6-10-2024 (MANILA) The Philippine political landscape is embroiled in fresh controversy as Alice Guo, the ousted mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, reportedly plans to run for office again in the upcoming 2025 midterm elections. This move has drawn sharp criticism from several senators, who warn of severe legal consequences should Guo, believed to be a Chinese citizen named Guo Hua Ping, persist in her alleged misrepresentation.
Senator Risa Hontiveros led the charge, cautioning that Guo would be committing “material misrepresentation” if she were to declare Filipino citizenship on her certificate of candidacy (COC). “The COC is a crucial document executed under oath. If Guo Hua Ping insists on perpetuating falsehoods, she may face perjury charges in addition to her existing legal troubles,” Hontiveros stated.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian echoed these sentiments, highlighting that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) had previously deemed Guo ineligible for public office due to her foreign nationality. Gatchalian emphasised that Comelec’s fact-finding panel had confirmed that Guo’s fingerprints matched those of Guo Hua Ping, effectively establishing their identity as one and the same.
The controversy surrounding Guo deepened with the Department of Foreign Affairs’ recent cancellation of her Philippine passport, which was reportedly “fraudulently acquired”. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla lauded this decision, describing it as a “perfect” development, particularly given Guo’s status as a “flight risk”.
Comelec Chair George Garcia clarified that while the receipt of COCs is a ministerial duty, it does not guarantee inclusion in the final list of candidates. He noted that aspirants could face disqualification due to administrative penalties or successful challenges to their candidacy.
The case has sparked broader discussions about electoral integrity in the Philippines. Speaker Martin Romualdez called for rigorous review of candidates’ qualifications, stating, “The integrity of our electoral system relies heavily on the credibility of those who seek to hold public office.”
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada appealed to Bamban voters to exercise caution, warning against being swayed by Guo’s alleged charm. He insisted that any criminal cases against Guo should proceed regardless of electoral outcomes.
