BAMBAN, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo vehemently denied the allegations by Senator Win Gatchalian regarding her citizenship, asserting she has no knowledge or involvement in the documents presented by the senator, which allegedly came from the Board of Investments and Bureau of Immigration.

According to Mayor Guo, her real mother is Amelia Leal, and her real name is Alice Leal Guo, as stated in her birth certificate, not Guo Hua Ping as alleged by Gatchalian.

Guo added that she has a Philippine passport issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), which proves that she is a Filipino.

She also has businesses, personal properties, and land in the Philippines and pays taxes.

She further stated that she ran for and won the position of mayor in Bamban, Tarlac, because she is a legitimate resident and undoubtedly Filipino.

“If I were a Chinese citizen, why would I need to obtain a Chinese visa every time I visit China?” Mayor Guo remarked.

Mayor Guo also emphasized that although there is no direct provision in the law stating that a person automatically becomes a citizen of the country they reside in, there are mechanisms to avoid statelessness.

The Philippine Constitution and its laws emphasize the acquisition of nationality based on jus sanguinis and other provisions recognizing Filipino citizenship.

Mayor Guo explained that she believes justice will prevail and her Filipino identity will stand firm despite her critics’ doubts.

“I welcome the proceedings in the proper forum challenging my citizenship and I am ready to face it,” Mayor Guo asserted.

Despite the allegations against her, Guo expressed her gratitude to the residents of Bamban who continue to support her leadership and show concern for her current plight. She assured her constituents of her dedication and service with integrity and perseverance.

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