Crackdown vs. illegal gambling stays amid STL ops resumption

PNP chief, Gen. Oscar Albayalde instructed police directors to ensure that there are no illegal gambling activities in their area by continuing the crackdown against illegal numbers games like jueteng. (PNA file photo by Joey O. Razon)

MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday said it will continue its campaign against illegal gambling despite the lifting of the suspension of small town lottery (STL) operations.

PNP chief, Gen. Oscar Albayalde instructed police directors to ensure that there are no illegal gambling activities in their area by continuing the crackdown against illegal numbers games like jueteng.

“We respect the lifting of the suspension on STL operations. But of course, some would take advantage of the situation, such as those in jueteng type operations. Our directive to our line units to go after illegal gambling stands,” Albayalde said on the sidelines of the Special Action Force Memorial Day at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City.

He added that the Directorate for Intelligence (DI) continues to gather information on police officers allegedly promoting STL.

“We all know that such act is prohibited. We cannot promote the STL,” he added.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the suspension of STL will be lifted upon compliance of certain conditions.

The effectivity of the STL resumption of operations will be after the publication of the implementing rules and regulations.

The Palace official said violation of any of the conditions contained in the implementing rules and regulations will mean the revocation of the license to operate the STL.

Last month, President Duterte ordered all gaming activities of the PCSO, including Lotto, STL, and Peryahan ng Bayan, to stop due to “massive corruption”.

While Lotto and STL were allowed to resume operation, the suspension on Peryahan ng Bayan stays.