Atty. Stephen David, the legal counsel for dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, refuted allegations on Friday that he lied about her whereabouts. "The media can attest to the fact that in all my interviews, I consistently say that I am fully relying on what my client has told me," David stated, emphasizing that he merely echoed Guo's declaration that she remained in the country.
This defense comes after Senator Risa Hontiveros revealed that Guo, also known as Chinese national Guo Hua Ping, had left the Philippines as early as July. David acknowledged that Guo had informed him she was still in the country but admitted he could not independently verify this information or confirm her exact location.
Claims of Good Faith and Integrity
David maintained that he relied on Guo's statements in good faith, trusting the information she provided to defend her rights. He also noted there were no travel records, such as stamps of entry into another country, fingerprints, or CCTV footage, indicating her departure, which led him to believe her claims.
Regarding the notarization of Guo's counter-affidavit, which was done while she was allegedly out of the country, David expressed confidence in the integrity of Atty. Elmer Galicia, the notary public involved. "We put our confidence in his integrity and believed in the regularity of the notarization," he said, reinforcing his belief that Guo was still in the country at the time.
Legal and Investigative Developments
David responded to concerns from public officials about potential legal action against him for his statements, requesting restraint in making public accusations without concrete proof. He reiterated the broader responsibility of lawyers to uphold the rule of law and safeguard public interest.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla indicated that the Department of Justice (DOJ) would explore the possibility of legal counsels being complicit in Guo's departure. The DOJ also plans to investigate Galicia for notarizing Guo's affidavit without her being present.
Guo's sister, Shiela Guo, confirmed their departure from the Philippines using several boats. As of August 26, Guo was reported to be in Jakarta, according to the Bureau of Immigration.
Alice Guo faces a human trafficking complaint related to a raided POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators) hub. She has requested the DOJ to dismiss the complaint, arguing that there is insufficient evidence to prove her involvement in the alleged crime. A petition has also been filed seeking her removal from office.
Guo has maintained that she is a Filipino citizen.
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