On August 18, local time, despite the ombudsman issuing a dismissal order, the Philippine Election Commission (Comelec) stated that it will continue to pursue a lawsuit against former Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo (known as the "POGO Mayor") for serious misrepresentation.
During an interview, Election Commission Chairman George Garcia noted that the ombudsman's decision does not affect the case against Guo. Garcia emphasized, "Any candidate who lies or makes false statements on their candidacy documents will face criminal charges."
Earlier this month, the entire Election Commission approved the legal department's complaint of serious misrepresentation against Guo. Earlier this week, the ombudsman's office dismissed Guo for serious misconduct. Additionally, Guo also faces a complaint from the Department of Justice regarding her involvement in human trafficking related to an online gambling center. She later requested the Department of Justice to dismiss these charges, claiming the complainant failed to prove her criminal behavior.
