A Staten Island mother has voiced her grave concerns following the arrest of Glennon Salvador Payabyab, a Filipino American minister of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), on charges of attempting to meet a 12-year-old girl and sending inappropriate messages.
Payabyab, 43, was arrested on April 3 in Springville, Staten Island, but was released less than 24 hours later, which has raised alarm among residents. The suspect faces a misdemeanor charge of endangering the welfare of a child.
Liza Vetland, a local resident and neighbor of Payabyab, shared her distress on social media, expressing concerns for her daughter’s safety. In her post, she described how Payabyab lived just a short distance away and knew personal details about her daughter, such as her school and pictures. “We have an order of protection, but how does that help when he lives so close?” Vetland wrote. She also voiced worries about her daughter’s sense of security, with fears of Payabyab potentially watching her when going for walks or when she is home alone.
The arrest followed an undercover operation by the Protect Our Children organization and the NYPD. Payabyab allegedly agreed to meet the girl in a parking lot in New Springville, which led to his arrest. His attorney, Kyle Peters, stated that Payabyab denies the allegations and emphasized his lack of a criminal history.
Veteran child protection advocate Peter DiMiceli commended the victim’s mother for her quick action, which he believes led to the suspect’s detention. “If it wasn’t for the victim’s mother and her perseverance, we may not have caught this perpetrator,” DiMiceli said.
Payabyab’s arrest has drawn significant attention, particularly within the INC community, which has approximately 3 million followers globally. Founded in 1913 in the Philippines, INC has been involved in various charitable activities but has also faced controversies, including allegations of abusive behavior and cult-like practices.
While the investigation unfolds, community members are urged to remain vigilant and allow the legal process to take its course. Payabyab is scheduled for a court appearance on June 3, 2025.
