MANILA – Sen. Risa Hontiveros urged Kingdom of Jesus Christ pastor Apollo Quiboloy to face the allegations against him, following the filing of cases against her and other lawmakers.

Hontiveros said Quiboloy should answer the accusations rather than turn the issue against those who have spoken out against him.

“Kung talagang naniniwala si Quiboloy sa hustisya at sa Diyos, harapin niya ang mga paratang laban sa kanya. Managot na lang sya, imbes na baligtarin ang usapan,” Hontiveros said in a statement issued Sept. 10.

“Dahil ako? Wala akong kailangang ikatakot.”

Hontiveros pointed to the allegations and criminal cases involving Quiboloy, including human trafficking, sexual abuse and child abuse.

“Si Quiboloy ang wanted ng FBI. Si Quiboloy ang akusado sa mga matitinding krimen. Siya ang may kasong human trafficking, sexual abuse, at child abuse,” she said.

She also cited testimonies from alleged victims who have accused Quiboloy of exploiting them and sexually abusing women and minors.

“Siya ang itinuro ng mga biktima na nagtulak sa kanilang manlimos para siya ay yumaman. Siya ang itinurong sexual abuser ng mga babae at menor de edad,” Hontiveros said.

The senator said the focus should remain on protecting the alleged victims and other Filipinos who have come forward against Quiboloy.

“Ang dapat nating protektahan ay ang mga biktima at kababayan nating naglakas-loob magsalita at lumantad laban kay Quiboloy.”

She vowed to continue supporting them as they seek justice.

“Hangga’t humihingi sila ng hustisya, tatayo ako sa tabi nila,” she said.