PNP Intensifies Manhunt for Harry Roque After Contempt Citation by House of Representatives

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ramped up its manhunt for former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, who has been cited for contempt by the House of Representatives. The move comes after Roque failed to comply with subpoenas for documents related to his alleged involvement with illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).

Roque, who served as spokesperson for former President Rodrigo Duterte, has repeatedly ignored summonses from a joint House panel investigating his connections to the POGO industry. His continued refusal to cooperate has led authorities to issue an arrest warrant. However, Roque's Makati office was found empty, raising concerns that he might be evading capture.

"The PNP is fully engaged in the manhunt for Atty. Harry Roque,” stated Santa Rosa City Rep. Dan Fernandez, co-chair of the Quad Committee. “We are collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure his swift apprehension. No one is above the law.”

Roque stands accused of withholding critical documents, including his Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth, as well as records related to his family’s business, Biancham Holdings. These documents are crucial for investigating his alleged links to Lucky South 99, a POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga, which is under scrutiny for illegal activities.

Authorities have dispatched police units to Roque’s last known location at the Antel Corporation Centre in Makati, but his current whereabouts remain unknown. The PNP, in coordination with other law enforcement agencies, is intensifying efforts to track him down as the investigation continues.

Rep. Robert Ace Barbers of Surigao del Norte, head of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, highlighted the gravity of Roque’s defiance. “His refusal to cooperate only raises further suspicions about his role in the POGO industry,” Barbers asserted, noting that the evidence against Roque is “overwhelming.”

Previously, Roque dismissed the investigation as a “kangaroo court” and vowed to abstain from participating. Nonetheless, Barbers and Fernandez stress that Roque must address these serious allegations through proper legal channels.

The House of Representatives remains committed to locating Roque and urges the public to come forward with any information that could assist in his apprehension.