Justice Department Moves to Cancel Harry Roque’s Passport
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has formally requested the Angeles City Regional Trial Court (RTC) to revoke the passport of former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque. This action follows the issuance of an arrest warrant against him on charges of non-bailable qualified human trafficking.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the DOJ filed this request on May 23. Should Roque’s passport be cancelled, he would become an undocumented alien abroad, which would then lead to his deportation back to the Philippines.
Currently, Harry Roque is in the Netherlands, where he has confirmed applying for asylum. The DOJ insists that Roque must face the charges instead of avoiding accountability. A government official said, “Ang mahalaga talagang mapilitan s’yang mag-account sa kanyang mga ginawa dito at depensahan niya ang sarili n’ya. ‘Di pa nga nagsisimula ang lahat e tinatakasan na n’ya ‘di ba. Sa batas natin flight is an indication of guilt.”
Legal Proceedings and Implications
The DOJ’s request to cancel Roque’s passport comes after the RTC issued arrest warrants against him and his co-accused in a qualified human trafficking case. The charges are connected to alleged illegal activities linked to Lucky South 99, a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) based in Porac, Pampanga, which the government has since shut down.
Roque reportedly left the Philippines last year before the charges were officially filed. His decision to seek political asylum abroad has raised concerns among officials, who doubt his chances of obtaining protection. “Ang Netherlands is one of the countries that goes against human trafficking which is the charge against Harry Roque,” a government source said.
Calls for Cooperation and Accountability
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla emphasized the importance of Roque facing the charges to simplify the legal process and serve the country’s interest. He urged Roque, “Harapin n’ya na lang para naman maging madali ang lahat para sa ating bansa.”
The DOJ continues to monitor the situation closely while coordinating with international authorities. The cancellation of Roque’s passport would significantly limit his movements and pave the way for his return to the Philippines to stand trial.
For more news and updates on justice department passport cancellation, visit Filipinokami.com.