ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Armed with sledge hammers, local government and police officials smashed 114 slot machines worth P2.85 million Monday morning.
The move was part of an intensified campaign against the proliferation of the betting machines, locally known as "apple-apple and caballo," being operated in this city.
Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar led the destruction of the illegal betting machines witnessed by government employees and residents in front of the city hall.
City Police Director Senior Superintendent Angelito Casimiro said the slot machines, which cost P25,000 each, had been confiscated by the police anti-vice unit from various areas in the city since January.
Aside from the slot machines, the team also destroyed confiscated fatigue uniforms and expired commemorative license plates.