Politics · Philippines Bureau
Barbers calls on Roque to return home after Austria asylum bid fails
Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque should come back to the Philippines to face legal charges now that his asylum application in Austria has been rejected, according to ex-Surigao del Norte congressman Robert Ace Barbers.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Former Surigao del Norte Representative Robert Ace Barbers has urged Harry Roque, the former presidential spokesperson, to return to the Philippines following reports that his bid for asylum in Austria was denied.
Barbers made the appeal during a press briefing on Tuesday, arguing that with his overseas options exhausted, Roque no longer has justification to remain abroad. The call comes as Roque faces multiple charges in the Philippines related to his tenure in government.
Roque, who served as spokesperson under the Duterte administration, has been the subject of several investigations and legal cases following his departure from the country. His reported rejection from Austria removes what had been cited as a potential refuge for the former official.
Barbers' statement reflects mounting pressure on Roque to return and address the charges through the Philippine legal system. The case has drawn attention from various political figures, with calls for accountability continuing to mount in the country.