BBM insists no human rights abuses in Davao standoff

National

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has refuted accusations of human rights abuses during a police operation at the 30-hectare Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) compound in Davao City, owned by fugitive religious leader Apollo Quiboloy.

The operation was conducted to serve arrest warrants against Quiboloy and several of his associates, who are facing charges of child abuse and human trafficking.

In an interview at Malacañang on Tuesday, August 27, Marcos defended the substantial police presence during the raid, emphasizing its necessity to ensure peace and security within the expansive area.

He argued that deploying a significant number of officers was essential given the size of the compound and the need to maintain order.

“Meron bang human rights violation kung maraming pulis? (Is there already a human rights violation if we deploy a lot of police officers?) I don't think so. The reason we did this was so that we can contain the peace,” Marcos said in a report from Philippines News Agency.

According to the president, resistance from some of Quiboloy's followers led to minor injuries among both the police and the supporters.

He expressed confusion over Quiboloy's decision to involve his followers in the situation, criticizing the televangelist for placing innocent people at the forefront of the conflict.

Marcos noted that these followers were merely seeking guidance and did not sign up to be involved in such confrontations.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) deployed around 2,000 officers during the operation, reflecting the need for a substantial presence to manage the extensive search within the compound.

Despite their efforts, the PNP believes Quiboloy may still be hiding within the premises as they continue to pursue his apprehension.(MyTVCebu)