PNP: Guo faces Senate today in handcuffs, bulletproof vest

After claiming that there are threats to her life, dismissed Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo will be wearing a bulletproof vest as well as handcuffs while being transported from Camp Crame to the Senate hearing today, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

- MARK ERNEST VILLEZA

Guo will be a resource person in the ongoing investigation into the illegal operations of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).

In an interview over dzBB, PNP public information officer Col. Jean Fajardo yesterday said that the security measures are in line with the order from the Capas, Tarlac Regional Trial Court Branch 109, which mandated the police to ensure appropriate security for people under the court’s jurisdiction.

“We have to take into consideration what she (Guo) said about receiving death threats. Just like any individual facing such threats, we have to take this seriously,” Fajardo said.

She said that they have coordinated with the Senate’s Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms since Friday, following the court’s order allowing Guo to attend the Senate probe.

Guo and her security convoy are expected to depart at 8 a.m. today.

“The initial security arrangement is that she will wear a bulletproof vest and travel in a secured vehicle accompanied by female police officers,” Fajardo said, adding that the PNP’s special weapons and tactics personnel will also be part of the convoy. Fajardo said that they will follow the Senate’s directive regarding whether the handcuffs will be removed during the inquiry.

No special treatment is being given to Guo, who is detained in the custodial facility at Camp Crame, Fajardo said.

Upon Guo’s arrival at the facility early Friday, standard booking procedures were followed, including taking her mugshot and ensuring that only her basic necessities, such as clothing and personal hygiene items, were allowed in her cell. Gadgets and other prohibited items were not permitted.

The former mayor is being held in a single detached cell, which Fajardo described as having a steel bed, blanket, pillow and no air conditioning.