Hontiveros says PH has legal basis to extradite Quiboloy to US under treaty

Senator Risa Hontiveros stated on Friday that the Philippines has a clear legal basis under the PH-US Extradition Treaty to temporarily extradite Kingdom of Jesus Christ leader Apollo Quiboloy to the United States.

Hontiveros emphasized Article 11, Paragraph 1 of the treaty, which allows for temporary surrender even if Quiboloy faces other charges in Philippine courts.

She noted that victims in the US have waited long for justice and accused Quiboloy of using his influence to evade accountability in the Philippines.

Hontiveros highlighted that by temporarily surrendering Quiboloy, justice can be upheld on both sides, ensuring Philippine cases are not compromised while assisting US victims.

The United States requested Quiboloy's extradition earlier this year for charges including child sex trafficking and fraud related to a 2021 indictment in California.

Philippine Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez confirmed that US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson and Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla are expected to meet next week to discuss the matter.

Akbayan Partylist Rep. Perci Cendaña urged the Philippine government to immediately begin the process for Quiboloy's extradition, emphasizing the seriousness of his crimes.