The Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) against Herminio “Harry” Lopez Roque Jr., the former presidential spokesperson, and 11 others in connection with their alleged involvement in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). The bulletin follows the recent raids on properties in Porac, Pampanga, linked to illegal POGO activities.
The memorandum, addressed to Norman G. Tansingco, Commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration, lists the following individuals:
- Katherine Cassandra Li Ong
- Herminio “Harry” Lopez Roque Jr.
- Xiang Tan
- Jing Gu
- Stephanie B. Mascareñas
- Michael Bryce B. Mascareñas
- Zhang Jie
- Duanren Wu
- Raymund Calleon G. Co
- Randel Calleon G. Co
- Dennis L. Cunanan
- Han Gao
These individuals are implicated due to their roles as incorporators and corporate officers of Lucky South 99 and Whirlwind Corporation. Both companies have been under scrutiny for violations of anti-trafficking laws following the raid in Porac, Pampanga.
Roque has consistently denied any direct involvement with illegal POGO operations. He acknowledged having an interest in a corporation that owns a house in Tuba, Benguet, which was previously raided. However, he emphasized that the property was leased to a Chinese national with proper legal documentation. Roque has characterized the allegations as part of a concerted effort to damage his reputation.
According to PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco, Roque was named as the head of Lucky South 99’s legal department in the company’s organizational chart submitted for license reapplication. Roque, however, claimed he was merely assisting Katherine Cassandra Ong, the company’s representative, as a gesture of goodwill and not under any formal legal contract.