An obscure religious movement, believed to be promoting an imminent end-of-the-world ideology, is facing accusations of sexual violence, forced marriage, extortion, and involvement in the drug trade. The Socorro Bayanihan Services, originally a civic organisation, has evolved into a quasi-religious group now known as Omega de Salonera. This group, alleged to be “armed and dangerous,” has raised concerns as it holds at least 3,500 members, including 1,580 children, within a heavily guarded mountain enclave on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines.
Senator Risa Hontiveros addressed the Senate of the Philippines on Monday night, shedding light on the harrowing allegations. She stated, “This is a harrowing story of rape, sexual violence, child abuse, forced marriage perpetrated on minors by a cult.”
