Fugitive former Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo was finally arrested early Wednesday morning in Indonesia, according to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).
President Marcos welcomed this development. He congratulated all Philippine and Indonesian law enforcement authorities involved that made the apprehension of Guo, also known as Guo Hua Ping, possible.
“The public may not know the intricate details of this mission that you have successfully accomplished. But on their behalf, accept my thanks,” the President said in a video statement released Wednesday.
“The Philippines also thanks the Indonesian government for their assistance on this matter. The close coordination between the two governments has made this arrest possible,” he added.
President Marcos said Guo was arrested on or about 1:00 a.m. in Tangerang City, Jakarta, Indonesia on September 4, 2024.
“Let this serve as a warning to those who attempt to evade justice. Such is an exercise in futility. The arm of the law is long and it will reach you. This government continues in its duty to apply the rule of law,” he said.
President Marcos noted that Guo “shall be entitled to all legal protections” pursuant to the rule of law.
“But we will not allow this to prolong the resolution of the case whose outcome will be a victory for the Filipino people,” he underscored.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed Guo’s arrest as verified by the Bureau of Immigration and its counterparts in Indonesia.
“This development has been verified by our counterparts in Immigration, who have confirmed that Ms. Guo is currently in the custody of the Indonesian Police at Jatanras Mabes Polri,” the DOJ said.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla recognized the efforts of law enforcement agencies and the strength of international cooperation.
“We will ensure that all legal processes are followed to hold her accountable for any crimes committed. The DOJ is committed to pursuing justice and will continue to coordinate closely with Indonesian authorities to facilitate the necessary legal procedures,” assured Remulla, welcoming the development.