ILOILO City – To eradicate illegal gambling from Western Visayas, Police Brigadier General Jack Wanky, the director of the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6), has directed all police units to intensify checks on all forms of illicit gambling activities, including billiards games which are often wagered on and hence classified as gambling.
This directive emerged following public outcry over a billiard tournament held at a newly opened billiard hall in Barangay Bolilao, Mandurriao district on July 20. According to Wanky, while billiard facilities are meant for recreation, some have been exploited for gambling purposes.
“Occasionally, these recreational facilities transition into arenas of betting, thereby becoming venues for gambling,” said Wankyd.
The incident in question involved a supposed friendly match which escalated into a dispute causing commotion, interrupted by a civilian-dressed police officer.
The involvement of betting at this event is currently under police investigation.
Wanky also revealed that from January to June 2024, regional operations have resulted in the arrest of 2,368 individuals engaged in illegal gambling, with the confiscation of approximately P979,000 in bet money.
These accomplishments underscore the PRO-6’s commitment to maintaining peace and order through effective law enforcement.
Despite these successes, Wanky emphasized the importance of continued multi-agency collaboration, including the active participation of local government units, to bolster the region’s anti-criminality and public safety efforts.
“With everyone’s cooperation, we are poised to achieve greater milestones toward a more progressive and safer Western Visayas,” said Wanky./PN