JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed on Monday that the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has initiated the process of canceling the passport of former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque following the filing of a qualified human trafficking case against him earlier this month.
Roque, who is currently seeking asylum in the Netherlands, faces significant limitations on his options abroad as a result of this action.
Secretary Remulla noted that Roque may hold multiple passports, but emphasized that the passport cancellation will compel him to return to the Philippines to face the charges.
“What’s important is that he will be forced to answer for what he has done here and defend himself,” Remulla stated. With a canceled passport, Roque would become an undocumented alien in the Netherlands, potentially facing deportation if his asylum application is rejected.
Remulla expressed doubt about the success of Roque’s asylum bid, citing the Netherlands’ strong stance against human trafficking.
The request to cancel Roque’s passport was submitted on Friday, May 23rd. Secretary Remulla highlighted Roque’s attempt to leave the country as an indication of guilt, stating,
“Things haven’t even started yet, and he’s already trying to run away. Under our law, flight is an indication of guilt.” He urged Roque to return and face the charges, asserting that this would simplify the legal proceedings.
Roque’s alleged involvement stems from his role as legal counsel for Whirlwind Corporation, which, along with Lucky South 99, is accused of operating an online casino implicated in forced labor and human trafficking.
Prosecutors allege Roque aided the illegal operation by facilitating the renewal of Lucky South 99’s gaming license.
