Pastor Quiboloy denied bail in human trafficking cases

The Pasig City Regional Trial Court Branch 159 denied the bail petitions of Kingdom of Jesus Christ leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy and five co-accused, Sylvia Cemañes, Paulene Canada, Jackielyn Roy, Cresente Canada, and Ingrid Canada, in qualified human trafficking cases.

The court stated that the prosecution has presented strong evidence of guilt against all the accused for two counts of qualified human trafficking committed by a syndicate.

Acting Presiding Judge Rainelda Estacio-Montesa noted the different acts performed by the accused, including Quiboloy convincing a victim to become a full-time miracle worker and subjecting them to sexual exploitation.

The denial was largely based on the testimony of private complainant Blenda Sanchez Portugal, who alleged recruitment as a minor for free education and travel, but faced forced labor and sexual abuse.

This offense under Republic Act 9208, as amended by RA 10364, carries a potential penalty of life imprisonment, making bail discretionary.

The court clarified that the bail denial does not pre-judge the case's outcome and that a lengthy process remains for both parties to present further evidence.