In a move that has sparked intense debate, former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque has publicly condemned the Philippine government's attempt to issue an Interpol Red Notice for his arrest, citing human trafficking charges. But here's where it gets controversial: Roque claims this is nothing more than political retaliation against him for his vocal criticism of the current administration and his allegiance to former President Duterte. Could this be a case of weaponizing international law for domestic political gain? Let’s dive in.
In a detailed Facebook post on December 7, 2025, Roque laid out his defense, emphasizing his status as a bona fide asylum seeker protected under Dutch and European Union law. He provided official documentation from the Immigration and Naturalisation Service to support his claim. But this is the part most people miss: Roque argues that the non-bailable ‘syndicate trafficking’ charges are fabricated, lacking evidence, and aimed at discrediting him. He even goes as far as calling it a targeted attack on critics of the Marcos Jr. administration.
Roque didn’t stop there. He pointed out that the Philippine government’s request violates Interpol’s Constitution, specifically Article 2, which mandates respect for human rights, and Article 3, which prohibits Interpol from intervening in matters of a predominantly political nature. He also highlighted Interpol’s own jurisprudence, which explicitly forbids issuing Red Notices against political opponents or asylum seekers. To back his stance, Roque has formally submitted his opposition to the Commission for the Control of Interpol’s Files, urging them to deny the government’s request.
The saga began on November 25, 2025, when the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) cancelled Roque’s passport, along with four others, over alleged ties to the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) companies Lucky South 99 and Whirlwind Corporations. Rumors swirled that Roque had been arrested in Europe, but he quickly debunked these claims by sharing a photo of his flight ticket to Vienna, Austria. However, he later revealed he was offloaded from the flight due to medical reasons, forcing him to remain in the Netherlands.
Roque’s involvement in the POGO scandal has raised eyebrows, especially since he’s been linked to Cassandra Ong, a representative of Lucky South 99 who remains at large. The case is massive, with over 50 individuals charged with qualified human trafficking in connection to the alleged scam hub operated by Lucky South 99. But the question remains: Is Roque a genuine target of justice, or is he a victim of political persecution?
Here’s where you come in: Do you believe Roque’s claims of political retaliation hold water, or is the government justified in pursuing him? Could this case set a dangerous precedent for how Interpol Red Notices are used in politically charged situations? Share your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss!
