Philippines files money laundering charges vs fugitive ex-Mayor Alice Guo

Jenny Ortiz September 2, 2024

SiGMA news

Philippines files money laundering charges vs fugitive ex-Mayor Alice Guo

Philippine authorities have filed legal action against Alice Guo, a former mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, charging her with multiple counts of money laundering. Guo, also known as Guo Hua Ping, has been accused of being involved in criminal activities tied to Chinese syndicates.

The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), in collaboration with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), filed the charges against Guo and 35 other individuals at the Department of Justice on August 30.

The charges are based on allegations that Guo and her co-conspirators engaged in a complex scheme of money laundering linked to various crimes. The council is also pursuing the forfeiture of assets valued at over PHP 6 billion, which allegedly includes real estate properties, luxury vehicles, and a helicopter.

Philippine government seeks international assistance

In response to Guo’s alleged escape from justice, the Philippine government has requested assistance from the International Police Organization (Interpol). The government aims to issue a blue notice to alert member countries of Guo’s presence, followed by a red notice for her arrest once the charges proceed to court. Guo was reportedly last seen in Jakarta, Indonesia, following her travels to Malaysia and Singapore earlier this year.

The Senate’s investigation into Guo began after a March raid on a casino in Bamban uncovered operations tied to alleged scams. This raid sparked broader concerns about her involvement in illegal activities and led to her subsequent dismissal from office. Philippine authorities believe Guo has exploited her position to facilitate companies’ operations linked to criminal activities.

AMLC’s statement on money laundering case

The AMLC highlighted its ongoing efforts to combat financial crimes and maintain the integrity of the Philippine financial system. “These individuals are alleged to have been involved in a complex scheme of money laundering linked to the crimes of estafa, qualified trafficking in persons, and violations of the Securities Regulation Code,” the AMLC said in a statement. The council emphasised its commitment to ensuring that the country’s financial system is not used to support criminal enterprises.

AMLC Executive Director Matthew David underscored the council’s mission to fight financial crimes, stating, “The AMLC remains committed in its mission to ensure that the financial system is not exploited to further criminal enterprises.” The case against Guo and her associates is part of broader efforts to pierce the corporate veil and hold company officials accountable for their roles in illegal operations.