In a video message shared on SMNI’s X account, Vice President Sara Duterte spoke out in support of pro-Duterte cult leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, expressing her belief, along with many others, that his current predicament is unjust.

Quiboloy is currently entangled in legal challenges involving his church and personal matters.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, chair of the Senate women and gender equality committee, recently cited Quiboloy for contempt and ordered his arrest due to his repeated refusals to attend the panel’s investigation into alleged abuses within the Kingdom of Jesus Christ.

Duterte emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, stating, “Hindi biro ang mga pangyayari at paratang na ganito. Nararapat lamang na mabigyan ng patas na laban at ang tamang korte” (These events and accusations are not to be taken lightly. He deserves a fair fight in the right court).

“Lagi po tayong manalangin para sa hustisya at katotohanan. Justice and truth cannot be achieved through trial by publicity, but through a day in court,” she concluded.

Simultaneously, the House Committee on Legislative Franchises took action against Quiboloy.

Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel moved to cite Quiboloy in contempt for his repeated non-appearance at Tuesday’s hearing, citing refusal to obey summons without legal excuse and disrespectful behavior as grounds under Section 11 of the House rules.

Pimentel remarked, “The fact that he has not been appearing in these hearings, in this committee, just shows that he has no respect for this committee. It just shows that he acts like God. He acts with impunity. He takes this hearing for granted.”

Despite claims by Quiboloy’s lawyers that he has not been involved in SMNI’s operations since 2018, lawmakers argue that he is the actual “beneficial owner” of Swara Sug Media Corporation, which operates SMNI.

Quiboloy’s absence from previous hearings, despite multiple invitations, led to the decision to cite him in contempt. Pimentel stated, “It is very clear that Quiboloy has no intention of appearing before the panel.”

Lawyer Ferdinand Topacio defended Quiboloy’s absence, stating they provided legal justification through a letter submitted to the House panel. Topacio emphasized that three KJC officials are better positioned to respond to the panel’s queries.

SMNI faces franchise violations, including failure to deliver truthful reporting and transferring shares without prior congressional approval.

The panel also approved House Bill 9710, aiming to revoke SMNI’s franchise.