DML Nograles applauds rescue of alleged KOJC human trafficking victims, calls for accountability and coordinated gov’t action

HOUSE Deputy Majority Leader and PBA Partylist Rep. Margarita “Atty. Migs” Nograles on Monday commended the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 11 for their swift action in rescuing two alleged human trafficking victims at the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) compound in Davao City, while also condemning anyone who would defend the heinous crimes allegedly occurring within the premises.

The rescue took place during a police operation to serve arrest warrants against KOJC leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy and his co-accused, who are facing serious charges of child abuse and human trafficking.

“I applaud the PNP and DSWD for their decisive action in rescuing these young individuals from what appears to be a deeply troubling situation. The safety and well-being of our citizens, especially the most vulnerable, must always be a top priority,” Nograles said. 

“However, I also strongly condemn anyone who attempts to defend or downplay the severity of these crimes. Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights, and those responsible, including any accomplices, must be held accountable,” she added.

Nograles said that human trafficking is a serious crime that must not be taken lightly. "Human trafficking is not something to be dismissed or ignored. Allowing it to happen within one’s premises is serious, but being complicit in such heinous acts is an even graver offense. Pastor Quiboloy did not act alone—we must ask: Who are his accomplices? Those managing the property, those aware of its operations, and those who allowed such crimes against humanity to occur?"

The two alleged victims, a 21-year-old male from Samar and a female from Midsayap, Cotabato, were reportedly prevented from leaving the KOJC compound despite their desire to do so. Their rescue was facilitated after they, along with their relatives, sought help from the police.

“This incident is alarming and underscores the need for a thorough investigation into the operations within the KOJC compound. I urge the authorities to leave no stone unturned in this investigation and to ensure that justice is served swiftly and fairly,” Nograles said.

In addition to calling for a possible congressional inquiry, Nograles urged the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), led by the Department of Justice (DOJ) in coordination with the DSWD as co-chair, to intensify their efforts in this case.

She also urged other IACAT members, such as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), to exercise their visitorial powers to check for any violations of labor laws, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to review the actions of the barangay officials responsible for the area. 

She likewise called on the Philippine Commission on Women and the Philippine Center on Transnational Crime to actively participate in the investigation to ensure all angles are covered.

“Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights, and those responsible must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” Nograles said.

While KOJC legal counsel Israelito Torreon has denied the group’s involvement in human trafficking, Nograles insisted that the investigation must proceed with full transparency and diligence. 

“The truth must come to light, and if there are any violations of the law, those involved must face the consequences,” Nograles asserted. (END)