Justice sec seeks Ombudsman clar on Mayor Guo graft case filing

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla stated on Monday that he would request clarification from the Office of the Ombudsman regarding why the graft case against dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo was filed in a regional trial court (RTC) instead of the Sandiganbayan.

Remulla suggested it might have been an oversight and promised to write to the Ombudsman for further explanation, noting that under the law, lower courts handle cases involving low-ranking public officials while the Sandiganbayan has jurisdiction over ranking officials.

The graft charge against Guo was initially filed before Capas, Tarlac RTC Branch 109, which later issued an arrest warrant for her, and the Philippine National Police (PNP) took custody of the dismissed mayor.

This case originated from a complaint by the Department of the Interior and Local Government alleging links between Guo and a raided Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator in Bamban.

According to Remulla, cases involving local officials with salary grades of 26 and above should be handled by the Ombudsman and Sandiganbayan, while Mayor Guo's salary grade is 30.

Senator Risa Hontiveros had previously questioned why the case was filed in Tarlac, highlighting concerns about jurisdictional issues.

Guo faces additional charges including human trafficking and money laundering related to the raid on a gaming hub in Bamban.