Actor-turned-politician Senator Robin Padilla appeared to come to the defense of the controversial pro-Duterte pastor, Apollo Quiboloy, during a Senate hearing held on February 19, subtly challenging his accusers to reveal themselves and confront the alleged “cult leader.”

Amidst a storm of allegations against Quiboloy, who heads the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC), Padilla emerged as an unexpected ally for the self-proclaimed “Appointed Son of God.”

“Kahit singko, hindi po ado hiningan ng pera ni pastor,” Padilla stated, leaving many netizens bewildered as the statement seemed unrelated to the accusations against the political evangelist.

Padilla then shared a personal anecdote from his acting career, highlighting the bravery required to disclose one’s true identity, suggesting that Quiboloy’s accusers should likewise come forward.

“Kung tayo po ay magaakusa at titindig, ke natatakot po tayo o hindi, kaylangang harapin po natin kung sino yong inaakusahan natin. Nang nakikita po yong mukha natin at kilola tayo,” Padilla remarked, delivering what appeared to be an allegorical and cryptic message.

However, it’s worth noting that the Philippines has laws in place to protect witnesses and whistleblowers. The Witness Protection, Security and Benefit Act (Republic Act No. 6981) aims to provide witnesses with security and encourage them to testify without fear of retaliation.

Moreover, Rule 23, Section 15 of the Rules of Court allows for the concealment of witnesses’ identities in certain cases to prevent harm or trauma. Additionally, laws such as the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003 (Republic Act No. 9208) and the Anti-Child Abuse Law (Republic Act No. 7610) include provisions for the protection of witnesses, particularly victims of trafficking and abuse.

During the hearing, Padilla emphasized his long-standing acquaintance with Quiboloy, asserting that neither the pastor nor the KJC had ever solicited money from him.

“I was not yet a senator at that time. I was an actor known for giving away money. But not even once did Pastor Quiboloy ask me for money. As they say in English, not even once,” Padilla stated, partly in Filipino.

He continued, “And when I ran for senator and sought the pastor’s help, not even once did the pastor ask me for money, not even a cent.”

Padilla made these remarks during the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality hearing, which focused on the allegations against Quiboloy and his church.

Asserting his right to express his opinion, Padilla clarified that he was not taking sides but emphasized that those leveling accusations should have the courage to confront the person they were accusing.

“I’m also speaking freely that never once was I or anyone in the Kingdom of Jesus Christ asked for money. Not even once,” Padilla reiterated.

It remains to be seen how Padilla’s unexpected support will influence the ongoing scrutiny of Quiboloy and the KJC, as the Senate probe continues to unfold.