Cunanan claimed that Roque boasted of his ability to “bring down a government” during discussions about disseminating a doctored video intended to damage the president’s credibility.
Roque, identified by Cunanan in an affidavit submitted to the “Tri-Com” inquiry – a joint investigation by three congressional committees – denied the accusations to This Week in Asia on Wednesday.
Cunanan said the video – a manipulated clip supposedly showing Marcos Jnr sniffing cocaine – was first discussed during a July 2024 dinner in Hong Kong. The event at Yung Kee Restaurant in the city’s Central district was attended by 16 supporters of Duterte, including Roque, former Executive Secretary Vic Rodriguez, and ex-press secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles. The gathering occurred after a “Maisug” prayer rally – a movement loosely affiliated with pro-Duterte causes.
She also submitted a photo of the dinner to the Philippine House of Representatives as evidence.