Malacañang rejected former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque’s claims of political persecution on Tuesday, March 19.
“Wala po tayong nakikitang political persecution. Harapin na lang po niya ang kaso niya po dito. Mas maganda po iyan para maipakita niya sa taongbayan na wala po talaga siyang kasalanan,” according to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro.
Roque is facing potential criminal charges linked to illegal activities of shut-down Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). He recently surfaced in The Netherlands, offering legal support to former President Rodrigo Duterte. The ex-Palace official also announced plans to seek political asylum after an arrest warrant was issued by the House of Representatives for his failure to attend a congressional inquiry on POGO activities.
Castro explained that the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has evidence linking Roque to illegal POGO operations, including bank documents related to Lucky South 99, documents from his assistant AR Dela Serna, and a lease contract with an alleged manager of the company.
She also clarified that Roque’s asylum application would not impact the human trafficking case or the arrest warrant. She added that the petition is still under review, and Roque must prove a legitimate fear of political persecution for it to be approved.
Roque has been in hiding since September 2024 after the House Quad committee cited him for contempt for missing its hearings on POGO activities.IMT
