August 29, 2025
Manila 6th District Representative Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. has expressed full support for the extradition request of the United States involving Pastor Apollo Quiboloy.
The lawmaker emphasized that international cooperation plays a vital role in the global fight against sex trafficking, particularly cases involving women and children.
Abante, who chairs the House Committee on Human Rights, noted that while the Philippines has made progress in strengthening anti-trafficking measures, the nature of such crimes remains transnational. He stressed that meaningful solutions require coordination and collaboration with other governments.
He also cited the United Nations Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons—also known as the Palermo Protocol—which the Philippines ratified in 2002. The agreement complements the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and obliges signatory nations to cooperate in investigating and prosecuting trafficking cases, safeguarding victims, and ensuring that perpetrators cannot evade justice by crossing borders.
According to Abante, extradition should be seen not only as a legal mechanism but also as a moral duty.
“This is why I support the extradition of Pastor Quiboloy. It represents a commitment to justice, to honoring our international responsibilities, and above all, to protecting women and children from exploitation,” the veteran lawmaker said.
