Gov't: Harry Roque not politically persecuted

The Philippine government will inform the Dutch government that former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque is not facing political persecution.

Roque sought asylum in the Netherlands following an arrest warrant issued by the House of Representatives for contempt related to a probe on Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).

He has also been linked to illegal activities at POGO hubs, though these allegations have not yet reached court.

Roque expressed relief upon filing his asylum petition, stating he is now a "bonafide asylum seeker" and cannot be deported until his application is processed, which he estimates will take about 1.5 years.

He revealed he had been in hiding for over six months since the arrest warrant was issued.

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega stated that the Philippines is a democracy and cannot block Roque's asylum bid, citing the precedent of Jose Maria Sison's asylum in 1995.