Philippine authorities will investigate Bamban Mayor Alice Guo for potential tax evasion. The Philippine Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) will investigate individuals and companies involved in the Senate investigation, focusing on discrepancies between declared income and property accumulation.
Philippine Internal Revenue Service Commissioner Lumagui stressed due process and threatened to file criminal charges of tax evasion if necessary; the companies and collaborators involved could face consequences.
Guo was previously suspended for bribery related to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO).
While some lawmakers have called for a ban on POGOs, Finance Minister Recto recommended a thorough investigation.
He stressed the importance of distinguishing POGO activities and working with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to calculate tax collection.
