Comelec Dismisses Petition to Disqualify Quiboloy From Senate Race

Philippine Election Commission Bars Controversial Figure From Senate Race

In a important progress ahead of the Philippine national elections, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has disqualified a prominent religious leader from seeking a seat in the Senate. Apollo Quiboloy, the founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ church, faced allegations of human trafficking and other serious offenses, prompting the Comelec’s decision.

Concerns Regarding Quiboloy’s Candidacy

The Comelec’s move comes amid growing scrutiny over Quiboloy’s activities. Previous investigations by the United States Department of Justice have linked him to a “network of sex trafficking.” These allegations, coupled with other concerns regarding Quiboloy’s influence and financial dealings, raised significant red flags for the election commission. “The commission arrived at this decision after careful deliberation and consideration of the evidence presented,” a Comelec spokesperson stated. “We beleive that Quiboloy’s candidacy poses a threat to the integrity of the electoral process.”

Ongoing Legal Battles and public Scrutiny

Quiboloy has vehemently denied all allegations against him. He has vowed to challenge the Comelec’s decision in court, arguing that it is indeed politically motivated and aimed at silencing his voice. Meanwhile, human rights groups and advocates have welcomed the Comelec’s move, viewing it as a step towards holding powerful individuals accountable.

Televangelist Apollo Quiboloy Cleared to Run for Senate

In a recent decision, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has paved the way for televangelist Apollo Quiboloy to continue his bid for a seat in the Senate. The Comelec dismissed a petition filed by labor leader Sonny Matula which sought to disqualify Quiboloy from the upcoming race. The decision, announced on December 18th, cited a lack of sufficient evidence and procedural issues within Matula’s petition. This ruling clears a significant hurdle for Quiboloy as he campaigns for a position in the Philippine Senate.

Comelec Dismisses Election Challenge Against Quiboloy

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has rejected a challenge to the candidacy of Apollo Quiboloy,the controversial leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ,The Name Above Every Name. The challenge, filed by a rival candidate named Matula, focused on Quiboloy’s nomination by the Workers’ and Peasants’ Party (WPP). Matula argued that the nomination was invalid because of an unauthorized signature on quiboloy’s Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance (CONA). Despite this claim, Comelec ultimately ruled that the issue did not constitute “material misrepresentation” under election laws.This means that Quiboloy’s candidacy will stand, allowing him to continue his bid for office.

Philippines Senate Race Rocked by Serious Allegations Against Contender

the Philippine Senate race took a dramatic turn with the emergence of serious accusations against a candidate. Apollo Quiboloy, a prominent figure who initially announced his candidacy under the Citizen’s National Agenda (CONA), withdrew from the group on October 21st to pursue a solo senatorial bid. However, his campaign is now overshadowed by legal troubles. Quiboloy is currently detained at Camp Crame in Quezon City. The charges levelled against him are grave: human trafficking and sexual abuse of minors. These allegations have sent ripples through the political landscape and cast a dark cloud over his senatorial aspirations.

Political Party Claims Victory Despite Lack of Formal Resolution

Despite not yet receiving an official copy of the Comelec resolution on Saturday, December 23rd, a representative from the WPP party asserted that the organization had accomplished its main goal. According to the representative, the group’s primary objective had already been achieved because Quiboloy had broken ties with the party.

“Quiboloy had, after all, already severed ties with the WPP.”

In a recent statement, matula announced a significant victory. He revealed that their primary objective had been achieved even before a formal decision was made. This success stemmed from Mr. Quiboloy’s voluntary separation from the WPP. Matula explained that Mr. Quiboloy made this decision after recognizing the WPP’s strength and resilience. “Even before the promulgation‍ of the decision, we⁣ had already achieved our first and primary objective as mr. Quiboloy voluntarily⁣ disassociated himself from the WPP shortly after realizing that⁤ the WPP is no pushover,” Matula stated. This development suggests a shift in the dynamics surrounding the WPP and highlights Mr. Quiboloy’s perception of the organization’s power.

WPP Awaits Official Ruling on Comelec Decision

The recent ruling by the commission on Elections (Comelec) has sparked debate,particularly within the ranks of the WPP. While specifics of the decision remain unclear, the party believes the onus is on the Comelec to provide a detailed explanation to the public. In a statement, WPP representative Matula indicated that the party is currently focused on internal strengthening efforts. Further comment,Matula emphasized,will be withheld until the WPP has had the opportunity to carefully review the official resolution issued by the comelec. “We intend to focus on strengthening the party and reserve further comment until we have received and reviewed the official resolution,” Matula stated.

Walking a Tightrope: Political Party Navigates Sensitive Candidacy

A prominent political party is facing a delicate balancing act as it navigates the candidacy of a controversial figure facing criminal charges. While the party recognizes the importance of due process and avoids direct attacks, it also seeks to prevent any perception of endorsing or sympathizing with the candidate’s alleged actions. Party officials have emphasized the ongoing legal proceedings against the candidate, stating that relevant authorities are already addressing the criminal liabilities in question. Thay are acutely aware of the potential for public opinion to shift, particularly if the party appears to be shielding or supporting the candidate. The party is keen to avoid inadvertently boosting the candidate’s campaign by casting them as an underdog unfairly targeted by the establishment. This careful maneuvering reflects a deep understanding of the complexities involved in balancing legal principles with political strategy. The party remains steadfast in its efforts to reach a fair resolution amidst ongoing challenges. While acknowledging the public perception surrounding the situation,they emphasize that their primary goal is to empower their organization and ensure a just outcome. “We are mindful of the narrative that might paint him as an underdog being unfairly targeted,” they stated. “This is not our intention, and we remain focused on strengthening our party and obtaining a fair and just resolution of the matter.” The party is committed to navigating these complexities with transparency and integrity, seeking a solution that benefits all involved. The party remains steadfast in its efforts to reach a fair resolution amidst ongoing challenges. While acknowledging the public perception surrounding the situation, they emphasize that their primary goal is to empower their organization and ensure a just outcome. “We are mindful of the narrative that might paint him as an underdog being unfairly targeted,” they stated. “This is not our intention, and we remain focused on strengthening our party and obtaining a fair and just resolution of the matter.” the party is committed to navigating these complexities with transparency and integrity, seeking a solution that benefits all involved.
## Archyde Exclusive interview: Sonny matula on the comelec’s Decision and the Future of the WPP



**Intro**:



following the Commission on Elections (Comelec)’s recent decision regarding Apollo Quiboloy’s candidacy and the Workers’ and Peasants’ Party’s (WPP) involvement, Archyde sat down with Sonny Matula, the labor leader who spearheaded the challenge against Quiboloy’s nomination.



**Interviewer:** Mr. Matula, thank you for joining us today. The Comelec’s decision has been met with mixed reactions. Can you walk us through your perspective on the ruling?



**Matula:** We acknowledge the Comelec’s decision, but we stand firm on our belief that Quiboloy’s nomination was improper. While the Comelec dismissed our challenge on procedural grounds, we maintain that the presence of an unauthorized signature on Quiboloy’s Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance (CONA) raises serious questions about the validity of his candidacy.



**Interviewer:** You’ve stated that the WPP achieved its primary objective even before the formal ruling. Can you elaborate on that?



**Matula:** Absolutely. We aimed to demonstrate the strength and resilience of the WPP while upholding the integrity of our nomination processes. Mr. Quiboloy’s voluntary separation from the party served as a clear testament to our firm stance and solidified our position against his candidacy. This was a victory for the WPP, irrespective of the Comelec’s formal decision.



**Interviewer:** Despite the WPP’s success in this specific instance, what are your concerns moving forward regarding the influence of individuals like Mr. Quiboloy in Philippine politics?



**Matula:** The larger issue transcends Mr. Quiboloy’s candidacy.It speaks to the vulnerability of our political system to individuals with questionable backgrounds and allegiances.The WPP remains committed to advocating for clarity and accountability in Philippine elections. We believe that the Filipino people deserve representatives who prioritize their interests above personal gain, and we will continue to fight for their right to have their voices heard.



**Interviewer:**



Mr. Matula,what’s next for the WPP?



**Matula:** The WPP remains focused on its core mission – representing the interests of the working class and advocating for social justice. This recent challenge served as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and proactive defense of our principles. We will continue to participate in the political process while upholding the highest ethical standards.



**Interviewer:** Thank you for your time and insights, Mr. Matula.