Quiboloy's Defiance Fuels Tensions as Authorities Intensify Manhunt in Davao City

Authorities are intensifying their efforts to apprehend Apollo Quiboloy, the self-proclaimed "Son of God," as tensions rise around the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) compound in Davao City. Quiboloy has remained elusive for months, making bold declarations that he would "not be caught alive." His defiance has only fueled the determination of law enforcement, leading to a dramatic raid over the weekend. Late Saturday, police attempted to apprehend Quiboloy within the KOJC compound, a stronghold for his followers. Reports indicate that the situation escalated when a significant number of his devotees resisted the authorities, resulting in the use of tear gas by police to disperse the crowd. Major Catherina dela Rey of the Davao police reported that the followers had become "unruly and violent," highlighting the volatile atmosphere surrounding the compound. In a show of solidarity, hundreds of Quiboloy's followers took to the streets, blocking major highways in an effort to thwart police efforts and draw attention to their leader's plight. Despite the mounting evidence against him, his supporters staunchly defend his innocence, claiming that the allegations are fabrications orchestrated by his enemies. The raid took a tragic turn when one supporter reportedly died from a heart attack amidst the chaos. This incident underscores the emotional and psychological toll that this standoff has inflicted on Quiboloy's followers, many of whom view him as a divine figure. Investigators believe Quiboloy may be hiding in an underground bunker, utilizing advanced technology to evade capture. Police are employing heartbeat detection equipment in their search, suggesting that Quiboloy’s evasion tactics may be more sophisticated than previously thought. Quiboloy's influence extends far beyond his religious ministry, which claims to have seven million followers bolstered by a robust presence across television, radio, and social media. His political connections are equally noteworthy; he served as a spiritual adviser to former President Rodrigo Duterte, whose administration saw a close intertwining of politics and religion in Davao City. Since Duterte's departure from office in 2022, Quiboloy has faced increasing scrutiny and legal challenges. The accusations against him are grave, including allegations of trafficking followers to the United States to solicit donations for fraudulent charities and coercing female followers—some reportedly minors—to engage in sexual acts as a form of religious obligation. Quiboloy has attributed his legal troubles to the work of the "devil," suggesting a narrative of victimization rather than accountability. He has also expressed a strong opposition to the involvement of the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation in his case. In recent statements, Quiboloy has insisted that his evasion is not a sign of guilt but rather a means of self-preservation. "I am not hiding from the charges because I am guilty. That's not true. I am just protecting myself," he claimed, further complicating the narrative surrounding his actions. As the authorities close in on Quiboloy, the situation remains fluid and fraught with tension. The outcome of this standoff could have significant implications not only for the controversial pastor but also for his vast network of followers and the political landscape of Davao City. With each passing day, the stakes continue to rise, drawing national and international attention to this unfolding drama.