Lanao del Sur 1st District Representative Zia Alonto Adiong criticized former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque for remaining in the Netherlands, claiming Roque has no valid reason to stay abroad aside from evading legal charges in the Philippines.

“Prior to the arrest of the former president, he was already in hiding. So there was already the intent not to face not only the Quadcomm but also the court,” Adiong said.

Adiong emphasized that even Vice President Sara Duterte had clarified that Roque was never part of the official legal team of former president Rodrigo Duterte, contradicting earlier reports that suggested otherwise.

Roque is currently facing qualified human trafficking charges for his alleged involvement in the Lucky South 99, which he has repeatedly denied representing. He was also previously cited in contempt by the Quadcomm for failing to attend a House inquiry.

Adiong stressed that Roque, as a lawyer, should understand his responsibility to uphold the law and present himself before the court to address the allegations.

“He has no business in the Netherlands. He has to come home and face the charges before him,” Adiong added.