Immigration Issues Lookout Bulletin for Harry Roque and Others
HARRY ROQUE – An Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) has been issued against former presidential spokesperson and 11 others in connection with their involvement with the recently raided Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in Porac, Pampanga.
The ILBO, as reported by GMA News, names Roque, Cassandra Li Ong (the authorized representative of the Porac POGO hub), former Technology and Livelihood Resource Center (TLRC) deputy director general Dennis Cunanan, among others.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) explained that due to the serious nature of the charges and extensive media coverage, there is a significant risk that these individuals might attempt to evade legal proceedings by leaving the country. The ILBO is meant to track their travel and whereabouts.
Roque has criticized the ILBO as “plain harassment,” alleging that it is a political tactic aimed at silencing him for his criticisms of the current administration. He asserts that the bulletin is a reaction to his Facebook call for Malacañang to remain drug-free following statements by eyewitness Cathy Binag. Roque maintains he has no intention of leaving the country and is prepared to confront the allegations related to the offshore gaming operations.
Roque has been participating in the Senate investigation into the raided POGO hubs. He faces accusations of assisting the firm Lucky South 99 in reapplying for a license and resolving their debts. Roque argues that the only evidence against him is his presence with Ong during debt rescheduling and an unsupported chart.
Justice spokesperson Mico Clavano stated that he cannot yet confirm the ILBO and needs to verify it. He emphasized that an ILBO is merely a “monitoring mechanism” to notify Immigration if the individuals travel, without outright restricting their movement. Additionally, a precautionary hold departure order will be sought at the Office of the Executive Judge to prevent these individuals from leaving the country.