Bishop hits Noy administration over gambling

MANILA, Philippines - The report that Manila would soon become among Asia’s top gambling destinations is an indication that the Aquino administration does not know the distinction between what is right and wrong, former Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Oscar Cruz said yesterday.

“It is becoming clearer that the administration does not know the distinction between what is ethical or unethical, between what is right or wrong. No matter how one tries to defend gambling, especially big time gambling, it cannot be justified,” Cruz said.

Cruz, founder of the Krusadang Bayan Laban sa Jueteng (KBLJ), said the proliferation of gambling in the country would bring about other problems such as prostitution and money laundering.

“It (gambling) is not only addictive but it is also corruptive in the sense that it invites people to commit dishonesty to finance their gambling habit. As far as these casinos are concerned, they are frequented also not only by rich and dishonest Filipinos but also by foreign gangsters,” he said.

Cruz said the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has long issued a statement against gambling.

He, however, said he doubts if many members of the laity would support the church in this crusade.

“It is difficult to rely on the people because nowadays, they are more occupied with their daily living.  They are not stable so it is very difficult to rely on the simple people to take up this advocacy. Advocacy consumes time, energy and also incurs some expenses. If the people are poor, how could they possibly engage in an advocacy against gambling and prostitution?” Cruz said.

The KBLJ has been fighting gambling for more than two decades.

“Anti-gambling crusaders appear to have lost hope for a better governance especially on the part of the present administration,” he said.