Photo courtesy of Sen. Risa Hontiveros Facebook

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. has taken action against Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo's authority over local police. Abalos announced on Monday that he has directed the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) to commence proceedings aimed at revoking Mayor Guo's control over the police force within her jurisdiction.

During a press briefing in Quezon City, Secretary Abalos emphasized the importance of local officials' supervision over law enforcement. He stated, "Ang gagawin namin ngayon... with sufficient grounds, we would withdraw the deputization of Mayor Guo," effectively nullifying her privileges, including control and supervision of the local police.

Under NAPOLCOM Memorandum Circular No. 99-010, elected governors and mayors are automatically deputized as representatives of the Commission in their respective areas. This deputization grants them authority to supervise and control police units within their jurisdiction.

PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo confirmed that they are awaiting formal approval of the order, which would take immediate effect upon issuance.

Secretary Abalos further disclosed that the DILG has recommended to the Office of the Ombudsman the suspension of Mayor Guo over allegations of grave misconduct and negligence of duty. These charges stem from her purported connections to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), a matter under scrutiny by various government agencies.

Mayor Guo's alleged involvement with a POGO hub near the Bamban Municipal Hall has drawn significant attention. A raid on the hub earlier this year resulted in the rescue of 875 Filipino and foreign workers. The situation has escalated to the extent that the Senate is conducting its own investigation into Mayor Guo's possible ties to foreign interests, particularly concerns that she may be a Chinese asset.