Duterte, Sara criticize PNP over KOJC raid

Former President Rodrigo Duterte and Vice President Sara Duterte criticized the Philippine National Police (PNP) for allegedly using excessive force during an operation to serve arrest warrants against Apollo Quiboloy on Saturday, August 24.

Vice President Sara Duterte apologized to members of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), acknowledging her role in encouraging them to vote for Bongbong Marcos Jr. in 2022 and condemning what she called 'gross abuse of police power' during the raid.

During the operation, one person died from a heart attack while sixteen KOJC members including four minors were injured after tear gas was allegedly used by police when entering the compound.

Former President Duterte called on 'the remaining decent and patriotic members' of the government not to be used in enforcing what he termed as 'abusive and violent illegal orders'.

Vice President Sara Duterte emphasized that while she does not oppose the implementation of warrants, the use of excessive force against innocent citizens was unacceptable.

The PNP confirmed the death of Edwin Cabatbat, who died on arrival at a hospital after losing consciousness while guarding one of the church's watchtowers during the raid.