The Philippine government has formally requested the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) to issue a red notice against former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, marking a significant escalation in a high-profile human trafficking case connected to illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) activities.
Government Confirms Interpol Request
Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) spokesperson Winston Casio confirmed the development during a radio interview on Sunday, November 23, 2025. A red notice serves as an international alert to law enforcement agencies worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest an individual pending extradition, surrender, or similar legal action.
The legal foundation for this international request stems from a domestic court order dated May 8, 2025, where Angeles, Pampanga Regional Trial Court Presiding Judge Rene Reyes issued warrants of arrest against Roque, Cassandra Ong, and several others. The judge found probable cause to file non-bailable human trafficking charges against them related to the illegal operations of Lucky South 99 in Porac, Pampanga.
Horrific Conditions at Raided POGO Compound
The Lucky South 99 compound, situated on a 10-hectare property in Porac, first came under scrutiny when authorities raided and shut it down on September 17, 2022, due to alleged involvement in illegal activities. Despite this initial intervention, the facility continued its illegal operations and was raided again on June 5, 2025.
This second operation proved particularly disturbing, resulting in the rescue of at least 186 foreign and Filipino workers. During the raid, authorities discovered what they described as victims of human trafficking, particularly Chinese nationals who showed clear signs of torture on various parts of their bodies.
Two victims were found handcuffed to bed frames, their bodies covered with bruises and torture marks when police located them. Several foreign women had also fallen victim to sexual abuse and were reportedly being sold online through bidding processes.
Roque's Connection and Current Whereabouts
Harry Roque, who currently remains in the Netherlands where he is seeking asylum, has denied any involvement with Lucky South 99. However, he has acknowledged that his client, Whirlwind Corporation, served as the service provider for the raided POGO hub.
Court documents further identify Roque as having served as the head of the legal department for the raided POGO operation. This high-profile case continues to develop as international legal mechanisms are being activated to bring the accused to justice.
