Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed on Tuesday, September 15, that the Dutch government has rejected the asylum application filed by former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque.
Speaking to reporters, Remulla assured that Philippine authorities are standing by to take Roque into custody as soon as an International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) red notice is officially issued against him.
”By the way, tapos na ’yung asylum, na-deny ’yung asylum ni Harry Roque. Tapos na ’yung five months. Kung may red notice na, kukunin ko siya,” Remulla vowed.
Roque faces a pending arrest warrant issued in May 2025 by the Angeles Regional Trial Court, which names him, businesswoman Cassandra Ong, and 50 co-accused in connection with human trafficking activities linked to the Lucky South 99 POGO complex.
State investigators contend that Roque actively assisted the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator by securing its operational license and managing legal affairs.
The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) previously disclosed that the national government had requested an Interpol red notice against the former official.
Remulla emphasized that the denial of refugee status means the local legal processes against Roque remain active and fully enforceable.
”Unless the asylum is given all warrants are still valid that is why there is no need to wait for five months or six months to get him,” Remulla explained.
The Interior Secretary noted that while technical protocols are being reviewed, government agencies remain focused on bringing Roque back to face the court.
”That’s what I understand but will clarify it later on but we will do our best to bring him home as soon as possible,” Remulla added.
This development follows an update provided by Remulla in July regarding the rejection of a separate asylum bid filed by Roque in Austria.