Ombudsman denies Alice Guo's appeal on suspension

The Office of the Ombudsman has denied the appeals of Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo and two other town officials against their six-month preventive suspension.

The officials were suspended starting May 31, 2024, following a complaint filed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) for grave misconduct, serious dishonesty, gross neglect of duty, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, linked to alleged illegal activities of a POGO.

In its resolution dated June 21, the Ombudsman stated that there are sufficient grounds to believe the evidence against Guo and the other respondents is strong.

Evidence includes Guo's business interest in Baofu Land Development Inc., the owner of the land where the POGO was located, supported by a Tarlac Electric Cooperative Inc Statement of Account under her name seized during a raid.

Guo's legal counsel stated they respect the Ombudsman's decision but will file a petition for certiorari before the Court of Appeals.

The legal counsel also mentioned that the mayor is significantly affected by the situation and believes it is part of political harassment.

Guo's camp will also pursue the filing of cyber libel cases against those allegedly defaming her.