Alice Guo could become state witness if POGO leader is exposed — DOJ

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) said Saturday, September 7, that dismissed Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo could be considered a state witness if investigations into the illegal Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) activities in her town lead to identifying a higher figure behind the scheme.

DOJ Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Mico Clavano explained that Guo’s current status as the "most guilty" party in the case could change depending on the progress of the investigation.

The DOJ official said that Guo is disqualified from becoming a state witness at present due to her significant involvement. 

“Currently, with the evidence we have, she remains the most guilty, preventing her from becoming a state witness,” Clavano said in Filipino during a news forum on Saturday. 

“But if we identify a more prominent figure who orchestrates these illegal POGO activities, she may no longer be the most guilty and could be considered as a state witness,” he added in Filipino.

The former mayor previously expressed fear for her life, asking for help from Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos after allegedly receiving a death threat.

During Abalos' meeting with Guo in Jakarta, footage of which he uploaded on his Facebook page, Guo can be heard asking for help.

“Sec, patulong, may death threat po kasi ako (Secretary, please help, I have a death threat),” Guo said.

However, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) said they doubt Guo's claim, describing the dismissed mayor's actions as inconsistent with someone who is fearing for their life.

Gilbert Cruz, PAOCC executive director, said that if there were any real threats against Guo's life, it would most likely come from people Guo might expose. 

“She hasn’t implicated anyone yet; she’s always lying. Sa tingin ko parang gawa-gawa nalang yan (I think this is just made up)," Cruz said. 

The embattled official was able to escape the country on July 18 despite being the subject of an immigration lookout bulletin. 

She was apprehended by Indonesian officials on Tuesday and was flown to the Philippines Thursday night.

Guo is set to face the Senate on Monday, September 9. 

She will be facing multiple charges, including money laundering and human trafficking related to her alleged involvement with POGOs.