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Advocates Philippines
Arrest Warrant Issued For Ex-KOJC Witness Who Recanted Testimony Against Hontiveros
Photo credit: Senator Risa Hontiveros
Senator Risa Hontiveros has welcomed the issuance of an arrest warrant for Michael Maurillo — also known as “Alyas Rene” — after a Pasay City Regional Trial Court ordered his arrest in connection with a cyberlibel case stemming from his accusations against the senator.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) earlier found probable cause to pursue criminal charges against Maurillo after he released a video claiming that his testimony during the Senate’s investigation into the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) and its leader, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, had been coerced and influenced by bribery. Hontiveros denied these allegations and filed a cyberlibel complaint.
In her statement, Hontiveros expressed confidence that the legal process would uncover the truth, saying she remained committed to pursuing justice for the witnesses and victims who had come forward during the Senate hearings. “Buo yung pananalig ko na ang mga katotohanan ay lalabas at patuloy kaming maghahanap ng hustisya,” she said.
Maurillo previously served as a key witness in the Senate’s inquiry into alleged abuses, trafficking, and other violations linked to KOJC. He provided detailed testimony during the hearings, but later released a video retracting his statements and accusing the Senate panel of coercing him. According to past reports and communications cited by Hontiveros’ office, Maurillo had voluntarily approached her team in late 2023 and early 2024 offering information about the group.
The DOJ has earlier dismissed several of Hontiveros’ cyberlibel complaints against vloggers and commentators who helped amplify Maurillo’s retraction, citing insufficient evidence. However, the department pursued the case against Maurillo himself based on his direct allegations.
Supporters of the senator say the arrest warrant underscores the importance of accountability in an era of online misinformation, particularly when false claims attempt to undermine official inquiries. Others argue the case highlights the delicate balance between combating disinformation and protecting free speech.
As the proceedings continue, legal experts and advocacy groups are closely monitoring the outcome, noting its potential implications for future high-profile investigations involving witness testimony and online allegations.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) earlier found probable cause to pursue criminal charges against Maurillo after he released a video claiming that his testimony during the Senate’s investigation into the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) and its leader, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, had been coerced and influenced by bribery. Hontiveros denied these allegations and filed a cyberlibel complaint.
In her statement, Hontiveros expressed confidence that the legal process would uncover the truth, saying she remained committed to pursuing justice for the witnesses and victims who had come forward during the Senate hearings. “Buo yung pananalig ko na ang mga katotohanan ay lalabas at patuloy kaming maghahanap ng hustisya,” she said.
Maurillo previously served as a key witness in the Senate’s inquiry into alleged abuses, trafficking, and other violations linked to KOJC. He provided detailed testimony during the hearings, but later released a video retracting his statements and accusing the Senate panel of coercing him. According to past reports and communications cited by Hontiveros’ office, Maurillo had voluntarily approached her team in late 2023 and early 2024 offering information about the group.
The DOJ has earlier dismissed several of Hontiveros’ cyberlibel complaints against vloggers and commentators who helped amplify Maurillo’s retraction, citing insufficient evidence. However, the department pursued the case against Maurillo himself based on his direct allegations.
Supporters of the senator say the arrest warrant underscores the importance of accountability in an era of online misinformation, particularly when false claims attempt to undermine official inquiries. Others argue the case highlights the delicate balance between combating disinformation and protecting free speech.
As the proceedings continue, legal experts and advocacy groups are closely monitoring the outcome, noting its potential implications for future high-profile investigations involving witness testimony and online allegations.
Feb 12, 2026
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