House of Representatives Considers Harry Roque a ‘Fugitive’
HARRY ROQUE – The former presidential spokesperson, is now considered a “fugitive” by his former colleagues in the House of Representatives due to his failure to attend a scheduled hearing related to an investigation into illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
Roque has been implicated in the operations of an illegal offshore gaming hub in Porac, Pampanga, which was raided earlier this year. According to Surigao del Sur 2nd District Representative Johnny Pimentel, Roque has been hiding from authorities, who have been unable to locate him despite a three-day search conducted by the House Sergeant-at-Arms in coordination with the Philippine National Police.
Roque missed the hearing due to a scheduling mix-up and has since claimed that his absence is due to being a “political detainee.” He accuses the current administration of targeting him because of his vocal support for the Duterte family. Pimentel indicated that if Roque continues to avoid appearing at the hearing, the Quad Committee might seek a hold-departure order (HDO) against him. An HDO would prevent Roque from leaving the country and can only be issued by a court.
The Quad Committee had previously cited Roque for contempt for failing to submit necessary documents related to the investigation. Roque argued that the requested documents were not relevant, but his motion to dismiss the subpoena was rejected. The committee insists that Roque provide various documents, including business records and tax returns, as part of the inquiry.
According to ABS-CBN News, Roque has been linked to Lucky South 99, a POGO facility involved in illegal activities, although he denies these allegations. Additionally, Roque’s wife, Mylah Roque, has also been subpoenaed but has failed to appear at the hearings. The committee is considering issuing a show-cause order to Mylah Roque, requiring her to explain why she should not be held in contempt for ignoring the summons.