Ombudsman Samuel Martires has called on the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to submit a formal complaint with all necessary documents regarding Bamban Mayor Alice Guo’s case. This request comes after discrepancies were found in the documents received by the Ombudsman.
Martires clarified that the DILG’s communication, purportedly recommending a preventive suspension for Mayor Guo, was based on an unsigned and incomplete fact-finding report. The Ombudsman emphasized the importance of having all relevant information to investigate the allegations against Guo thoroughly.
Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos revealed that a task force was formed to investigate Mayor Guo’s alleged involvement in illegal activities related to Philippine offshore gaming operations in Bamban. The task force’s findings have raised serious concerns about potential legal implications, leading to the recommendation for preventive suspension.
Meanwhile, Tarlac Governor Susan Yap, also a member of the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) like Mayor Guo, expressed her support for Guo amidst the controversy. Governor Yap recounted her conversation with Mayor Guo, where the latter expressed fear and distress over the ongoing Senate investigation. Yap advised Guo to remain truthful and prepare the necessary documents for the hearings.
NPC Chairman, former Senator Tito Sotto, clarified that there were no discussions within the party regarding Guo’s expulsion. Sotto reiterated that decisions concerning Guo’s status within the NPC would be left to the provincial leadership.
The Senate hearings on alleged illegal Philippine offshore gaming operations in Bamban are set to continue, with Mayor Guo’s lawyer confirming her attendance. As the case unfolds, stakeholders await further developments to ensure transparency and accountability in local governance.
