Malacañang denied that the arrival of U.S. President Donald Trump was connected to the progress of extradition proceedings against Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, following the issuance of an extradition warrant of arrest by the Makati Regional Trial Court.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the timing was coincidental, explaining that the extradition request from the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation underwent the required process, including a review of submitted documents.
Castro also clarified that Quiboloy’s extradition case is different from the surrender of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court.
She explained that extradition is a state-to-state arrangement that requires compliance with the principle of double criminality. Under this principle, the offenses charged against an individual in the United States must also constitute crimes under Philippine law.
Castro added that extradition cases are summary proceedings, meaning court hearings primarily focus on submitted documents and legal pleadings.
She also noted that the person facing extradition may appeal to the Court of Appeals if the court issues an unfavorable decision.
The Palace maintained that the proceedings against Quiboloy followed the established legal process and were not influenced by Trump’s arrival in the country.
