Manila, October 8, 2024 – Controversial religious leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy has officially entered the political arena after submitting his Certificate of Candidacy (COC) for the 2025 senatorial race. The COC was filed on his behalf by Atty. Mark Tolentino on Tuesday, marking Quiboloy’s first bid for national office.
Quiboloy, the founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), is a well-known figure in Philippine religious and political circles. He has been a vocal supporter of past and present administrations, including the presidency of Rodrigo Duterte, with whom he shares a close personal friendship. Quiboloy has positioned himself as a “spiritual adviser” to his followers and has used his platform to express views on various national issues.
While his candidacy has sparked interest, it is not without controversy. Quiboloy is currently facing legal battles, including international charges of human trafficking and other serious offenses. These allegations have made headlines both in the Philippines and abroad, particularly in the United States, where authorities have issued warrants for his arrest. Quiboloy has consistently denied the accusations, labeling them as politically motivated attacks on his religious organization.
Despite the legal challenges, Quiboloy remains a powerful figure in his hometown of Davao and has a significant following across the country, particularly among members of his church. His media network, Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI), has been a prominent platform for spreading his messages and views on political and social issues.
His entry into the 2025 senatorial race adds a new dynamic to the upcoming elections. Quiboloy’s supporters view his candidacy as a step towards furthering his influence on national governance, while critics have raised concerns over the potential implications of his involvement in politics, given his legal troubles and the nature of his leadership within KOJC.
With Quiboloy now in the running, the 2025 senatorial elections are expected to be even more contentious as he joins a crowded field of candidates, some of whom may challenge his candidacy based on his legal standing.
As the election season heats up, all eyes will be on how Quiboloy’s candidacy unfolds, both in terms of his legal challenges and the reception of his bid by the general electorate.
