MANILA, Philippines — Alice Guo, the dismissed mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, has pleaded not guilty to charges of qualified human trafficking. The arraignment took place online before the Pasig City Regional Trial Court Branch 167 on Friday. Guo faces allegations linked to her involvement with a leasing company connected to Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos) in Bamban.
The legal proceedings follow her dismissal as mayor over alleged irregularities. The case in question involves accusations that Guo facilitated human trafficking through the leasing company, which reportedly provided services to gaming operators.
The trial court session was conducted via an online platform. Guo’s legal team has maintained her innocence, arguing that the charges are unfounded and politically motivated. The defense presented preliminary arguments, seeking dismissal of the case due to lack of evidence.
The prosecution, however, asserts that there is substantial evidence linking Guo to the alleged human trafficking operations. They claim that the leasing company under her administration lured individuals into employment under false pretenses, primarily for work in Pogos.
Guo is among several officials facing charges related to offshore gaming operations in the Philippines. The government has been cracking down on illegal activities associated with Pogos, including human trafficking and fraud.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has been involved in the investigation, providing evidence and testimony to support the prosecution’s case. The government continues to monitor offshore gaming operations, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
In addition to the human trafficking charges, Guo faces three other pending cases. These include allegations of graft and corruption, stemming from her tenure as mayor. Each case is being handled separately, with court dates scheduled in the coming months.
The arraignment marks the beginning of a legal process that could have significant implications for Guo and other officials involved. Legal experts suggest that the outcome of these cases could influence future regulations and oversight of gaming operations in the Philippines.
The next hearing for Guo’s case is scheduled for later this month, where both sides will present additional evidence and witness testimonies. The court will then determine whether the case should proceed to trial or if the charges should be dismissed.