The Philippine government is awaiting the issuance of an Interpol red notice against former Presidential Spokesperson Atty. Harry Roque, as a key step toward his possible deportation back to the country, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla said on Thursday, April 16.
In an interview over DZRH’s Dos Por Dos, Remulla explained that authorities are preparing to formally request Roque’s deportation once the red notice is released.
“When the red notice comes out, we will formally ask for his deportation back to the Philippines, ayun ang gagawin namin,” Remulla said.
Roque is accused of human trafficking in connection with the Lucky South 99 Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Porac, Pampanga.
According to the Interior chief, Roque allegedly had full knowledge of activities inside a facility linked to former Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, who has been arrested over related issues.
“He has full knowledge of what was going on inside that facility kasi pumupunta siya doon. Doon siya naging accessories to the crime,” Remulla said.
Remulla also noted that authorities are tracking Roque, whose passport has reportedly been canceled. He added that Roque is currently applying for asylum abroad.
Despite earlier remarks that drew attention, Remulla clarified that he would not personally carry out any arrest of Roque and that all actions would follow proper legal procedures.
“Hindi [ako pupunta sa Austria]. Cancel kasi ang passport niya, tinatrack nila ‘yun. Ngayon nag-aapply siya ng asylum pero ang charge sa kanya rito ay human trafficking, hindi political crime ang ginawa niya,” he said.
Meanwhile, during the interview, Remulla joked that he would even bring “humba,” a Filipino braised pork dish, if he were to meet Roque abroad.
“Dadalhan ko pa [si Harry Roque] ng humba,“ he jokingly said.
The comment came after Roque reportedly challenged the Philippine authorities’ jurisdiction and said he was “waiting” for Remulla in Austria.
Since being charged, Roque has denied the allegations against him, calling the charges a “travesty of justice” and claiming political persecution.
He has also sought asylum in the Netherlands, but the Department of Justice (DOJ) had earlier claimed that his request had been denied.
