File photo of former Bamban mayor Alice Guo. - Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau
MANILA: The Senate panel on women on Tuesday (Sept 24) convened in an executive session after dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo (real name: Guo Hua Ping) swore to disclose the “most guilty” behind crimes linked to illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos).
During the hearing, Sen JV Ejercito asked Guo if she is the “mastermind” behind crimes linked to Pogos and whether she is willing to disclose the persons involved.
“Your Honour, I am not the mastermind. I can say that I am a victim,” Guo replied.
Ejercito then asked Guo if she is being used by an international crime syndicate.
“It’s not that I was used, if ever, if I may have helped in any way...it’s because I am a helpful person. If I contributed, that’s all there is to it. But regarding the activities that were done or the allegations, I am not involved,” she said.
Guo also said that she is not guilty and the committee might already know who the mastermind is at this point.
“Your Honour, I think with the length of the investigation, the committee, especially our Madam Chair, already knows who is really behind everything,” she said.
Ejercito also nudged Guo to tell all she knew in an executive session.
“You have the opportunity to disclose all the people behind this. You’re claiming that you’re a victim, but let’s also pity those who have been victimised by Pogos,” Ejercito told Guo.
He then explained that when the Senate convenes in an executive session, senators can’t disclose to the public the details discussed.
“Are you willing to unmask the most guilty?” Ejercito asked.
Guo answered yes. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
