Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero has dismissed the apology letter from suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo. In the letter, Guo apologized for her recent statements questioning the Senate’s focus on her instead of other critical national issues, and explained her absence in the ongoing investigation into a raided POGO hub in her town.
In her letter dated July 20, Guo expressed regret for any misunderstandings her previous comments may have caused. “Nais ko pong humingi ng paumanhin kung nagkaroon ng hindi pagkakaunawaan kaugnay ng aking mga naging pahayag,” she wrote, emphasizing that she did not intend to dictate the Senate’s priorities.
Escudero had previously responded to Guo, asserting that she is not in a position to advise the Senate on its priorities.
Guo also requested Escudero’s help for her constituents in Bamban, who are in need of government support during her suspension. She hoped for an opportunity to defend herself in a proper forum, noting the negative social media attention she has received following Senate hearings.
“Sa aking karanasan, pagkatapos ng bawat pagdinig sa Senado, nagiging sentro ako ng negatibong posts sa social media,” Guo explained, expressing her willingness to face various charges against her in appropriate government offices.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian first disclosed Guo’s letter, highlighting her explanation for her absence from Senate hearings and her request for understanding during this time.
Escudero’s Response
Escudero, however, remained dismissive of Guo’s letter. “Bagaman nauunawaan ko yung pag-unawang hinihingi niya, hangga’t hindi siya nagpapakita at sumusunod sa Senado ay hindi ko matatanggap anumang pakiusap ang hinihiling niya dun sa kanyang liham,” he stated.
Escudero pointed out that Guo did not specify whether she would attend the Senate investigation or comply with the subpoena and arrest order. He mentioned that he would not formally respond to her letter and would let his media interview serve as his answer.
“Sana payuhan siya nang tama ng kanyang mga abogado na humarap at tapusin na itong yugto na ito sa parteng ng Senado para maka-focus at concentrate na siya sa mga kasong kinakaharap niya sa DOJ, Sa SolGen at sa Sandiganbayan,” he advised.
Escudero reiterated that if Guo surrendered to the Senate, she would be protected and there might be a possibility of lifting the arrest order against her. He also confirmed that the Senate investigation into the raided POGO hubs would continue, despite President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s recent announcement of a total ban on the industry.