DND rejects Quiboloy transfer request to AFP

The Department of National Defense (DND) has rejected a request from Pastor Apollo Quiboloy's legal team to transfer his custody to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Quiboloy and four others are currently under the custody of the Philippine National Police (PNP) following their arrest in Davao City.

The DND filed a motion to oppose Quiboloy's transfer request to AFP custody before the Pasig Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 159 on Tuesday.

DND Assistant Secretary Erik Dy stated that the allegations against Quiboloy are heinous crimes within the jurisdiction of civilian courts, and thus, custody should remain with law enforcement agencies.

Dy clarified that AFP detention facilities are intended for military personnel charged with service-related offenses, not civilians.

He added that the DND proactively filed their opposition after being informed of the urgent motion on Monday.

The AFP stated it will adhere to the court's ruling regarding Quiboloy's detention, although it has facilities capable of housing high-profile inmates.

Pastor Quiboloy faces charges related to child abuse in Davao City and human trafficking in Pasig City, the latter being a non-bailable offense.