(December 3, 2024) — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is considering filing charges against former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque for allegedly leaving the Philippines through illegal means.
Chief State Prosecutor Anthony Fadullon earlier reported that Roque, who is facing a qualified human trafficking complaint for his alleged involvement in an illegal offshore gaming hub in Pampanga, submitted his counter-affidavit from Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
The counter-affidavit was submitted by his lawyer during the preliminary investigation on the complaint.
Roque later on admitted in a livestream that he submitted his counter-affidavit in Abu Dhabi and swore it before Philippine consular officials. However, he said he already left the United Arab Emirates.
“Wala sa rules na kailangan ko magpakita, dahil ang rules specify I should take an oath before a government personnel na may kapangyarihan na magbigay ng oath,” the former spokesperson said.
BI records showed that Roque’s last recorded departure was in July when he returned from Los Angeles.
An immigration lookout bulletin order, meant to monitor movement of individuals and not restrict their travel, has been issued against Roque and several others in August.
“Flight is an evidence of guilt,” BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said. “He likely left the country via illegal means, possibly aided by unscrupulous individuals.”
Viado suggested Roque may have falsified immigration clearances to gain entry into his destination country, adding that such actions could warrant additional charges, including falsification of public documents.
“It’s impossible for him to have left via formal ports as his name is flagged, and he is a well-known public figure,” Viado noted.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is set to verify the legitimacy of Roque’s counter-affidavit and investigate the circumstances surrounding his departure.
The BI also plans to collaborate with the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi for more details on Roque’s alleged travel.
(With reports from Camille Samonte, News5)
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