Philippine Senator Risa Hontiveros has called on former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque (as depicted in featured image) to return to the country and face legal proceedings following the issuance of arrest warrants linked to an alleged criminal operation involving a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Porac, Pampanga.
The Angeles City Regional Trial Court recently ordered the arrest of Roque, Chinese-Filipino businesswoman Cassandra Li Ong, and her godfather, Duanren Wu—a Chinese national reportedly wanted by authorities in China. All three are facing legal action over their alleged involvement in Whirlwind Corporation, which has ties to the controversial POGO hub.
“Harry Roque must be compelled to return to the Philippines,” Hontiveros said. “If he doesn’t, not only would he be evading an arrest order from Congress, he would also be defying a lawful court directive. As a lawyer, he knows that avoiding legal accountability is wrong.”
Roque under fire for POGO links
Roque, once known as a human rights advocate before serving as spokesperson to former President Rodrigo Duterte, has been overseas in recent months. Hontiveros stressed that his absence does not exempt him from legal responsibility.
The senator is leading a Senate investigation into illegal POGO operations, which she claims have been linked to serious crimes such as human trafficking, torture, illegal detention, and money laundering. She described the Porac hub as, at one point, the country’s largest scam centre.
There is also growing speculation that Roque may have ties to Li Duan Wang, a Chinese junket operator associated with the 9Dynasty group. Wang allegedly attempted to obtain Filipino citizenship under questionable circumstances. A recent Senate hearing revealed that several individuals involved in illicit POGO activities are part of a wider, well-connected network.
Interpol intervention likely
The situation is further complicated by the possibility of an Interpol arrest. According to the Philippine Star, the Department of Justice is contemplating seeking Interpol’s assistance to apprehend Roque. DOJ Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Jose Dominic Clavano IV mentioned that diplomatic channels could be explored, considering Roque’s current location abroad.
“That is one of the diplomatic channels available. Since he is abroad, we may go through diplomatic processes,” Clavano stated. “This is a prosecution matter concerning a crime committed in the Philippines.”
Clavano emphasised that Roque is not being singled out, as the arrest warrants apply to all accused. He added that the proceedings offer Roque a chance to clear his name, should he wish to defend his innocence. “He is one of many accused in the case. This is a legal venue where he can prove his innocence if he believes he has done nothing wrong,” Clavano said.
