The Supreme Court (SC) has dismissed the petition of Harry Roque questioning the House Quad Committee’s orders in its probe into Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators, ruling the case moot.
In a decision penned by Associate Justice Samuel Gaerlan, the High Court said the issue no longer has practical effect after the panel lifted its contempt order and the 19th Congress adjourned.
“A case is considered moot when a ruling will not have any practical effect or cannot provide relief, the Court said.
The tribunal noted that Congress loses its power to cite individuals in contempt once a legislative inquiry ends, either through a final report or adjournment. The Quadcomm lifted the order and submitted its report before the session ended, leaving no relief for Roque.
The Court also denied his bid for a writ of amparo, stressing that the remedy applies only to extralegal killings and enforced disappearances, not to congressional contempt orders.
Roque had refused to attend hearings and submit documents on alleged POGO links, citing his right to privacy and against self-incrimination. Lawmakers cited him in contempt and ordered his arrest.
He later left the country and sought asylum in Europe.IMT
