Lawyer Harry Roque has denied the circulating rumors that he was allegedly arrested in the Netherlands for his human trafficking case related to a POGO hub. According to Roque, there is no truth to these reports and he is even scheduled to fly to Vienna, Austria this November 25.
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said they have no official notification from the Netherlands regarding Roque's alleged arrest, even though the government has issued a Red Notice allowing for his arrest and return to the Philippines. While the Senate deliberations were ongoing, Senate President Vicente Sotto III also questioned the DFA about the news, but according to Sen. Imee Marcos, verification is still underway and no information has been received yet.
According to the Department of Justice (DOJ), Roque should not be allowed to leave the country because the court has canceled his passport. DOJ spokesperson Atty. Polo Martinez explained that he could be detained in any country if he travels without proper documents. However, the DOJ clarified that there is no official confirmation regarding Roque's arrest or travel.
The DFA has canceled several other passports including those of Herminio Roque Jr., Katherine Cassandra Li Ong, Ronelyn Baterna, Mercides Macabasa, and Dennis Cunanan. In connection with this, the government has also requested an Interpol Red Notice against Roque to assist other countries in locating and provisionally arresting him.
Roque still vehemently denied any involvement in human trafficking and abuse at Lucky South 99 POGO in Pampanga. The case against him is still not progressing because the court in Angeles City does not yet have jurisdiction. It will be recalled that he left the Philippines in 2024 after refused to attend Senate hearings regarding POGOs allegedly being used for criminal activities.
