Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque’s application for asylum in the Netherlands has been denied, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla announced on Wednesday, June 18. Roque, who is the subject of an arrest warrant over qualified human trafficking charges, has yet to return to the Philippines and is now believed to be residing in Germany.
Remulla, in an interview with reporters, revealed that Dutch authorities have not granted Roque’s asylum plea. “As far as I know, he was not granted asylum by the Netherlands. So he is in Germany,” Remulla said in Filipino.
Roque faces an arrest warrant issued by a Pampanga court for allegedly violating Section 4(a) and Section 6(c) of Republic Act No. 9208, also known as the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003. The case is tied to Roque’s alleged involvement in the operations of Lucky South 99, a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) and suspected scam hub in Porac, Pampanga.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) emphasized that Roque’s role extended beyond legal representation. He allegedly served as both the lawyer for Whirlwind Corporation — the firm that leased the property used by Lucky South 99 — and the official representative of the POGO.
In light of his continued refusal to return to the country, Remulla said extradition could eventually be pursued. “He may be extradited when the time comes,” the DOJ secretary stated. However, Remulla noted that such a move might be unnecessary if Roque’s passport is canceled.
“Once his passport is canceled, he becomes an undocumented alien, and Interpol can arrest him,” Remulla added.
While there is currently no timeline for the cancellation of Roque’s passport, Remulla explained that movement across EU borders is still possible due to visa access. However, if Roque is stripped of his documentation and declared a fugitive, Interpol’s intervention could follow.
Roque is among several individuals, including Cassandra Ong, facing charges in connection with the DOJ’s crackdown on illegal POGO activities. The DOJ has reiterated its commitment to pursuing justice and holding all responsible parties accountable, regardless of their previous government roles.