MANILA, Philippines—Despite being on the Bureau of Immigration’s Lookout Bulletin, former Presidential Spokesperson Herminio Harry Roque Jr. likely managed to leave the country. The BI suspects he may have departed through unauthorized means.
According to BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, a review of their records indicates that Roque has no recent documented departure through official channels. The BI noted that his last recorded trip was in July, when he returned from Los Angeles.
“Fleeing can indicate guilt. It’s likely he exited the country illegally, possibly with assistance from unscrupulous individuals,” Viado stated.
Reports suggest that Roque submitted his counter-affidavit for the qualified human trafficking case against him from Abu Dhabi.
Viado also mentioned that the BI’s legal team is examining the possibility of filing additional charges against Roque related to his unauthorized travel.
“He probably falsified immigration clearances to gain entry into his destination country,” Viado noted. He further explained that charges such as falsification of public documents might be considered.
“It’s highly improbable that he left through official ports of entry. His name is on the BI’s Lookout Bulletin, and as a well-known public figure, he would be easily recognizable,” Viado added. He emphasized that international ports are heavily monitored with CCTV cameras, making it difficult for Roque to use these channels undetected.
The BI plans to coordinate with the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi to gather additional details about Roque’s alleged travel.
