MANILA, Philippines — Former Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo and three of her co-accused were found guilty of human trafficking and sentenced to reclusion perpetua, following a landmark ruling released by the court on Saturday.
The decision marks a major breakthrough in the government’s crackdown on trafficking and organized criminal networks linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOs) and related illicit activities.
Court Finds “Clear and Deliberate Participation”
In its ruling, the court stated that Guo and her co-accused played a direct and deliberate role in facilitating the recruitment, harboring, and exploitation of multiple victims, many of whom were foreign nationals forced into abusive work conditions.
The prosecution presented strong documentary and testimonial evidence, including:
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surveillance records,
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witness accounts,
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digital forensics from seized devices, and
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operational files recovered from the raided compound tied to the group.
The judge emphasized that the acts committed constituted qualified trafficking, a crime punishable by reclusion perpetua under Philippine law.
Heavy Penalties Imposed
Aside from lifetime imprisonment, Guo and her co-accused were ordered to:
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Pay substantial damages to the victims,
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Face permanent disqualification from holding public office, and
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Forfeit assets proven to be linked to the illegal operations.
A Case That Shocked the Nation
Guo has been at the center of national controversy after allegations surfaced linking her to POGO-related criminal activities, questioned citizenship issues, and suspicious business operations in Tarlac.
The conviction reinforces the government’s commitment to dismantling trafficking networks tied to cyber scam hubs, forced labor, and international criminal rings.
What’s Next?
The defense team has signaled its intention to appeal the verdict, but legal experts say overturning such a ruling will be difficult given the volume and strength of the evidence presented.
Meanwhile, government agencies are moving forward with:
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further investigations into related financial crimes,
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potential co-conspirators, and
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additional victims identified during the trial.
A Message to Trafficking Syndicates
Human rights groups and justice advocates welcomed the ruling, saying it sends a strong message that abuse, exploitation, and corruption at any level will be punished.
