Former Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo is expected to be transferred to the Pasig City Jail on Monday, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP). Guo, who is facing charges of qualified human trafficking, a nonbailable offense, has been detained at the PNP Custodial Center in Camp Crame for two weeks following the release of an arrest warrant by the Pasig Regional Trial Court (RTC).
The Pasig City RTC Branch 167 issued a commitment order for Guo’s transfer to the Pasig City Jail Female Dormitory. However, her scheduled transfer on Friday was delayed due to incomplete documentary and medical requirements, including x-rays and an ECG. PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo confirmed that the PNP’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) must first return Guo’s warrant to the RTC before proceeding with the transfer.
Jail Superintendent Jayrex Joseph Bustinera of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) told reporters on Friday that the postponement was necessary due to the pending paperwork and medical tests. Guo will eventually be held with 44 other female detainees at the Pasig City Jail.
Guo’s case is linked to illegal activities involving Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). Earlier this year, authorities, including the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, raided a POGO hub in Bamban, Tarlac, uncovering evidence of torture and human trafficking, where foreign workers were allegedly forced into crypto investment scams.
Sen. Risa Hontiveros, who has been leading Senate inquiries into illegal POGOs, welcomed the commitment order, stating it is a significant step toward holding accountable those responsible for exploiting workers at the POGO hub.
Photos: Benhur Abalos, Pasig City Jail Female Dorm FB page
