The legal noose tightens around Apollo Quiboloy, the controversial pro-Duterte cult leader, as he faces a non-bailable case of human trafficking filed at the Pasig City court, as confirmed by the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Tuesday, March 19.

This development follows the issuance of a warrant of arrest by the Senate earlier, signaling escalating legal troubles for Quiboloy.

The Pasig court now holds the responsibility of assessing the merits of issuing a warrant of arrest against Quiboloy for qualified human trafficking under Section 4(a) of Republic Act No. 9208.

These charges, initially dismissed during the Duterte government, were revisited and approved for review by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla.

While Quiboloy may elude Senate summons citing constitutional rights, evading a court-issued warrant carries severe consequences, potentially leading to a declaration as a fugitive.

Notably, the Senate’s authority to enforce its arrest warrant is limited by its contempt powers, allowing detention only for the duration of its inquiry, Rappler reported.

DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano disclosed that charges were lodged in Pasig on Monday, March 18, with separate charges for child abuse filed at the Davao City court the previous week.

Prosecutors recommended bail amounts of P180,000 for sexual assault against children and P80,000 for maltreatment against children, both under Republic Act No. 7610.

“This case underscores our commitment to hold accountable those who would harm our society’s most vulnerable. Let this serve as a reminder that no individual, regardless of their position, is above the law,” emphasized Remulla in a statement.

Quiboloy also faces ongoing sexual trafficking charges in California, with an unsealed warrant issued by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The looming decision on extradition rests with the Philippine government, which must weigh Quiboloy’s local cases against potential US prosecution.

Per the extradition treaty, the Philippines retains the prerogative to prioritize prosecution in either jurisdiction, pending acquittal or conviction in local proceedings.