The United States trial for defendants connected to Apollo Quiboloy's Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) on alleged human trafficking charges is scheduled to begin on May 20, 2025.
This follows news that Marissa Duenas, a former KOJC human resources manager, reached a plea agreement with US authorities.
Duenas pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges related to defrauding the US government. This plea is connected to a scheme involving fraudulent marriages between 2015 and 2022, where Duenas and other KOJC members, including US citizens, participated.
The US indictment, issued in 2021, accuses Quiboloy and his associates of labor trafficking. Prosecutors allege they facilitated the entry of KOJC members into the US with fraudulent visas.
Quiboloy, self-proclaimed "Son of God" and ally of former President Duterte, was arrested at the KOJC compound in Davao City after a police operation. He is currently detained in the Philippine National Police Custodial Center.
The religious leader faces significant charges in the Philippines as well. He is accused of qualified human trafficking, a non-bailable offense, under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act. This case is ongoing before the Pasig Regional Trial Court Branch 159.
Additionally, Quiboloy faces charges under the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act, initially filed in Davao and later transferred to Quezon City.
The upcoming US trial and the ongoing Philippine cases raise serious questions about the alleged human trafficking activities within the KOJC. As May 2025 approaches, the world will be watching the developments in this complex and sensitive case.
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