National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Jaime Santiago disclosed that Alice Guo, the dismissed mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, cut her hair to conceal her identity while on the run. Santiago’s statement came following Guo’s arrest in Tangerang City, Indonesia, early Wednesday morning.
“She tried to conceal her identity,” Santiago said during a press briefing. “Photos shared by the Indonesian police show her hair is indeed very short. She had cut her hair to conceal her identity.” Guo’s hair, previously reaching the middle of her back, was noticeably shorter in the photos released after her arrest, cut to shoulder length.
Indonesian authorities currently have Guo in custody, and her recent haircut is seen as an attempt to disguise herself while evading law enforcement. Guo fled the Philippines in July amidst accusations of involvement in human trafficking and money laundering.
Director Santiago emphasized the effectiveness of international cooperation in her apprehension, particularly the coordination between the NBI, Interpol, and Indonesian police. “We have indeed proven it, and our coordination with Interpol and the Indonesian police has been excellent,” he added.
Guo’s flight from justice involved a dramatic escape with her purported sister, Shiela Guo, and another individual, Wesley Guo, utilizing several boats, as revealed in a recent hearing.
In addition to the criminal complaints against her, Guo also faces a quo warranto petition before a Manila court and a petition to cancel her birth certificate in a Tarlac court.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. reacted to Guo’s arrest, calling it a warning to those attempting to evade justice. “The arm of the law is long, and it will reach you,” Marcos said in a statement. He commended law enforcement for their efforts, saying, “I congratulate all law enforcement personnel who made this apprehension possible.”