Harry Roque Seeks Asylum in the Netherlands
3 min read
MARCH 17,2025
Harry Roque the former presidential Duterte spokesperson announced his plan to seek asylum in the Netherlands. He said he cannot return to the Philippines because he is committed to defending former President Rodrigo Duterte against legal battles. Roque believes that seeking asylum in the Netherlands is necessary to continue his work as Duterte’s legal counsel.
Harry Roque’s Asylum Bid and Legal Protection in the Netherlands
During a press conference on Monday, Harry Roque confirmed he will file for asylum in the Netherlands immediately. He emphasized that international law protects him and that seeking asylum in the Netherlands provides him legal security.
“Well, I’m formally announcing that after a meeting today, I am filing for asylum here in the Netherlands. As soon as my application is received, I will have rights under non-refoulement,” Roque explained.
Non-refoulement ensures that asylum seekers, including Harry Roque, are not deported until their application is processed. It also protects them from prosecution for illegal entry while their case is under review.
Roque clarified that he legally entered the Netherlands with a valid Schengen visa. He intends to follow all necessary procedures to obtain proof of asylum-seeker status in the Netherlands.
Roque’s Defense of Duterte Amid ICC Proceedings
His decision follows growing legal pressure on Duterte. The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague recently detained the former president over alleged crimes against humanity linked to his drug war. Authorities claim the anti-drug operations resulted in at least 6,000 deaths. Harry Roque believes seeking asylum in the Netherlands allows him to effectively defend Duterte against these charges.
“I’m sorry, but I cannot return home. I have to defend my president,” Roque declared.
Duterte made his first ICC court appearance via video link on Friday. Harry Roque will join his legal defense team, which includes former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and British lawyer Nicholas Kaufman, an ICC counsel. Seeking asylum in the Netherlands, Roque says, ensures that he can carry out his legal duties without interference.
Philippine Government’s Stance on Roque’s Asylum in the Netherlands
Earlier on Monday, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro challenged Harry Roque to return to the Philippines. His presence in The Hague comes as allegations link him to operations involving Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). Seeking asylum in the Netherlands, Roque argues, is his right as he faces political persecution.
Despite the accusations, Harry Roque insists he is not a fugitive.
“The claim that I am a fugitive is fake news. A fugitive is someone fleeing an arrest warrant issued by a court. The only warrant against me was issued by Congress for failing to submit documents during an investigation—it’s not a criminal case,” Roque clarified.
In September 2024, the House Quad Committee cited Harry Roque in contempt and ordered his detention after he refused to submit financial documents related to his wealth increase.
What’s Next for Harry Roque and His Asylum Case?
Harry Roque remains firm in his decision to stay in the Netherlands. He believes his asylum application will grant him temporary residency while he continues defending Duterte. Seeking asylum in the Netherlands, according to Roque, is a necessary step in ensuring his ability to practice law freely. His case adds another layer to the ongoing legal drama surrounding the former president’s drug war.
Stay updated on the latest developments regarding Harry Roque, his asylum application in the Netherlands, the ICC case against Duterte, and Philippine politics by following our news platform.
RELATED STORY: Sara Duterte, Harry Roque, and Robin Padilla Arrive at ICC
About The Author
