MANILA — Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said he respects the decision of the Supreme Court (SC) to dismiss his petition, even as he maintained that key legal issues remain unresolved.
Roque acknowledged that the High Court’s ruling was anchored on the doctrine of mootness, explaining that courts generally avoid ruling on cases where there is no longer an active dispute. He noted that the lapse of the warrant effectively removed the controversy surrounding his petition.
Despite this, Roque argued that his case should have been considered under established exceptions, particularly those involving matters of significant public interest or issues that may recur but evade judicial review.
He also questioned the basis of the subpoena and subpoena ad testificandum issued against him, claiming that these touched on personal matters protected by his right to privacy and were not directly relevant to the investigation into Philippine offshore gaming operators.
Roque further lamented the timing of the Court’s action, saying the delay prevented a more thorough examination of the legal questions he raised.
He stressed that prompt resolution is crucial, especially in cases involving constitutional rights and pressing legal concerns.
Still, Roque affirmed his respect for the judiciary, noting his background as a former law professor and his understanding of the legal constraints faced by the courts.
The petition had sought to block the House of Representatives of the Philippines Quad Committee from ordering his arrest and compelling his attendance in future hearings. The SC formally dismissed the case in a decision released Monday.
ia/xf
