Philippine Pastor Apollo Quiboloy Faces Criminal Charges

Philippine pastor Apollo Quiboloy pleaded not guilty to multiple charges including sexual abuse during court arraignments. Quiboloy, leader of KOJC church, was arrested and remains in police custody. The pastor, listed on the FBI's 'most wanted' list, will face further legal proceedings amid new allegations.

Philippine celebrity pastor Apollo Quiboloy, who calls himself the 'Appointed Son of God,' pleaded not guilty on Friday to multiple criminal charges, including sexually abusing a child, during arraignments in two separate courts, his lawyer stated.

Quiboloy, the leader of the Philippine-based Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) church, which claims six million followers worldwide, arrived at the heavily guarded Pasig court wearing a bulletproof helmet and vest. He encouraged his followers to 'stay strong' before being escorted into the courtroom. His lawyer, Israelito Torreon, reiterated Quiboloy's innocence after the first arraignment.

Quiboloy also pleaded not guilty to the sexual abuse charges at a Quezon City court via teleconferencing. A longtime friend of former president Rodrigo Duterte, Quiboloy is on the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation's 'most wanted' list after being indicted for sexual abuse, human trafficking, and other crimes. After his arrest at KOJC's compound in Davao City, more individuals have come forward with similar allegations. Quiboloy remains detained at a police headquarters, pending further legal proceedings.

(With inputs from agencies.)