Quiboloy loses cyber libel case vs Pacquiao
DAVAO CITY, Philippines — The Davao City prosecutors’ office has effectively junked the cyber libel charges that international evangelist of the Jesus Christ the Name Above Every Name pastor Apollo Quiboloy filed against former senator Manny Pacquiao.
The six-page resolution signed by prosecutor Jose Charito Cortez II and approved by Davao City prosecutor Jhopee Avanceña last week contended that Quiboloy’s complaint against Pacquiao, who ran but lost in the May 9 presidential election, was unconvincing.
“The complainant’s contention that the various press releases of herein respondent signify proof of the latter’s malicious intention is not convincing,” part of the six-page resolution read.
The cyber libel charges that Quiboloy filed against Pacquiao stemmed from the former senator’s refusal to attend the presidential debates that the evangelist’s Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) sponsored and held at the Okada Hotel.
Pacquiao stressed that he could not get himself to attend the debate because of the nature of the cases that the pastor allegedly faces in the United States.
“As much as I would like to participate in every debate and public forum related to my bid for the presidency, I am compelled to decline the invitation of Sonshine Media Network International, which is owned by Apollo Quiboloy, who, according to the US government, has molested and abused children,” the prizewinning boxer said.
He likewise stressed that he cannot, in good conscience, “be part of any activity organized by a man wanted for detestable crimes and who unconscionably used the name of the Lord in vain for religious scams,” referring to Quiboloy.
Davao City prosecutors resolved that Pacquiao’s statement on his refusal to attend the SMNI-sponsored debate was without malice.
Earlier this month, the Court of Tax Appeals junked a P2.2 billion case of Pacquiao and spouse on alleged tax arrears from his boxing purse, saying the assessment made was “void” because without factual basis.
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