A Quezon City court has sentenced Eduardo Corda, a member of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), to four months in jail for obstructing a police operation. Corda was found guilty of violating the Public Assembly Act of 1985 during protests aimed at protecting Apollo Quiboloy, the controversial sect leader.
The ruling, issued by Judge Juvenal Bella of the Quezon City Metropolitan Trial Court Branch 39, stems from events in August 2024 when KOJC members staged a blockade to hinder a police manhunt for Quiboloy.
Corda was identified as a protest leader using a megaphone to direct the crowd. The court's decision highlighted that while the KOJC had a permit for a 'prayer rally,' it did not extend to occupying public roadways.
Court's Findings
The court noted that the KOJC protest obstructed the Philippine-Japan Friendship Highway, causing significant disruption. It emphasized that freedom of assembly has limits, particularly when it infringes on public access.
Corda claimed he was acting in a peacekeeping capacity and not as an organizer of unlawful activities. However, the court found that his actions contributed to the blockade and subsequent violation of the law.
Statement from Police Leadership
The law is the law. If ordinary citizens are required to obey the law, even more so for those in power.
Nicolas Torre, former PNP chief
Nicolas Torre, the former Philippine National Police chief, commented on the ruling, stating it serves as a reminder that the law must be upheld. He noted the chaos caused during the arrest warrant implementation against Quiboloy.
Quiboloy, a close ally of former President Rodrigo Duterte, is facing serious charges, including sexual abuse and qualified human trafficking, and is currently detained at the Pasig City Jail.