The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is considering filing charges against former Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque for allegedly leaving the country illegally. According to BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, Roque’s recent departure is not listed in the agency’s official records, raising suspicions that he may have fled without proper documentation.
Viado confirmed that Roque’s last recorded trip was in July, when he returned from Los Angeles. However, the Commissioner suggested that Roque might have exited the country unlawfully.
Roque was reportedly in Abu Dhabi when he submitted his counter-affidavit in a qualified human trafficking case filed against him. Viado’s team is now reviewing the possibility of additional charges, including falsification of public documents, as Roque may have used fraudulent immigration clearances to leave the Philippines.
The BI also clarified that it is nearly impossible for Roque to have departed through official points of entry, as his name is on the BI’s Lookout Bulletin. Viado emphasized that given Roque’s fame, it would have been difficult for him to slip past surveillance at major airports and seaports, which are closely monitored by CCTV cameras. The BI is set to consult the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi for further details regarding his suspected travel.
