By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
On Tuesday (Dec. 3), Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado stressed that former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque Jr. likely left the country through illegal means, following verification records showing that Roque had no recent attempts to depart the country via formal channels.
His last recorded travel, according to the BI, was in July when he came home from Los Angeles.
“Flight is evidence of guilt. He likely left the country via illegal means, possibly aided by unscrupulous individuals,” said Viado.
Roque reportedly submitted his counter-affidavit on the qualified human trafficking case against him from Abu Dhabi.
Viado said that his legal team is already studying filing more cases against Roque for his illegal travel.
“He most probably falsified immigration clearances to be accepted by his destination country,” said Viado. He added that they are mulling filing the charge of falsification of public documents, among other possible charges.
“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,” said Viado. He added that formal entry and exit points are well guarded, with CCTV cameras in major international ports, making it highly unlikely for him to use said areas.
Viado said that they will be coordinating with the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi to get more information about Roque’s supposed travel. (with report from Louisa Erispe/PTV News)
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