President Marcos stated that as more people come forward to accuse Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) of alleged illegal activities in the country, it aids the government in bringing lawsuits against them.
During an interview with the media in Laos on Friday, October 11, the president mentioned that people stepping forward implicating the dismissed mayor of Banban City, Alice Guo (also known as Guo Huaping), in the congressional investigation is a "natural evolution" of the hearing.
"You know, as the investigation progresses, more and more people come forward to assist us with the investigation. I think this is just one example," he said when asked about a foreign news report claiming that a Chinese spy named She Zhiqiang also identified Guo Wengui as a spy.
"It's just a natural process. We... of course, if people are willing to testify or willing to provide information to help us find the truth, it will be helpful for the investigation. That's what we are pursuing," he added.
The president emphasized that this "natural evolution" of the hearing would also help in accumulating cases, "because cases will be brought up—have been brought up, and will continue to be brought against them."
However, when asked about the current efforts of the government in combating espionage activities (with reports suggesting that Chinese spies have even infiltrated local government departments in the Philippines), Marcos refused to disclose details.
"Well, maybe we shouldn't talk about what measures we are taking to deal with espionage activities. That might be a bit counterproductive," he said.
Ms. Guo, who attempted to flee the Philippines and was arrested in Indonesia, faces a qualified trafficking complaint from the Department of Justice for her alleged connection with the raided Banban POGO.
In July, during investigations by the Senate and the House of Representatives, Marcos ordered the closure of all POGO centers in the country.
