Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque attended the Senate investigation into the raided Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) hubs in Luzon on Monday, July 29, 2024. Roque’s presence came despite an earlier letter informing the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality of a scheduling conflict due to a court hearing.
Prior Commitment
In a letter dated July 26, Roque stated he could not attend the Senate hearing because of a previously scheduled court hearing for a criminal case where he serves as a private prosecutor. He attached a copy of the court’s amended order to his letter.
Senate Inquiry and Allegations
Roque was invited to the Senate inquiry following statements from Philippine Amusement Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) chairman Alejandro Tengco. Tengco alleged that Roque assisted Lucky South 99, the POGO firm raided in Porac, Pampanga, with reapplying for a license and settling arrears. Roque, who was no longer a public official at the time of the meeting, denied being the legal counsel for any illegal POGO, including Lucky South 99. However, Tengco maintained that Roque was listed as the legal head in the organization’s chart submitted to PAGCOR.
Roque’s Statement
Roque vowed to expose protectors of POGOs during the Senate hearing. Speaking to US-based supporters of the Duterte family last week, he announced his intention to reveal significant information on July 29. “I’m going to unveil a fact on the 29th of July at the hall of Senate,” he said during an event in Woodside, Queens.
Roque emphasized the importance of the public knowing who truly holds power over POGOs in the Philippines.