FBI-Seeking Preacher Facing Sex Crime Charges Eludes Philippine Authorities Amid Resistance from Followers in Extended Standoff

Standoff Continues as Fugitive Preacher Evades Arrest

A tense standoff in the Philippines entered its fourth day on Tuesday, as nearly 2,000 police officers surrounded a large church compound linked to a fugitive preacher. Pastor Apollo Carreon Quiboloy, who is wanted by both the FBI and local authorities for serious charges including sexual abuse and human trafficking, has been evading capture for over three years.

Quiboloy, 74, claims to be the “appointed son of God” and is the founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ church. A 2021 indictment from the U.S. alleges that he and several accomplices orchestrated a sex trafficking operation, coercing young women and girls into sexual acts through threats of “eternal damnation.” Despite these allegations, Quiboloy maintains his innocence.

Authorities believe Quiboloy is hiding within a sprawling 75-acre compound that features a cathedral, a college, a bunker, and a private taxiway leading to Davao International Airport. The police operation to apprehend him began on Saturday but has faced significant resistance from his followers. Reports indicate that they have responded to police attempts with violence, including throwing stones and blocking roads with burning tires.

During the standoff, a 51-year-old follower reportedly died from a heart attack, though police stated this was unrelated to the ongoing operation. Tensions escalated over the weekend when police used tear gas to break up crowds. So far, at least six officers have sustained injuries, and around 18 individuals have been arrested.

Police Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III, leading the operation, emphasized their determination to capture Quiboloy: “We’re not leaving. No one’s pulling out until we have him,” he stated.

Quiboloy’s church has gained significant traction since its founding in 1985, boasting around 7 million followers worldwide. The organization operates various businesses, including a college and resort, and has a strong media presence in the Philippines—a predominantly Catholic nation with diverse Christian sects.

Quiboloy has close ties to former president Rodrigo Duterte, serving as a spiritual adviser during Duterte’s controversial administration, marked by a brutal war on drugs that drew international condemnation for alleged extrajudicial killings.

In light of the ongoing raid, Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte accused law enforcement of overstepping their authority and harassing church members. Meanwhile, the U.S. indictment against Quiboloy also includes charges related to labor trafficking, alleging that he brought church members to the U.S. on fraudulent visas for forced solicitation of donations.

Former church members have come forward with accusations of sexual abuse amid ongoing investigations by Philippine authorities. Quiboloy’s legal team has denied all allegations and plans to counter-sue the police for their actions during the raid.

In February, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. publicly urged Quiboloy to surrender and confront the charges against him. The situation remains fluid as authorities continue their efforts to bring the preacher to justice.