Remulla: Extradition request for Roque may not be needed once passport canceled

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippines may not request for the extradition of former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, once his passport has been canceled and if the Netherlands reject his asylum bid.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla explained that Roque, facing human trafficking charges, will be an undocumented alien when his passport is canceled, prompting arrest.

“‘Pag naging fugitive from justice, lalong-lalo na ‘pag nawalan na ng documentation, ay pwede na siyang habulin ng Interpol (International Criminal Police Organization),” Remulla said.

[Translation: When he becomes a fugitive from justice, especially when he loses documentation, the Interpol can arrest him.]

The Department of Justice is still awaiting the cancelation of Roque’s passport.

Remulla has received information that the Netherlands denied Roque’s asylum application and is seeking one in Germany. But the former spokesman refuted the justice chief’s remark.

“Sa EU (European Union) kasi basta may visa ka, open borders naman ang EU,” Remulla replied when asked if it is legal to hop from one EU country to another.

[Translation: The EU has open borders as long as you have a visa.]

“My trip to Germany was a pre-planned activity,” Roque said. “The visit was upon the invitation of the Filipino community in Germany, where I administered the oathtaking of the proud members of the Hakbang ng Maisug Germany.”

Roque said he has already returned to the Netherlands.

NewsWatch Plus correspondent Daniza Fernandez contributed to this report.