MANILA - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. confirmed that the probe into the escape of former Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo is nearing its end, with firm actions promised against those involved.
According to Philippines News Agency, who spoke to reporters at Malacañan Palace, there will be "no sacred cows" in the investigation. The inquiry is primarily focused on how Guo, despite ongoing investigations and an immigration lookout, was able to flee the country last month. President Marcos hinted that immigration personnel among others might be held accountable as the investigation concludes. "We have a very good idea of the people involved," he stated, emphasizing the seriousness of the actions to be taken against the culprits. He further mentioned the depth of the investigation, questioning if it was an individual's act or a broader syndicate's involvement.
Guo, who has been implicated in illegal activities related to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and faced questions regarding her citizenship, managed to leave the Philippines on July 18. Reports suggest that she traveled through Malaysia and Singapore, eventually reaching Indonesia on August 18.
In a recent development, Guo’s sister Shiela and a business associate were arrested in Indonesia and have been extradited back to the Philippines. During a Senate Subcommittee on Justice and Human Rights hearing, Shiela confessed to fleeing the country by boat alongside the dismissed mayor.