Senator Sherwin Gatchalian warned former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque of contempt after a heated exchange with Senator Risa Hontiveros during a Senate investigation into the raided Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hubs.
Gatchalian intervened when Roque repeatedly interrupted Hontiveros as she questioned him about his alleged connection to the POGO firm Lucky South 99. Gatchalian reminded Roque to respect the chairperson, warning him of contempt if he continued to interrupt.
Roque insisted he was respectful, but Gatchalian disagreed, stating, "One more and I will cite you in contempt." Roque then apologized.
Hontiveros questioned Roque about his involvement with Lucky South 99, which named him as its legal head in documents submitted to the Philippine Offshore Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). Roque denied any connection, stating he had never acted as legal counsel for the firm.
Roque explained he only attended a meeting with PAGCOR in July 2023 as a representative of Whirlwind Corporation, a client and lessor of the land for Lucky South 99. Hontiveros pointed out that the meeting's topic was related to Lucky South 99, not Whirlwind Corporation.
The exchange escalated as Roque accused Hontiveros of insinuating his involvement, which she denied, emphasizing that the committee's questions were based on sworn testimonies. Roque defended himself, saying he only learned of his name in the organizational chart during the hearing and did not authorize its inclusion.
Roque suggested applying court rules to Senate hearings, but Hontiveros rebuffed him, saying there was no need to lecture the Senate on its rules. The exchange ended with Hontiveros reminding Roque to focus on answering questions and refrain from lecturing the committee.
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