An official from the provincial government of Tarlac said they had no idea that there was an illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Corporation hub in Bamban, Tarlac before it was raided earlier this year.

According to Tarlac Provincial Information Officer Arvin Cabalu, they were also not familiar with the background of Mayor Alice Guo.

“Kami rin ho ay surprised. Continuing ‘yung nalalaman namin, nakakabigla rin. Hindi rin namin alam kung bakit ganyan si Mayor Guo, ‘yung mga personal background niya. Nabibigla rin kami,” he told Teleradyo Serbisyo.

Cabalu also said they were only aware of buildings in the Baofu compound, but they were not aware that these were being used for illegal activities.

As for Guo’s participation in provincial activities, Cabalu said she is cooperative. He also said they are still waiting for the results of Senate investigation before they decide on their next move.

“Very cooperative naman siya, hindi nga lang namin alam na may ganoong activities sa Bamban. Patuloy nga hong iniimbestigahan. Still waiting pa po kami kung anong magiging resulta po dito,” he said.

“Minarapat ng provincial government to wait for the Senate investigation,” Cabalu added.

Cabalu added they are looking into whether the previous administration has a liability regarding the situation.

The Senate is currently investigating Guo and her alleged ties to the POGO hub in her town.

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