In recent years, the Philippine justice system has often been criticized for its sluggish pace, with cases dragging on for decades and high-profile fugitives seemingly evading the law with ease.

However, the tide appears to be turning under the leadership of Justice Secretary Crispin “Boying” Remulla. In a series of bold actions, the Department of Justice has taken significant steps toward bringing high-profile fugitives to justice — proving that the wheels of justice in the country are, at long last, rolling.

The arrest of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, the looming extradition of former Negros Oriental Congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr., and the capture of former Bamban Mayor Alice Guo are examples of what appears to be a concerted effort by the current administration to restore faith in the justice system.

Under Remulla’s helm, the DoJ has shown it is not only committed to delivering justice, but also doing so on time and on target.

The Case of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy

For years, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KoJC), has been entangled in allegations ranging from sexual misconduct to human trafficking. Quiboloy’s case has been a polarizing issue in Philippine politics, with his influential religious group providing him a substantial support base. Despite an arrest warrant and red notice from the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Quiboloy managed to evade capture, raising concerns that he was receiving special treatment from the authorities.

Yet this year, a coordinated effort involving both the Philippine National Police and the DoJ resulted in Quiboloy’s arrest. The service of the warrant, although criticized by some as an overkill due to the large police deployment, symbolized a no-nonsense approach in delivering justice. Remulla’s firm stance on this issue has reinforced the notion that even individuals with significant influence are not immune to the law.

Arnolfo Teves Jr.: Facing Extradition

Another high-profile figure facing justice is former Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr., who fled the country amid allegations he orchestrated the murder of political rival Governor Roel Degamo. Teves, already suspended from his congressional duties, had been hiding abroad for months while denying any involvement in the crime.

Despite evading the authorities for a time, Remulla’s DoJ moved swiftly to initiate extradition proceedings. Through diplomatic channels and cooperation with international law enforcement agencies, the DoJ is close to bringing Teves back to the Philippines to face the charges against him.

This case is particularly important because it highlights the DoJ’s ability to pursue criminals beyond national borders, demonstrating that justice in the Philippines is not bound by geographical limitations.