A House leader is urging the law enforcement agencies to coordinate with international authorities to prevent Atty. Harry Roque from seeking asylum in The Netherlands.

House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs Chairman and Tingog Party-list Jude Acidre has denounced former presidential spokesperson’s announcement that he is seeking asylum in the Netherlands.

The law must take its course. We cannot allow individuals to exploit international legal mechanisms just to escape criminal liability,” he said.

Acidre called it a desperate attempt to evade accountability for his alleged involvement in offshore scam hubs or Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and related crimes, including human trafficking.

“Roque may attempt to run, but the long arm of the law will eventually catch up with him. We will ensure that he faces justice—whether here or abroad.Roque’s asylum bid is nothing more than a cowardly maneuver to escape the consequences of his actions,” he added.

According to Acidre, Roque is facing human trafficking case before the Department of Justice (DOJ). The complaint, filed by government prosecutors, alleges that Roque used his position and influence to protect and enable criminal syndicates running offshore gambling hubs involved in human trafficking, cyber fraud and money laundering.

In the House of Representatives, he has been cited in contempt and ordered detained for his refusal to cooperate in our investigation into POGO-related criminal activities.

“Now, he wants to flee the country to avoid answering for his alleged role in a human trafficking scheme. If he has nothing to hide, why is he running?”

Acidre emphasized that Roque’s sudden asylum application only raises further suspicions about his deeper involvement in these illegal operations.

“This is not just about contempt in Congress anymore. Roque is now facing serious criminal charges that involve human trafficking—one of the gravest crimes under Philippine and international law,” Acidre stressed.

“His decision to seek refuge abroad is an obvious attempt to shield himself from prosecution and avoid being held accountable for his actions.”

The Quad Comm, composed of the House Committees on Dangerous Drugs, Public Order, Public Accounts and Human Rights, has been conducting an extensive probe into the rampant criminality linked to POGOs.

Lawmakers have exposed how offshore gambling hubs have become breeding grounds for organized crime, including human trafficking, forced labor, prostitution, cyber scams and even drug syndicates.

Roque, who has been linked to questionable dealings with certain POGO operators, was ordered detained by the House after repeatedly refusing to cooperate and answer critical questions about his alleged connections to illicit activities.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Jester P. Manalastas