Senate panel summons Harry Roque over POGO links

A Senate panel plans to summon former Duterte spokesperson Harry Roque to explain his alleged links to Lucky South 99, an illegal Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) raided in Porac, Pampanga last month.

Roque denies being a legal counsel for Lucky South 99 and claims he only assisted Whirlwind Corporation's principal during a meeting with Pagcor officials on July 26, 2023.

Senate President Francis Escudero expressed hope that Roque will attend the Senate inquiry to clarify serious allegations against him, emphasizing his right to face accusers and provide evidence.

Pagcor chief Alejandro Tengco stated that Roque was not pressuring Pagcor but was helping to settle Lucky South 99's dues, while Roque maintains he represented Whirlwind Corporation and denied direct involvement with Lucky South 99 due to potential conflicts of interest.

The Senate Committee on Women and Children obtained Lucky South 99’s organizational chart which listed Roque as 'Legal', prompting him to challenge Senator Risa Hontiveros to provide evidence proving his involvement in preparing the chart naming him as legal counsel for Lucky South 99.