A former president of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) noted that it is still possible to serve the arrest warrant against former Presidential Spokesperson Atty. Harry Roque, even if he is currently abroad.
In an exclusive interview with DZRH on Friday, Atty. Domingo Cayosa stated that serving the arrest warrant against Roque would require the Philippine government to coordinate with the authorities of the country where he is currently located.
"Maari naman pero kinakailangang makipag-ugnayan ng gobyerno o ang mga awtoridad ng Republika ng Pilipinas doon sa gobyerno ng bansang kinaroroonan ni Atty. Harry Roque, sa Netherlands," said Cayosa.
"They have to coordinate with them and seek the assistance ng kanilang gobyerno o kaya ng interpol," he added.
Roque, now applying for asylum in the Netherlands, earlier said that the arrest warrant strengthens his claim of being unjustly prosecuted, which he considers a legitimate basis for seeking asylum.
Cayosa noted that Roque’s view is merely his own and does not bind the Netherlands or the Philippine government, pointing out that the case had followed due process.
"It’s a valid warrant of arrest. It can be enforced with the cooperation of course nung host country ni dating Sec. Harry Roque," he added.
However, he admitted that the arrest warrant does not bar Roque from pursuing his application for political asylum in the Netherlands.
Furthermore, he said Roque’s arrest would depend on the cooperation of authorities in the foreign country.
"It’s within the discretion of the government of the Netherlands kung tutulungan nila ang ating gobyerno na isilbi ang warrant of arrest," Cayosa explained.
"Maaring gamitin rin ito ni dating Sec. Roque as another proof ng kanyang political persecution. Ang problema lang is makikita natin na dumaan ito sa proseso at makikita din naman ‘yan ng gobyerno ng The Netherlands," he added.
A court has issued an arrest warrant for Roque and several others in connection with alleged human trafficking activities tied to a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in Porac, Pampanga.
Among those accused is Katherine “Cassandra” Li Ong, a prominent figure in the POGO industry, who is believed to have held a key administrative position at Lucky South 99.
