Hubbry Logo
Harry RoqueHarry RoqueMain
Open search
Harry Roque
Community hub
Harry Roque
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Harry Roque
Harry Roque
Harry Roque
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Herminio Harry Lopez Roque Jr. (Tagalog: [ˈrɔkɛ]; born October 21, 1966) is a Filipino fugitive, lawyer, politician, and former law professor. He served as the presidential spokesperson of President Rodrigo Duterte from 2017 to 2018 and from 2020 to 2021. He was the party-list representative of KABAYAN from 2016 to 2017.

Key Information

Roque taught constitutional law and public international law for 15 years at the University of the Philippines College of Law.[2] In his law practice, he notably represented the victims of the Maguindanao massacre and the family of Jennifer Laude, a trans woman killed by a U.S. Marine.

Roque was requested by President Rodrigo Duterte to be his presidential spokesperson, and on October 27, 2017, Roque was officially appointed, replacing Ernesto Abella.[3] On November 22, 2017, he was designated presidential adviser for human rights concurrent with being the presidential spokesperson.[4]

Roque is a member of the Advisory Council of the Asian Society of International Law (AsianSIL) and was president of AsianSIL from 2018 to 2019.[5]

Once regarded as a staunch human rights advocate, Roque's transition into a chief defender of the Duterte administration—widely condemned for extrajudicial killings and rights abuses—drew sharp criticism. As of 2025, Roque faces multiple legal controversies, including contempt of Congress, disbarment petitions, and human trafficking charges linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). He has since left the Philippines with a pending asylum application in the Netherlands.

Education

[edit]

Roque received his Bachelor of Arts (economics and political science) from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor (1986), Bachelor of Laws from University of the Philippines Diliman (1990) and Master of Laws with merits from the London School of Economics (1996-1998).[6]

[edit]

Through the advocacy group Center for International Law (Centerlaw), of which he was one of the founders, Roque and his team represented victims of the 2009 Ampatuan massacre;[7] the Malaya Lolas, victims of systematic rape and abuse by the Japanese Imperial Army;[8] the family of the killed transgender Jennifer Laude;[9] and the family of the murdered environmental advocate and media man Gerry Ortega of Palawan.[10]

Roque has argued before the Supreme Court on several occasions. On the Supreme Court website, the retired Supreme Court Justice Antonio Eduardo B. Nachura identifies him "as among those who have impressed him when they had argued before the Supreme Court".[11]

Among the cases Roque argued before the high court were questioning President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's Presidential Proclamation 1017 and General Order No. 5,[12] placing the country under a State of Emergency partially unconstitutional for infringing on the constitutionally protected rights of free speech, peaceful assembly and freedom of the press.[13] He is also among the five counsels allowed to argue specific issues raised against the Cybercrime Law.[14] On another occasion, he represented the Integrated Bar of the Philippines in arguing that local government officials cannot deny applications for rally permits except on grounds that the conduct of the same will result in a clear and present danger to the state.[15]

Roque also helped secure for Boracay Foundation a Temporary Environmental Protection Order (TEPO) to stop the reclamation of 42 hectares (100 acres) of land in Caticlan due to the absence of studies and guarantees that it would not damage Boracay Island.[16] Roque won the first ever granted petition for the Writ of Amparo in favor of a journalist,[17] as well as another petition for Amparo - the second application for writ of Amparo where the Court of Appeals issued protective orders.[18]

Roque mentored and coached some of the UP College of Law moot teams that won in various competitions, including the 2015 Oxford Price Moot Court Competition in Oxford, UK, where the team beat 91 others.[19] He also mentored the team that won prizes in the Red Cross International Humanitarian Law Moot Competition held in Hong Kong on March 18, 2015,[20] and the team that won the championship on March 11–12, 2005. In March 2012, Team Philippines made it to the semi-finals of the 2012 Jessup International Law Moot Court competition in Washington, D.C.[21]

Roque was nominated by the Philippine government to the International Law Commission in 2021. As part of his bid, he proposed an international treaty on equal COVID-19 vaccine access and the recognition of the permanent presence of states which could possibly sink below sea level due to global warming.[22] Roque's bid was vehemently objected by various sectors such as the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan leftist group,[23] around 150 lawyers, the Free Legal Assistance Group,[22] the executive committee of his alma mater University of the Philippines Diliman,[24] and the UP Integrated High School[25] for being a part of President Rodrigo Duterte's administration. He failed to garner enough votes to win one of the eight seats in contention.[26][27]

Political career

[edit]

Congressman

[edit]
Portrait during the 17th Congress
Roque (center, background) witnesses President Rodrigo Duterte sign the Universal Health Care Act at the Malacañang Palace on February 20, 2019.

After becoming a congressman in the 17th Congress, Roque resigned as a member of the Center for International Law (Centerlaw).[28] He was the principal author of the Universal Health Coverage Law,[29] the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act, the Free Irrigation Service Act, an act establishing a national feeding program for public school pupils, and the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.[6]

Roque was also one of three representatives who endorsed the impeachment case against the former Comelec chairman, Andres Bautista.[30]

Presidential spokesperson

[edit]

Roque assumed the role of President Duterte's presidential spokesperson on November 6, 2017.[31] According to Duterte, Roque was a fit for the role because like him, he has a "slightly naughty speaking style". Roque said that Duterte was looking for someone who could understand the remarks of the President, adding that the nature of his job required him to relay Duterte's positions.[32]

2019 Senate elections

[edit]
Roque files his Certificate of Candidacy for senator in 2019.

On October 5, 2018, Roque was reported to be interested to vie for a Senate seat in the 2019 elections. Duterte said that Roque had no chance in winning, saying that Roque had no support from the military; Duterte added he will just give Roque another role.[33] Four days later, Roque was reported to have threatened to resign from his post after he was kept in the dark about Duterte's visit to a hospital on October 3.[34] He eventually resigned on October 15, expressing his plans to run for a seat at the House of Representatives, under Luntiang Pilipinas Party.[35] Roque later made his political plans official after filing his Certificate of Candidacy for Senator of the republic on October 17.[34]

On February 1, 2019, Roque dropped out of the 2019 Senatorial race, citing a medical condition.[35]

Return as the presidential spokesperson

[edit]

In April 2020, Roque returned to his role as Duterte's presidential spokesperson, replacing Salvador Panelo, who replaced him in 2018.[36]

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic on April 13, 2020, Roque assumed the role of spokesperson for the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases, replacing Karlo Nograles.[37][38]

2022 Senate elections

[edit]

Roque filed his certificate of candidacy for the 2022 Senate election on November 15, 2021, which automatically deemed him resigned from his position as presidential and IATF spokesperson. After expressing desire to run as senator if Sara Duterte decides to run for a national position, Roque ran under the People's Reform Party, substituting the candidacy of Paolo Mario Martelino.[39] Additionally, following a protest staged in New York City against his bid to get elected to the International Law Commission of the United Nations, Roque stated he "found resolve to run" to prevent the election of allies of what he deems as extremist groups.[40] Roque lost in the Senate elections, finishing at 17th in a race to fill 12 seats.[41]

Post-Malacañang activities

[edit]

Roque was hired by real estate firm Whirlwind Corporation as a lawyer in 2023, and in the same year accompanied Whirlwind incorporator Cassandra Ong in visiting the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) on two separate occasions to assist in settling documents for Lucky South 99 Outsourcing, Inc., a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Porac, Pampanga that has since been shut down due to illegal activities that occurred during its operation.[42][43][44]

Roque had initially supported the presidency of Bongbong Marcos.[45] However, by 2024, Roque became an ardent critic of Marcos, spreading the false information that he is an illegal drug user[46][47] and repeatedly calling for him to resign.[48][49]

Criticism and controversies

[edit]

Libel, cyber-libel lawsuits

[edit]

On May 14, 2024, Antonio Trillanes IV filed defamation and cyberlibel complaint affidavits with the Quezon City Prosecutor's Office against Roque for alleged false accusations. Roque made allegations that Trillanes sold the Scarborough Shoal to China during his back-channel talks with Chinese leaders during the crisis in 2012.[50][51] Roque welcomed Trillanes' filing of charges, saying "He who cannot fight in the free marketplace of ideas resort to the filing of libel cases! By filing these cases, he has proven to be an enemy of freedom of expression."[52] A subpoena was issued by the Quezon City Prosecutor's Office on June 3 against Roque and political vlogger Byron "Banat By" Cristobal.[53] On June 18, Roque filed a counter-affidavit and libel charges against Trillanes for alleged violations of Republic Acts No. 3019 (the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act) and No. 6713 (the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees).[54]

Contempt of Congress

[edit]
Roque at the Quad Committee hearing on August 23, 2024

In August 2024, the Philippines' House of the 19th Congress investigated Roque's alleged links with two Pampanga POGO companies as their lawyer. During the hearing, he was cited in contempt and placed under 24-hour detention for allegedly lying before the investigating House Committee. Dismissing claims that he lied, Roque said he merely made a mistake; he described his detention as the House's "abuse of power, harassment".[55]

Roque reappeared in the House joint committee for the second time on September 12, but was cited again in contempt for not submitting certain financial records the committee ordered him to provide. He was placed under detention until the POGO hearings termination, or until his compliance with the subpoena duces tecum. Roque stated the documents requested were not related to POGOs and further urged the committee to instead file charges against him in court.[56]

Days later, Roque was declared to be on the run. On Thursday, September 19, The Philippine National Police (PNP) Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) provided an update on the supposed manhunt, but refrained from divulging specific details. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Immigration assured that Roque was still in the country.[57]

Later on the same day, the House Quad Committee issued a show-cause order against Roque's wife, Mylah Roque, for failing to appear in hearings on the ongoing POGO investigations despite repeated invitations.[58] However, Roque's daughter Bianca Hacintha filed the Writ of Amparo (Recurso de amparo), certiorari and prohibition petitions which sought a temporary protective order from the High Tribunal as relief against the enforcement of the arrest warrant and the subpoena duces tecum.[59]

[edit]

Roque was linked to the raided Lucky South 99 POGO firm in Porac, Pampanga, which faced allegations of human trafficking, torture, and cyber fraud. He served as legal counsel and was named co-respondent in a qualified human trafficking case filed by the Anti-Money Laundering Council, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, and NBI. Roque dismissed the charges as “fabricated.”"Roque set to file counter affidavit vs human trafficking case". Philippine Daily Inquirer. October 29, 2024. Retrieved October 29, 2024.

By December 2024, Roque filed his counter-affidavit in Abu Dhabi, confirming he was no longer in the country.Flores, Dominique Nicole (December 3, 2024). "Roque confirms being abroad, files counter-affidavit in Abu Dhabi". The Philippine Star. Retrieved December 3, 2024.

Inclusion in Cassandra Ong qualified human trafficking case

[edit]

On October 29, 2024, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the PNP-CIDG included Roque as co-respondent in the non-bailable qualified Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003 case filed on August 30 by the Anti-Money Laundering Council, PAOCC, and the National Bureau of Investigation against Cassandra Ong, Alice Guo, and 32 others before the Department of Justice (DOJ) for their alleged involvement in the Lucky South 99 POGO operations. Roque called his inclusion in the charges as fabricated, further stating the PAOCC and the PNP-CIDG have no concrete evidence against him; he said he plans to file a counter-affidavit to defend himself against the charges.[60]

By December 2024, Roque is already confirmed to be outside the Philippines having filed a counter-affidavit for qualified human trafficking case in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.[61]

Disbarment petition by Melvin Matibag

[edit]

In September 2024, Roque has been reported to face a pending disbarment petition filed by former NTC head, Melvin Matibag. Matibag refused to divulge any details but cited Roque's social media posts that included a polvoron video of President Bongbong Marcos allegedly snorting drugs. Roque stated his social media post of the video "is protected by free speech under the privilege doctrine" and added that Marcos has not admitted nor denied the allegations in the video.[62]

Self-exile from the Philippines

[edit]

Roque is suspected to have left from the Philippines on September 2, 2024 with his last reported sighting being at Sanga-Sanga Airport in Tawi-Tawi. His presence in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was confirmed two days later by the Philippine Ambassador to the UAE.[63] However his presence in the Gulf state was only publicly confirmed by the Department of Justice on December 3, 2024, when he reportedly filed a counter-affidavit regarding his human trafficking case. However around this time, Roque mentioned he has left the UAE but is still in an undisclosed location outside the Philippines.[61] He reportedly tried going to the United States but was stopped in Japan.[64][65]

Following Rodrigo Duterte's arrest and detention in the International Criminal Court in March 2025, Roque announced he is seeking asylum in the Netherlands.[66][67] He insisted he has to defend Duterte in the ICC as reason for his application.[68] Roque would be dismissed from Duterte's defence team by March 18.[69]

Personal life

[edit]

Roque is a member of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines.[70] In October 1999, he married Mylah Reyes, a television reporter from RPN whom he met during a congressional hearing. Reyes is Catholic and they had a interdenominational marriage. The couple have two children.[71][72][6]

Social media presence

[edit]

Roque has an online program in social media called The Spox Hour, where he speaks about various political issues concerning the Philippines.[73]

In June 2024, an old video clip featuring Roque and his guest OPM singer Ronnie Liang in The Spox Hour became viral on social media. In the video, Roque joked about if he managed to convince Liang to go topless he will follow suit. Liang guested in Roque's show during their visit to Dinagat Island in July 2022.[73] The old video resurfaced in relation to an issue wherein documents from a POGO raided by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission in Porac, Pampanga linked Roque to 2016 Mr. Supranational Philippines winner Alberto Rodulfo "AR" Dela Serna; Serna, who then served as Roque's executive assistant, had his Europe travel costs funded by Roque.[74]

Electoral history

[edit]
Electoral history of Harry Roque
Year Office Party Votes received Result
Total % P. Swing
2016 Representative (Party-list) Kabayan 840,393 2.60% 6th N/a Won
2022 Senator of the Philippines PRP 11,246,206 20.25% 17th N/a Lost
[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Harry Roque

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Herminio Harry L. Roque Jr. (born October 21, 1966) is a Filipino , law professor, and former government official specializing in public and . Roque earned a in Economics and Political Science from the in 1985 and a from the , followed by a from the London School of Economics. As an academic, he has taught and public at the College of Law for over 15 years. In legal practice, he founded the Center for International Law in to advocate for the application of in Philippine courts, particularly in and cases, and represented clients in notable disputes, including fishermen affected by the with . Elected as a party-list representative for Kabayan in the 16th Congress (2013–2016), Roque initially positioned himself as a advocate, criticizing figures like then-candidate in 2016 for self-professed violent tendencies. However, he later joined the Duterte administration as Presidential Spokesperson in 2017, serving intermittently until 2022, where he defended policies such as the anti-drug campaign amid international scrutiny over extrajudicial killings. This transition drew criticism for apparent inconsistencies, including shifts from asserting Philippine claims in the against to aligning with the administration's conciliatory approach. He ran unsuccessfully for in 2019 under the administration slate. As of 2025, Roque continues legal advocacy, including arguments against jurisdiction over former President Duterte, while facing domestic legal challenges such as House contempt citations and allegations tied to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator activities, including a qualified case.

Education

Academic Background and Degrees

Herminio Harry L. Roque Jr. obtained his degree, majoring in and , from the at Ann Arbor in 1986. Following this, he pursued legal studies at the , where he earned a degree. Roque subsequently completed a at the London School of Economics, focusing on advanced legal topics that informed his later practice. These qualifications positioned him for roles in legal academia and advocacy, though specific graduation years for his Philippine and British degrees remain undocumented in primary records.

Pre-Political Career

Roque was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 1991 and established the Roque & Butuyan Law Offices in City that October, partnering in a practice focused on , , and litigation, which continued until October 2017. The firm handled cases, including challenges to actions under the Arroyo administration. In January 2005, Roque founded the Center for (Centerlaw), where he served as chairperson until October 2015, emphasizing litigation on issues such as extrajudicial killings and . Through Centerlaw and his firm, he litigated numerous cases before the Philippine and international bodies, becoming the first Asian admitted to practice before the in 2005 and before the UN War Crimes Tribunal for in 2004. Among his notable pre-2010 advocacies, Roque represented petitioners in Prof. Randolph David v. Arroyo (2006), successfully arguing that President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's Presidential Proclamation 1017 and General Order No. 5 were partially unconstitutional for declaring a and curtailing . He also filed the Adonis v. Republic of the communication with the UN Committee, which in 2012 ruled that the ' criminal law violated Article 19 of the International Covenant on by restricting freedom of expression. Additionally, as private prosecutor, he represented 17 media victims' families in the Ampatuan cases following the November 2009 Maguindanao killings, pursuing accountability for the 58 deaths, including 32 journalists. Other efforts included petitions like Vinuya v. Executive Secretary for reparations for Filipina World War II and Pimentel v. Executive Secretary on processes. These cases established precedents on amparo writs, , and international obligations, though some, such as challenges to the 2009 Philippine Baselines Law in Magallona v. Executive Secretary, were dismissed.

Academic Roles and Publications

Roque served as a faculty member at the College of Law from 2000 to 2015, progressing from (November 2000 to December 2003) to (various levels from January 2004 to December 2007) and ultimately 3 (January 2007 to October 2015). During this period, he taught subjects including public , , and contemporary developments in . He also held the position of director of the Institute of International Legal Studies at the UP Law Center from January 2005 to January 2008 and June 2011 to 2015, and served as editor-in-chief of the Asia Pacific Yearbook of International Humanitarian Law from 2006 to October 2015. Beyond UP, Roque was a professor in the Department of International and Human Rights Law at the Philippine Judicial Academy of the Supreme Court from May 2006 to June 30, 2016, where he lectured on international humanitarian law, public international law, recent problems in international law, constitutional law, media law, and criminal law. He acted as an adjunct professor at the Academy of Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Washington College of Law, American University, from June 2011 onward, and as a lecturer at the Institute of Judicial Administration, UP Law Center, specializing in international law, international legal processes, constitutional law, and general law practice since July 2002. Additional roles included lecturing on the law of evidence at Adamson University College of Law (June 2003 to March 2004) and serving as a bar reviewer for institutions such as Chan Robles and Adamson University. Roque's publications focus primarily on public international law, , and constitutional issues, with contributions spanning books, book chapters, and peer-reviewed journal articles. He authored Public International Law: A Decade of Commentaries and From a Very Big Mouth, both published by Off the Press, compiling his analyses of legal developments. In 2020, he co-authored International Law: A Philippine Perspective with John R. Castriciones and David Robert C. Aquino, published by Central Book Supply, Inc., which examines key principles such as pacta sunt servanda, jus cogens, and obligations through Philippine jurisprudence and international cases, emphasizing topics like the , , and armed conflict rights. Notable book chapters include "The Human Security Act and the IHL Law of the Philippines: Of Security and Insecurity" in Global Anti-Terrorism Law and Policy (2nd ed., 2012) and "The Binding Nature of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law in the Philippines" in Constitutionalism in Southeast Asia, Vol. 3 (2009). Journal articles cover subjects such as "China’s Claim to the Spratly Islands Under International Law: A Critical Analysis" (Journal of Environment and Natural Resources Law, 1997), "The Export of War: Issues of International Criminal and State Responsibility" (Asian Yearbook of International Law, Vol. 14, 2007), and "Treaties, Chinese 'Tied Loans', Government Procurement and Good Governance" (Philippine Law Journal, 84(4), 2010). His work often critiques Philippine implementation of international obligations, including anti-terrorism measures and executive powers, drawing on domestic and global precedents. Roque received academic honors, including the Metrobank Foundation's Professorial Chair in 2011 and the Justice Jose C. Campos and Maria Clara Campos Chair in 2012.

Political Career

Congressional Term (2010–2013)

Harry Roque did not serve as a member of the during the 15th (2010–2013). His congressional tenure began later as the party-list representative for Kabayan in the 17th (2016–2019), where he held the position from 2016 until resigning in 2017 to join the Duterte administration. During the 2010 elections, Roque was active in legal advocacy, including challenging the Commission on Elections' handling of the automated election system, but he was not elected to at that time. Kabayan Party-list itself failed to secure a seat in the 15th .

Spokesperson for the Duterte Administration

President appointed Harry Roque as presidential spokesperson on October 28, 2017, replacing Ernesto Abella in the role. Roque, a former lawyer and congressman, assumed duties on November 6, 2017, conducting his first press briefing outside on November 5. In this capacity, he communicated administration positions on domestic and international matters, including defenses of Duterte's anti-drug campaign and responses to criticisms. Roque was concurrently designated as Presidential Adviser on by Duterte, a role he used to address allegations of extrajudicial killings by emphasizing data on reduction under the drug war. He clashed publicly with international bodies like the , rejecting their characterizations of the campaign as systematic violations and arguing instead that it targeted criminal elements responsible for widespread societal harm. During briefings, Roque often highlighted empirical declines in rates, attributing them to aggressive policing, while critiquing media narratives for inflating casualty figures without verifying affiliations to drug syndicates. Roque resigned from the spokesperson position in October 2018 to campaign for a Senate seat in the May 2019 elections, after serving approximately one year as initially agreed with Duterte. He returned to the role on April 13, 2020, succeeding Salvador Medialdea-appointed Salvador Panelo amid the COVID-19 pandemic, with his appointment announced by Panelo. In his second tenure, extending through 2021, Roque managed communications on public health measures, quarantine enforcements, and economic relief efforts, while continuing to rebut accusations of authoritarianism by pointing to legislative approvals of key policies like the anti-terrorism law. He also clarified Duterte's interventions in congressional matters, such as the 2020 House speakership dispute, framing them as party leadership actions rather than executive overreach. Roque's communications style emphasized direct rebuttals to opposition claims, often invoking legal precedents and statistical outcomes to support administration efficacy.

Senate Election Campaigns

Harry Roque initially pursued a senatorial seat in the 2019 Philippine midterm elections, filing his certificate of candidacy as a candidate aligned with the administration of President . However, on February 1, 2019, he withdrew his bid citing a recent of coronary disease, which he stated rendered him unfit to campaign vigorously. This decision followed earlier indications of his intent, including shooting a campaign advertisement in October 2018, though he had briefly considered a party-list run instead. Roque mounted a full campaign for the Senate in the 2022 national elections, resigning as presidential spokesperson and Inter-Agency Task Force spokesperson on November 15, 2021, to focus on his candidacy. He was persuaded to run by Mayor and joined the UniTeam coalition supporting the presidential bid of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and vice-presidential bid of . His campaign emphasized his legal expertise and prior congressional experience, with public appearances including dance performances at rallies, such as the UniTeam proclamation event at the on February 8, 2022. Despite these efforts, Roque did not secure one of the 12 available seats in the May 9, 2022, election.

Post-Administration Political Activities

Following the end of the Duterte administration in June 2022, Harry Roque transitioned to a role as a prominent of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s government, positioning himself as a defender of Duterte's policies and family interests. Roque publicly accused the Marcos administration of political against Duterte allies, including claims of being misled into initial support for Marcos in 2022 before realigning with the Dutertes. Malacañang rejected these assertions, stating Roque was not facing targeted but rather accountability for legal issues. Roque maintained political engagement through and public statements, analyzing surveys such as the May 6-9, 2025, Pulse Asia poll, which he cited as evidence of widespread Filipino distrust toward Marcos, with approval ratings at 19% and disapproval at 70%. He advocated for Duterte's defense against (ICC) proceedings, reiterating on October 26, 2025, that the ICC lacked jurisdiction over the former president due to the ' withdrawal from the in 2019. Despite earlier considerations of a 2025 bid, Roque cited insufficient funding as a barrier and did not pursue candidacy. In July 2025, Roque reaffirmed his loyalty to Duterte amid reported tensions with the former president's legal counsel, denying interference in ICC matters while suggesting alternative legal strategies, such as suing the Dutch government for alleged complicity. His activities focused on rallying Duterte supporters and critiquing dynastic politics, though efforts to regain prominence among the base were described by observers as reliant on performative appeals rather than substantive policy engagement. Roque's abroad, stemming from domestic legal probes, limited direct involvement but sustained his influence via online platforms.

Public Advocacy and Media Engagement

Defense of Key Policies

As presidential , Harry Roque defended the Duterte administration's by asserting its adherence to the and its effectiveness in reducing crime rates. He referenced official figures from the #RealNumbersPH initiative, which documented 4,729 drug personalities killed in police operations between July 2016 and May 2018, while highlighting that index crimes in had dropped to their lowest recorded levels during the administration. Roque argued that the policy enjoyed widespread public support due to the inefficacy of the Philippine legal system in curbing drug syndicates, positing that Filipinos endorsed lethal force against suspects as a necessary response when conventional judicial processes failed to deliver justice. In press briefings, he cited anecdotal reports from communities nationwide expressing satisfaction with the campaign's impact on local safety, contrasting it with prior administrations' inability to address drug proliferation. Roque also supported the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, stating that its enactment underscored the government's commitment to eradicating terrorism amid ongoing threats from groups like the Abu Sayyaf.

Social Media Presence and Influence

Harry Roque maintains a substantial online footprint across multiple platforms, leveraging them to disseminate legal analyses, political defenses, and commentary aligned with his advocacy for former President Rodrigo Duterte. His Facebook page, the most followed among his accounts, boasts over 2.3 million followers as of October 2025 and features frequent live videos, posts critiquing the Marcos administration, and calls for Duterte's release from ICC-related detention. These updates often achieve high engagement, with Roque reporting more than 700,000 reactions across his posts in a single week in October 2025 and over 600,000 in another week in September 2025, reflecting his ability to mobilize a loyal audience amid polarized Philippine politics. On X (formerly ), Roque operates under the handle @attyharryroque, where he has approximately 90,481 followers as of recent data. He uses the platform for rapid-response commentary on geopolitical issues, such as foreign submarine incursions in Philippine waters, and domestic controversies like alleged in the , often framing narratives to challenge official government positions. His account (@harryroque), with around 27,000 followers, includes 4,039 posts as of 2025, primarily showcasing professional milestones, family moments, and endorsements of Duterte-aligned figures, though it garners less engagement than his other channels. Roque's influence extends through consistent amplification of pro-Duterte sentiments, contributing to echo chambers among supporters during election cycles and legal battles, such as his 2022 Senate bid and ongoing ICC defenses. While his reach has shaped public discourse—evident in viral posts defending Duterte's policies against critiques—allegations from influencers and reports have linked his activity to coordinated efforts, including a disputed video in 2025 purporting to show Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in compromising scenarios, which Roque denied orchestrating. These claims, unproven in as of October 2025, highlight scrutiny over his role in narratives, yet his follower base and reaction metrics underscore sustained sway in conservative and populist segments of Philippine .

Electoral History

Roque first entered elective office in the , securing a seat in the as the first nominee of the Kabayan Party-list (Kabalikat ng Mamamayan), which qualified for representation under the . He served in the 15th Congress from 2010 to 2013, focusing on legislative matters including resolutions probing election-related issues. In the 2019 midterm elections, Roque filed his certificate of candidacy for a seat as an independent but withdrew on February 1, 2019, citing health concerns. Roque ran for the Senate in the 2022 general election under the Probinsyano Aksyon ng Malayang Pilipino (PRP) , resigning as presidential spokesperson to pursue the bid with endorsement from Mayor . He did not rank among the top 12 vote-getters required for election.
YearElectionPositionParty/CoalitionStatus
2010House of Representatives (party-list)NomineeKabayan Party-listElected
2019CandidateIndependentWithdrew
2022CandidatePRPUnsuccessful

Libel and Cyberlibel Actions

In May 2024, former Senator IV filed libel and cyberlibel complaints against Harry Roque, along with hosts from (SMNI) and pro-Duterte vloggers, before the Prosecutor's Office. The charges arose from Roque's public statements accusing Trillanes of selling or giving away to during alleged backchannel negotiations, which Trillanes claimed constituted defamatory imputations damaging his reputation. Roque dismissed the complaints as politically motivated, responding with "Bring it on!" and asserting the truth of his allegations based on purported intelligence reports. On April 23, 2025, prosecutors dismissed both the libel and cyberlibel complaints against Roque, finding no probable cause due to insufficient evidence establishing malice or actual under Philippine law. Roque welcomed the resolution, thanking the prosecutors for "applying the law on libel correctly" and reiterating that his statements were protected opinion on matters of . No appeals or further proceedings on these specific charges were reported as of the dismissal date. These actions highlight ongoing tensions between Roque and political opponents, with the dismissal underscoring prosecutorial thresholds for under Republic Act No. 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act) and provisions, which require proof of falsity, malice, and reputational harm beyond privileged criticism of public figures.

Congressional Contempt and Disbarment Proceedings

In August 2024, the Quad Committee, investigating Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and related issues, cited former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque in for providing false information regarding his absence from a scheduled hearing. Roque had claimed he was in for medical treatment on , 2024, but evidence from the Manila Regional Trial Court indicated he was instead in , , attending to property matters. The committee determined this constituted lying to lawmakers, leading to a motion by ACT Teachers party-list Representative to cite him in , which was approved unanimously. Roque was ordered detained at the House for 24 hours as punishment. On September 12, 2024, the same cited Roque in a second time for failing to comply with a requiring submission of documents related to his alleged POGO-linked wealth and properties. Despite Roque's earlier manifestation of intent to produce the documents, he did not follow through, prompting the to order his detention until compliance. As of March 2025, discussions persisted on whether the citation warranted international action, such as involvement, though House leaders noted its domestic enforceability limits. Separately, disbarment proceedings against Roque were initiated in September 2024 by Melvin Matibag, a former acting under the Duterte administration, filed before the . The complaint accused Roque of violating the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability through a malicious post falsely linking President Jr. to shabu () distribution and sharing manipulated videos of public figures. Matibag argued these actions demonstrated and dishonesty unbecoming of a . Roque dismissed the complaint as politically motivated, asserting it stemmed from his criticisms rather than ethical lapses. The docketed the case, but no resolution had been reported as of late 2024, with proceedings ongoing under standard disciplinary protocols. In October 2024, Harry Roque was named in a complaint linked to the Lucky South 99 Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in , , which was raided by authorities in June 2024 amid reports of , illegal detention, and trafficking of foreign nationals, primarily Chinese workers subjected to forced labor and abuse. The complaint alleged Roque's involvement through his role as legal counsel for Whirlwind Corporation, the entity that owned and leased the property to Lucky South 99, with investigators citing documents and witness testimonies that repeatedly referenced his name in connection to the POGO's operations. On April 28, 2025, the Department of Justice filed non-bailable qualified charges against Roque, businesswoman Cassandra Ong, and 48 others before the Regional Trial Court in , , under the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022, accusing them of recruiting, transporting, and harboring victims for exploitative purposes within the POGO facility. Roque, who was abroad at the time, submitted a counter-affidavit from denying direct involvement, asserting he represented only Whirlwind Corporation in a separate land lease transaction and had accompanied Ong to the (PAGCOR) for licensing discussions without serving as counsel for the POGO operator itself. The court found probable cause and issued arrest warrants against Roque, Ong, and the co-accused on May 15, 2025, prompting calls from for Roque to return and face the charges, while authorities considered assistance and a hold departure order; several co-accused have since been arrested by the . Roque has not been apprehended as of October 2025, with his ongoing asylum application in the described by critics, including former aide , as an evasion of accountability rather than political persecution. The case remains pending, with no conviction secured, amid broader scrutiny of POGO-related crimes that have involved over 10,000 foreign workers rescued nationwide since 2022.

Personal Allegations and Responses

In September 2024, the ' Quad Committee probed a sharp rise in assets held by Biancham Holdings and Trading, a owned by Harry Roque and his wife Mylah Roque, questioning the legitimacy of the growth amid broader inquiries into Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs). The firm's net cash position increased from P1.5 million in 2017 to P125 million in 2018, coinciding with Roque's tenure as presidential . Roque's personal declarations similarly escalated from P125,000 before 2016 to P125 million by 2018, prompting lawmakers to demand explanations for the sources of funds. Mylah Roque was specifically summoned to clarify her role in a lease agreement with Chinese nationals associated with an illegal POGO in , , and the overall asset trajectory, which averaged a daily increase of approximately P46,000 from 2014 to 2018. The investigation also uncovered a bank account between Roque and his former executive assistant, Alberto Rodulfo "AR" Dela Serna, raising questions about commingled personal and professional finances. Dela Serna testified before the in September 2024, confirming the account's existence but providing limited details on transactions. In December 2024, the Quad Committee's report recommended that the Anti-Money Laundering Council scrutinize Roque's assets for potential illicit origins tied to POGO-related activities, though no criminal charges directly stemming from the wealth probe had been filed as of October 2025. Roque dismissed the inquiries as politically motivated harassment by the Marcos administration, refusing to attend hearings or submit tax records, statements of assets from 2016–2022, or property sale documents, such as those for the family's Multinational Village home. He was cited for contempt in September 2024 alongside Mylah, who submitted only a medical prescription in lieu of appearance, leading to arrest orders. Roque publicly stated he would not return from abroad to face the committee without a Supreme Court-issued warrant, framing compliance as unnecessary absent formal charges. The contempt citations were lifted in June 2025 after Roque and Mylah provided partial documentation, though the panel maintained its call for further AMLC review. Earlier, in 2014, bribery allegations leveled by the Ampatuan clan against Roque in relation to his representation of victims were deemed unsubstantiated by multiple fact-checks, with pending contempt and libel countersuits against the accusers.

Self-Exile, Asylum Attempt, and Fugitive Status

In early 2025, Harry Roque departed the amid mounting legal challenges, including an issued on May 1, 2025, for qualified in connection with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). Authorities suspect he exited via , a southern backdoor route previously used by dismissed Alice Guo, evading standard departure protocols. Roque maintained he was not fleeing at the time of departure, asserting no active warrant prevented his travel abroad. On March 17, 2025, Roque publicly announced his intent to seek asylum in the Netherlands, citing "political persecution through unjust prosecution" by the Philippine government under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. He filed the application with the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND), which processes refugee claims, arguing the charges against him were fabricated retaliation for his defense of former President Rodrigo Duterte's policies. Philippine Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla contested the validity of the bid, noting that asylum requires credible fear of political persecution, not evasion of criminal liability for alleged human trafficking. By June 2025, reports emerged that the had denied or transferred Roque's asylum request, with the IND terminating proceedings on June 10 and referring the case to , where Roque had reportedly relocated. Roque denied any outright rejection, claiming the process remained active and that he held a residence card allowing his stay in . The Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) responded by seeking cancellation of his passport to facilitate arrest and potential action, emphasizing that unresolved asylum does not shield fugitives from once criminal warrants are confirmed. As of mid-2025, Roque remained outside Philippine jurisdiction, labeled a by Malacañang and opposition figures alike, with the government vowing to pursue his return via diplomatic channels or red notices, pending asylum resolution. Minority Leader urged him to "stop being a " and face charges, highlighting the gravity of the allegations involving over 100 victims. Despite Roque's assertions of innocence and political targeting, the DOJ's motions underscore that his status hinges on judicial outcomes rather than self-proclaimed victimhood.

Personal Life

Family and Relationships

Harry Roque married Mylah Reyes, a former television reporter for RPN 9 (now RPTV), in October 1999 after meeting her during a congressional hearing. The couple has two children, a daughter named Bianca Hacintha Roque and a son named Harrison Jakob Roque. As of 2022, both children were attending , and Roque has publicly described himself as a devoted family man who prioritizes time with them despite his professional commitments. No public records indicate prior marriages or other significant relationships for Roque. Mylah Reyes Roque, who has contributed to published works as a , has occasionally been involved in her husband's legal and public matters, including recent interactions with Philippine congressional panels in 2024.

References

  1. https://www.un.org/en/ga/sixth/76/pdfs/events/31_august_2021.pdf
  2. https://chanroblesbar.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=80:prof-h-harry-l-roque-jr&catid=34
  3. https://legal.un.org/ilc/documentation/english/election2021_cvs/roque.pdf
  4. https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/01/24/17/kabayan-party-removes-harry-roque-as-representative
  5. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1099615
  6. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/779141/roque-on-why-he-speaks-for-duterte-pareho-kami-diretso-magsalita/story/
  7. https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/10/26/news/national/roque-reiterates-icc-has-no-jurisdiction-over-former-president-duterte/2208425
  8. https://news.tv5.com.ph/breaking/read/roque-insists-on-supporting-duterte-despite-clash-with-counsel
  9. https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/iq/186805-harry-roque-presidential-spokesperson-things-to-know/
  10. https://law1a.nus.edu.sg/asli/fellows/bio/Roque.html
  11. https://resources.gaje.org/harry-roque/
  12. https://law.upd.edu.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/International-Law-A-Philippine.pdf
  13. https://www.scribd.com/document/130085533/Roque-v-Comelec-docx
  14. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/631166/duterte-appoints-harry-roque-presidential-spokesperson/story/
  15. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/941069/breaking-philippine-news-updates-president-rodrigo-duterte-harry-roque-presidential-spokesman
  16. https://pco.gov.ph/press-briefing/press-briefing-presidential-spokesperson-harry-roque/
  17. https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/10/28/17/roque-says-to-address-ph-human-rights-issues-as-duterte-spokesperson
  18. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1016768
  19. https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/in-depth/214157-the-unravelling-of-harry-roque/
  20. https://pco.gov.ph/media-interview/interview-with-presidential-spokesperson-secretary-harry-roque-by-ruth-cabal-cnn-philippines-sona-special-presentation/
  21. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50AnvJiCC5s
  22. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2019/02/01/1889994/harry-roque-drops-out-2019-senatorial-race
  23. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060728
  24. https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/02/01/harry-roque-withdraws-senatorial-bid-due-to-medical-condition/
  25. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/670587/roque-taken-aback-by-duterte-s-statement-but-shoots-ad-for-2019-senate-bid-nevertheless/story/
  26. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1515070/roque-quits-as-presl-spox-to-run-for-senate-in-2022
  27. https://www.rappler.com/philippines/elections/harry-roque-vies-senate-seat-2022-polls/
  28. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1157270
  29. https://www.facebook.com/PhilippineSTAR/videos/senatorial-candidate-harry-roque-jr-dances-for-the-crowd/1104883436980483/
  30. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/eleksyon2022/results/senatorial/ROQUE%25252C%2BHARRY%2BSPOX%2B%252528PRP%252529/
  31. https://www.[facebook](/page/Facebook).com/tribunephl/posts/sins-of-the-father-in-2022-harry-roque-defended-marcos-jrnow-in-2025-the-ever-lo/1211994360976982/
  32. https://pco.gov.ph/news_releases/palace-says-roque-not-facing-political-persecution-in-ph/
  33. https://www.facebook.com/HarryRoque/posts/statement-of-atty-harry-roqueon-the-may-6-9-2025-pulse-asia-surveyfilipinos-cont/1294080598740806/
  34. https://politiko.com.ph/2023/11/14/roque-says-no-funds-to-run-for-senate-in-2025-wala-tayong-kakayahang-tumakbo/politiko-lokal/
  35. https://verafiles.org/articles/harry-roques-rocky-road-to-redemption
  36. https://opinion.inquirer.net/183530/hurrying-harry-home
  37. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1036861
  38. https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asia_pacific/dutertes-philippine-drug-war-has-a-new-defender--whose-former-colleagues-are-aghast/2017/12/23/19a18158-e024-11e7-b2e9-8c636f076c76_story.html
  39. http://constitutionnet.org/news/president-philippines-signs-controversial-anti-terror-bill-law
  40. https://www.facebook.com/HarryRoque/
  41. https://www.facebook.com/HarryRoque/videos/i-got-over-700000-reactions-on-my-posts-last-week-thanks-everyone-for-your-suppo/1587265179100208/
  42. https://www.facebook.com/HarryRoque/videos/i-got-over-600000-reactions-on-my-posts-last-week-thanks-everyone-for-your-suppo/1281153429898939/
  43. https://x.com/attyharryroque
  44. https://www.instagram.com/harryroque/?hl=en
  45. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/09/24/2387667/harry-roque-faces-disbarment-case-over-deepfake-video
  46. https://www.rappler.com/philippines/blogger-says-harry-roque-behind-alleged-marcos-polvoron-video/
  47. https://manilastandard.net/news/314577696/roque-behind-polvoron-video-influencer.html
  48. https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/in-depth/profile-harry-roque-under-house-representatives-investigation-pogo/
  49. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005173
  50. https://www.rappler.com/philippines/222429-harry-roque-withdraws-senate-bid-february-2019/
  51. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/810950/harry-roque-files-candidacy-for-senator-in-eleksyon-2022/story/
  52. https://www.rappler.com/voices/thought-leaders/159627-emil-maranon-party-list-replacement-cases/
  53. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/05/14/2355076/trillanes-files-cyber-libel-libel-raps-vs-roque-smni-hosts-pro-duterte-vloggers
  54. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1940511/bring-it-on-roque-says-after-trillanes-filed-libel-cyberlibel-raps
  55. https://www.rappler.com/philippines/prosecutors-junk-trillanes-libel-complaints-harry-roque/
  56. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2055317/qc-prosecutors-junk-trillanes-cyberlibel-case-vs-roque
  57. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/04/23/2437798/cyberlibel-case-filed-trillanes-vs-harry-roque-junked
  58. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/943680/cyberlibel-complaint-vs-roque-junked-by-qc-prosecutors/story/
  59. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1231818
  60. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/09/12/2384750/house-quadcom-cites-harry-roque-contempt-again-orders-detention
  61. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1233214
  62. https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/17/can-interpol-arrest-harry-roque-due-to-contempt-citation-barbers-answers
  63. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1986432/disbarment-of-harry-roque-sought
  64. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/921464/harry-roque-disbarment-sought-by-ex-duterte-cabinet-secretary/story/
  65. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1234039
  66. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/10/29/2395927/harry-roque-named-human-trafficking-case-linked-porac-pogo
  67. https://globalnation.inquirer.net/277060/angeles-court-orders-roque-ong-arrested
  68. https://mirror.pco.gov.ph/news_releases/harry-roques-name-keeps-cropping-up-in-pogo-docs-testimonies-paocc/
  69. https://igamingbusiness.com/gaming/online-casino/ex-presidential-flack-harry-roque-linked-to-criminal-pogo-hubs-in-philippines/
  70. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1250200
  71. https://www.facebook.com/ONENewsPH/videos/roque-ong-among-50-charged-in-pogo-linked-trafficking-case/621895207503640/
  72. https://thedefiant.net/we-need-to-find-out-harry-roques-true-involvement-with-pogos/
  73. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1250228
  74. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1250258
  75. https://globalnation.inquirer.net/277660/panelo-to-roque-come-home-and-face-charges
  76. https://globalnation.inquirer.net/268399/harry-roques-asylum-bid-an-attempt-to-evade-accountability-solon
  77. https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3284687/how-harry-roque-went-being-philippines-presidential-aide-human-trafficking-suspect
  78. https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/in-depth/harry-roque-wealth-increase-pogo-investigation-hot-list/
  79. https://politiko.com.ph/2024/09/17/instead-of-mocking-house-harry-roque-should-justify-wealth-increase-barbers/politiko-lokal/
  80. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/09/20/2386724/harry-roques-wife-summoned-house-quadcom-probes-couples-asset-surge
  81. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2018358/quad-comm-report-on-roque-asks-amlc-to-check-his-assets
  82. https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/2024/10/14/mylah-roque-only-sent-quad-comm-a-prescription-from-her-personal-doctor-house-leader-1446
  83. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/06/10/2449374/house-quad-comm-lifts-contempt-orders-vs-harry-roque-wife
  84. https://verafiles.org/articles/11-facts-that-render-bribery-allegations-vs-harry-roque-ridiculous
  85. https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2025/3/18/harry-roque-alice-guo-may-have-left-ph-through-same-tawi-tawi-route-bi-1238
  86. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/03/18/2429185/harry-roque-seek-asylum-netherlands
  87. https://politiko.com.ph/2025/03/17/harry-roque-asks-netherlands-for-asylum-over-political-persecution-in-ph/headlines/
  88. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2052631/explainer-harry-roques-asylum-bid-and-why-many-oppose-it
  89. https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/explainers/analysis-harry-roque-asylum-claim-stands-on-shaky-ground/
  90. https://globalnation.inquirer.net/281092/roques-asylum-request-in-netherlands-denied-remulla
  91. https://rollingstonephilippines.com/state-of-affairs/state-of-affairs-news/harry-roque-human-trafficking-asylum-bid/
  92. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/949268/harry-roque-denies-asylum-bid-was-rejected/story/
  93. https://tribune.net.ph/2025/06/18/roque-faces-arrest-if-passport-revoked
  94. https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2025/6/18/doj-says-waiting-for-cancellation-of-roque-s-passport-after-reported-asylum-denial-1423
  95. https://mb.com.ph/2025/05/20/interpols-arrest-of-harry-roque-depends-on-his-asylum-bid-in-netherlands-doj
  96. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2076700/hontiveros-rebukes-roque-who-sought-her-ouster-stop-being-a-fugitive
  97. https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2025/06/20/wait-and-see-says-philippine-palace-to-fugitive-harry-roques-come-and-get-me-taunt
  98. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1246175
  99. https://www.philstar.com/other-sections/newsmakers/2022/01/04/2151581/when-harry-met-mylah
  100. https://tv-philippines.fandom.com/wiki/Harry_Roque
  101. https://hamariweb.com/profiles/harry-roque_18346
  102. https://sologeekz.com.ng/harry-rogue-biography/
  103. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/10/15/2392719/harry-roques-wife-left-philippines-immigration
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.