Screengrab from Harry Roque

Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque is making headlines again—this time, not for his legal expertise or political commentary, but for his sudden decision to seek asylum in the Netherlands. And according to House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs Chairman Jude Acidre, this move reeks of desperation.

Acidre, who is also a House Assistant Majority Leader, didn’t mince words when he called Roque’s asylum bid a “cowardly maneuver” to avoid facing the music over his alleged involvement in offshore scam hubs, also known as Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), and human trafficking.

Running from the Law?

“Roque has been cited in contempt and ordered detained for refusing to cooperate in our investigation into POGO-related crimes. Now, he wants to flee the country to escape accountability? If he has nothing to hide, why is he running?” Acidre questioned.

Roque’s asylum request comes five months after a human trafficking case was filed against him and two others before the Department of Justice (DOJ). Prosecutors claim Roque used his influence to shield criminal syndicates operating offshore gambling hubs linked to trafficking, cyber fraud, and money laundering.

Suspicious Timing

For Acidre, Roque’s timing couldn’t be more suspect.
“This isn’t just about contempt in Congress anymore. He’s facing serious criminal charges related to human trafficking—one of the gravest crimes under both Philippine and international law,” Acidre stressed. “Seeking refuge abroad is an obvious attempt to dodge prosecution.”

The House’s Quad Comm—comprising the Committees on Dangerous Drugs, Public Order, Public Accounts, and Human Rights—has been digging deep into how POGOs have become hotbeds for organized crime, including forced labor, cyber scams, prostitution, and even drug syndicates.

Roque, who has been linked to questionable dealings with certain POGO operators, repeatedly refused to answer key questions during congressional hearings, leading to his detention order.

Will the Law Catch Up?

Acidre urged law enforcement to coordinate with international agencies to prevent Roque from using asylum as a legal loophole.
“We cannot allow individuals to exploit international legal mechanisms just to escape criminal liability,” he warned. “Roque may try to run, but the law will catch up with him—whether here or abroad.”

For now, all eyes are on the Netherlands. Will Roque’s asylum request be granted, or will this be another chapter in a growing legal battle?