Philippine Ombudsman orders dismissal of Mayor Alice Guo over POGO scandal

Jenny Ortiz August 15, 2024

SiGMA news

Philippine Ombudsman orders dismissal of Mayor Alice Guo over POGO scandal

The Philippines’ Office of the Ombudsman has dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo from public office for grave misconduct. This ruling dated August 12, 2024, and signed by Ombudsman Samuel Martires, includes a perpetual disqualification from holding any public office and the forfeiture of her retirement benefits.

The 25-page decision stems from Guo’s involvement in a controversial case involving Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and a series of illegal activities connected to her tenure.

Complicity in illegal operations

The investigation revealed that Guo’s connections to Baofu Land Development Inc., which controlled the property housing the illegal POGO operations, persisted even after she assumed the mayoral office in 2022. The Ombudsman’s ruling detailed how Guo, despite her public office, continued to exert control over Baofu and benefited from its operations. Notably, Guo did not revoke or cancel the business permits of Zun Yuan Technology Inc., a POGO firm that was operating without necessary safety certifications and was involved in illegal activities.

The POGO hub operated in defiance of the Fire Code of the Philippines and other regulatory requirements. Furthermore, the Ombudsman’s investigation highlighted Guo’s involvement in applying for and securing multiple clearances for POGO-related constructions, illustrating a clear conflict of interest and a wilful intent to disregard established rules.

Suspension of local officials

Alongside Guo’s dismissal, the Ombudsman has imposed disciplinary actions on several other local officials. Bamban Vice Mayor Leonardo Asuncion, Business Permit and Licensing Officer Edwin Ocampo, and Municipal Legal Officer Adenn Sigua have been suspended for three months for conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service. Additionally, several current and former members of the Sangguniang Bayan (municipal council) have been found guilty of similar charges. They face either suspension or financial penalties equivalent to three months’ salary.

Legal and political implications

The Ombudsman has instructed the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to explore the possibility of filing charges against former Mayor Jose Antonio Feliciano, who might have played a role in facilitating the illegal POGO operations. Meanwhile, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra has announced that a quo warranto petition against Guo will continue. This legal action, filed in late July, challenges Guo’s eligibility to hold office, citing her alleged misrepresentation of her citizenship and involvement in fraudulent activities.

Guo’s camp to appeal

Meanwhile, Guo’s legal team announced plans to file a motion for reconsideration following the Ombudsman’s decision to dismiss her from office. Her lawyer, Atty. Stephen David expressed disappointment that the Ombudsman did not acknowledge the merit of Guo’s arguments. David stated that they are preparing the motion as a necessary step before pursuing an appeal with the Court of Appeals.

Ongoing search for justice

Senators Risa Hontiveros and Sherwin Gatchalian have praised the Ombudsman’s decision but stressed that the pursuit of justice must continue until Guo is apprehended. Hontiveros highlighted the need for Guo to be held accountable for her actions, while Gatchalian emphasised the importance of addressing the broader issues of corruption and illegal activities linked to POGOs.

Further legal actions and investigations

In addition to the Ombudsman’s ruling, Guo faces charges from the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) for qualified human trafficking. The Court of Appeals has also ordered the freezing of her assets. The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is conducting a preliminary investigation into Guo’s material misrepresentation related to her citizenship, with a subpoena issued for her to appear before the commission.