By Eva Visperas
THE Pangasinan Police Provincial Office (PPO) has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy against illegal gambling, emphasizing intensified enforcement operations across the province.
The PPO, led by Provincial Director PCol Arbel Mercullo, clarified that recent claims describing illegal gambling as “widespread” do not reflect the ongoing law enforcement efforts. From January 1 to February 7, 2026, police operations in several municipalities led to multiple arrests and the confiscation of gambling paraphernalia and cash proceeds tied to unlawful activities.
Police said illegal gambling contributes to criminal activity, disrupts peace and order, and negatively affects families and communities. Authorities vowed to continue pursuing individuals and groups involved, regardless of the scale or location of their operations.
“The Pangasinan PNP will not allow illegal gambling to thrive in our communities. Our operations are continuous and relentless, and we are committed to enforcing the law,” Mercullo said, urging the public to report violations. All reports, police added, will be treated with confidentiality and acted upon promptly.
The PPO also reported accomplishments from its 2025 anti-illegal gambling campaign, which recorded 55 operations, 220 arrests, and the seizure of ₱127,940 in gambling money and paraphernalia.
Card games such as Posoy, Tong-Its, and Lucky 9 accounted for the highest number of operations with 33, resulting in 153 arrests and ₱58,899 confiscated. Other operations targeted drop ball or color games (11 operations, 17 arrests, ₱19,033 seized), cockfighting (3 operations, 16 arrests, ₱30,650 seized), mahjong (5 operations, 23 arrests, ₱13,623 seized), bet games (2 operations, 11 arrests, ₱3,730 seized), and bingo (1 operation, ₱2,005 seized).
The PPO said it will strengthen monitoring and coordination against unauthorized STL bookies and continue joint efforts with the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, and local government units to ensure accountability.
Authorities urged the public not to misinterpret isolated incidents as widespread lawlessness, stressing that reports of illegal gambling are addressed immediately as part of the province’s continuing peace and order campaign.