DFA verifying reports of alleged arrest of ex-Palace spox Harry Roque in Netherlands

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is verifying reports of the alleged arrest of former Palace spokesperson Harry Roque in the Netherlands, where he is seeking political asylum.

Roque himself has denied the allegations, presenting a boarding pass indicating travel to Vienna, Austria, and stating there is no truth to the rumors of his arrest.

A Pasig Regional Trial Court cancelled Roque's passport on November 24.

The DFA has cancelled Roque's passport in compliance with the court order, as he is among individuals facing charges for human trafficking linked to illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

Despite Roque's denial, authorities stated they have cause to arrest and turn him over to Philippine authorities by virtue of a red notice issued by the Philippine government, and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has requested Interpol to issue such a notice.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) clarified that Roque's travel may be restricted due to his cancelled passport, and immigration authorities in any country can detain him for traveling without proper documentation.