The Philippine National Police (PNP), under the leadership of Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., is strengthening community intelligence efforts to dismantle illegal gambling operations and hubs across the country.
This is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr., through the guidance of DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to intensify the campaign against illegal gambling and dismantle its networks nationwide.
PGEN Nartatez said information from residents remains one of the most effective tools in identifying illegal gambling operations that continue to operate in different parts of the country.
“Illegal gambling breeds other crimes—from domestic violence to theft, robbery and even crimes against persons. And this is the reason why your PNP has been very aggressive in its campaign as manifested by our monthly accomplishment reports,” said PGEN Nartatez.
Police have sustained its anti-illegal gambling campaign through intensified police operations nationwide. For July this year, a total of 9,401 persons were arrested while more than P3.2 million worth of bet money and gambling paraphernalia were confiscated.
PGEN Nartatez said the campaign is not limited to Metro Manila as he said police resources are also being mobilized in municipalities, provinces, and far-flung communities where illegal gambling operations continue to thrive.
“Our operations are not only focused in Metro Manila. The same level of aggressive operations has been ongoing in municipalities and provinces, including far-flung areas,” he said.
The PNP Chief said illegal gambling is not merely a law enforcement concern because it also contributes to the commission of other crimes as revealed in the PNP crime data.
He said dismantling illegal gambling operations will also help improve peace and order in communities.
