MANILA — In response to the Philippine National Police’s charge of obstruction of justice against him, Atty. Israelito Torreon, who represents Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, the leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, filed a reply affidavit with the Department of Justice.
The allegation relates to the arrest warrant that was served against Quiboloy inside the KOJC facility when Nicolas Torre, the previous PNP commander, was in charge of Region 11’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group.
If an officer is denied entry, they may, with or without a warrant, enter a building or enclosure where the person to be detained is situated or is reasonably believed to be, according to Section 11 of Rule 113 of the Rules of Court.
On his response affidavit, Torreon declined to provide further information.
In his counter-affidavit, which was submitted last month, he maintained that he should not be charged with obstruction of justice because he was merely serving as Quiboloy’s legal representative.
Torreon was charged by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) with obstructing the capture and prosecution of criminals, which is a violation of Presidential Decree 1829.
The obstruction complaint centers on allegations that Torreon and others impeded the lawful arrest and prosecution of Quiboloy during police operations last year. Torreon has denied wrongdoing, maintaining that his actions were part of his professional responsibilities as legal counsel.
In previous remarks, Torreon said he was simply “doing my job” when faced with accusations that he obstructed justice amid the high‑profile arrest of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader.
The obstruction case traces back to 2024, when Quiboloy was arrested after months as a fugitive following multiple allegations of human trafficking, sexual abuse and other criminal offenses. Police said certain individuals, including members of Quiboloy’s camp, may have impeded efforts to serve warrants and assist law enforcement.
Legal analysts say the rejoinder aims to clarify Torreon’s position and respond to allegations in the complainant’s reply, a required step before DOJ prosecutors decide whether to formally proceed to trial.
Observers note that obstruction of justice cases involving high‑profile figures can be complex, often hinging on specifics of legal procedure and intent. The DOJ’s decision on the next phase of the case will be closely watched by both supporters and critics of Quiboloy.
Pending decisions in this obstruction complaint will unfold alongside Quiboloy’s other ongoing legal battles, including his serious charges in Philippine courts.
