THE Philippine government is escalating its pursuit of former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque and Cassandra Ong by requesting an Interpol Red Notice for their arrest.
Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) spokesperson Dr. Winston Casio announced the move, emphasizing that the request aims to locate and provisionally arrest Roque pending extradition for alleged human trafficking offenses.
The Angeles, Pampanga court issued an arrest warrant for Roque, Ong, and others in May, linking them to a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub. PAOCC’s raid on Lucky South 99 in Porac uncovered documents bearing Roque’s signature, further intensifying suspicions.
Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) chairman Alejandro Tengco confirmed that Roque assisted Lucky South 99 in reapplying for a license.
Roque, who maintains his innocence and claims political persecution, has reportedly fled the country and is seeking asylum in the Netherlands.
Despite his denials, the government is determined to bring him to justice, asserting that the case hinges on solid evidence. An Interpol Red Notice has also been issued against Ong, who was last tracked in Japan. The government’s actions underscore its commitment to combating human trafficking and holding all involved parties accountable.
