Dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, who has been under detention, tested negative for tuberculosis (TB) based on the results of her recent sputum test, according to a statement from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP). The results, which were released on Monday, brought relief to Guo and her legal team, as concerns about her health had circulated while she remained in jail.
The sputum test considered a reliable diagnostic tool for detecting active TB infections, was conducted following a series of health complaints made by Guo’s camp, prompting authorities to ensure her well-being. Tuberculosis, a contagious bacterial infection, poses significant risks in crowded environments such as detention facilities. The BJMP, mindful of the potential health risks to both detainees and staff, acted swiftly in testing Guo to rule out any possibility of infection.
“As of 3:43 p.m., the results came back negative, and former Mayor Alice Guo has been cleared of any TB infection,” a BJMP spokesperson confirmed in a statement. The official also noted that Guo had already been moved from an isolated area to a regular cell following the release of the test results.
Guo has since been transferred to a shared cell that houses 43 other Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs). Despite her dismissal from office and subsequent detention, she continues to receive the same standard treatment as any other detainee, the BJMP emphasized. “She will be housed in compliance with the guidelines for space and security that apply to all detainees,” the spokesperson added.
The former mayor has been embroiled in legal issues following her removal from office. Her detention is linked to ongoing criminal charges, though her legal team has been actively pursuing her release, citing both legal and health-related reasons.
While tuberculosis is a common health concern in the Philippines, particularly in overcrowded detention centers, the BJMP has stated its commitment to ensuring that all inmates, including high-profile detainees like Guo, undergo regular health screenings. The bureau assures the public that preventive measures are being implemented to avoid the spread of communicable diseases within its facilities.
As of this writing, Guo remains under the custody of the BJMP, and her legal battles continue.