The swift apprehension of dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo in Indonesia serves as a clear indication of the strong bilateral relationship between the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Indonesian law enforcement agency.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo Cauayan, Atty. Michael Henry Yusingco, a political analyst and constitutionalist, this incident underscores the significance of ASEAN cooperation in addressing transnational crimes.
However, the government must strengthen its border security measures to prevent future occurrences of illegal departures, such as that of Guo and her alleged siblings. The Bureau of Immigration, the PNP, and other relevant agencies should collaborate to ensure that no individuals can evade the country’s legal processes.
Yusingco emphasized the need for the government to remain vigilant in pursuing justice and holding accountable those involved in illegal activities. He expressed confidence that high-ranking officials who were allegedly complicit with Guo would feel threatened, especially if formal charges are filed against the dismissed mayor.
The analyst called for the prosecution of officials who benefited from the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) industry, which has been linked to various illegal activities.