Senators Condemn Harry Roque's Disrespect, nearly spend Jail time

 

The Senate Hearing: Unraveling the Biancham and POGO Controversy

In a highly charged Senate hearing, key figures, including Harry Roque, were questioned about their involvement in controversial activities related to Biancham, a family-holding corporation, and POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators). Senators Risa Hontiveros and Sherwin Gatchalian led the intense interrogation, seeking to uncover the truth behind these complex dealings. Let's delve into the intricate details and exchanges of the hearing, shedding light on the legal and ethical intricacies involved.

Initial Tensions and Statements

The hearing began with palpable tension as Harry Roque, clearly frustrated, asserted his right to speak. "Actually as I said earlier, excuse me, excuse me. I'm sorry madam but I am a resource person invited. I was asked to answer," he began, emphasizing his role and the expectation to provide information.

Senator Gatchalian quickly responded, "If you disrespect the chairperson, we'll be compelled to cite you in contempt." This warning set the tone for the hearing, highlighting the need for maintaining decorum. Roque apologized, acknowledging the need to adhere to the committee's rules.

Corporate Structure and Legal Questions

The questioning then shifted to the corporate structure of Biancham. Roque confirmed his involvement, stating, "Biancham is my family holding corporation. It's part of our estate planning." He explained the layers of ownership and the legal intricacies involved, particularly the lack of a search warrant during the arrest of Foreign Nationals in Corporation Property in Benguet involving the Bureau of Immigration (BI).

"We confirm that during the arrest, the BI used the mission order. There was no search warrant, no warrant of arrest," Roque clarified, raising significant legal questions about the procedure.

Personal Decisions Influenced by Business Controversies

Personal decisions also played a crucial role in the narrative. Roque shared how his wife wanted to withdraw from a project due to negative publicity. "My wife said, 'I really want out, I want my privacy,'" he recounted, explaining the subsequent changes in ownership and their ongoing efforts to reclaim Biancham.

Business reversals in a solar project, which resulted in significant financial losses, further complicated their situation. These challenges influenced both their family decisions and business strategies.

Legal and Regulatory Issues

The hearing then delved into legal and regulatory issues, particularly involving Lucky South 99 and its association with POGO operations. Roque vehemently denied acting as legal counsel for Lucky South 99 or any other POGO. "I have never acted as legal counsel for Lucky South 99 or for any other POGO," he stated under oath.

However, he acknowledged attending meetings with PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation) regarding POGO operations. He emphasized that his involvement was limited to assisting a service provider known to him, rather than representing Lucky South 99 directly.

Documentation and Evidence

Several documents were presented to the Senate, including those related to legal cases involving Whirlwind Corporation. Roque stressed the importance of verifying the authenticity and accuracy of these documents through witnesses and proper legal procedures.

Clarifications and Ongoing Investigations

Throughout the hearing, Roque repeatedly clarified his role and denied allegations of legal representation for controversial entities. He urged PAGCOR to provide further clarifications, especially concerning the operations and licensing of POGO sub-licensees.

Final Clarifications and Ethical Questions

In the final part of the debate, Roque addressed his involvement with Lucky South and Whirlwind. He emphasized his return to private practice in 2022 and his limited interactions with these entities. "I met them after the elections and during my return to private practice. I was retained as a lawyer for Whirlwind, which is well-documented," he clarified.

This Senate hearing brought to light significant issues related to corporate governance, legal ethics, and personal integrity. The detailed testimonies and rigorous questioning aimed to unravel the truth behind the controversies surrounding Biancham, Lucky South, and Whirlwind. As the investigation continues, the Senate committee, led by Senators Hontiveros, is expected to delve deeper into these matters, ensuring accountability and transparency in all dealings.

Stay tuned for further updates and comprehensive coverage of this ongoing investigation.

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This concludes our detailed account of the Senate hearing. Further developments will be covered in future posts, providing you with the latest insights and updates on this significant issue.