Former Mayor Alice Guo of Bamban, Tarlac, faces potential prosecution if she returns to China, according to Philippine Senator Sherwin Gatchalian.
In a recent interview with the ABS-CBN News Channel, Gatchalian highlighted the stringent gambling laws in China, particularly concerning Philippine Offshore and Gaming Operators (POGOs), which Guo is alleged to have supported.
Gatchalian pointed out that recent updates to Chinese gambling legislation have broadened the scope of prosecutable offenses related to gambling activities.
“In China, merely investing in or being associated with gambling can lead to legal consequences”, he stated. He suggested that Guo would likely face legal action in China if she returns, given her involvement with POGOs, which are illegal there.
Regarding reports of Guo’s departure from the Philippines, Gatchalian mentioned that his office is still verifying the information.
Gatchalian shared that Guo filed a counter affidavit related to a human trafficking case on August 14th, personally visiting a notary public for the process. “According to the notary public, Guo was indeed present in the country as of August 14th”, he noted.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding her whereabouts, Gatchalian assured that legal proceedings against Guo would continue. He revealed plans for the Senate to pursue additional charges against her, including perjury and disobedience. “The long arm of the law will eventually catch up with her”, he asserted.
If convicted, Gatchalian indicated that extradition back to the Philippines could be pursued, especially if Guo seeks refuge in neighboring Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia or Malaysia.
