Representative Jonathan Keith Flores from the second district of Bukidnon, Philippines, criticized law enforcement authorities for their "special treatment" of Alice Guo.
When referring to the fugitive recently handed over to Philippine authorities, Flores said: "We are surprised by the different treatment of Mayor Guo by the Department of the Interior, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). From the moment she was picked up in Indonesia to her arrival in the Philippines, the entire process was filled with special treatment."
He further explained: "From Jakarta to Manila International Airport, they were taking selfies with the fugitive Alice Guo all the way, treating her like a celebrity, as if she were a rock star. They acted like fans rather than law enforcement officers of the Philippines. Aren't they ashamed of their behavior? They forgot the proper conduct expected of them."
Flores also questioned the manner in which Mayor Guo appeared before the media at Manila International Airport. He said: "They treated her like they were using her for social media posts or campaign posters. She was allowed to wear a mask, and even had her handcuffs covered with a white sweater or jacket, holding a Starbucks bag. They were all smiling happily during the photos."
He further pointed out that Philippine officials need to explain their behavior, which is completely inconsistent with the manner law enforcement should pursue fugitives.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) apologized on Friday for the close selfies taken by Police Chief Rommel Marbil with Alice Guo. Colonel Jean Fajardo, spokesperson for the PNP, said at a press conference: "If anyone was offended and did not like it, we deeply apologize."
Fajardo stated that Marbil did not intend to offend anyone with these photos.
