A petition seeks to block Harry Roque’s asylum application in the Netherlands, challenging his claims of political persecution in the Philippines.
Philippine-born Dutch citizen Joel Vega confirmed on his Facebook page that he submitted a letter to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) opposing Roque’s move.
An online petition titled “Block Harry Roque’s Asylum Move to The Netherlands” has also been launched, allowing concerned Filipino citizens to sign in protest.
As of press time, the petition has gathered nearly 3,000 signatures.
In his letter, Vega argued that Roque’s claims of political persecution have no basis, citing his close ties with the Duterte family, which remains politically powerful in the Philippines.
Vega also alleged that Roque’s asylum bid aims to evade investigations related to his involvement with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO).
Roque had previously stated that if his international protection application is granted, he would have the right to non-refoulement, meaning he cannot be deported until the Dutch government decides on his case.
Despite being away from the Philippines for some time, Roque denied being a fugitive and maintained that he is merely avoiding a subpoena from the House of Representatives, not an arrest warrant from the courts.
He also clarified that he is currently not in The Hague as he awaits an interview regarding his application.