Philippine and Indonesian authorities are currently engaged in negotiations concerning a potential prisoner swap involving Alice Guo, a former Bamban, Tarlac mayor, and Gregor Johann Haas, an Australian citizen arrested in Cebu for drug trafficking, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ). Guo, who was recently apprehended in Indonesia, faces human trafficking and money laundering charges in the Philippines, while Haas is wanted by Indonesian authorities for drug smuggling, a capital offense in Indonesia.
Indonesian media reported about negotiations, and Philippine Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla acknowledged the complexity of the situation. Remulla said other issues between Indonesia and the Philippines will have to be resolved.
Haas, who was apprehended in Cebu following an Interpol red notice, is reportedly connected to the Sinaloa cartel, one of the largest international drug trafficking organisations. He faces charges in Indonesia for attempting to smuggle five kilos of methamphetamine, a crime punishable by death under the country’s laws. Remulla has indicated that this situation adds further complications to Guo’s potential return to the Philippines, given that the country does not impose the death penalty.
Guo’s arrest and allegations
Alice Guo, who fled the Philippines in July, was captured by Indonesian police in Tangerang City. She faces several serious charges, including human trafficking, money laundering, and holding public office as a Chinese national. Her alleged involvement with a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (Pogo) in Bamban has drawn attention, particularly after Philippine authorities raided the POGO hub linked to her. Her sister, Shiela Guo, and their associate Cassandra Li Ong are also implicated in a PHP7 billion (€112 million) money laundering case.
Marcos’ warning to Guo and her enablers
In a video message, President Ferdinand Marcos issued a stern warning to individuals who helped Guo flee the country. Marcos emphasised that justice would be served and expressed gratitude to the Indonesian government for its assistance in Guo’s arrest.
“Let this serve as a warning to those who attempt to evade justice: Such is an exercise in futility,” Marcos stated. He reaffirmed that Guo would receive all legal protections under Philippine law but vowed that her case would not be prolonged unnecessarily.
International cooperation key to capture
Senators, including Sherwin Gatchalian and Risa Hontiveros, commended Indonesian authorities for their role in apprehending Guo. Senate President Francis Escudero hailed the arrest as a breakthrough in the fight against organised crime syndicates tied to POGOs.
As the legal proceedings against Guo unfold, her arrest signals a strengthened partnership between Manila and Jakarta in addressing transnational crimes, and both governments will continue to work on resolving the pending extradition complexities.
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