Harry Roque’s Daughter Files Supreme Court Petition to Shield Father From Arrest

Bianca Roque, daughter of former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, has turned to the Supreme Court for protection against her father’s potential arrest. This action follows a directive from the House of Representatives, which ordered Harry’s detention for allegedly failing to submit requested financial records.

On September 23, 2024, Bianca filed a petition for a writ of amparo, claiming that the Quad Committee of the House violated her father’s constitutional rights. She also requested a Temporary Protection Order to prevent his arrest.

House lawmakers suspect Harry Roque may be linked to illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), citing a sudden increase in his assets and his involvement in renewing an illegal POGO license. A show cause order was also issued to his wife, Mylah Roque, as lawmakers seek clarity on the family’s wealth sources.

In her petition, Bianca argued that it is unjust for someone to be jailed for refusing to incriminate themselves. She contended that the Quad Committee overstepped its authority by citing Harry in contempt and ordering his arrest.

“Should a person be jailed for refusing to make an admission against his own interest? For refusing to admit as truth a mere allegation against him? For refusing to make an incriminatory statement? For refusing to produce personal documents that are possibly self-incriminatory? No, he should not,” wrote Bianca in the petition that was cited by the Philippine Star.

Bianca also requested a writ of prohibition to stop the Quad Committee from compelling Harry to appear at hearings or submit further documents, asserting that he has already provided all necessary information. She pointed out that key figures in the investigation, including former Bamban Mayor Alice Guo, have publicly stated they do not know Harry.

Harry said in a previous video statement that he would comply with document requests only if ordered by the Supreme Court.

Rep. Dan Fernandez, co-chair of the House joint committee, acknowledged the family’s decision to seek Supreme Court intervention but stressed the importance of Harry submitting his documents. The requested records include Harry’s Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth from 2016 to 2022 and income tax returns from his firm, Biancham Holdings and Trading Corp., covering 2014 to 2022.

The House committee is currently investigating the illegal operations of POGOs and related extrajudicial killings during the Rodrigo Duterte administration and plans to hold its seventh public hearing this week.

Read related article: Manhunt Launched for Harry Roque; Quad-Comm Head Claims Roque “Benefited From Lucky South 99”