Will There be a Prisoner Swap with Indonesia for Alice Guo?

September 5, 2024 Philippines Crime & Legal

The return of dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice L. Guo to the Philippines may face delays if Indonesia requests a prisoner swap, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ). On September 5, 2024, DOJ Undersecretary Nicholas Felix L. Ty discussed the complexities surrounding the potential exchange.

Ty expressed preference for avoiding the swap. He was cited by the Manila Bulletin as saying in a Teleradyo interview: “Kaya mas maganda sana hindi talaga kaliwaan” (That’s why it would be better if there would be no exchange). He added that it would be more efficient for Guo to be returned to the Philippines before discussing Indonesia’s request for a prisoner swap.

As of now, Indonesia has not made a formal request for such an exchange. “Pero sa ngayon wala pang pormal na hiling. So tingnan na lang natin kung ano ang mangyayari” (But there has been no formal request. So let’s see what will happen), Ty noted.

The discussion of a swap arose following reports that Indonesia might transfer Guo in exchange for Australian national Gregor Johann Haas. Haas, who was arrested by Philippine authorities in Cebu on May 15, 2024, faces drug smuggling charges in Indonesia. Ty acknowledged that if a swap were pursued, it would involve lengthy diplomatic processes and coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

The DOJ official emphasized the procedural nature of international exchanges, noting, “Prerogative ng isang bansa ang pagtrato ng foreign nationals na undesirable” (It is the prerogative of a country how it treats undesirable foreign nationals).

Guo, linked to various criminal activities, including alleged connections with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), managed to leave the Philippines despite an arrest order and an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO). She faces charges of qualified trafficking in persons, money laundering, and tax evasion.

Haas, who is currently held by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) in Taguig City, is under investigation for drug smuggling related to a shipment intercepted by Indonesian authorities. The drugs were reportedly sent from Guadalajara, Mexico, and linked to the Sinaloa drug cartel.

The DOJ also clarified the status of Shiela Guo, who has been mistakenly identified as the mayor’s sister. According to DOJ Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano, Shiela Guo, whose real identity is Zhang Mier, remains in custody due to immigration violations and a fraudulent passport. She will continue to be held by the Bureau of Immigration despite ongoing Senate hearings.