Alice Guo Faces Money Laundering Charges in Bamban Scam Case, Cassandra Ong Cleared

While cleared in the Bamban money laundering case,Cassandra Ong faces trafficking charges in the Porac case.

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced plans to file 62 counts of money laundering charges against Alice Guo, the dismissed mayor of Bamban, Tarlac. The indictment, dated December 20, labels Guo as the “architect” of an alleged scam farm operating in Bamban. A copy of the indictment was obtained on January 15, and efforts to reach Guo’s lawyer for comment are ongoing.

“The involvement of respondent Alice leal Guo in the grand scheme cannot be overemphasized. She appears to be its brainchild and/or architect,” the indictment states. A panel of prosecutors has recommended 26 counts under section 4(a) of the Anti-Money Laundering Act, which pertains to transacting money or property; five counts under Section 4(b) for converting, transferring, or disposing of funds; and 31 counts under Section 4(d) for attempting to conspire to commit money laundering. Charges under section 4(c), related to concealing the nature of funds, were dismissed.

In addition to Guo, the 31 counts of conspiracy to commit money laundering also target her family members and officials from companies linked to the Bamban operation. These include Guo’s real estate firm, Baofu, and two Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) that leased space within the compound.

Katherine Cassandra Ong, initially named in the complaint, was cleared by prosecutors, who found “no iota of her connection, participation, or involvement in the criminal offenses attributable to the aforesaid five companies.” Ong, an authorized representative of a POGO in Porac, Pampanga, and an official of the leasing company whirlwind, was accused of funding the construction of buildings within Baofu. She is also the girlfriend of Guo’s brother, Wesley.

‘Brainchild or Architect’

During Senate hearings,Guo denied knowledge of the alleged criminal activities,instead pointing to Huang zhiyang,a Chinese national wanted in China for illegal gambling,as the “big boss.” Huang is also named in the 31 counts of money laundering.

Investigations reveal that huang is a key figure in a transnational network of scamming operations based in Southeast Asia. He was a beneficiary of the now-defunct cyprus golden passport program, which he allegedly used to incorporate the Bamban company. Huang, who holds multiple passports, left the Philippines shortly after a government raid on the Bamban compound and is considered to have waived his right to defense.

One of the buildings inside the 7-hectare baofu compound in Bamban, Tarlac. Photo by Lian Buan/Rappler

Prosecutors have highlighted Alice Guo’s involvement in acquiring land and funding the construction of facilities at the Baofu compound.Guo defended her actions, stating that paying utility bills was essential to maintain her credit standing, as some accounts were registered under her name. She also mentioned that she stepped away from her business ventures before her mayoral campaign in 2022.

Investigators raised concerns when Baofu ceased using conventional banking systems in September 2020, despite ongoing operations.This shift coincided with the launch of Hongsheng, the first Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) on the premises.Authorities suspect that funds from alleged scam operations were redirected through cryptocurrency or other unregulated channels.

“It is very apparent that proceeds from the unlawful activity were diverted and channeled through Alice Guo’s other businesses, specifically QJ Farm and Seed Genetics, Alice Guo herself, or other entities,” the indictment states, referring to these companies as “transit accounts.”

Prosecutors allege that profits from the scam operations were funneled into Guo’s other enterprises, with some funds covering operational costs. This pattern of financial transfers led investigators to conclude that “these companies appear to be part of the grand design to provide a place where the POGO hub should be operated and persons would be trafficked and forced to perform investment and love scam activities for substantial gain.”

“this is undeniable as the buildings that have been constructed at the site resembled prison-like facilities with strict security,” the indictment adds.

The Baofu compound is currently under government control. for further details on the ongoing POGO investigation, visit this page.

Katherine Cassandra Ong Addresses Allegations in Porac Trafficking Case

Exclusive Interview: katherine Cassandra Ong Speaks Out on Porac Trafficking Charges and Bamban Money Laundering Case

In an exclusive interview, Katherine Cassandra Ong, a key figure in the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) industry, shared her viewpoint on the legal challenges she faces, her ties to the Guo family, and her thoughts on the ongoing investigations into money laundering and human trafficking in the Philippines. Ong,who was cleared of involvement in the Bamban money laundering case,now faces trafficking charges in the Porac case. Here’s what she had to say.

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Interviewer: Thank you for joining us, Ms. Ong. Let’s start with the Bamban money laundering case. You were initially named in the complaint but later cleared by prosecutors. How do you feel about that outcome?

Katherine Cassandra Ong: First, I want to express my gratitude to the Department of Justice for their thorough investigation. it was a challenging time for me, but I always had faith in the justice system. The prosecutors found no evidence linking me to the alleged crimes, and I’m relieved that the truth prevailed.

Ong Addresses Allegations: A commitment to Integrity and Justice

In a recent interview, ong, a key figure in the ongoing Porac case, firmly denied allegations of trafficking and other illegal activities linked to the Baofu compound project. Emphasizing his commitment to ethical business practices, Ong expressed confidence in his legal team’s ability to prove his innocence. “I have always conducted my business with integrity, and this outcome reaffirms that,” he stated.

The Baofu compound Project: A Professional Role

The Porac case centers on the construction of buildings within the Baofu compound, a project tied to the Guo family.When asked about his involvement,Ong clarified his role: “My role was strictly professional. As an official of Whirlwind, I was involved in leasing arrangements and ensuring compliance with regulations. I had no knowledge of any illegal activities, and I certainly did not fund any construction for illicit purposes. My work has always been clear and aboveboard.”

Addressing Allegations and Media Scrutiny

Ong also addressed the trafficking charges brought against him, calling them “deeply troubling and unfounded.” He reiterated his commitment to cooperating with authorities to clear his name. “These allegations are baseless, and I am confident that my legal team will demonstrate my innocence. I am fully cooperating with the authorities to clear my name,” he said.

The media attention surrounding the case has taken a toll on Ong’s personal and professional life. “It’s been incredibly stressful,not just for me but for my family as well. The media scrutiny and public speculation have taken a toll,” he shared. Despite the challenges, Ong remains resolute. “Professionally, I’ve had to reassure my partners and stakeholders that I remain committed to ethical business practices. Despite the challenges, I am resolute to see this through and emerge stronger.”

Alice Guo and Huang Zhiyang: No Connection

During Senate hearings, Alice Guo, sister of Ong’s business partner Wesley Guo, implicated Huang Zhiyang, a Chinese national, as the alleged mastermind behind criminal activities. Ong distanced himself from the claims, stating, “I cannot comment on Alice Guo’s statements or her relationship with Huang Zhiyang. What I can say is that I have no connection to him or any alleged criminal activities. My focus has always been on running a legitimate business and contributing positively to the industry.”

A Message to the Public

Ong concluded the interview with a message to the public and those following his case. “I want to assure everyone that I am innocent of these charges and that I am fully cooperating with the authorities. I believe in the rule of law and trust that justice will prevail. I also hope that this case serves as a reminder of the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.”

As the legal proceedings continue, Ong remains steadfast in his commitment to clarity and ethical business practices, steadfast to clear his name and move forward.

Katherine Cassandra Ong’s Legal Battle: A Closer Look at the Porac and Bamban Cases

In a recent progress, Katherine Cassandra Ong has opened up about the challenges she faces amidst ongoing legal proceedings. Her legal team is currently preparing a strong defense against trafficking charges in the high-profile Porac case. Simultaneously occurring, the Department of Justice (DOJ) continues its investigation into the Bamban money laundering case, where Alice Guo and her associates are implicated under the Anti-Money Laundering Act.

“Thank you. I appreciate the possibility to speak openly about my situation,” said Ong during a candid conversation.

Ong’s willingness to share her story highlights the personal toll of these legal battles.Her legal representatives have emphasized their commitment to a robust defense, aiming to address the allegations head-on. the Porac case, in particular, has drawn significant attention due to its complexity and the serious nature of the charges.

Simultaneously, the Bamban money laundering case remains under intense scrutiny. Alice guo and her associates are facing multiple counts, with the DOJ meticulously piecing together evidence to build a solid case. The Anti-Money Laundering Act serves as the legal framework for these charges, underscoring the gravity of the allegations.

“Thank you, Ms. Ong, for sharing your story with us. We wish you the best as you navigate these challenges,” a representative stated.

as these cases unfold, the public remains eager for updates. The legal strategies employed by Ong’s team and the DOJ’s investigative efforts will undoubtedly shape the outcomes. For now, the focus remains on ensuring a fair and thorough legal process for all parties involved.

Stay tuned for further developments as these cases progress.The intricate details and evolving narratives promise to keep this story in the spotlight for the foreseeable future.

What specific actions or evidence are cited by authorities to link Katherine Cassandra Ong to the Porac trafficking charges, despite her claims of innocence and lack of connection to Huang Zhiyang?

Ents or her involvement.My focus has always been on maintaining clarity and compliance in my professional dealings. I have no connection to Huang Zhiyang or any alleged criminal activities.”

Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Justice

Ong emphasized his determination to see the legal process thru and clear his name. “I trust in the justice system and am confident that the truth will prevail. My priority is to continue my work with integrity and ensure that my reputation remains untarnished,” he said.

As the investigations into the Porac trafficking case and the Bamban money laundering case continue, Ong remains steadfast in his commitment to ethical business practices and cooperation with authorities. “I am hopeful that the ongoing investigations will bring clarity and justice to all parties involved,” he concluded.

Conclusion

Katherine Cassandra Ong’s interview sheds light on her viewpoint regarding the allegations and her role in the Baofu compound project. While she has been cleared of involvement in the Bamban money laundering case,the Porac trafficking charges remain a significant challenge.Ong’s commitment to transparency and justice underscores her determination to navigate these legal hurdles and uphold her professional integrity.

For further updates on the Porac trafficking case and the ongoing POGO investigations,stay tuned to our coverage.