The Senate has issued an arrest order for suspended Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, stemming from her failure to attend hearings of the Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality on June 26 and July 10, 2024. The arrest order, released on Saturday, July 13, highlights Guo’s refusal to appear despite being duly notified, which has resulted in delays and obstruction of an inquiry into serious allegations.
The contempt order specifies that Guo’s absence hindered the investigation into reported human trafficking, serious illegal detention, physical abuse, and torture within the premises of an internet gaming licensee of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). The document underscores the gravity of the accusations and the necessity of Guo’s testimony for the Senate’s inquiry.
The motion to hold Guo in contempt was spearheaded by Senate President Pro-Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada and Senator Win Gatchalian, and it was seconded by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy Binay. The committee decided during the July 10 hearing to cite Alice Leal Guo, also known as Guo Hua Ping, in contempt of both the committee and the Senate. The arrest order mandates that Guo be detained at the Office of the Sergeant-At-Arms until she complies by appearing and testifying before the committee or otherwise purging herself of the contempt charge.
As per the order, the Office of the Senate Sergeant-At-Arms is tasked with serving the arrest order within 24 hours. This swift action reflects the Senate’s determination to ensure accountability and thorough investigation into the severe allegations connected to PAGCOR’s licensed premises.
Recently, Guo’s lawyer asserted that the mayor would not attend the July 10 Senate hearing due to trauma allegedly caused by the Senate’s previous treatment of her. This claim adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing situation, as Guo’s absence has now escalated to an official contempt charge and arrest order.
The Senate’s firm stance on this issue underscores its commitment to addressing and resolving serious allegations involving human trafficking and abuse. By compelling Guo to testify, the Senate aims to advance its inquiry and uphold justice and accountability within the jurisdiction of PAGCOR’s operations. This development is crucial in ensuring that such grave matters are thoroughly investigated and appropriately addressed, reflecting the Senate’s dedication to safeguarding human rights and legal integrity.
