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Philippine court orders arrest of jailed, US-wanted celebrity preacher
A Philippine court has ordered the arrest of jailed preacher Apollo Quiboloy as part of proceedings over a US request to extradite him. The order marks a step towards a decision on whether he will be sent to the United States, where he faces charges including child sex trafficking.
The Makati court found probable cause and also issued a hold-departure order against Quiboloy and two co-accused, church officers Teresita Dandan and Helen Panilag, who remain at large. Philippine courts must hold hearings before deciding on extradition; Quiboloy is already held without bail and denies the Philippine allegations. The government filed its petition after the US formally requested extradition in August, and officials said the court order was not timed around President Donald Trump’s planned Manila visit.
In short
- Court order advances proceedings on Quiboloy’s possible extradition to the US.
- Two co-accused church officers are also subject to arrest orders.
- Quiboloy denies allegations and remains jailed without bail in the Philippines.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of extradition can argue that the United States has formally requested it and that a court has found probable cause, so the request should proceed through the hearings required by Philippine law. Extradition could allow the US charges to be tested in court and demonstrate that serious allegations are addressed through established legal processes.
The case against
Those urging caution can argue that probable cause at this stage is not a finding of guilt, and extradition should follow only if hearings establish that the legal requirements are met and the accused’s rights are protected. Quiboloy denies the Philippine allegations, and the US charges remain allegations to be tested; the courts should assess the evidence and process without political pressure.
Explained simply
Apollo Quiboloy is a Filipino preacher who leads the Kingdom of Jesus Christ church and has built a large following. He is also known for his close ties to former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte.
The United States is seeking Quiboloy’s extradition, which would transfer him there to face criminal charges, including child sex trafficking. Philippine courts must consider the request through hearings before deciding whether to approve it.
Quiboloy is already in custody in the Philippines over separate allegations, which he denies. The case involves both countries’ legal systems and will determine whether he can be sent to the US to face its charges.