had no prior knowledge of it,” he explained.


Meanwhile, SMNI's lawyer, Atty. Mark Tolentino, acknowledged the court's decision but indicated plans to contest it. “We will file a motion to lift that order or seek a temporary restraining order from the Supreme Court,” Tolentino informed reporters.


Quiboloy is currently facing serious charges under Section 5(b) of Republic Act 7610, which pertains to the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act, as well as a non-bailable charge of Qualified Human Trafficking under Section 4(a) of Republic Act No. 9208 in a Pasig court. Both courts have issued arrest warrants for him.


A reward of P10 million is being offered for information leading to Quiboloy's arrest, with an additional P1 million for each of his co-accused, including Cresente Canada, Paulene Canada, Ingrid Canada, Sylvia Cemañes, and Jackilyn Roy.


According to Police Brigadier General Nicolas Torre III, chief of PRO 11, Quiboloy is believed to still be within the KOJC compound. “Indicators and informants suggest he remains inside, guarded by his followers,” Torre stated during the 123rd Police Service Anniversary ceremony in Camp Crame.


Authorities attempted to serve an arrest warrant to Quiboloy on June 10, but he was not located at the time. Quiboloy has previously claimed he would not allow himself to be captured, alleging that the Philippine government is collaborating with the U.S. for his "extraordinary rendition."


The CA's freeze order marks a significant development in the ongoing legal battles faced by Quiboloy and his associates, highlighting the serious nature of the allegations against them.


Read: Philippines Ranks 24th in Medal Tally at 2024 Paris Olympics


Follow us on Facebook: The EpicNews

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Philippines Conducts Joint Patrols with US, Canada, and Australia

-
Image
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines commenced two days of joint maritime and aerial exercises with the United States, Canada, and Australia on Wednesday, as outlined in a joint statement, amid ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea with China. These operations, taking place "within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone," aim to demonstrate the collective commitment of the four nations to enhance regional and international cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. The exercises come at a time when China's aggressive posturing towards Taiwan and its claims over the South China Sea have raised concerns about a potential conflict that could involve the United States. China asserts sovereignty over the majority of the South China Sea, disregarding an international tribunal ruling that deemed its claims unfounded.  Last week, the Philippines conducted separate naval drills in the South China Sea, first with the United States and then with Japan tw
Read more

Philippines Ranks 32nd as of Today, in Paris Olympics Medal Standings 2024

-
Image
MANILA , Philippines —  The Philippines currently holds the 32nd spot in the medal standings at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This ranking comes after Carlos Yulo's impressive gold medal win in the men's floor exercise, marking a significant achievement for Team Philippines. Carlos Yulo's Historic Victory Carlos Yulo’s victory in the men’s floor exercise has brought immense pride to the nation, making him the first Filipino gymnast to win an Olympic gold medal. His performance has not only secured a prestigious spot in the Olympic history books but also elevated the Philippines' position in the overall standings. Ongoing Competitions Filipino athletes continue to compete in various events, with hopes of adding more medals to the country’s tally. EJ Obiena, currently ranked as the world’s No. 2 pole vaulter, is set to compete in the finals, presenting another opportunity for a podium finish. Additionally, boxers Aira Villegas and Nesthy Petecio are still in the running for m
Read more

Carlos Yulo to get millions and counting - worth of incentives after gold medal win

-
Image
Carlos Yulo is poised to receive significant rewards following his groundbreaking gold medal win in the men's floor exercise at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Yulo's victory marks him as the second Filipino athlete to secure an Olympic gold, following weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz , who achieved this milestone during the Tokyo 2020 Games. The 24-year-old gymnast’s life is set to change dramatically, as he will be granted a cash incentive of ₱10 million  from the Philippine Sports Commission, in line with Republic Act 10699, which outlines benefits for national athletes and coaches. In addition to the monetary reward, Yulo will also receive a  fully-furnished two-bedroom condo  worth ₱24 million  in McKinley Hill, courtesy of Megaworld. The President of the Philippine Olympic Committee, Bambol Tolentino, has promised to provide Yulo with a house and lot, similar to the rewards previously given to Diaz and other medalists from the Tokyo Olympics, including silver medalists Nesthy Petecio
Read more