DOJ Files 31 Money Laundering Cases Against Alice Guo and Associates
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has formally filed 31 money laundering cases against former Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice L. Guo and 30 others. This significant legal action was submitted to the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Capas, Tarlac, signaling a major step in addressing alleged financial crimes linked to Guo and her associates.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the filing process took some time due to the volume of criminal charge sheets and their supporting documents. Prosecutor General Richard Anthony D. Fadullon confirmed that a panel of prosecutors meticulously reviewed the evidence before approving the indictments.
Charges and Legal Basis
The DOJ’s prosecutorial panel approved charges against Guo for 26 counts of money laundering under Section 4(a) and five counts under Section 4(b) of the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001, as amended (Republic Act No. 9160). Additionally, Guo and her 30 co-accused face 31 counts of violating Section 4(d) of the same law.
Those charged alongside Guo include individuals such as Jian Zhong Guo, Li Wenyi, Shiela L. Guo, and other associates believed to be involved in a complex network of financial transactions. The prosecutors highlighted that the evidence strongly supports a prima facie case, indicating a reasonable certainty of conviction for those implicated.
Background of the Case
These cases stem from alleged illegal operations connected to Hongsheng Gaming Technology Inc., later renamed Zun Yuan Technology. The company operated within a compound in Bamban, Tarlac, owned by Baofu Land Development Inc., where Guo served as president.
Between 2020 and 2024, authorities conducted three raids in the compound, uncovering activities related to cybercrime, labor trafficking, and physical abuse. The DOJ panel emphasized that these findings clearly established the presence of unlawful operations within the Baofu compound.
Interconnected Corporations and the Money Trail
The prosecutors noted that five corporations were interconnected in the scheme to carry out and benefit from the illegal activities. They identified QJJ Farm and QSeed Genetics as key financiers behind Baofu’s establishment. Baofu then constructed facilities tailored for Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) operations.
Baofu allegedly facilitated the illicit businesses of Hongsheng and Zun Yuan, with permits reportedly arranged by Alice Guo. The timing of these corporations’ creation and their operations aligned suspiciously, as did the methods used to hide financial trails.
Accountability of Officers and Employees
The prosecutors argued that those responsible for incorporating and managing these corporations, who overlooked or allowed illegal acts to occur, are considered conspirators. Therefore, they should be held equally liable for the money laundering charges.
In conclusion, the DOJ’s filing marks a crucial milestone in the ongoing efforts to dismantle complex financial crime networks in the region. Authorities continue to investigate related activities and pursue justice for the alleged violations.
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