Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque has no one to blame for his current predicament but himself, according to Sta. Rosa Rep. Dan Fernandez.
Fernandez made this statement in response to the writ of amparo filed by Roque’s daughter, Bianca, with the Supreme Court.
“This development raises significant constitutional questions about the balance of powers among the branches of government. The allegations of grave abuse of discretion and the assertion that the committee has overreached its authority warrant serious consideration. However, the decision of the quad-committee regarding the submission of documents was a situation he created for himself,” explained Fernandez.
Fernandez noted that Roque voluntarily agreed to submit the requested documents to the committee, which included his tax records and statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALN). Instead of complying, Roque chose to evade the order from the House.
“While we respect his decision to seek court intervention, it is crucial for him to adhere to the established fact that submitting his documents like the SALN and income tax return (ITR) is more important than his presence at the quad-committee,” Fernandez added.
Roque had previously denied any involvement in the operations of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs); however, Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro questioned the significant increase in Roque’s assets, including his growing shares in Biancham Holdings.
“Roque’s inability to explain the sources of his wealth strengthens the evidence of his potential involvement with POGOs,” stated Luistro.
In a 66-page petition to the Supreme Court, Roque requested the issuance of a writ of amparo to prevent the Quad Committee from arresting him. He also appealed for the issuance of a writ of certiorari and a writ of prohibition to stop the Quad Committee from ordering the release of documents for upcoming hearings.
In the petition, Roque asserted that while Congress has the authority to conduct legislative inquiries, it should not do so in an “abusive and oppressive manner.”
The Philippine National Police has already formed special tracker teams to locate Roque.
