In a significant legal development, the Angeles Regional Trial Court Branch 118 has issued arrest warrants against former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, businesswoman Cassandra Ong, and 48 others. The charges pertain to qualified human trafficking linked to operations at the Lucky South 99 Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in Porac, Pampanga .Global Nation+15GMA Network+15Global Nation+15DZRH News+17GMA Network+17Cebu Daily News+17
Background: The Porac POGO Hub Controversy
The Lucky South 99 complex has been under scrutiny since a raid in June 2024 uncovered alleged human trafficking activities. Authorities rescued numerous individuals, including foreign nationals, who were reportedly victims of forced labor and exploitation within the facility .NewsFeed+1Inquirer.net+1
Investigations revealed that Whirlwind Corporation, the entity leasing the property to Lucky South 99, had Harry Roque as its legal counsel. Documents bearing Roque’s name and signature were found during the raid, raising questions about his involvement .Wikipedia+8GMA Network+8Manila Standard+8NewsFeed
Legal Proceedings and Charges
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has charged Roque and his co-accused under the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022. The court found probable cause, leading to the issuance of arrest warrants .SunStar Publishing Inc.+5Philippine News Agency+5Politiko+5GMA Network+1Philippine News Agency+1
Roque has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that his legal services for Whirlwind Corporation were legitimate and unrelated to any illicit activities. He has described the charges as politically motivated and has expressed his intention to contest them in court.DZRH News+5Manila Standard+5GMA Network+5
Implications and Public Reaction
The case has garnered widespread attention, highlighting concerns over the operations of POGO hubs in the Philippines and their potential links to criminal activities. Public officials and citizens alike are calling for increased oversight and regulation of such establishments to prevent exploitation and uphold the rule of law.Inquirer.net+8Wikipedia+8Global Nation+8
Conclusion
As the legal process unfolds, the involvement of high-profile individuals like Harry Roque underscores the complexities of combating human trafficking and illegal operations within the country. The outcome of this case may set a precedent for how similar allegations are addressed in the future.
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