The Department of Justice (DOJ) of the Philippines has issued a travel lookout bulletin order (LBO) for former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque and 11 other individuals. This action follows revelations that Cassandra Lee Ong, a person under investigation for connections to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) syndicates, managed to exit the country.
Background and Context
In a recent press interview, DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano confirmed the issuance of the LBO. He emphasized that while the LBO does not restrict the right of the individuals to travel, it ensures that both the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and the DOJ are notified if any of the individuals leave or enter the country.
“This does not restrict their right to travel, but it means the BI and the DOJ are immediately informed if they leave or arrive in the country,” Clavano stated.
The Nature of an LBO
An LBO is a mechanism employed by the DOJ when individuals under investigation are deemed a flight risk. It serves to keep authorities updated on the movements of these individuals to ensure they remain within the jurisdiction for ongoing investigations.
Justice Secretary Jesus Remulla added that a precautionary hold departure order would also be filed at the Office of the Executive Judge while the preliminary investigation is underway. This additional measure further aims to prevent any attempts to flee the country during the investigation.
Specific Allegations and Denials
Harry Roque, one of the primary figures named in the LBO, has denied any intention to leave the country. He expressed his willingness to face any charges related to his alleged involvement with POGOs. Roque was identified by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) as one of the officials purportedly linked to the POGO hub Lucky South 99, which was raided. It was alleged that Roque, along with Lee Ong, visited PAGCOR to discuss settling the unpaid arrears of the firm.
Roque has strongly refuted these allegations, maintaining that he has no connections to any illegal activities and is prepared to cooperate fully with the investigation.
Broader Implications and Actions
The issuance of the LBO comes in the wake of increased scrutiny and regulatory actions against POGOs in the Philippines. The government has been cracking down on illegal activities associated with these operations, including money laundering and other criminal enterprises.
The involvement of high-profile individuals such as Harry Roque in the investigation underscores the seriousness with which the DOJ is approaching this issue. It also highlights the broader efforts by the Philippine government to ensure accountability and transparency within the gaming industry.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The DOJ’s move to issue an LBO is a preliminary step in the ongoing investigation. As the situation develops, further actions may be taken based on the findings of the investigation. The precautionary hold departure order is one such measure that ensures individuals involved remain accessible to authorities.
The travel lookout bulletin order issued by the DOJ for Harry Roque and 11 others marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation into POGO syndicates. While Roque denies any wrongdoing and expresses his readiness to face charges, the DOJ’s actions reflect a broader commitment to addressing illegal activities within the gaming industry. As the investigation progresses, further updates and actions from the DOJ and other relevant authorities can be expected.