MANILA, Phiippines — The House quad committee is intensifying its investigation into illegal activities linked to Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), with Alice Guo, the dismissed mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, at the center of the probe.
The committee is seeking further examination and potential charges against those involved, including Guo.
The committee’s focus on Guo arises from her alleged ties to unlawful POGO operations.
Guo was apprehended by Indonesian authorities in Jakarta, who accused her of involvement in illegal POGO activities in her jurisdiction.
Despite her dismissal from office, Guo’s actions remain under scrutiny by the Philippine legislative body.
Dan Fernandez, chair of the House Committee on Public Order and Safety, has voiced concerns about covert operations tied to POGOs and other criminal activities.
Fernandez suggested that influential figures may be manipulating these operations behind the scenes.
Surigao del Norte 2nd District Representative Robert Ace Barbers, who leads the quad committee and the Dangerous Drugs panel, emphasized collaboration with the Senate to ensure Guo’s participation in the investigation.
The committee plans to coordinate with other government agencies to facilitate her involvement.
Despite Guo’s previous involvement in hearings, her alleged departure from the country has raised concerns about her willingness to cooperate. Reports suggest she has traveled to Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia amid ongoing investigations. This has prompted the committee to step up efforts to ensure her availability and participation.