House of Representatives Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs Chairman Jude Acidre of Tingog Party-list denounced former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque’s announcement that he is seeking asylum in the Netherlands.
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’s asylum bid is nothing more than a cowardly maneuver to escape the consequences of his actions,” said Acidre, also a House Assistant Majority Leader.
“He (Roque) 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?” the lawmaker added.
Roque’s move comes five months after a human trafficking case was filed against him and two others 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.
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 emphasized.
“His (Roque’s) decision to seek refuge abroad is an obvious attempt to shield himself from prosecution and avoid being held accountable for his actions,” he added.
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 crimes, including human trafficking, forced labor, prostitution, online 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.
Acidre urged law enforcement agencies to coordinate with international authorities to prevent Roque from using asylum as a shield against prosecution.
“The law must take its course. We cannot allow individuals to exploit international legal mechanisms just to escape criminal liability,” he said. “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.”