(July 23, 2024) – Suspended Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo on Tuesday has apologized to Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero for a misunderstanding over her recent social media posts.
It can be recalled that Guo had previously criticized Senators Risa Hontiveros and Win Gatchalian, questioning why they seemed fixated on her instead of addressing more pressing national issues.
In response, Escudero stated that Guo has no right to dictate the priorities of any senator.
However, in her letter, Guo clarified that she had no intention of directing the Senate’s agenda and acknowledged that each legislator has their own duties and responsibilities to the nation. She explained that her aim was merely to suggest solutions based on the problems faced by her constituents in Bamban, Tarlac.
“Nais ko pong humingi ng paumanhin kung nagkaroon ng hindi pagkakaunawaan kaugnay ng aking mga naging pahayag. Wala po akong intensyon na pagsabihan o diktahan ang Senado kung ano ang mga dapat bigyang prayoridad,” Guo stated in her letter.
On the other hand, Mayor Guo has requested assistance for her community, noting that her suspension posed significant challenges. She expressed hope for an opportunity to defend herself in the proper forum, highlighting the importance of the presumption of innocence and respect for individual rights during investigations.
SP Escudero responded while he acknowledged the suspended mayor’s plea, he maintained that until Guo attends the Senate hearings, her requests cannot be accommodated.
He assured her safety if she decided to attend the hearings and mentioned that her arrest order could be lifted following her participation.
“Bagaman nauunawaan ko yung pag-unawang hinihingi niya, hangga’t hindi siya nagpapakita at sumusunod sa Senado ay hindi ko matatanggap anumang pakiusap ang hinihiling niya dun sa kanyang liham,” Escudero said.
The Senate President also insisted that the POGO hearings must continue as he guarantees the implementation of Pres. Bongbong Marcos’ order to ban all POGOs in the country.
“Walang dahilan para hindi magpatuloy ‘yon dahil garantiya rin ‘yun na maisasakatuparan ang sinabi ni Pangulong Marcos kahapon sa SONA na banned na ang POGO at magawa-wind down na lamang yung mga nananatiling ligal na POGO,” according to Escudero.
SP Escudero said he has no plans to respond to Guo’s letter, stating that his current media interview serves as his response. He understands that Guo might be confused about her situation but hopes her lawyers will advise her to attend the Senate hearings.
(PB)
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