Senator Win Gatchalian on Thursday welcomed the conviction of former Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo and her accomplices for qualified trafficking, describing the verdict as a significant victory against criminal networks tied to Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO).
Calling it a “big win for the Filipino people,” he said the ruling affirms accountability for victims, including foreign nationals caught in POGO-related crimes.
“The conviction of Alice Guo and her cohorts for qualified trafficking is a big win for the Filipino people, including foreign nationals who have been victimized by various criminal activities perpetrated by POGOs,” Gatchalian said.
“The rule of law has prevailed, and justice has been served.”
He stressed that Guo’s downfall should deter those who abuse government systems for human trafficking, online scams, or organized crime.
“Umaasa tayo na ang tagumpay na ito ay lalo pang magpapatibay sa ating batas laban sa Pogo at magpapalakas sa kampanya ng ating law enforcement agencies para tuluyang papanagutin ang mga natitirang POGO at iba pang uri ng online scam sa bansa,” he added.
The Pasig City RTC Branch 167 found Guo and 15 others guilty of operating trafficking activities inside the Baofu compound in Bamban—site of a 2023 raid that uncovered trafficked workers and major online scam hubs posing as offshore gaming facilities.
Guo, identified as Chinese national Guo Hua Ping, and key associates were sentenced to reclusion perpetua and fined ₱2 million per case, alongside required reparations to victims.
The verdict concludes months of proceedings following Guo’s escape from the country, arrest in Indonesia, and deportation to face charges.