PNP Chief to Revoke Pastor Apollo Quiboloy's Firearms Licenses

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is set to revoke the firearms licenses of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, a close friend of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is facing multiple arrest warrants related to allegations of child abuse, sexual assault, trafficking, exploitation, and discrimination. PNP chief Gen. Rommel Marbil is currently reviewing the Firearms and Explosives Office's (FEO) recommendation to withdraw Quiboloy's gun licenses, with a decision expected to be announced within the week.

According to PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo, the FEO's recommendation is based on the grounds for license to own and possess firearms (LTOPF) revocation stipulated in Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. The law states that applicants should not have been convicted or be currently accused in a pending criminal case carrying a penalty of more than two years.

Quiboloy, who possesses 19 firearms with one license expiring in March, has three standing arrest warrants for child and sexual abuse, as well as human trafficking. The revocation recommendation also includes Ingrid Canada, Quiboloy's co-accused in child sexual abuse charges. The cases filed against Quiboloy and his co-accused carry a lifetime imprisonment for capital offense.

Why this matters: The revocation of Quiboloy's firearms licenses highlights the PNP's commitment to upholding the law and ensuring that individuals facing serious criminal charges are not allowed to possess firearms. This move also emphasizes the significance of holding influential figures responsible for their actions, regardless of their connections or status.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, who led a Senate inquiry into accusations against Quiboloy, questioned the delay in revoking his gun licenses by the PNP. She cited the possibility that Quiboloy may have been encouraged to go into hiding because of the firearms he could use to protect himself. Fajardo stated that once Marbil approves the recommendation, Quiboloy should surrender his guns within six months, noting that "his situation is applicable to other gun owners facing criminal cases with prison terms of at least two years."

Key Takeaways

• PNP to revoke firearms licenses of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, facing arrest warrants.
• Recommendation based on law prohibiting gun ownership for those accused of crimes.
• Quiboloy has 3 arrest warrants for child abuse, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
• Revocation highlights PNP's commitment to hold influential figures accountable.
• Quiboloy must surrender guns within 6 months if licenses are revoked.