In a country deeply rooted in Christianity, where culture of devotion is woven into its history—it is easy for Filipinos to be blinded by a new source of hope and support in times of adversity. However, this devout faith has a darker side: an increasing susceptibility to religious leaders who promise salvation, power, and miracles.
It is indisputable that Filipinos' strong religious devotion is entrenched in history. Catholicism, introduced by Spanish colonizers over 400 years ago, remains the dominant faith, with more than 80% of Filipinos identifying as Catholic. However, beyond the Catholic Church, the Philippines has also become fertile ground for various religious movements, including cults often led by powerful and charismatic leaders.
A Culture of Gullibility
These movements thrive because Filipinos, often seeking hope amid persistent societal issues such as poverty, limited access to education, and disasters, are drawn to figures who offer quick solutions. Whether promising prosperity, eternal life, or healing, the allure is strong. Unfortunately, some leaders exploit this deep faith for personal and financial gain, taking advantage of their followers' trust.
From a young age, Filipinos are raised in an environment that encourages reverence for religious figures and institutions. This deep-rooted cultural conditioning can lead to blind faith, where questioning authority is not only discouraged but often perceived as a sign of weakness or lack of devotion.
Furthermore, within many religious communities, a lack of critical discourse stifles open conversations about faith and authority. Discussions challenging the status quo are often suppressed, creating a culture of silence where questioning is discouraged. This environment makes it difficult for individuals to critically assess the actions and teachings of their leaders, leaving them vulnerable to manipulation. When voices of dissent are silenced, it becomes all too easy for religious leaders to operate without accountability, further perpetuating a cycle of gullibility and exploitation.
Gullibility often prevails due to the inaction on pressing issues that affect the daily lives of the people—issues that are frequently overlooked by society's leaders, who should intervene. Therefore, Filipinos often rely on those who offer deceptive hope, jeopardizing their well-being, freedom, and safety in the pursuit of temporary relief from their suffering.
The False Prophets
What many believed to be a path to salvation has turned out to lead to even more suffering and misery.
Many have fallen for the words and promises of Apollo Quiboloy, founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC). Claiming to be the “Appointed Son of God,” Quiboloy has amassed millions of following, both in the Philippines and abroad. His teachings deviate significantly from traditional Christian doctrines, as he positions himself as the only route to salvation. Quiboloy’s influence has allowed him to build a vast empire, complete with schools, media outlets, and various businesses funded by the donations of his followers.
However, the bubble of his influence began to burst when serious allegations surfaced. In 2021, Quiboloy was indicted in the United States on charges of human trafficking, sexual abuse, and other grave offenses.
In a similar vein, the case of Jey Rence Quilario popularly known as Senior Agila emerged in 2023. After a devastating earthquake in 2019, Senior Agila, at 17 years old, convinced the members of his small Filipino village that he was their only savior. Those who followed him were allegedly encouraged to give 40 percent of their salaries, government benefits, and profits from property sales directly to the newly established Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc. (SBSI) which was presented as a civic organization but later labeled as a cult.
Like Quiboloy, Senior Agila's influence was bolstered by the desperation of his followers, who often found themselves at the mercy of his promises. The consequences of blind faith became painfully clear as numerous victims of sexual abuse and manipulation in their cult came to light. Their cult practices included a shocking array of abuses, from forced child labor to child marriages.
These tragedies proved how Filipinos’ gullibility to faith and religion is an engraved trait shaped by a history of colonization and religious influence, compounded by a lack of solutions to systemic issues. In the hope of deliverance from afflictions brought by societal conventions, people seek support from religious faith, and in turn, suffer from the vile acts of those they call the soldiers of God.
The Pursuit for Awareness
The stories of Quiboloy and Senior Agila serve as cautionary tales, highlighting the perils of blinded devotion and the exploitation of those who are vulnerable. These controversies are not just mere scandals; they present valuable opportunities for reflection and growth within Filipino society.
As awareness of the manipulative tactics employed by such leaders grows, individuals can be empowered to think critically about their beliefs. Education plays a crucial role in this process, fostering discernment, critical thinking, and encouraging people to question authority and seek a deeper understanding of their faith. Therefore, it’s essential to prioritize the development of accessible education in areas most vulnerable to manipulative cults and organizations.
Community dialogues and outreach programs can also be instrumental in helping individuals heal from the painful aftermath of exploitation. By creating spaces that encourage open discussion, Filipinos can foster a culture that values informed faith and critical inquiry. In doing so, they can reclaim their dignity and agency that has—for too long—allowed false prophets to flourish and take advantage of those seeking hope and guidance.
Article: Gabrielle Cruz
Graphics: Alyssa San Diego
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