By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia has directed the poll body to form a fact-finding committee to investigate potential material misrepresentation in the certificate of candidacy of suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo.
“The Committee will ascertain whether there was material misrepresentation in her certificate of candidacy that could lead to the filing of an election offense case,” Garcia stated in Memorandum 2024-0919.
The Comelec chair has instructed the committee to collaborate with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the Solicitor General, and the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality to gather relevant information.
“The committee is also authorized to conduct technical analysis of documents containing fingerprints of registered voters bearing the name Alice Guo, to determine any culpability and to recommend to the Commission En Banc the filing of charges if the evidence supports it,” the memorandum added.
Guo continues to face scrutiny due to her alleged involvement with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
In response, her lawyer, Atty. Stephen David announced that Guo will not attend the next Senate hearing, citing the “trauma” she has experienced during the inquiries.
(el Amigo/MNM)
