Judge issues arrest warrant for ex-mayor Guo and 15 others in trafficking case

Pasig Regional Trial Court Judge Annielyn Medes-Cabelis ordered the issuance of arrest warrants for former Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo and 15 others on non-bailable charges of qualified trafficking.

Judge Cabelis found probable cause based on five informations presented during a preliminary investigation and issued a commitment order against Guo, transferring her from Camp Crame to Pasig City Jail Female Dormitory.

Included in the order are Chinese business partners Huang Zhiyang and Dennis Lacson Cunanan, among others who were also charged with violation of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act.

Guo is accused of incorporating Baofu real estate firm that leased land to Hongsheng POGO (later renamed Zun Yuan) and ensuring its operation despite claiming divestment from Baofu.

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology assured that Guo will be treated like any ordinary detainee in Pasig City Jail's female dormitory, joining the general population without special treatment.

Guo’s lawyer Stephen David plans to file a petition for bail despite the charges being non-bailable, while her arraignment and pre-trial conference are scheduled for September 27 via video conferencing due to ongoing documentary requirements.

The expected transfer did not push through on Friday night as the PNP has yet to complete the necessary documentation.