DOJ: Individuals cannot be extradited while case is pending

FILE: KOJC leader Apollo Quiboloy. (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)

By Benjamin Pulta, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – Department of Justice (DOJ) spokesperson Mico Clavano said Wednesday that, in general, a person cannot be extradited from the Philippines while a criminal case against him is pending in court.

In an interview with reporters, Clavano said local courts take precedence over an extradition request.

“The rule is that he must first face trial and, if convicted, serve his sentence here before extradition may proceed,” he said.

Clavano issued the statement following the reported request by the United States for the extradition of religious leader Apollo Quiiboloy, who has been accused by the US government of conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion, and sex trafficking of children, among other charges.

“However, courts retain the power to act on cases with urgency, so if circumstances warrant, we may move to resolve proceedings in order not to unduly delay a valid extradition request,” he said.

Quiboloy is facing charges of qualified human trafficking in the Philippines.