Broadcast journalist Karen Davila has criticized the viral photo of dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo smiling with local officials during her arrest, pointing out how “authorities confuse fame and infamy.”
Davila shared her thoughts on the incident through X (formerly Twitter) on Sept. 6, alongside a photo of Guo with local authorities. “When authorities confuse fame and infamy,” she wrote, quoting Sen. Risa Hontiveros’ comment that Guo is “not a celebrity but a fugitive.”
The former mayor is facing charges related to her alleged involvement in illegal activities, including human trafficking, money laundering, and Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) operations. She was apprehended in Indonesia and returned to the Philippines on Sept. 6.
In another tweet, Davila criticized the lighthearted nature of the arrest, quoting Sen. Hontiveros’ sentiment that the public “wants answers, not a photoshoot,” and adding, “The bigger the crime, the bigger the star? One day, hopefully it becomes—the bigger the crime, the greater the indignation.”
Actress Sofia Andres echoed Hontiveros’ stance, reiterating that Guo’s arrest should not be treated as a “social event.”
Guo defended her behavior during the arrest, explaining she felt relieved to be in the presence of Philippine officials. “Masaya din po ako na nakita ko po sila, I feel safe po,” she said in an interview.
Guo was escorted to the Philippine National Police headquarters after confronting charges in Tarlac court. Aside from the POGO-related case, she is also facing complaints under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019).