BI mulls filing cases vs. Harry Roque for alleged illegal travel

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) said on Tuesday that it is planning to file cases against former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque who likely left the Philippines via illegal means.

This was after Roque’s camp submitted a counter-affidavit on the trafficking complaint against him which was notarized in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

“He most probably falsified immigration clearances to be accepted by his destination country,” said Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado in a statement.

The bureau official said that Roque could face charges for falsification of public documents.

The BI added that records show that former President Rodrigo Duterte’s former spokesperson had no attempt to exit the country through formal channels.

The agency also said that Roque’s latest recorded travel was in July when he arrived from Los Angeles in California, USA.

“Flight is an evidence of guilt.  He likely left the country via illegal means, possibly aided by unscrupulous individuals,” said Viado.

“It’s impossible that he left via formal ports.  His name is in the BI’s Lookout Bulletin, and he is a very well-known public figure.  You can spot him miles away,” he added.

The BI said that it will be coordinating with the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi.

Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon said the counter-affidavit on the qualified trafficking complaint filed against Roque before the Department of Justice was subscribed in Abu Dhabi on November 29.

GMA Integrated News reached out to Roque for comment. — Vince Angelo Ferreras/BAP, GMA Integrated News