The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced on Friday that they have gathered information about the possible location of former presidential spokesperson, Herminio “Harry” Roque Jr., who is currently facing an arrest order issued by the House of Representatives.
Without revealing specific details, PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo mentioned that they received leads on Roque’s whereabouts but could not disclose them to avoid jeopardizing ongoing efforts. The PNP is currently verifying the information.
Special teams have been deployed to search for Roque, according to PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil. While the PNP is assisting in locating Roque and ensuring security, it is the responsibility of the House sergeant-at-arms to carry out the arrest.
Fajardo urged Roque to comply with legal proceedings and warned that those helping him evade arrest could face criminal charges. On Thursday, the PNP confirmed that Roque, 57, had not left the country.
Roque was cited in contempt by four committees in the House on September 13 for failing to submit documents explaining the increase in his assets under Biancham Holdings and Trading, which rose from ₱125,000 in 2014 to ₱67.7 million in 2018. Roque responded by filing a motion to quash the subpoena for these documents.
In a Facebook live video, Roque denied being a fugitive, claiming he only disobeyed Congress and accused the legislative body of “power tripping” after issuing the arrest order linked to alleged ties with Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs). He criticized Congress for abusing its authority by frequently citing people in contempt.