Former Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque has asked the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) to dismiss the disbarment complaint filed against him over the controversial “polvoron video” allegedly involving President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
The complaint, filed by lawyer Melvin Matibag, stemmed from Roque’s sharing of a video purportedly showing Marcos sniffing a powdery substance, along with Roque’s remarks on its authenticity.
In his defense, Roque told the IBP that he “had undertaken due diligence to believe that the video is, in fact, authentic.”
“The analysis was performed by an Audio/Video Forensic Expert … and said forensic expert found no evidence of editing; that the file exhibits consistent patterns and characteristics that align with an unaltered recording; and that the analysis was based on a detailed examination of the file structure, visual content, and other attributes,” Roque said in a statement.
He also argued that his remarks are protected under the Constitution.
“(My) comments fall within the ambit of the freedom of the press. (I made those statements) in the exercise of my right to fair journalistic comment,” he said.
Roque highlighted his background in media and law, noting that he had hosted television and radio programs and served as a commentator on social and political issues.