The Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed on Friday that it has received information on the possible whereabouts of former presidential spokesperson Herminio “Harry” Roque Jr., who is facing an arrest order from the House of Representatives.
“We received some information regarding the possible location of Atty. Harry Roque, but we cannot disclose further details as it may affect ongoing efforts,” PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo stated.
The PNP is currently validating the information, while special tracker teams have been mobilized, according to PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil. However, the PNP clarified that the responsibility of executing the arrest falls on the House sergeant-at-arms, with the PNP assisting only in locating Roque and providing security.
Roque was cited in contempt and ordered detained by four House committees on September 13 after failing to submit documents explaining the rapid increase of his family’s assets under Biancham Holdings and Trading. Roque’s assets reportedly grew from P125,000 in 2014 to P67.7 million in 2018.
Roque, in response, denied being a fugitive and accused Congress of “power tripping” in a live video posted on Facebook. “I am not a fugitive because I violated the law. It’s only Congress that considers me a fugitive, and I don’t care,” he said.
As of Thursday, the PNP confirmed that there was no indication that Roque had left the country.