Manila: The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed the filing of non-bailable human trafficking charges against former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque and others in a Pampanga court. The charges are related to their alleged involvement in Lucky South 99 Corporation, a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub raided in Porac.
According to Philippines News Agency, Justice Undersecretary Nicholas Ty stated that there are over 40 respondents in the case, including Roque, businesswoman Cassandra Ong, Dennis Cunanan, and Duanren Wu. Ty noted that Roque had admitted to being a lawyer for Whirlwind, the company that leased its Porac compound to Lucky South 99. Despite Roque's claims that he was only acting as a lawyer, Ty pointed out that Roque had engaged with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) concerning the renewal of Lucky South 99's gambling license.
Ty emphasized that Roque's actions indicated his involvement in organizing the illegal POGO where human trafficking took place. The other respondents are alleged to have participated in various capacities in organizing and managing the firm.
The DOJ is currently awaiting the issuance of warrants of arrest against Roque and the other respondents. Once issued, law enforcement will proceed with tracking and arresting the accused. Ty highlighted that those who are not in the country could be considered fugitives, with options available such as passport cancellation and placement on Interpol's red notice list.
Furthermore, Ty mentioned that the DOJ would formally notify the Netherlands government about Roque's situation, as he is seeking political asylum there. The DOJ is also awaiting a court decision on whether to transfer the cases to a Pasig court.
Meanwhile, Roque has argued that he is a victim of political persecution and that the charges against him are politically motivated. In a statement, Roque indicated that he would include this charge in his asylum application, asserting that this is an exercise of his right to asylum due to political persecution linked to his loyalty to the Dutertes.
