Roque’s Asylum Application in The Netherlands Rejected – Remulla

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla /Facebook Post 

Roque’s Asylum Application in The Netherlands Rejected – Remulla

By Bing Jabadan – Thenationweek.com  
June 19, 2025

MANILA, Philippines — Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed on Wednesday that former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque’s request for asylum in The Netherlands has been denied.

The announcement came as Roque remains abroad, despite an arrest warrant issued by a Pampanga court for qualified human trafficking.

In an interview, Remulla said, “As far as I know, he was not granted asylum by The Netherlands. He is in Germany.”

Remulla declared that Roque could face extradition “when the time comes.”

Passport Cancellation

Remulla further noted that Roque’s passport is likely to be canceled soon, which would classify him as an “undocumented alien.”

This status could lead to his arrest by the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol), he said.

While the timeline for the passport cancellation remains uncertain, Remulla stressed that the situation could complicate Roque’s status in Europe.

“In the EU (European Union), as long as you have a visa, the borders are open,” he explained.

“However, if he is a fugitive from justice and loses his documentation, Interpol can pursue him.”

Remulla’s Statements ‘Fake News’ — Roque

Roque did not directly contest the denial of his asylum application but labeled Remulla’s statements as “fake news.”

He accused the Marcos administration and the Department of Justice (DOJ) of spreading misinformation about him.

He clarified that he was not in Germany to seek asylum but instead traveled there for a previously arranged event, where he officiated an oathtaking ceremony for members of the “Hakbang ng Maisug Germany.”

“I am now back in The Hague in The Netherlands,” Roque declared, suggesting that the government could easily track his location through his social media.

He is currently facing an arrest warrant for violations of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003 for his alleged involvement with a Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo) and the scam hub Lucky South 99 in Porac, Pampanga.

The DOJ has indicated that Roque’s role extended beyond being a legal representative for Whirlwind Corp., which leased land to the controversial Lucky South 99, to serving as a representative for the Pogo.