Bamban Mayor Alice Guo to Comply with Suspension, Vows to Clear Her Name

janimonow

June 3

Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo announced on Monday that she will comply with the Ombudsman's suspension order while asserting her innocence. The suspension, which also affects two other local government officials, lasts up to six months and stems from graft complaints filed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

"I am complying with the processes of the law and I accept the Ombudsman's decision, but I will contest my case. I also want to say that I have done nothing wrong and I have faithfully served our country and people," Guo stated.

She emphasized her commitment to clearing her name, expressing her readiness to cooperate with authorities to uncover the truth and achieve justice. "I believe this is a chance to clear the allegations against me. I am ready to assist to ensure truth and justice," she added.

The graft complaints against Guo are related to her alleged involvement with a raided Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Bamban. Additionally, her citizenship and identity have been questioned in Senate hearings.

Guo expressed her distress over the accusations, describing them as false and hurtful. "I feel very sad because these allegations are false and hurtful. It's as if the verdict against me had been decided before I had been heard. This violates my rights as a person and as an elected official," she said.

Despite the challenges, Guo remains determined to defend her integrity and continue serving her constituents. "I will not give up and I will continue to defend my integrity and my person. I will stand up for justice and for those people who may also lose their rights. I will speak up so that the truth will prevail," she concluded.