The Philippine National Police (PNP) has placed its intelligence and tracker teams on heightened readiness as the government moves to secure an Interpol red notice for former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque.
In a press release, acting PNP chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the PNP is closely coordinating with the Interpol National Central Bureau (NCB) in Manila while awaiting official communication on the request.
“Kami ang magiging primary enforcement arm kung sakaling ma-approve ang notice (We will be the primary enforcement arm once the red notice is approved). We ensure that all police units nationwide are alerted and prepared to act,” Nartatez said in a statement.
“At this point, naka-monitor kami (we are monitoring) and we’re waiting for official communication from the proper agencies,” he added.
The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) earlier confirmed that the Philippine government has formally asked Interpol to issue a red notice against Roque in connection with allegations of qualified human trafficking.
A red notice is circulated among Interpol’s member-countries to locate and provisionally arrest individuals facing prosecution or serving a sentence, based on a valid arrest warrant.
Nartatez assured the public that the police force will follow both national and international protocols and will uphold due process throughout the process.
“Once a red notice is approved, all ground units will be ready to act immediately. We always ensure full compliance with legal procedures and respect for human rights,” he said.
Nartatez said the PNP’s preparations underscore its commitment to pursuing justice across borders and strengthening the country’s capability to respond to transnational crimes.
