Senate panel subpoenas ex-Bamban mayor, others in POGO probe

The Senate Committee on Women ordered a subpoena for former Bamban mayor Jose Antonio Feliciano and others as part of its investigation into illegal activities by Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO).

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada moved to issue the subpoena, noting that Feliciano declined an earlier invitation due to a prior commitment.

Panel head Sen. Risa Hontiveros seconded the motion and emphasized that resource persons should not ignore the chamber's invitation with non-urgent medical excuses.

Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian also moved for the issuance of a subpoena against John Michael Mayrong, owner of Alisel Fish Farm, whose refusal to attend was deemed unacceptable by the committee.

The committee is probing the alleged ties between Feliciano's successor, dismissed mayor Alice Guo, and POGO enterprises, as well as related corporations involving Mayrong.