Netizens Call Harry Roque ‘Bastos’ for Interrupting Sen. Risa Hontiveros at Senate Hearing
HARRY ROQUE – The former presidential spokesperson faced backlash from netizens for his behavior during a Senate hearing on illegal POGOs, where he repeatedly interrupted Sen. Risa Hontiveros. The hearing, led by Hontiveros, aimed to address connections to Lucky South 99, a POGO in Porac, Pampanga, which had been raided for illegal activities.
Roque attended the hearing to refute claims that he was connected to Lucky South 99. He became visibly agitated, accusing Hontiveros of implying that he was involved with the illegal POGO, despite documentation listing him as the “legal” officer. Although PAGCOR and Hontiveros presented this document, Roque challenged its validity and took the opportunity to lecture the Senate panel on its procedural rules.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian intervened, warning Roque about his disrespectful conduct and reminding him to show proper respect to the chairperson. After multiple interruptions and a heated exchange with Hontiveros, Roque toned down his demeanor and issued an apology.
During the questioning, Hontiveros asked Roque about his alleged role as the legal head of Lucky South 99. Roque denied ever acting as legal counsel for the POGO or any similar firm and clarified that he only attended a PAGCOR meeting with Katherine Cassandra Li Ong, the corporate secretary of Whirlwind Corporation, a client of his. Roque argued that the meeting pertained to Whirlwind and not Lucky South 99, though Hontiveros pointed out that the discussion involved the POGO.
Roque questioned the credibility of the organizational chart that named him as part of Lucky South 99, claiming he did not authorize the inclusion of his name. Hontiveros dismissed Roque’s attempt to lecture the panel on Senate rules, urging him to focus on answering questions rather than offering procedural commentary. The hearing concluded with Hontiveros emphasizing the need for Roque to stick to the topic and provide direct answers.