Alice Guo, the embattled Philippine mayor associated with offenses in the offshore gaming sector, revealed the name of a key industry figure on Tuesday.
During a 24 September executive hearing, the former fugitive declared her innocence regarding crimes tied to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOs).
However, in a closed-door session with the senate panel, Guo disclosed the identity of a “key figure” connected to the Philippine gaming industry, which was banned by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in July.
“I am a victim” Guo claims
Guo, a Chinese national who posed as a Filipina to run for mayor of Bamban, fled the Philippines after being accused of running a crime-ridden facility in the town. She was apprehended in Indonesia on 4 September and returned to the Philippines to face charges.
During the hearing on Tuesday, Senator JV Ejercito asked Guo if she was the “mastermind” behind the Bamban POGO operations.
“I am not a mastermind,” said Guo, whose real name is Guo Hua Ping. “I can say I am a victim.”
Ejercito then inquired if she was “a pawn being used by an international criminal syndicate.”
“If I ever helped anyone, it’s because I am a helpful person,” Guo responded. She maintained her innocence regarding the alleged POGO-related crimes, such as money laundering, human trafficking, and online scams.
Ejercito pressed further, “Maybe you feel sorry for yourself, but we must also consider the victims of POGOs. We understand your fear. To reduce your guilt, are you willing to reveal who is most responsible?”
Guo agreed to disclose the information but only in a closed session and with her lawyer present via phone. In response, Ejercito assured her that lawmakers would take responsibility for her safety.
Who is the “crucial personality” in Philippines scandal?
After a brief closed-door session, Senator Risa Hontiveros, who chairs the hearings, expressed dissatisfaction with Guo’s testimony.
"I’m not too satisfied with Guo Hua Ping's disclosure," Hontiveros said, adding, "However, Guo confirmed the involvement of one crucial figure, which supports a theory our committee discussed a month ago." Hontiveros did not provide further details about the theory or reveal the identity of the individual.
In earlier statements, Gilbert Cruz from the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) identified Guo’s associate, Huang Zhiyang, as the "boss of all bosses" in the POGO industry. Like Guo, Huang has evaded authorities and remains at large.
Philippine media outlets have speculated that the undisclosed figure might be former Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Benjamin Acorda. A recently surfaced photo shows Acorda in what appears to be a friendly interaction with Tony Yang, another alleged associate of Guo. Acorda, in response to the rumors, stated, "I love my country and the PNP. I acted in line with my duties as both a Filipino and a police officer."
Senator JV Ejercito described the session with Guo as an “icebreaker,” hinting at more revelations in the future. Guo is currently facing multiple charges, including money laundering, human trafficking, graft, and misrepresentation.
