DILG revokes Mayor Guo's police authority amid POGO probe

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has revoked Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo's authority over the town's police force.

This action is part of an ongoing investigation into Guo's alleged links with illegal Philippine Offshore and Gaming Operations (POGO) in Bamban town.

The DILG submitted a fact-finding report to the Ombudsman regarding the allegations.

Interior Undersecretary Lord Villanueva stated that the DILG found serious legal implications, with possible penalties including suspension or dismissal from public service.

Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos clarified that the DILG lacks the authority to dismiss, suspend, or impose preventive suspensions, hence the findings were forwarded to the Ombudsman for proper disposition.

The investigation on Guo stemmed from a raid on a POGO establishment where an electric bill and a car registered under her name were recovered.

Senators also questioned Guo's citizenship after she allegedly failed to present evidence of being born and staying in the Philippines.