THE Philippine National Police (PNP) has joined the intensified manhunt for former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, who was declared a fugitive after being cited in contempt by the House of Representatives for refusing to submit subpoenaed documents related to his alleged involvement with illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).
Despite multiple summonses, Roque —the mouthpiece of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte— has ignored the joint panel and refused to cooperate, leading authorities to serve an arrest order at his Makati office, where he was not found, raising concerns of deliberate evasion.
“The PNP is now fully engaged in the manhunt for Atty. Harry Roque, and we are coordinating closely with the National Capital Region Police Office and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group to ensure his swift apprehension,” said Santa Rosa City Rep. Dan Fernandez, co-chair of the Quad Committee.
“No one is above the law, and we will not tolerate anyone defying the authority of Congress or evading accountability,” added Fernandez, who also chairs the House Committee on Public Order and Safety.
PNP operatives have been deployed to Roque’s last known location at the Antel Corporation Centre in Makati City, but his whereabouts remain unknown.
Authorities suspect Roque may be in hiding as the investigation into his alleged ties to Lucky South 99, a POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga, gains momentum.
Roque was cited in contempt for failing to present key documents, including his Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth and records connected to his family firm, Biancham Holdings, as well as a land transaction in Parañaque City.
Fernandez condemned Roque’s actions, saying that his blatant disregard for the House’s authority is a direct challenge to the institution.
“This kind of defiance cannot be taken lightly, as it underscores the seriousness of the allegations against him. We will pursue this matter through all available legal avenues until justice is served,” Fernandez emphasized.
He further stated, “No one is above the law. The public deserves transparency and accountability, especially in cases involving serious financial and legal concerns. Atty. Roque’s continued evasion only raises more questions about his role in the POGO controversy.”
Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, chair of the committee on dangerous drugs and designated head of the Quad Committee, described the evidence against Roque as “overwhelming.”
Barbers added that Roque’s refusal to cooperate only deepens suspicions regarding his involvement in the POGO industry.
“Mr. Roque has been evasive, and his actions suggest that he is unwilling to face accountability,” Barbers remarked. “The public deserves transparency, especially in matters involving significant legal and financial questions.”
Roque has previously dismissed the Quad Committee’s proceedings as a “kangaroo court” and announced his refusal to participate further.
However, Barbers stood firm, insisting that Roque must explain himself before the proper forum.
“If Mr. Roque believes the court is unjust, then let him face it and prove his case. Social media pronouncements won’t justify his defiance of the law,” Barbers asserted.
The PNP’s involvement elevates the urgency of Roque’s capture, signaling a no-nonsense approach by authorities to ensure that the former official is held accountable.
As the manhunt continues, the House of Representatives has vowed to see the matter through until Roque is brought before the committee.
The public is urged to provide any information on Roque’s whereabouts to aid law enforcement in locating the fugitive.
