MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) has said that former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque is believed to be seeking refuge in Germany after the Netherlands reportedly denied his asylum application.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla told reporters on Wednesday that the Dutch government did not grant Roque asylum, leaving the decision now to German authorities.

“Ang alam ko hindi siya nabigyan ng asylum ng Netherlands. Kaya nasa Germany naman ang desisyon kung magbibigay nito,” Remulla said.

He added that the government would wait for further developments before deciding whether to pursue an extradition case against Roque.

“Aantayin natin. Pwede naman ma-file-an ng extradition pagdating ng panahon. Pero baka hindi na kailangan kasi ika-cancel na yung passport niya.” he said.

Remulla clarified, however, that the cancellation of Roque’s passport is ultimately a matter for the courts to decide. Until then, Roque may still travel to other European countries under the European Union’s open border policy, provided he holds a valid visa.

“Pag naging undocumented alien yan, pwede nang kunin ng Interpol.” the DOJ chief added.

Roque denies claims of asylum denial

Roque, for his part, has denied these claims, stating on Facebook that his asylum proceedings with the Dutch government remain confidential and ongoing.

“As of this date, asylum proceedings have not yet concluded, and no one has access to the proceedings except me and the Dutch government,” he said.

The former spokesperson is facing charges of qualified human trafficking related to the Lucky South 99 POGO firm, with a warrant of arrest issued by the Angeles, Pampanga Regional Trial Court Branch 118.

Authorities, including the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), have cited evidence of torture, kidnapping, and sex trafficking at the alleged POGO site.

Fake news—Roque to DOJ

Roque has denied all allegations, dismissing them as fake news.

“I am not surprised that the Marcos Jr. administration, through the Department of Justice, has become the purveyor of fake news. Strike two na ang DOJ Secretary. Una, sinabi niya mayroon daw akong multiple passports. Ngayon, denied asylum. Ano ito? Nakalap ang impormasyon sa usapang Maritess,” Roque said.

“My trip to Germany was a pre-planned activity. Together with Maharlika, the visit was upon the invitation of the Filipino community in Germany, where I administered the (oath-taking) of the proud members of the Hakbang ng Maisug Germany,” the former spokesperson stressed.

He also refuted reports that his case was transferred to Germany or that his Schengen visa was issued by German authorities.

“There is no truth to the claim that my Schengen visa is issued by Germany or that Dutch immigration authorities have forwarded my case to Germany,” he said.

📷 Harry Roque FB