Photo credit: PNP PIO via PTV

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos has addressed the buzz surrounding a viral photo of Alice Guo. The photo sparked conversations online, with many questioning the appropriateness of the selfie, especially given the circumstances.

Abalos didn't shy away from the topic. "Talagang selfie is selfie, 'no?" he said, acknowledging that taking a quick photo has become second nature these days. However, he also admitted, "But 'yong impropriety nga, 'no? Nando'n na 'yon." He recognized that the situation might raise eyebrows, but he emphasized that the focus should be on the bigger picture.

For Abalos, the key takeaway isn't the photo, but rather the work that led to it. "Ang point ko lang dito is this: yung mga taong ito, kamukha kami, ako tulog ko lang ngayon 2 hours," he shared, highlighting the exhaustion and dedication involved in their line of work. According to him, it's common to be caught in a moment where someone asks for a picture or takes one without you even realizing it.

But beyond the viral moment, Abalos stressed the most crucial aspect of the story—mission accomplished. "I've done my best. Mission accomplished, nadala ko si Alice Guo," he proudly stated. He made it clear that there were no special privileges for Guo, who is facing charges under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

"Right now, may mugshot siya, nakakulong po siya ngayon sa kulungan. No cellphone, no aircon," Abalos assured the public, emphasizing that Guo is currently detained at Camp Crame under standard conditions.