Atty. Stephen David, legal counsel for dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, affirmed that Guo is still in the country despite reports of her illegal departure from the Philippines to Malaysia.
“Kahapon kausap ko, sabi niya nasa Pilipinas naman siya. Hindi ko lang alam kung saan sa Pilipinas," David said during an exclusive interview with DZRH for Dos Por Dos segment on Tuesday.
(I spoke with her yesterday, and she said that she is in the Philippines. I just don't know where in the Philippines)
David stated that after the news broke, he sought firsthand information and subsequently asked Guo about the matter. Guo then assured her legal counsel that she was still in the country.
David also pointed out that Guo had her counter-affidavit notarized last week by a certain Atty. Elmer Galicia, who runs an office in San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan.
"Last week, humarap siya sa abogado and nag-sworn siya sa kanyang counter-affidavit na finile nya sa DOJ," David said.
(Last week, she met with a lawyer and swore to her counter-affidavit, which she filed with the DOJ)
Galicia, on the other hand, confirmed that he met with Guo and even had a conversation with her when she had her counter-affidavit notarized in his office. He mentioned that he felt it was his duty as a lawyer to help and represent individuals in need.
David reiterated that he finds it hard to believe that Guo already fled the country.
"Kaya ko nga siya pinagtatanggol kasi naniniwala ako sa kanya eh," said David.
(I defend her because I believe in her)
He also mentioned that it’s difficult to cover up the situation if he is aware of what is happening because the truth will eventually come out and his name will be tarnished.
Senator Risa Hontiveros revealed during her privileged speech on Monday that Guo already fled the country and traveled to Malaysia.
