Mandaluyong: The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) affirmed Thursday that Alice Guo, the convicted former mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, is not receiving any special treatment at the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong. BuCor dismissed reports suggesting otherwise as "malicious and unfounded."
According to Philippines News Agency, Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. stated that Guo is undergoing a mandatory five-day quarantine following her transfer from Pasig City Jail to CIW on December 6, as part of standard operating procedures. CIW Chief Superintendent Marjorie Ann Sanidad emphasized that Guo is being held to the same regulations and restrictions as all other inmates, with no special privileges granted.
BuCor further clarified that only Guo's lawyers are permitted to visit her, in compliance with health and security protocols. Lawyer Nicole Jamilla visited from December 6 to 9, followed by lawyers Romar Cambri on December 8, and Marc Lester Mamuri and Cheska Mhey Dela Paz on December 10.
Sanidad also addressed circulating reports that Guo had gained access to a personal cellphone, reiterating that cellphones are strictly banned within prison facilities, including for BuCor employees and staff. This policy is strictly enforced to maintain security within the correctional facilities.
Upon completing the quarantine, Guo will undergo a medical examination before transferring to the Reception and Diagnostic Center (RDC) regular dormitory for a 55-day orientation, diagnostic, and qualification period. After this 60-day process, she will move to her assigned dormitory in the Maximum-Security Camp.
In a related development, Catapang denied a request from Guo and two others to extend their stay in the quarantine area for an additional 55 days. The quarantine period for Guo, Jaimielyn Cruz, and Rachelle Joan Carreon concludes Thursday. Catapang instructed Sanidad to facilitate the immediate transfer of the three to the RDC regular dormitory for the mandatory orientation and classification.
Catapang highlighted the importance of the 55-day assessment period following the initial five-day quarantine for newly committed individuals, as it helps determine their psychological and physical needs, foundational for creating a personalized treatment plan.
Guo, Cruz, and Carreon had appealed to remain in the quarantine area beyond the mandatory period, citing a need for additional time to acclimate to the CIW environment and to cope with emotional and mental challenges. Sanidad recommended denying their request.
