AN official from the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) has identified dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, also known as Chinese national Guo Hua Ping, as an “agent of influence” during a Senate panel hearing on Tuesday.
NICA Deputy Director General Ashley Acedillo explained that the label stems from Guo’s alleged use of her position to benefit a foreign government.
“Given historical context, especially during the Cold War, these activities and the facts revealed in this and other committee hearings point to the conclusion that she is [an agent of influence],” Acedillo told senators.
Acedillo clarified that while Philippine law does not explicitly define an “agent of influence,” it is understood as an individual leveraging their position or reputation to sway public opinion or policy for the benefit of another nation.
“To that effect, this is applicable to her, and therefore she may be classified as such,” he said.
However, Acedillo emphasized that Guo has not been classified as a spy or a foreign intelligence agent, as this requires confirmation from the foreign state allegedly employing her.
“It requires a determination of fact, meaning that the intelligence agency that trained, employed, or supervised her confirms the existence or role of Ms. Guo Hua Ping as their agent. We have not come to that determination yet,” he added.
The Senate inquiry follows allegations raised by Senator Risa Hontiveros, who previously suggested that Guo may be operating as a Chinese spy.
The claims gained traction after a self-confessed Chinese spy, She Zhijiang, alleged in an Al Jazeera documentary released in October that Guo was an agent of China’s Ministry of State Security. According to She, Guo had once solicited campaign funds from him.
Guo has vehemently denied these accusations, dismissing She’s claims as attempts to gain media attention.
The allegations have further fueled concerns over foreign influence and espionage in the Philippines, raising questions about the country’s ability to safeguard its national security.