Duterte's Davao Rival Migs Nograles scrutinized Harry Roque over POGO Links Shady Business Deals

Congressional Quad Committee Hearing: Harry Roque Grilled by Migs Nograles Over POGO Links

During a tense session of the congressional quad committee hearing, Harry Roque found himself under intense scrutiny as Margarita "Migs" Nograles grilled him over his alleged connections to POGO operations. Roque, known for his legal acumen, seemed to have an answer for everything, skillfully dodging direct answers and diverting the conversation whenever possible.

Nograles questioned Roque about his ties to Biancham Holdings and Trading and PH2 Corporation, particularly concerning their involvement in the development of properties that were allegedly linked to POGO activities. Despite the pointed questions, Roque continuously deflected, insisting that the properties were intended for legitimate business purposes like BPO operations and not for POGO. He even offered to submit documents to prove that no part of the development was ever meant for POGO, yet his explanations only seemed to deepen the committee's suspicions.

Roque's attempts to distance himself from the controversy were evident as he frequently brought up technicalities, such as the involvement of reputable firms and compliance with legal requirements. However, Nograles was relentless, pressing him on the inconsistencies in his statements and the suspicious nature of the transactions, particularly the subleasing of properties to individuals linked to POGO operations.

Throughout the hearing, Roque's evasive tactics were on full display. He acknowledged his connections to key players like Danny Corral and Green Miles Realty, but downplayed their significance in the broader investigation. His responses often meandered into unrelated topics, seemingly to confuse the issue or buy time.

Nograles, however, was having none of it. She repeatedly brought the focus back to the central issue: whether Roque's business dealings had, in any way, facilitated illegal POGO operations. Despite his best efforts to divert, the heat remained on Roque as the committee members continued to question the integrity of his claims.

In the end, while Roque managed to keep his composure, his performance left many wondering if his smooth talking was more about avoiding the truth than clarifying it. The hearing concluded with the committee promising to dig deeper into Roque’s connections behind POGO's under his watch.