BI Gets 15 Day Ultimatum To Figure Out Alice Guo’s Escape

Senator Risa Hontiveros gives the Bureau of Immigration 15 days to explain the alleged escape of Alice Guo, criticizing the agency’s ‘hands-off approach’ and lack of an internal probe.

Senator Risa Hontiveros has given Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado 15 days to provide clear answers about the alleged escape of Alice Guo and her associates from the Philippines.

In a hearing on March 4, Hontiveros expressed growing frustration with what she called the "hands-off approach" of the Immigration Bureau in investigating the matter. She noted that the BI appears to be waiting for information from other countries rather than conducting its own thorough internal probe.

“Because if we just stop at this status, we’re inutile as a country. It’s been four months, and we still don’t know how fugitives managed to slip past our borders undetected?” Hontiveros said. 

Alice Guo, a former mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, is currently being investigated for her ties to offshore gaming while assuming power as a local executive. 

How did Alice Guo? 

Alice Guo's departure from the Philippines in July 2024 involved conflicting accounts, initially suggesting air travel to Malaysia, but later revealed by Guo herself to be a sea escape via yacht and smaller boats, eventually reaching Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Despite an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order, she successfully left the country, raising questions about border control. After being apprehended by Indonesian authorities in September 2024, she was deported back to the Philippines and taken into custody, with her return sparking criticism regarding her official reception.

If the BI fails to provide satisfactory answers within the 15-day period, Hontiveros hinted at possible Senate action, including recommendations for leadership changes within the agency.

The Immigration Commissioner's office has acknowledged receipt of the senator's demand but has not yet issued an official response.

The Alice Guo case continues to test the government's commitment to transparency and accountability in law enforcement and border control operations.

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