Dismissed Mayor Alice Goh's Legal Troubles

Aug 23, 2024

Notes on Dismissed Bamban Town Mayor Alice Goh's Case

Key Individuals Involved

  • Alice Goh: Dismissed Mayor of Bamban Town.
  • Sheila Goh: Sister of Alice Goh; arrested in Indonesia.
  • Cassandra Leong: Business associate of Sheila Goh; arrested alongside her.
  • Senator Rafi Tufo: Provided information about the arrest.
  • Senate President Cheese Escudero: Provided updates on the situation regarding Sheila and Cassandra.

Timeline of Events

  • August 20: Sheila and Cassandra arrested in a mall in Indonesia.
    • The Philippine Bureau of Immigration requested Indonesian authorities to monitor them.
    • Indonesian authorities promptly informed the Philippine Bureau of Immigration upon their arrest.

Current Status

  • Sheila Goh and Cassandra Leong were repatriated back to the Philippines.
  • Sheila Goh is subject to an arrest order by the Senate since July.
  • Cassandra Leong has an arrest order from the House of Representatives but none from the Senate.

Detention Process

  • National Bureau of Investigation (NBI): Will first take Sheila and Cassandra into custody.
    • They will be briefed by the NBI prior to further actions.
  • Senate Detention: Once cleared, Sheila will be transferred to the Senate detention facility; timing still uncertain.
  • House of Representatives: Cassandra expected to be detained there within the day after repatriation.

Facilities and Conditions

  • The Senate detention facility is reportedly well-equipped with essential amenities (e.g., bed, CR).
  • Safety measures for Sheila Goh have been highlighted, including proximity to a PNP satellite office.

Potential Hearings

  • There is interest in inviting Sheila Goh to the Committee on Women hearings, particularly regarding her alleged involvement in Philippine offshore gaming operators.

Summary

  • Both Sheila Goh and Cassandra Leong are returning to the Philippines after being intercepted in Indonesia.
  • The next steps involve NBI custody, potential hearings, and coordination with legislative bodies regarding their cases.