Roque cited for contempt, detained 24 hours over false absence

Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque was cited for contempt by the House of Representatives quad-committee on Thursday, August 22, after he lied about his absence at a hearing on August 16.

Kabayan party-list Rep. Ron Salo presented a certification from the Manila Regional Trial Court clerk stating that Roque did not have any court hearings scheduled for August 16, contradicting Roque's earlier claim and confirming his dishonesty.

Lawmakers warned Roque may face 'stiffer penalties' if he commits another contemptible act in the future, such as lying again before the chamber.

Despite admitting to an honest mistake, lawmakers voted unanimously to detain Roque within House premises for 24 hours starting from Thursday evening.

Roque's detention comes amid scrutiny over his links to Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) under investigation by the committee, including a raid on a house reportedly owned by him in Tuba, Benguet.