House directs PNP to arrest Roque for contempt

The House of Representatives has directed the Philippine National Police (PNP) to assist in locating and arresting Harry Roque, who is considered a fugitive after being cited for contempt.

Roque was ordered detained by four House committees last September 13 for refusing to submit subpoenaed documents related to his alleged involvement with illegal offshore gaming operators (POGOs).

The PNP has mobilized special tracker teams and vowed to execute the order professionally while respecting due process, as stated by PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil.

Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers urged Roque to cooperate instead of criticizing the panel on social media, emphasizing that the documents requested are related to his alleged involvement with illegal POGO activities.

Roque maintains he is not a fugitive and accuses Congress of 'power tripping', despite filing a motion to quash the subpoena duces tecum for documents linked to his increased wealth under Biancham Holdings.