Comelec investigates ex-Mayor Guo for candidacy misrep, despite departure

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will continue its investigation into dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo despite her alleged departure from the Philippines.

Comelec Chairperson George Garcia stated that they are waiting for Guo to file a comment on the subpoena issued against her on August 13 and cannot apply the presumption of guilt until she responds within the 0-day period, which will expire Wednesday without extension.

Garcia emphasized that this case is a matter of public interest as it involves potential misrepresentation during the filing of candidacy, stressing the importance of addressing such issues to prevent future misconduct.

The Bureau of Immigration confirmed that Guo left the Philippines on July 18 and traveled via Malaysia and Singapore to Indonesia without completing required exit checks or having records in their database.

Guo's legal counsel Stephen David has yet to submit his client's counter-affidavit as of this writing, Garcia said.