Former Philippine Mayor on the Run: Alleged Ties to Chinese Criminal Syndicates

Alice Guo, a former mayor under investigation for alleged ties to Chinese criminal syndicates, has fled the Philippines. The Philippine President has ordered her passport canceled, although her lawyer states she remains in the country. Her case arises amid growing tensions between the Philippines and China.

The Philippine president's office has ordered the cancellation of former mayor Alice Guo's passport following her alleged departure from the country. Accused of having ties to Chinese criminal syndicates, Guo, also known as Guo Hua Ping, reportedly visited Malaysia and Singapore before traveling to Indonesia.

Despite the presidential directive, Guo's lawyer, Stephen David, claims she is still in the Philippines and denies the allegations. David emphasized the lack of evidence proving she has left the country, maintaining their reliance on her assurances.

The situation unfolds amid growing tensions between the Philippines and China, accentuated by disputes over the South China Sea. The investigation, which started after a casino raid in Guo's town, has captivated the nation, drawing stark attention to international and internal political complexities.

(With inputs from agencies.)