Senator Robin Padilla has called for an investigation into the alleged “unnecessary and excessive force” used by police during a recent attempt to arrest fugitive televangelist and alleged rapist Apollo Quiboloy.

On June 10, the Philippine National Police conducted an operation at the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) premises in Davao City to serve the warrant of arrest.

“In serving warrants, law enforcement should take into consideration the totality of the situation at hand which should not in any way violate the dignity of persons,” Padilla explained.

He emphasized the importance for the PNP to uphold human rights, stating, “There is a need for the PNP to promote and protect human rights because these very acts are vital to the maintenance of public order, guarantee of public safety, and respect for the rule of law.”

Padilla’s resolution calls for the appropriate Senate committee to investigate, in aid of legislation, the alleged unnecessary and excessive force used by PNP members during the June 10 operation.

He mentioned reports that during the operation by the Special Action Force (SAF) and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) at KOJC premises and the Prayer and Glory Mountains to serve arrest warrants against KOJC founder Apollo Quiboloy and five others, tensions escalated, resulting in injuries to some missionaries.

Former President Rodrigo Duterte, who administers the church properties, previously characterized the operation as “overkill”. In a media statement released on Friday, June 14, he expressed intent to pursue “legal and appropriate action” against the police.

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