Alice Guo Risks Prosecution in China Over POGO Allegations, Says Senator Gatchalian

Alice Guo could face legal repercussions if she returns to China, according to Philippine Senator Sherwin Gatchalian. Guo, who was dismissed from her position as Bamban, Tarlac Mayor, is alleged to have been involved with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), which are illegal in China.

Gatchalian highlighted the severity of China’s gambling laws. He was quoted as saying in an August 20 report published by the Philippine News Agency: “Sa China, kapag ikaw ay nag-invest o naka-associate sa gambling, maaari kang makasuhan” (In China, if you invest in or are associated with gambling, you can be prosecuted).

He emphasized that recent updates to Chinese gambling legislation have broadened the scope of offenses, suggesting that Guo could be prosecuted upon her return.

Despite reports suggesting Guo might have left the Philippines, Gatchalian’s office is still verifying her whereabouts. He noted, “Ang office ko ay nakatanggap ng impormasyon na si Alice Guo ay pumunta sa isang notary public noong August 14 para mag-file ng counter affidavit” (My office received information that Alice Guo went to a notary public on August 14 to file a counter affidavit). According to the notary, Guo was still in the country as of August 14.

Gatchalian assured that legal proceedings against Guo will continue regardless of her current location. He revealed plans for the Senate to pursue additional charges against her, including perjury and disobedience. “Kahit na may mga ulat na maaaring nasa ibang bansa na siya, magpapatuloy ang mga kaso laban sa kanya” (Even with reports that she might be abroad, the cases against her will proceed).

He added that the Senate is committed to holding Guo accountable, stating, “Ang batas ay sa huli ay mahuhulog sa kanya” (The law will eventually catch up with her).

Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros has called on the Department of Foreign Affairs to cancel Guo’s Philippine passport.

“Dapat kinansela na agad ang pasaporte niya upang mas madaling matuntun siya” (Her passport should have been canceled immediately to make it easier to track her). Hontiveros also urged for improved coordination among government agencies to prevent fugitives from fleeing the country. “Sana ay mapabilis ang proseso ng pagkansela ng kanyang pasaporte” (I hope the process of canceling her passport is expedited).

If Guo attempts to seek refuge in Southeast Asian countries, such as Indonesia or Malaysia, Gatchalian noted that extradition proceedings could be pursued to bring her back to the Philippines.

Read related article: Alice Guo in Indonesia; Palace Orders PH Passport Canceled