Senator Hontiveros Supports Passport Cancellation of Individuals Facing Human Trafficking Charges

MANILA – Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday endorsed the decision to revoke the passports of Cassandra Li Ong and former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, both implicated in serious human trafficking cases. She stressed that such measures are warranted to prevent them from evading legal responsibilities.

"It is only appropriate that their passports were canceled, especially since they seem to be attempting to avoid the law," Hontiveros stated.

The senator expressed confidence that the two will ultimately return to face justice in the Philippines. "They cannot run away from their responsibilities forever," she added.

Hontiveros further called on authorities to extend their efforts beyond Ong and Roque, targeting the criminal networks associated with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) scam hubs. She pointed out that Alice Guo’s conviction should not be regarded as the conclusion of these investigations.

"She is not the only one who should be held accountable — all parties involved must be brought to justice," the senator remarked.

The lawmaker pledged to remain vigilant in ensuring that all individuals and groups connected to human trafficking and POGO-related criminal operations face prosecution.