BI: Harry Roque still in Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — Former presidential spokesman Harry Roque is still in the country, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) clarified yesterday.

“As per BI records, (Roque is still) in the Philippines,” BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval said. “No recorded recent attempt to depart (the country).” 

The BI issued the clarification after Vice President Sara Duterte reportedly hinted at a press conference on Saturday that Roque might have already left the country. 

A news report quoted Duterte as saying, “Look at (secretary) Harry Roque. He doesn’t want to leave the country because he will leave his children behind. But look at him, he just left.”

Roque and his wife Mylah were previously invited to attend the quad committee hearing at the House of Representatives to shed light on their alleged involvement in Lucky South 99, a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) hub in Porac, Pampanga.

Lucky South 99 was allegedly found to be involved in human trafficking, torture, prostitution and other illegal activities.

The panel issued separate arrest orders for Harry and Mylah after they failed to attend the congressional hearings.

They have yet to submit documents, including records of their assets, to the quad committee.

Government authorities are looking for the couple. 

On Aug. 6, the BI issued an immigration lookout bulletin order for Harry Roque. A separate ILBO was issued for his wife on Sept. 16.

Mylah had reportedly flown to Singapore on Sept. 3 for medical treatment. 

The quad committee has received information that she is reportedly listed as an incorporator of Lucky South 99.

She was also allegedly the signatory to the lease contract for a house in Tuba, Benguet where two Chinese nationals linked to POGOs were arrested.

Roque allegedly represented Lucky South 99 and attempted to facilitate the renewal of its POGO license.