TLDR The Philippine National Police is expanding community intelligence efforts to fight illegal gambling nationwide. PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said resident tips remain a key tool in the campaign. Police arrested 9,401 people for illegal gambling in July alone. Authorities seized more than PHP3.2 million in bet money and gambling equipment during the same month. Nartatez linked illegal gambling to other crimes, including domestic violence, theft, and robbery.
The Philippine National Police said Tuesday it is stepping up its use of community tips to fight illegal gambling across the country. The force said residents remain one of the most useful sources for finding gambling activity that continues in hidden spots.
Police leaders say local knowledge helps them reach areas that might otherwise go unchecked.
Residents Play A Bigger Role In Tracking Gambling Spots
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said tips from the public help police find gambling operations before they spread. He said this kind of local information is hard to replace.
The PNP said it is training officers to work more closely with communities. This includes rural towns as well as big cities.
Nartatez said the crackdown is not limited to Metro Manila. He said police have also stepped up work in smaller municipalities and far off provinces.
He said the goal is to make sure no area is left out of the enforcement push. Illegal gambling has been a long running issue in many parts of the country.
July Arrests And Seizures Show Scope Of The Crackdown
The PNP reported 9,401 arrests linked to illegal gambling in July. The force also seized over PHP3.2 million in bet money and related equipment during the month.
These numbers came from the PNP’s monthly accomplishment report. Police did not release details on specific