Makabayan bloc wants Roque's asylum bid denied

Lawmakers from the Makabayan bloc are urging the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to work with Dutch authorities to deny former Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque's asylum application in the Netherlands.

Roque confirmed he has applied for asylum in the Netherlands, stating that as an asylum seeker, he cannot be arrested or forced to return to the Philippines.

He claims his asylum request is necessary due to political persecution, and that Vice President Sara Duterte advised him to seek asylum.

The Makabayan bloc condemned Roque's attempt to escape accountability and questioned his alleged role in the International Criminal Court (ICC) proceedings.

The lawmakers believe Roque is not a victim of political persecution.

Malacañang, through Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro, dismissed Roque's justification, stating he has yet to prove any real threat of political persecution.