Authorities are pursuing international assistance in their case against former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, with officials confirming that the government has already moved to secure a red notice from the International Criminal Police Organization.
Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) spokesperson Dr. Winston Casio disclosed the development during a radio interview, where he noted that the process has been initiated despite Roque’s claims of persecution. “The Philippine government has already submitted a request for a red notice, an international arrest warrant, for Mr. Roque. It’s a bit difficult because he is projecting that he is allegedly a victim of political persecution,” he said.
A red notice, as defined by Interpol, serves as a global alert for law enforcement to locate and temporarily detain a suspect while awaiting possible extradition or other judicial procedures. It is issued based on a warrant or court order from the requesting country.
Roque is among those charged with qualified human trafficking tied to activities at an alleged scam hub in Pampanga operated by Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) Lucky South 99. Investigators allege that his involvement stems from his work as legal counsel for Whirlwind Corporation, the entity that leased property later used by the disputed POGO.
The same case also names Lucky South 99’s representative, Katherine Cassandra Li Ong, along with 48 additional respondents. Ong has already been the subject of an Interpol red notice, Casio said, adding details on her whereabouts. “If I’m not mistaken, her warrant has already been issued in France and our government has received it. Then it will be distributed so there will be a meeting to find Cassandra Li Ong with Ronelyn Baterna.”
Ong was last traced to Japan, according to earlier reports. Baterna, the corporate secretary of Lucky Star 99, had testified in a congressional hearing that she issued checks amounting to as much as P500,000 to the company’s clients using Ong’s bank account.
Roque, meanwhile, has attempted to seek asylum overseas, asserting threats of political persecution. The Department of Justice said the Netherlands had already denied his appeal.
