Guo, who allegedly entered the Philippines as a Chinese national named Guo Huaping before obtaining Filipino citizenship, is accused of involvement with illegal Chinese-run online gambling operations and money laundering over 100 million pesos ($2.38 million). She had been under Senate investigation since May for these charges and potential espionage for China.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that arrangements were being made to return Guo to the Philippines promptly, emphasizing the close cooperation between the two governments that led to her arrest. NBI Director Jaime Santiago confirmed that Guo would face charges upon her return.
The former mayor had evaded authorities since July, reportedly traveling through Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Her sister, Sila Guo, claimed Alice left the Philippines by boat on Jul. 14, arriving in Sabah, Malaysia, on Jul. 18. However, authorities question the veracity of this statement. The case has drawn significant attention due to its implications for national security and cross-border crime in Southeast Asia.