| FBI Photo Helen Pagaduan
LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Helen Pagaduan Panilag, a longtime administrator of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), is wanted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for her alleged role in a years‑long human trafficking, forced labor, visa fraud, and fundraising scheme that brought Filipino church members to the United States under fraudulent pretenses. Panilag, 60, was born in the Philippines and served as KOJC’s top U.S.-based church administrator, overseeing financial operations across KOJC branches worldwide.
The FBI alleges that Panilag helped orchestrate a scheme in which KOJC members were brought to the U.S. using fraudulently obtained visas, then forced to solicit donations for a bogus charity. Funds collected allegedly financed KOJC operations and the “lavish lifestyles” of its leaders.
Members who raised large amounts were allegedly compelled to enter sham marriages or obtain fraudulent student visas to remain in the U.S. year‑round. Panilag was indicted by a federal grand jury in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California on November 10, 2021, and a federal warrant was issued for her arrest.
Connection to Pastor Apollo Quiboloy
Panilag is directly linked to KOJC founder Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, who faces separate U.S. federal charges including sex trafficking of children, sex trafficking by force, fraud, coercion, conspiracy, and bulk cash smuggling.
Despite Quiboloy’s arrest in 2024 and the FBI’s ongoing pursuit of KOJC administrators, the church continues to operate both in the Philippines and in parts of the United States. KOJC compounds in Davao City remain active, with members regularly gathering for worship and organizational activities. Several U.S. branches also continue limited operations, though under heightened federal scrutiny following multiple indictments and trafficking allegations.
The FBI renewed its “Most Wanted” alert for Quiboloy, Panilag, and KOJC officer Teresita Tolibas Dandan in January 2026. The agency stated that Quiboloy allegedly led a trafficking network that forced members to solicit donations and, in some cases, required female victims to perform sexual acts as part of “night duty.”
Panilag and Quiboloy were previously involved in a high‑profile incident in Hawaii, where KOJC members were intercepted with hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash hidden in suitcases. This incident formed part of the evidence in the broader trafficking and bulk‑cash‑smuggling investigation.
Allegations, Victims, and Panilag’s Status
The FBI alleges that dozens of victims were trafficked through the scheme, though the total number may be higher. Victims were promised legitimate work, missionary opportunities, or pathways to U.S. residency, only to be forced into year‑round fundraising, often under threat of deportation or spiritual coercion.
Panilag’s current whereabouts are unknown, according to the FBI. She is considered a fugitive and may have fled back to the Philippines or remained hidden within KOJC networks.
Quiboloy, meanwhile, is detained at the Pasig City Jail after being arrested in Davao City in August 2024. The Philippine government is awaiting a formal U.S. extradition request, which the Department of Foreign Affairs expects to receive through a note verbale.
Detention, Bail, and Plea Status
There is no record of Panilag being detained, released on bail, or entering a plea in U.S. court. Because she has not been arrested, she has not appeared before a judge and therefore has not entered a plea. The case remains open, and the FBI continues to seek public assistance.
