Former presidential spokesperson Harry L. Roque did not attend the preliminary investigation regarding qualified trafficking in persons charges against him at the Department of Justice (DOJ) yesterday.
Instead, through his lawyers, he submitted a counter-affidavit reportedly notarized in Abu Dhabi.
Prosecutor General Richard D. Fadullon indicated that the DOJ would inquire with the Bureau of Immigration (BI) about Roque’s departure from the Philippines.
Fadullon noted that although the counter-affidavit was signed by Roque on November 29, its acceptance by the panel is uncertain, given that he is outside the Philippines.
He emphasized that the prosecutor must examine all counter-affidavits in person, as stipulated by law.
Fadullon explained that Roque must present and authenticate the counter-affidavit before the panel, either in person or online, from a location under Philippine jurisdiction.
Additionally, Fadullon mentioned an ongoing request from the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) for a precautionary hold departure order (PHDO) to prevent Roque from leaving the country.
An Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) has already been issued against him and others involved in the legislative hearings on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), but it does not legally restrict their departure from the Philippines.
The prosecutor’s panel will evaluate whether similar orders are warranted for other respondents in the case. (Jeffrey Damicog)
