Wed Sep 18 16:14:00 UTC 2024: ## Former PNP Chiefs Deny Payoff Allegations from Ex-Mayor Guo

**MANILA, PHILIPPINES -** Former heads of the Philippine National Police (PNP) have strongly refuted allegations that they received payoffs from former Bamban Mayor Alice Guo, who is currently under investigation for her alleged ties to illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

The claims emerged during a Senate hearing investigating POGOs, where BGen. Raul Villanueva, Philippine Amusement Gaming Corp. vice president for security, mentioned rumors within the intelligence community of a former PNP chief receiving payola from Guo.

Former PNP Chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. vehemently denied any connection to Guo or POGOs, calling Villanueva’s statement “irresponsible, baseless, preposterous and unfounded.” He demanded Villanueva to identify the alleged former PNP chief.

Echoing Azurin’s sentiment, former PNP Chief Benjamin Acorda Jr. stressed the gravity of the accusation, stating that the integrity of the former PNP chief is at stake and the allegation is unfair to any innocent individual.

Gen. Oscar Albayalde, another former PNP Chief, also refuted any knowledge of Guo, stating that he has never met or encountered her.

Meanwhile, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) Director General Ricardo de Leon confirmed that his agency has not monitored any information about a former PNP chief receiving monthly payola from Guo. He emphasized that NICA is careful about validating intelligence information and would need to corroborate Villanueva’s claim before making any comment.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, chair of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality, raised concerns about the possible involvement of high-ranking officials in Guo’s escape in July. While Villanueva acknowledged rumors about a former PNP chief aiding Guo, he admitted he lacked concrete evidence to confirm the allegation.

The PNP has assured that they will continue investigating the matter. Despite the denials from former PNP chiefs and NICA, the investigation into Guo’s alleged ties to illegal POGOs and the potential involvement of high-ranking officials is ongoing.

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