CIDG meets PAGCOR official over ex-PNP chief bribery allegations

The Criminal Investigation Detection Group (CIDG) is set to meet with PAGCOR official Raul Villanueva this week to discuss allegations linking a former Philippine National Police chief to dismissed Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo.

Villanueva previously alleged that the ex-PNP chief helped Guo leave the country and was part of her 'monthly payroll', claims which are now under investigation by the PNP-CIDG.

The PNP is currently investigating 24 former leaders over similar allegations, with five deceased former chiefs excluded from the probe.

PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo emphasized the importance of identifying the involved ex-PNP chief due to national security concerns and stated that the CIDG was directed to coordinate with PAGCOR for more details.

Villanueva's claims during a Senate hearing on Sept. 17 have prompted an urgent investigation, as he testified under oath about the former PNP chief receiving bribes from Guo.

Meanwhile, Cassandra Li Ong's legal counsel criticized one of the quadcom chairmen for allegedly abusing contempt powers when citing Ong in contempt for a second time.

Ong and Guo's supposed sister Shiela were intercepted by Indonesian authorities and brought back to face charges including human trafficking and money laundering.