Malacañang has urged former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque to return to the Philippines and respond to serious allegations involving illegal online gambling operations. This development follows the issuance of an arrest warrant related to an unauthorised Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) operating in Porac, Pampanga, as reported by The Inquirer.
Roque’s Alleged Role in Illegal POGO Site
Authorities have accused Roque of playing a direct role in the operations of Lucky South 99, a site allegedly serving as a scam hub under the pretense of a legal POGO. According to the Department of Justice (DOJ), Roque’s involvement went far beyond legal consultation. He was also named as a representative of Whirlwind Corporation, the firm that leased land to Lucky South 99.
Increasing Crackdown on Illegal POGOs
Good to know: The Philippine government continues to face mounting pressure to shut down illegal POGOs, many of which have been linked to human trafficking, online fraud, and transnational crime. The DOJ has taken a firm stance against such operators, stressing the risks they pose to national security and public welfare.
Roque Pushes Back, Government Responds
Currently based in The Hague, as per his social media updates, Roque dismissed the charges as politically motivated. He also questioned the validity of the search operations initiated to locate him.
In contrast, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro responded firmly. She asserted that Roque’s voluntary return would not only conserve public resources but also reflect his sincerity in addressing the allegations.
Furthermore, Castro refuted Roque’s claim of political persecution, noting that even his former political allies have expressed skepticism about his defence. She emphasised that the arrest warrant, issued by Judge Rene Reyes of Angeles City Regional Trial Court Branch 118, is based on a DOJ complaint filed in April. The charges cite violations of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act.
Call to Return and Face Charges
Castro concluded by stating that the case is about prosecution, not persecution. She strongly encouraged Roque to return to the Philippines and face the legal process directly to resolve the accusations.
