Sara dismisses allegations on Quiboloy guns

MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte yesterday dismissed allegations made by an alleged former member of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) that she and her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, had been receiving guns from controversial pastor Apollo Quiboloy.

In a statement, Duterte said it has been a “tradition” for those aspiring for power to attack vice presidents and that the recent allegations made during a Senate inquiry is just one of the “many” forthcoming attacks she is expecting.

“In the history of the Philippines, it has become a practice to attack and throw various issues against the vice president. Perhaps, it’s because the vice president stands as the main obstacle to those who dream of becoming president,” Duterte said.

“I will not be surprised if there are more cases, investigations, witnesses, allegations, attacks and defamation against me in the coming days, weeks, months and years,” she added.

The KOJC, led by Quiboloy, is being investigated by the Senate for allegations of rape and acts forcing church members to beg or sell goods on the streets to fund his lifestyle.

During a recent hearing, a certain “Rene” accused Duterte and her father of going to “Glory Mountain” to visit Quiboloy and then leaving with bags that allegedly contained guns.

Duterte said she believes there are more appropriate times to address these allegations.

“Now is a time for me to do my job. I will comply with my sworn duty… I will prioritize the true problems (of the country),” she added. — Sheila Crisostomo