Suspended Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo will comply with court orders to attend hearings, her lawyer, Attorney Stephen David, confirmed on Wednesday. David emphasized that Guo, who remains in the Philippines, understands the importance of appearing in court for her defense.
David noted in an ABS-CBN News report that Guo is required to be present for her arraignment or when called to take an oath on her affidavit. However, for other procedural matters, her authorized representative can attend in her place.
Despite the ongoing legal challenges, David mentioned that Guo is distressed by the continuation of Senate hearings set for July 29. The hearings have led to increased cyberbullying, which has significantly affected her.
Regarding the ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), David clarified that Guo has no ties to the gambling industry, stating that she is merely a lessor.
David criticized the ongoing POGO hearings, suggesting that the Senate should focus on creating legislation to address national security and other issues, rather than probing Guo further. He stated that their legal team would counter the Office of the Solicitor General’s quo warranto petition against Guo, considering it premature given the pending case to cancel her birth certificate.
David concluded that Guo will likely skip the July 29 Senate hearing, preferring to defend herself in the proper judicial forum.