MANILA – The Pasig Regional Trial Court (RTC) ordered ocular inspections of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) properties in Davao, Quezon City, and Pasig City to help the court better understand the premises involved in the qualified trafficking case against the group’s founder, Apollo Quiboloy, and other co-accused.

In a 9-page order dated March 27, RTC Branch 159 granted the prosecution’s motion, directing inspections of the following locations:

• KOJC local congregation in Pasig City, where the private complainant was allegedly recruited at 12 years old and engaged in activities including remittance of tithes and organized events.
• KOJC Sauyo compound in Quezon City, where the complainant was allegedly baptized as a member.
• KOJC compound in Davao City, where the complainant allegedly stayed for three years, performing religious obligations, fundraising, physical labor, selling food products, collecting offerings, and household chores under the guise of religious service.
• Jose Maria College in Davao City, where the complainant pursued her studies.
• KOJC dormitory in Davao City, where she resided during her stay at the compound.
• KOJC Bible school building in Davao City, where she claimed sexual abuse by Quiboloy occurred.

The court noted that the complainant provided sketches of the relevant areas during cross-examination. While helpful, the sketches “remain limited to the complainant’s recollection.”

“Here, the Court finds it necessary to conduct an ocular inspection of the following subject premises, as such inspection will materially assist the Court in obtaining a clearer and more accurate understanding of the locations where the alleged offenses… were purportedly committed, and of the manner in which these properties were allegedly utilized as instruments in the commission of the offenses,” the RTC said.

Ocular inspections in Pasig and Quezon City are set for April 27, while those in Davao will be conducted on May 18. The prosecution and counsels for all accused are required to be present during the inspections.

The RTC clarified that the inspections are intended to aid the court in evaluating evidence and are “not the main trial nor should it exclude the presentation of other evidence which the parties may deem necessary to establish their case.”

Quiboloy is also facing charges under Section 5(b) and Section 10(a) of Republic Act 7610, the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act. GMA News Online has sought comment from Quiboloy’s camp.