Alice Guo: How did a Chinese Citizen Wound Up Being a Philippine Mayor When It’s Not Allowed

Alice Guo’s story isn’t your typical political tale. Born in 1986 in Tarlac to a Filipino-Chinese father and a Filipino mother, her early life was full of mystery. Her birth was registered only when she was 17, with no hospital records confirming her birthplace, leaving many questions about her origins.

A Rise to Power

Despite these controversies, Guo’s journey to becoming the mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, is nothing short of extraordinary. Running as an independent candidate, she narrowly won the 2022 elections, becoming the town’s first female mayor. This was a significant milestone, not just for her but for the entire community.

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Controversies and Challenges

Guo’s time in office hasn’t been smooth sailing. Allegations have surfaced linking her to illegal activities by Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). Senator Risa Hontiveros has called for an investigation into these claims and the inconsistencies in Guo’s citizenship documents.

Currently, Mayor Guo faces several serious challenges:

• Congressional Investigation: Concerns raised during a Senate hearing have prompted plans for a congressional investigation into her identity.
• Questions on Citizenship: Senator Hontiveros has raised questions about the lack of school and hospital records for Guo, especially after allegations linked her to a raided POGO operation in the province.
• Perjury Charges: Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairperson George Garcia mentioned that Guo could face perjury charges if she falsely declared herself a Filipino citizen.
• National Security Concerns: House Assistant Majority Leader and AKO Bicol party-list Representative Raul Angelo “Jil” Bongalon suggested that her case might be investigated by the lower chamber due to national security concerns.
• Speculations of Espionage: There are swirling suspicions and theories about Guo possibly being a spy for China or a “sleeper agent.”

The Road Ahead

As Mayor Guo navigates these challenges, the nation watches closely. Will she be able to overcome these controversies and prove her critics wrong, or will her term be overshadowed by the mysteries of her past? Only time will tell.