MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that the arrest warrant issued against former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque for qualified human trafficking may be enforced through diplomatic channels, including Interpol.
DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano explained Friday that since Roque is currently abroad, diplomatic avenues would be used to carry out the warrant. “Interpol is one of the diplomatic channels available,” he said.
Roque is among 50 individuals charged in connection with the controversial Lucky South 99 POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga, which authorities allege was involved in human trafficking, torture, and kidnapping. The case has led to arrest warrants issued by the Pampanga Regional Trial Court Branch 118.
Clavano emphasized that Roque is not being targeted individually. “This is about prosecution for a crime in the Philippines. He’s one of many accused. This is his chance to prove his innocence,” he said.
Meanwhile, Clavano confirmed that prosecutors may request a hold departure order (HDO) against co-accused Cassandra Li Ong to prevent her from leaving the country while facing charges.
Roque, currently seeking asylum in the Netherlands, appeared in The Hague following former President Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest in March.