Barangay officials urged: Help fight illegal gambling

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Council is asking all barangay officials in the city to help the police in the fight against illegal numbers game.

Councilor Richard “Ritchie” Osmeña, chairman of the City Council’s committee on peace and order, believes that fight against illegal gambling would be more effective with the help of the barangay officials.

Barangay officials would know who are the people involved in illegal gambling in their barangay.

City Councilor David “Dave” Tumulak earlier vowed to file criminal charges against negligent barangay officials.

Masiao operation has been very visible not only in Cebu City but in the province as well. It is evident by the masiao tip sheets being displayed along the city’s streets, especially at the downtown area.

Republic Act 9287 was enacted several years ago increasing the penalties, including fines, of those persons convicted for violating the illegal numbers game.

The Police Regional Office-7 earlier launched an intensified campaign against illegal gambling, including video karera operations. But the operation came back after regional director Marcelo Garbo was transferred to the National Capital region. FPL (FREEMAN)