2 cops nabbed in Eastern Samar cockpit arena

TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines — Two police officers were arrested inside a cockpit arena in Sulat, Eastern Samar on Christmas Day, the Philippine National Police said.

The PNP said S/Sgt. Bryan Rey Orquia and Cpl. Jason Lobrio were apprehended for violating the directives prohibiting police from gambling or entering gambling facilities.

Col. Ernesto Macasil, Eastern Samar police provincial director, said the two were reported to have “repeatedly visited the cockpit arena” despite the series of directives that prohibit PNP personnel from entering gambling arenas and participating in the activities.

Macasil said he tipped off Capt. Jose Fortunato Lumain, Sulat town acting police chief, about the police officers’ gambling activities. Lumain headed the operation that led to the arrest of Orquia and Lobrio.

Lumain said the two are under police custody and are being investigated.