DILG asks Ombudsman to suspend Bamban Mayor Alice Guo

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has recommended to the Office of the Ombudsman the suspension of Bamban Mayor Alice Guo.

Guo has run into trouble because of her alleged connection to the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) in her community and her questionable background.

DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos said in a statement that he has assembled a team to investigate Guo and her connection to the illegal POGO operations.

“The report contains disturbing findings of serious illegal activities that could have serious legal consequences,” Abalos said.

Abalos said the DILG has no authority to suspend local elected officials but can only make recommendations to the Ombudsman.

“The DILG does not have the authority to directly suspend or dismiss local officials,” the DILG said.

“The DILG has recommended to the Ombudsman that a preventive suspension be imposed on Mayor Guo to prevent any influence on the ongoing investigations of our and other agencies,” the statement added.